• The CAMBIATA are preparing their second full-length album for release on January 9, with a show at the Station (with friends KID:NAP:KIN and the URGENCY). Self-titled, the 11-track disc was recorded with NOAH COLE (who teamed with Cambiata guitarist SEAN MORIN on the impressive DARO disc) over the summer, and you can get a taste of it December 19, when the Cambiata play the Empire with FLY UPRIGHT KITE and give away a three-song sampler to the first 300 people who walk through the door. Expect to be blown away.
• The LOUPS, a new band featuring NATHAN GRIEVES, JUSTIN GRAVES, and MICAH HUNT, have recently finished up an EP with MICAH DAVIS at the HALO. Called Holding Hands with the Crooked Man, we're told it's "more of a grunge/heroin rock, '90s alternative thing," but with some Beatles and gypsy thrown in. Look for shows soon to prime the pump, then a release show for the disc.
• TAYLOR MESPLE, president of the MAINE SONGWRITERS ASSOCIATION and owner of the MAPLE ROOM, has released a double disc called Live at the Maple Room, Volume 1 — Heat on his OLD PORT RECORDS. Featuring more than 140 minutes of material from the likes of BILL FRISELL, PIERCE PETTIS, DAN MERRILL, JUD CASWELL, RACHEL GRIFFIN, and many more. All of the net proceeds from the disc will go to charities helping people in Maine to heat their homes this winter. You can get more information atwww.heat4all.com.
• Another good reason to check out the THIS WAY release show at the Empire Friday: SLY CHI's BRIAN GRAHAM says the town is going to enjoy its first taste of JACOB AUGUSTINE, a singer/songwriter who's recently moved here from California. Graham and others have put together a backing band to fill out his sound, so don't show up late just for the headliner.
