I’ve blogged about local artist John Vecchiarelli a few times here. He’s one of my favorite singer/songwriters, and a good friend as well.

My wife and I caught one of John’s sets in August over at Acme (site of the recent secret Decemberists show). Unfortunately that was to be his last gig for awhile. John was concerned about some double vision in one of his eyes, and an MRI a few days later revealed a mass growing in his right sinus cavity. It had been pushing on the ocular cavity as well (thus the double vision). The surgery to remove it took place last month, and was successful (the mass turned out to be benign). The bad news is that his insurance only partly covered this procedure, and he still needs a second reconstructive surgery to try and repair some of the cavity damage that this growth had caused. Getting John’s insurance plan to cover this additional surgery is unlikely.

Luckily, some amazing people in the songwriting community came forward to organize a benefit concert for John and his medical bills. Come on down to the Doug Fir Lounge this coming Sunday night at 8pm and show your support for John. You’ll be treated to performances from over 20 local songwriters, several of whom have elected to cover some of John’s songs.

There will also be a special compilation CD for sale that night (including an unreleased Pete Krebs track that features backing help from Elliott Smith), and also a raffle. I’ve been asked to host, so you will see me there.

Some of the performers on the bill include: Myshkin, Jeremy Serwer, Rachel Taylor Brown, Nicole Campbell, Pete Krebs, John Weinland, Little Sue, and Ali Wesley.

Raffle prizes include recording time at the famous Jackpot Studios.

Here’s an article about John and the benefit that appeared in yesterday’s Willamette Week.

My only complaint about the article is that it omits any discussion of John’s profession (and prowess) as a singer and songwriter. He has two albums to his name: “Tiny Rooms” (2000) and “Songs From Whoville” (2004). He tours on both coasts. His music is melancholy and reflective - perfect for Sunday mornings as the first rays of morning sun stream through your dining room window. Here, have a listen:

John Vecchiarelli - Paint (from the “Songs From Whoville” album)
John Vecchiarelli - Addition (live on KPSU)

Come support John and enjoy a night of great live music from Portland’s Finest! See you there!

John Vecchiarelli Benefit Concert
October 22, 2006
Doug Fir Lounge
830 East Burnside
Portland, Oregon
doors open at 8pm, 21+
$10+ cover

Thanks to Rachel Taylor Brown, Adam Shearer, Alicia Rose, and Dustin Hamman for organizing this event!

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