Paul Burch at Sid Gold's Request Room NYC

Premiering songs from his universally praised February release, Meridian Rising, Paul Burch graced the stage at Sid Gold's Request Room in NYC this past Thursday evening for a brief show of tunes showcasing the life of musical pioneer Jimmie Rodgers. 

The overall feel of the room - a throwback to a lounge from earlier times - from the small stage and the baby grand to the booths and lighting, transported you back to the 1930's for an intimate performance for the forty or so people in attendance. As he played, it was easy to imagine Burch as Jimmie, taking us through his short life via song; from his hometown ("Meridian") to his time in the TB ward ("Rte 49") and along life's highway ("Cadillacin'"). After a few minutes, Burch's friend, singer Laura Cantrell (joined on piano by Franklin Bruno), came to the stage to sing a few - including "Prairie Lullaby" and "Waiting For A Train" - while also relaying additional background on Rodgers. Burch then closed out the hour with additional songs, including "Gunter Hotel," "To Paris (with regrets)" and "Back to the Honky Tonks" giving end to an evening of great music and insight. Rodgers may not have been there in person, but his presence was most definitely felt.

---