Howdy ‘Cake-Eaters,

Rumor has it that while I was gone on vacation, a mischievous employee broke into our listserv to send out some flattering malarkey about one “Benjy Adler.” I, Benjy Pancake, do not know said individual. What is poignantly clear, however, is that Head Chef Tim Collins & our two impressive GM’s—Heather Chadwick in Burlington, Jeremy Silansky in Montpelier—are worthy of complement for how thoroughly they’ve kept the monkey of my back while I tromped through the mountains of Northern California. As for the author of that “Benjy Adler” caracature, she was appropriately scolded for being “too nice.” Please rest assured that the password has been changed & your email addresses are safe with us.

Now, on to more pressing news…

With the height of our local foods coming to fruit each September, several Localvore organizations put forth their annual “Eat Local Challenge.“ In the Mad River Valley, the challenge is as follows:

• When: September 13 to 19, 2008
• What: Eat locally grown and produced foods for a meal, a day, or for the entire week – you decide what is a challenge for you.
• Exceptions: Marco Polo Rules apply (salt and spices that sailors could carry in their pockets for 6 months while at sea)
• Wild Cards: Choose from 0 to 5 wilds cards for foods that you will eat during the challenge that are not local.

Want to participate, register with the Mad River Localvores at www.vermontlocalvore.org/challenge/.

Here at the SP, we’ve got two challenges for ourselves!

1. Just like last year, we will be conducting an audit of our food costs. Last year, we found that 54.75% of the money we spent on raw produce and value added products was spent back into the local community. We have made a number of significant changes to our menu over the past year towards increasing this percentage, including permanent additions of multiple local meats, thus we are anxiously awaiting these results!
2. We hereby commit to providing localvores with a food special each week in September that is 100% local (allowing for Marco Polo rules as described above). While we do have a few products on our permanent menu that are 100% local, we want to make sure folks taking the localvore challenge this September have some fresh and fantastic options when you come to the Skinny Pancake.

Food specials this week:

Ladies and Gentlemen, you may want to take a seat or grab the nearest supportive rail…because we’re about to announce the overwhelmingly anticipated monthly Drop-n-Draw Sweepstakes Winner for Montpelier….

Claire Fitts of Butterfly Bakery
Hey Claire, you’ve just won a $20.00 Gift Certificate to the Skinny Pancake…
So come on down!!!


Claire is the owner of Butterfly Bakery of Vermont in downtown Montpelier. Using only natural, wholesome organic ingredients, Claire serves up delicious sweet goodness in the form of cookies, truffles, granola and the signature Nutcase Chocolate Spread. Visit Claire’s bakery at 87 Barre Street in Montpelier and online at https://butterflybakeryvt.com.

Music this week at the Skinny Pancake:

Thursday, 08.20.09
James Kinne (Original Acoustic)
***$5 suggested donation
www.jameskinne.com/

Fri 08.21.09

Saturday, 08.22.09

Howdy Friends!

Every Thursday like clock-work our homegrown newsletter The Skinny appears in your email inbox.  This always clever, often witty, and perpetually poignant piece of cake news is the compilation of our creative crepe leader Benjy Adler. Benjy wears many hats as the conductor of two brick and mortar restaurants, multiple mobile festival/event crepe units, and last but certainly not least the original crepe cart on Church Street in Burlington. He is the hub by which the Skinny Pancake turns full circle. This week our hardworking hero is off on a well deserved vacation (Insert applause here)! And while we miss him & wish him fabulous fun, all continues to run as smooth as melted butter on sweet local corn here in Vermont…with the exception of this late edition of the Skinny.

And truly it’s high summer here–the perfect time to take a dip in your favorite swimming hole then come enjoy crepes & the waterfront breeze on our Burlington patio or the sun and crepes with a city scape view from our Montpelier patio. Either way, we have delicious specials in both locations this week…

And in the cool of the evening, come check out our musical line-up in Burlington…

Friday 08.14.09 9:30p.m. Megan Callahan (Singer/Songwriter)

We are pleased to welcome back to the Skinny Patio, Megan Callahan! Her first show had an amazing turn out with passerbys drawn into the ‘Cake upon hearing her incredible vocals & fresh guitar pickin’.

“Dan Kase is making heads turn in Northeast Minneapolis” -Greater Twin Cities

Blues Music Society

Tuesday 08.18.09 Sunset Session 7-9p.m.

Dale & Darcy (Bluegrass/Old time Fiddle)

Joining us for another sunset session are local talents Dale Cahill (mandolin, guitar, vocals), Darcy Purinton (fiddle) and Neil Rossi (mandolin, guitar, fiddle) performing Bluegrass, Folk, and Old Time fiddling.

Wednesday 08.19.09 Sunset Session 7-9p.m.

That Toga Band (Electroacoustic/Jazz/Rock)

That Toga Band returns for another sizzling sunset session out on our waterfront patio!

In their own words, “An accomplished band that is never predictable, That Toga Band combines jazz, rock and latin influences together with creative composition, ambient sound and thoughtful instrumentation in order to create their own brand of music. Melding acoustijazz flimflam and spacey landscapes with rock solid beats, That Toga Band pursues organic explorations of a creative smorgasbord. Structuring sonic melodies from a strongly harmonic angle, That Toga Band maintains subtle oddity while juggling odd time signatures and key changes. Quirky antics and light hearted entertainment shape the band’s motto: “Invent yourself before you reinvent yourself.”

In other words…”That Toga Band is the artistic explosion of everything toga- toga being anything from pens to pencils, arms and legs and musical combinations of the above. Really, though, That Toga Band has been a question mark behind what is Burlington for a few years now. They have just taken a strong step forward into the main scene now that their experimental sound has become more confident and more mature.”-the Deli Magazine (May 27th, 2008).

You can hear them www.myspace.com/thattogaband and at the Cake in Burlington on Wednesday August 19th  7-9p.m.

In the Pipeline….

Fri 08.20 9:00p.m.
James Kinne (Original Acoustic)

Hey folks,

BIG NEWS FROM SEVEN DAYS…

The Skinny Pancake has been voted the 2009 Seven Daysies winner in the “Best Street Eats” category. Having honed our chops on our Church Street Cart for 7 years now, we’re psyched to be awarded this blue ribbon for our second consecutive year. But with little more than two years wearing our “bricks ‘n mortar” cap, we’re even more jazzed to have received the red ribbon for runner up as “the Best Place to Do Lunch.”

To all of the Fancakes, Friends, Family, Crepe Crusaders and regular ‘ole people out there that voted in support of us, THANK YOU. We’d also like to send out a big thank you to Seven Days Newspaper…it really is not possible to properly acknowledge the depth of their contribution to our community without surpassing your attention span…so we’ll just keep it simple: SEVEN DAYS, you’re good people…THANK YOU.

This week’s food special:

The Parm Farm: Pitchfork Farm Heirloom Eggplant Breaded with Red Hen Bread Crumbs, Fresh Marinara, Local Basil and Maple Brook Farm Fresh Mozzarella. Served in a Savory Parmesan Cheese Crepe. $9.00

Vermont’s largest agricultural fair always takes place during the first full week of August. Celebrating its 61st year, this family-oriented fair is a deeply rooted community tradition. From the 4H competitions to the Tractor Pull, the Demolition Derby to the Ferris Wheel, The Fair & Field Days is both wholesome & hopping…and it is absolutely the quintessential agricultural fair…so come one, come all August 4th (Tuesday) through August 8th (Saturday).

The Valley Stage Music Festival (www.valleystage.net)
Saturday, August 8th, Huntington, VT

Valley Stage takes place in Huntington with Camel’s Hump as the dramatic backdrop. Families, friends & people in the know come to this one day gem of a gathering to enjoy some of the best folk music you’ll find in one place in one day in Vermont. Four bands will take the stage with the headlining act, The Waybacks, starting at 7:00 pm.

The Northeast Kingdom Music Festival (www.nekmf.com)
Friday, August 7th & Saturday August 8th; Albany, VT

NEKMF was born in the same summer as the Skinny Pancake, 2003. Much like the SP, the organizers of NEKMF have learned, earned and grown through hard work, hard-knocks & heart. The event has grown in girth and now pulls a thousand people out of and/or into the population-not-so-dense Northeast Kingdom. This BYOB event is rowdy and ready to party through the night for two straight evenings. Look for a hot line-up on two stages, a massive bonfire, performances from the nearby Bread & Puppet compound & some wholesome activities for the kiddoes too. What makes NEKMF extra special? As organizers there often say, “You’ll never know, until you go.”

Thursday, 08.06.09
The Silver Dagger Bluegrass Band

Hailing from Ashville North Carolina, the uber-talented four-piece Silver Dagger Bluegrass Band joins the Skinny Pancake in Burlington on their Northeast tour. Check ‘em out: www.myspace.com/silverdaggerbluegrass and definitely come on down TONIGHT from 9-11p.m. to hear them in action!

From their site: A recognized act in today’s roots music scene, Silver Dagger brings together young and energetic talent from the country’s leading music programs. Alumni of East Tennessee State’s acclaimed bluegrass program, Grace Van’t Hof and Ricky Cooper, Berklee alumnus, Ashleigh Caudill, and national touring veteran, Matt Purinton, work a stage like old hands. Weaving in and out of their solos and vocal harmonies, the group rivals seasoned artists many years their senior. Their different backgrounds and four home states influence their unique instrumental styles. 2009 marks Silver Dagger’s first complete touring season.

“Silver Dagger is a dynamic acoustic band…and one of my favorites! They have great vocals that blend seamlessly with their controlled, powerful instrumental work. This fine group showcases a wealth of American and Bluegrass music…as well as expertly presenting the best of their own original songs. I look to these young folks to make important contributions to our music heritage for a long time!”-Marc Pruett (Kentucky Thunder, Balsam Range)

Friday, 08.07.09
Laslo Cameo (Roots, Rhythm & Blues)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/laslocameo

Saturday, 08.08.09
Qwill (roots/surf/soul)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/qwillmusic

This Saturday, clear your calendar and beat your feet down to the waterfront to catch Boston-based singer-songwriter Jesse Ciarmataro, who performs under the name Qwill. He has shared the stage with artists such as Kaki King, Richie Havens, Guster, The Samples, Better Than Ezra, and The Violent Femmes.

He joins our Burlington crepe venue for a solo performance on Saturday August 8, 2009 so check him out at www.myspace.com/qwillmusic and then come on down!!!

“If you haven’t had a chance to hear him you will soon enough.” --Keith Grieves (Not Your Average Folk)

“He writes dreamy roots music that rivals that of British star David Gray.” --Joanna Massey (The Boston Globe)

“We have a tight-nit family of musicians cultivating from the north shore of Boston and beyond, and Jesse is at the center of that family. He’s a master songwriter, a killer musician, and an amazing human being. Props to anyone out there who’s in the know.” -- Ryan Montbleau

Wednesday, 08.12.09

Sage Mayhew & Friends (folk)

***$5 suggested donation

***SUNSET SET, 7-9 pm***

Thursday, 08.13.09
Myra Flynn (soul/funk/r&b)
***$5 suggested donation
http://www.myspace.com/myraflynn

Friday, 08.14.09
Meghan Callahan (folk singer/songwriter)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/megancallahanmusic

Saturday, 08.15.09
Lonesome Dan (1920′s & 1930′s R&B)
***$5 suggested donation
www.lonesomedan.com/

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Can you hear the timpanis?

They’re growing louder & louder…

Crescendoing to a climax for…

(cue symbols)
FREE CREPE DAY!!!!

Yes, that’s right..the time for ecstatic celebration is now!!!

Today, Wednesday June 24th is the second annual FREE CREPE DAY at the Skinny Pancake.

Its crazy…what are we thinking?

Answer: we want to test our own capacity…how many crepes can we make an hour…can we break the crepe barrier…you know, go moc crepe?

Free crepes will be flying off our griddles at both the Burlington Waterfront & Downtown Montpelier locations from 2:00 pm to 5:30 in three delicious flavors:

Nutella, Hot Apple Crispy & Cheesy Pesto

Bluegrass, Folk & Old Time Fiddling favorites will be performed live on the patio in Burlington during the celebration by “Dale & Darcy” pictured here…

We sincerely hope to see you there.

Care2.com and LocalHarvest.org are conducting a contest for the best Farmer’s Market in the nation based on votes. You can participate by going to the following link: www.care2.com/farmersmarket. The winning market will recieve a $5000 award!

Curious which market the ‘Cake endorses? Sorry, that’s too personal. I will say that until the birth of the Montpelier Mini-Skinny, most of us woke up in Burlington every Saturday morning.

Main Street Landing Presents…
GREEN DRINKS IS still GROWING:

Well, we’ve outgrown our capacity to hold this monthly event in the Skinny Pancake…so we’re moving it upstairs to the Main Street Landing’s Lake Lobby.

Join your friends, family, neighbors, cohorts, colleagues, coworkers, peers & people you don’t know on the last Tuesday of each month from 5:30 to 7:30 in the Main Street Landing’s Lake Lobby. Network, socialize, have a beer or two on the sponsors and otherwise enjoy yourself on the waterfront.

A special thanks to the Main Street Landing Company for sharing their beautiful space with us. You can rent space at MSL including their state-of-the-art Black Box & Film House. Learn more by visiting their website at www.mainstreetlanding.com/rental-information/.

Along with MSL, we have the generous support of a growing number of sustaining sponsors, including The Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce, Seven Days & Wolaver’s Organic Ales.

The monthly sponsorship this month is being shared between the Burlington Food Council & Vermont Farm Tours:

The Burlington Food Council is an open community group exploring ways to ensure that Burlington creates and nurtures a healthy, equitable and sustainable food system for all members of the community.

Vermont Farm Tours is a Burlington-based culinary tour company that offers fun guided day and half-day trips exploring the people and places that give Vermont its reputation for delicious local food. The newly formed company promotes local foods and sustainable agriculture by enabling guests to experience the connection between taste, place, and producer. Meet artisanal producers, eat their creations, and learn where your food comes from. There’s nothing better than enjoying fresh food in the very place it’s produced with the person who made it. After all, you are where you eat.

Vermont Farm Tours is locally owned and committed to small farmers, local business, and environmental stewardship. You can learn more about them at www.vermontfarmtours.com

Now, having been very outdone by the Seven Days graphic design department, I give you the following image:

Music at the ‘Cake this weekend…

Thursday, 06.25.09
The Medicinals (bluegrass)
***$5 suggested donation

www.myspace.com/themedicinals

The Medicinals, our friends, back again. With a repertoire ranging from traditional bluegrass and newgrass to gospel and folk, The Medicinals deliver a hard-driving & soulful acoustic sound that has been well received by audiences everywhere since their inception.

Many thanks for the multiple returned visits, Medicinals…

Friday, 06.26.09 (FUNK!!!!)
Evan Crandle & the Too Hot To Handle
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/evancrandell

Friday Funk…that’s got a nice ring to it. As for Evan & Co, here’s a quote straight from our Musical Chair, Colleen Korniak: “For the true sound of sunshine and funky enlightenment, look no further than Evan Crandell & the Too Hot to Handle.”

Thursday, 07.02.09
D Davis (Classical Instrumental Singer-Songwriter)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/dsdavismusic

Friday, 07.03.09
Joshua Panda & Friends (glam-folk/neo-soul)
***$5 suggested donation
FIREWORKS ON THE BURLINGTON WATERFRONT!!!
www.myspace.com/joshuapanda

Saturday, 07.04.09
Red Hot Juba (blues/jazz/western swing)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/redhotjuba

Hey folks,

As is evidenced by this late edition of “The Skinny”, we’re very busy buttoning down the hatches on the Montpelier Mini-Skinny. The great news is that the newborn Baby-Cake is alive & well…Mom Dad & Dad (Chef Tim Collins & I) have not been getting much sleep, but we’re incredibly grateful that all the vital functions appear to be working well. Pictured here are two of ou wonderful new Montpelier Crepe Artists, Sage & Kelsey.

And with that said, we’re going to move right along to some other newsworthyness…

The Anticipation Wrap: Grilled, Red Bell Peppers, Zucchini, Yellow Squash, Red Onion, And Feta, wrapped in a Sun dried tomato crepe, with a lemon garlic aioli. served with a side of skinny chips and a ramekin of house salsa.

What’s in a name? Well…we’re on the cusp of availability for a lot of local produce. When Burlington Kitchen Manager, Trent Kominoski suggested this wrap, my response was that it sounds tasty but seems like he’s anticipating the fresh produce yet to arrive on the vines of Vermont farms…thus, the produce is not local, but the producer sure is…

FREE CREPE DAY IS COMING SOON!!!!

Wednesday, June 24th 2009 at BOTH of our bricks-n-mortar locations…
More details to follow…

Friday, 06.12.09
Gypsy Reel (7-9 pm)
Rusty Belle, “Zouk / Hyphy / Shoegaze” (9-10:20 pm)
Joshua Panda, neo-soul/glam/folk (10:40-midnight)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/rustybelle
www.myspace.com/joshuapanda

Gypsy Reel: Skinny Pancake “musical chair” Colleen Korniak first found this Vermont based band at the Galeria in Panajachel, Guatemala, where they enchanted the entire audience with their infectious blend of traditional and contemporary celtic/world music. This band can not contain their energy; and that’s a good thing! From rapid fire finger pickin’ to gentle, soft harmonies, Gypsy Reel rolls out world music at its best–interpreted sweetly and with individual flair that stays true to the ideas and ideals that make it traditional.

These seasoned musicians travel the globe performing incredible feats of musical prowness. If you’re lucky, you can catch them TODAY in Vermont, this Friday June 12th 7-9p.m. at the Skinny Pancake, on Burlington’s waterfront.

Rusty Belle is one in·de·scrib·able full-on, crazy, talented act.  In one word, HOT. In more words, this circus act of “strange and intoxicating musical brew, nurtured their wild and hairy live show” is NOT to be missed.

“One of the more interesting bands to come into my periphery in a while… They’re a little bit country, a little bit rock’n'roll, a little bit old-timey and a whole lotta weird. But in a good way. This quartet mashes genres as if they were tasty little sonic potatoes. ” -Dan Bolles Seven Days Burlington, VT 2-13-08.

For a taste of this delicious salty concoction: http://www.myspace.com/rustybelle and live on the Skinny waterfront Friday night 9-10:20p.m.

Joshua Panda: We welcome back to the Skinny set, the always impressive Josh Panda. This raging singer songwriter wraps and rolls his soulful voice around  guitar licks and a stage presence that demand attention.

Listen for yourself: www.myspace.com/joshuapanda then end your Friday night Jazzfest meanderings down at the Skinny Pancake for a sweet, late night with Josh Panda 11-1a.m.

“…swoon to the silken-voiced ruminations of Charlotte, N.C.-based songwriter Joshua Panda. The eclectic tunesmith has garnered rave reviews up and down the East Coast for his infectious brand of witty, heartfelt, acoustic pop”. -Seven Days (Burlington Vt)

Saturday, 06.13.09
Ben Treffer, folk (5-7 pm)
http://www.myspace.com/treffer
The Lenox Lewis Trio, jazz (9-11 pm)

Ben Treffer is a singer, song writer, and acoustic guitar player from Western Nebraska who is currently touring the Northeast. His vibrant acoustic sound includes upbeat, free and easy moving songs to romantic melodies ranging from traditional country, southern rock, bluegrass, and today’s modern sound. His work is a reflection of the area he is from and the experiences that he has had while living in it.

Experience a piece of western rural americana live on Saturday evening from 5-7.

The Lenox-Lewis Trio is a recent reincarnation of Burlington’s own
gypsy jazz trio The Object Three.  Jordan Lewis (mandolin) and Colin Lenox (guitar) have joined forces with Josh “Dubs” Weinstein (upright bass) and are hitting the scene with plenty of new material and old favorites.

With a repertoire ranging from string jazz, to classical, to choro, this trio is in control. This collaboration is not to be missed this Saturday 9-11p.m.

Wednesday, 06.17.09, 7-9 pm
A SUNSET SET by That Toga Band!!!
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/thattogaband

That Toga Band kicks off the first Sunset Session of the Summer this Wednesday. These gents will be playing the third Wednesday of June, July, & August this summer!

In their own words, “An accomplished band that is never predictable, That Toga Band combines jazz, rock and latin influences together with creative composition, ambient sound and thoughtful instrumentation in order to create their own brand of music. Melding acoustijazz flimflam and spacey landscapes with rock solid beats, That Toga Band pursues organic explorations of a creative smorgasbord. Structuring sonic melodies from a strongly harmonic angle, That Toga Band maintains subtle oddity while juggling odd time signatures and key changes. Quirky antics and light hearted entertainment shape the band’s motto: “Invent yourself before you reinvent yourself.”

In other words…”That Toga Band is the artistic explosion of everything toga- toga being anything from pens to pencils, arms and legs and musical combinations of the above. Really, though, That Toga Band has been a question mark behind what is Burlington for a few years now. They have just taken a strong step forward into the main scene now that their experimental sound has become more confident and more mature.”-the Deli Magazine (May 27th, 2008).

You can hear them www.myspace.com/thattogaband and at the Cake Wednesday June 17th 7-9p.m. as well as every third Wednesday this summer.

Wednesday, 06.17.09, 7-9 pm
A SUNSET SET by That Toga Band

!!!

***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/thattogaband

Thursday, 06.18.09
Shannon Wurst

(Americana/Bluegrass/Folk)

***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/shannonwurst

Friday, 06.19.09
Kelly Ravin & Friends

(Acoustic/Folk

***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/kellyravin

Saturday, 06.20.09 Sage Mayhew & Brothers

GOOD AFTERNOON CAKE-EATERS!!!!!!

…and what a good afternoon it is here in Pancakia! There’s so much to mention, it is hard to decide where to start. We’ve got an incredible line-up for Jazzfest in Burlington & a GRAND OPENING to celebrate in Montpelier. Below in detail is our Jazzfest line-up…but first, a word on the Montpelier Mini-Skinny:

Last night we had a heart-warming soft opening with Friends & Family of the Skinny Pancake. Beyond these regular well-wishers, we had trusted advisors, our accountant & his family, and a very curious Crepe Crew from Burlington who came to see the new digs. While they gave a general thumbs-up, the Burlington crew is now demanding a new espresso machine…

Our Grand Opening is set for this Friday, June 5th from 5 pm to 9 pm. There will be live music on the patio by Doug Perkins & Friends as well as alot of activity in Montpelier with the First Friday Art Hop…we’re excited to contribute to the festivities & hope to see you there!!!

Like I said, we have an incredible line-up for jazzfest…see below!!! But first, 10 words on our food special this week:

The Cowgirl Crepe: Nutella & Peanut Butter…yehaw!…$6.25

And now….

Our RAGING line-up for Jazzfest:

With an expanded patio and a HUGE line-up for Jazzfest, the next week promises to be very exciting at our Waterfront Crepe Castle. There is a long list of performances below, but last is certainly not least here…so take some time and pick out the show that satiates your musical desires…a big thanks to our new and ambitious “Musical Chair”, Colleen Korniak, for booking such a solid week of music.

Thursday, 06.04.09

D Davis (folk/blues)

***$5 suggested donation

www.myspace.com/dsdavismusic

We’re starting the weekend off with a trusted troubadour…a mellow set by Mr. D Davis himself…while D is incredibly versatile, this evenings show will feature solo instrumental, classical-guitar & American Folk selections.

Also worth noting, his gig this Thursday kicks off a musical residency at the Skinny Pancake–we are so pleased to host the inspired musical stylings of this bright artist EVERY first Thursday in June, July, & August. We strongly encourage you to learn the name “D Davis” and find your listening ears in front of him wherever he performs.

D Davis performs with Red Hot Juba, The Dixie Red Delights, Mia Adams, The Book-em Blues Band, and On The Rise Session Band. At the Cake’s Thursday summer solo sessions, D Davis will masterfully blend gorgeous acoustic music that is not-to-be-missed!

Friday, 06.05.09

Sarah Blacker (5 pm – 7 pm)

Amapola (9 pm – 11 pm)

Pneuma (11 pm – 1 am)

Sarah Blacker (acoustic/folk/jazz)

***$5 suggested donation

http://www.sarahblacker.com

Sarah Blacker brings her sassy and sophisticated one gal show to Burlington on the evening of Friday, June 5th. Described as “The perfect blend of Joni Mitchell and Ella Fitzgerald”, Sarah is a classically trained vocalist from the Berklee College of Music in Boston. Sarah combines her signature voice with original, organic, guitar picking to deliver a diverse range of music that goes beyond the genre of singer songwriter.

If you like notes that swoop, things that are jazzy, warm and round vibrato, raspy subtlety, accompanied by a fast strumming, staccato style guitar in many alternate tunings, then Sarah Blacker is the woman to see. Check Sarah out at http://www.sarahblacker.com and at the Skinny Pancake on Friday, June 6th from 5p.m.-7p.m.

“A Shining Light in the Local Music Scene. Sarah Blacker isn’t just another girl with a guitar. She’s got enough music knowledge and experience to back her up, so don’t take her lightly.”~ Kelly Cardoza, southcoast247.com

Friday, 06.05.09, 9:00 – 11:00 pm

Amapola (World/Funk)

***at least a $5 suggested donation

www.myspace.com/amapolalovesyou

Revving up the music the jazzfest lineup this Friday is Montpelier-based World/Funk outfit Amapola. This hot six piece Latin band performs a sizzling set starting at 9 p.m. From mariachi, afro-Peruvian, bossas, to fiery torch songs, anti war anthems, and traditional folk music of Cuba, Chile, Argentina, Mexico and Venezuela, Amapola’s sound is intoxicating, powerful, and comes with an edge of funk to it.

For your listening pleasure, visit the Skinny Pancake at 9p.m. on Friday night and check them out: www.myspace.com/amapolalovesyou

Friday, 06.05.09, 11:00 pm – 1 am

A late night set with the RAGING jazz ensemble, Pneuma!!!!

(funk/jazz)

A powerhouse quartet of talent, Pneuma comes together at the Cake to blend original jazz-funk with a hip hop groove in an exclusive performance.

Pneuma is a completely jaw-dropping as they infuse their live music with incredible energy. In particular, the young Nick Cassarino was a cornerstone of the Burlington Jazz scene until his unwelcomed yet understandable choice to move to Brooklyn. Every so often he returns to his VT roots and commits the musical equivalent of arson as he absolutely aids & abets the ignition of infectious rip-roarin’ funk-laden jazz.

For more on the individuals, visit the following links & come to the Cake from 11 pm to 1 a.m. on Friday June 5th. www.myspace.com/jbobfunky http://www.myspace.com/nicholascassarino http://www.myspace.com/sootsy

Saturday, 06.06.09

2:30-4:30 Barbarian Horde (funk/rock/soul)

5:00-7:00 Lokum (folk/indi/roots)

9:00-11:00: Boubacar Diabate

Barbarian Horde, 2:30 – 4:30 pm

***$5 suggested donation, funk/rock/soul

http://www.barbariansmusic.com/

A rare mid-afternoon show…these Brooklyn New Yorkers venture to Burlington to put on an energetic fully funked performance at the ‘Cake this Saturday afternoon. Horn driven, original, soul music to shake down Burlington’s waterfront. Bring your own horde down to listen to the Barbarians play Saturday June 6, 2:30-4:30.

“Unquestionably heavy funk…the embodiment of chill…boundless energy” Katie Vrabel- WBURG.COM (Nov. 2005)

“Blessed with soul, talent, and (an) infectious stage presence….their sound encapsulates a fine mixture if influences into one giant rhythmic aphrodisiac.” Joe O’Brien-Cityzen (October 15, 2003)

“Possibly crazy, certainly over-stimulated—but hardly barbaric—this frantic foursome produces a hyper-literate brand of booty music. Take two parts James Brown, one part John Zorn, a dash of Dirty Dozen, and a splash of Sex Mob—and you’ve got yourself A Fine Time” Nate Chinen (New York Times Jazz Critic) Nov. 2003 commenting on the Barbarians first album

Lokum, 5:00 – 7:00 pm

***$5 suggested donation, folk/indi/roots

www.myspace.com/lokummusic

The word lokum literally translates as a Turkish delight and this nine piece band is certainly sweet.

Lokum performs music of the Balkans, Turkey and Armenia using authentic instruments and oriental modes (makams). The upbeat, dramatic tone of their music is driven by beautiful, complex melodies artistically woven through tight percussion. Lokum masterfully puts a fresh contemporary spin on traditional world music.

Lokum joins us at the Cake on Saturday June 6th 5-7p.m. So come on down!

Boubacar Diabete, 9:00 – 11:00 pm

(Afro-beat / Indie / Roots Music)

***$5 suggested donation

http://www.myspace.com/sambalolo

Ok, so at this point you ought to be getting the idea…our line-up for jazzfest is seriously HOT!!!

The following is a not-to-be-missed performance! Griot singer, guitarist, drummer, songwriter and storyteller Boubacar Diabate from Bamako, Mali rounds out the Cake’s Saturday night line-up.

Combining traditional rhythms with modern influences, Boubcar Diabate creates his own style of contemporary Malian Griot music that spans the full spectrum of Traditional to Contemporary with Blues, Jazz, Reggae and Bluegrass fusions.

In his own words, “Bouba sings of our common shared experience of love, life and humanity, giving all an opportunity to hear the age-old West African tradition of Griot storytelling through song.”

Check him out here http://www.myspace.com/sambalolo and then see him live at the Cake Saturday June 6th 9-11p.m.

Sunday, 06.07.09

5:00-7:00 Hokum Brothers (Honky-Tonk)

7:00-9:00 Laslo Cameo (Roots, Rhythm & Blues)

9:00-10:30 The Beeline Ramblers (folk/americana/roots)

The Hokum Bros. songs are catchy and integrated with humor, and their lyrics speak of true-life experiences with a thread of the earliest cultural fabric we call Americana. Their show contains an eclectic mix of original tunes, sight gags, physical comedy, audience participation and lots of nostalgia.

Stick, Cedar and Gus Hokum sing, patter and play their way into inspired silliness and offer enough sly satire and social commentary to insure you’ll be wearing your happy face long after their show is over.

Get a taste of them here www.hokumbros.wordpress.com and on Sunday June 7th 5-7p.m. at the Skinny Pancake.

Laslo Cameo (Roots, Rhythm & Blues)

***$5 suggested donation, 7-9 pm

www.laslocameo.com/

Formed in 2003, Laslo Cameo represents a unique blend of world cultures. Leslie Campos (fiddle, acoustic guitar, vocals) moved to Vermont from New York City where she had a successful career playing fiddle in a variety of bands including an all girl bluegrass/ country act called the Bushmills, and the Scott McClatchy Band with consistent CD sales in European markets. Leslie’s beautiful and sultry singing voice is an integral part of the Laslo Cameo sound and her own songwriting abilities can be heard in the album’s title track “Second Avenue Serenade”, a haunting jazz/blues tribute to life in New York City..

Randy Bulpin (guitars, dobro, vocals) moved to the USA from Australia where he spent his time as a touring and session musician and songwriter, often sharing the stage with eminent international artists. He continues to write and original songs are a feature of the Laslo Cameo night.

Hear them www.laslocameo.com/ and 7-9p.m.on Sunday June 7.

The Beeline Ramblers (folk/americana/roots)

***$5 suggested donation, 9-10:30 pm

thebeelineramblers.com

We are happy to host the Beeline Ramblers–Fran Mandeville and Lisa Sturz are not your average singer/songwriters. They are masters at choosing just the right lyrics to fit perfectly with the music to create the feeling they want to share with you, whether it’s a song about a great joy in life, or a person who has fallen on hard times…

For your listening pleasure–thebeelineramblers.com–and Sunday 9-10.30p.m. at the SP.

Monday, 06.08.09

The Beeline Ramblers (AGAIN!) 4:30-7:00 pm

The Grass Gypsys (7:00 – 10:30 pm)

***$5 suggested donation

www.myspace.com/thegrassgypsys

The Beeline Ramblers: Two nights in a row? Welp, we really think these folks are worth seeing so we are giving you two chances. This lovely singer songwriter duo bring their guitar, autoharp, cigarbox dulcimer, mandolin, dobro, banjo, harmonica, pocketchange, incredible vocals–simply put: pure, honest talent–back to the Skinny Pancake.

The Grass Gypsys, 7:00-10:30

***$5 suggested donation, Americana/Roots/World

We are pleased to welcome back The Grass Gypsys for two sets at the ‘Cake.

An independent, acoustic fusion band from Boston with a signature sound fouled by the power of two. Husband & wife musical duo, Justin and Colleen Kleya, blend styles from American Roots music: Jazz, Blues, Rock n’ Roll, Folk, R&B & World; into their catalog of original music and cover songs. They have been compared to Tuck & Patti, Nora Jones, & Fleetwood Mac. Colleen’s rich and charismatic vocals and Justin’s expressive, finger-style guitar playing create a sound that is fresh and entertaining for all ages.

The Grass Gypsys have been described as “…a joy to witness…” “…soul and serenity…” and “…consummate musicians.”

Lend an ear to their music on Myspace http://www.myspace.com/thegrassgypsys and join them on Monday 7-10.30p.m.

In the pipeline…

MUCH MUCH MORE GREAT MUSIC FOR THE SECOND HALF OF THE BURLINGTON DISCOVER

JAZZ FESTIVAL!!!!

Check out our website for an in-depth preview: www.skinnypancake.com/music-calendar/

Tuesday, 06.09.09

The Jarrett Family Circus, jazz (5-7 pm)

Richard Duke, folk/indi/acoustic (7-9 pm)

***$5 suggested donation

www.myspace.com/richarddukemusic

Wednesday, 06.10.09

Jeremy Harple, folk/roots/acoustic (7-9 pm)

Dave Keller & Ira Freedman, blues/soul/R&B (9-11 pm)

***$5 suggested donation

www.myspace.com/jeremyharple

www.myspace.com/davekellermusic

Thursday, 06.11.09

Peter Dimitri Negroponte & R.A.I.L. (5-7 pm)

The Downstairs Quartet, jazz/funk (7-9 pm)

Mike & Ruthy, folk/alternative/roots (9-11 pm)

***$5 suggested donation

http://www.mikeandruthy.com

http://www.myspace.com/mikeandruthy

Friday, 06.12.09

Gypsy Reel (7-9 pm)

Rusty Belle, “Zouk / Hyphy / Shoegaze” (9-11 pm)

Joshua Panda, neo-soul/glam/folk (11-1 am)

***$5 suggested donation

www.myspace.com/rustybelle

www.myspace.com/joshuapanda

Saturday, 06.13.09

Ben Treffler, folk (5-7 pm)

The Lenox Lewis Trio, jazz (9-11 pm)

“The Skinny” newsletter hits 1000 people!!!

Its official…we’ve been watching the number of readers creep up month after month since “The Skinny” was born in the winter of 2008…in truth, we’ve been very appreciative and rather surprised that folks didn’t just “quit the list” in droves. To our amazement, some of you out there apparently enjoy this weekly update on our peculiar passion for pancakes, news from around town and the occasional waxing rumination…so a deep & digital bow of gratitude to you all for sticking with “the Skinny” thus far…THANK YOU!!!

An update from the front:

(storefront, that is)

The “Mini-Skinny” of Montpelier is a circus of activity these days as everyone pitches in to pry the doors open. Our Head Chef (Tim Collins) is seen here writing our new signs with his excellent penmanship, our General Manager (Jeremy Silansky) spent time over the weekend hanging shelving, the best handyman in the land is currently installing a myriad of knicks & knacks (Chris Labelle & his buddy Jeff seen in here in this photo)…

Then there is the 9-5 crowd. During the day, we’ve got plumbers and carpenters, tin-knockers & electricians all working diligently towards the same goal. There have also been kegerator technicians, espresso tuners, custom light fabricators (Conant Custom Metal & Light…a great local company…check ‘em out: www.conantcustommetalandlight.com), finish carpenters, painters, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, city & state officials…and the list goes on from there. Apparently it takes a village to open a restaurant….

This week’s special:

The S’mores Crepe: The classic campfire snack with a “Skinny” twist: A sweet sandwich of graham crackers, shaved Barry-Callebaut chocolate and marshmallows wrapped in sweet batter blended with graham cracker crumbs….$8.50

In search of an appropriate image, I uncovered this photo documenting the world’s largest s’more. Made in 2003, in California and documented in The Guinness Book of World Records, it was constructed from 20,000 marshmallows, 7,000 Hershey’s chocolate bars, and 24,000 graham crackers. All totaled, it weighed about 1,600-lbs.

At first, I was really impressed, even inspired to make the world’s largest crepe by piling tens of thousands of them side-by-side…but then I began wondering about the very definition of a s’more…and now I’m a bit skeptical. It seems to me that a s’more is defined by two graham crackers sandwiching chocolate and marshmallows. Thus, this great achievement is more accurately described as a record for the most s’mores side-by-side at one time ever…or perhaps even the most s’mores in a single room at a single time. The Skinny Pancake would follow up with Guinness & file a formal complaint regarding this serious oversight but for the fact that we’re kinda busy right now opening the World’s Smallest Skinny Pancake in Montpelier.

A now, a word on the etymology & origins of s’mores, straight from our friends at Wikipedia:

“While the origins of this popular campfire dessert is unclear, the first recorded version of the recipe can be found in the Girl Scout Handbook of 1927.

S’more appears to be a contraction of the phrase, “some more”. The informal nature of this term reflects the environment in which s’mores are traditionally served and its meaning hints at the desires of campers who are not satisfied by the first bite of the treat. Some have jokingly surmised that the name originated from people who were so busy eating the tasty treat that they did not have time to speak in complete sentences, or alternately, that their enunciation was compromised by the fact that their mouth was still full of the previously mentioned s’more.”

Music at the Skinny Pancake this weekend:

Thursday, 05.29.09

Dave Keller (blues/soul/R&B)

***$5 suggested donation

www.myspace.com/davekellermusic

Dave Keller is a career-musician here in VT…not an easy task. But he’s committed to his craft and for good reason…come see him this Thursday evening at the SP and hear for yourself…

“The best musicians know it’s all about space — hang back a little and you can let that guitar perform a triple-bypass. Creating space by knowing when not to play is exactly what makes local bluesman Dave Keller’s new album, Play for Love, so good. Additionally, Keller has the innate ability to allow one unified voice to rise from both his lungs and his Telecaster. From the moment his vocals first come in, you hear the soul oozing out. What becomes obvious by the end of Play for Love is that six years is too long to wait for such a talented Vermont artist to release a CD.” Adam King, Seven Days, Vermont’s Arts Paper

Friday, 05.30.09 (folk/rock double bill)

Lowell Thompson & Jay Ekis

***$5 suggested donation

www.myspace.com/lowellthompson

www.myspace.com/jayekis

Jay Ekis (www.myspace.com/jayekis, www.ekismusic.com)…one of several talented folk artists from Montpelier. There is a really nice collection of performers over there in our sister city to the southeast….and yet, folks here in Burlington don’t seem to know about any of them! But here’s your chance to check out one of the Capitol city’s regulars…

Lowell Thompson’s pull quotes: “It’s country. From the north country.” (NYLON MAGAZINE) “Burlington’s own version of Springsteen.” (PERFORMER MAGAZINE) “One of Vermont’s most prominent young musicians, Lowell creates Americana music with echoes of Gram Parsons and Neil Young infused with his own modern style. Likely to be covered on No Depression Magazine…..” (BURLINGTON FREE PRESS) “Over the years, he has crafted a shimmering, high-lonesome sound rooted in classic 1970s country-rock, peppered with healthy nods to modern torchbearers such as The Jayhawks and Old 97’s. Whiskey is highly recommended.” (SEVEN DAYS)

Saturday, 05.31.09

Toni Catlin (Southern Folk)

***$5 suggested donation

www.myspace.com/tonicatlin

From Toni’s myspace page: “A Vermont native, Toni grew up performing for guests around the campfire at her parent’s rustic Adirondack resort. Inspired by artists such as Shawn Colvin, Patty Griffin, Jackson Browne, Linda Ronstadt and others, Toni moved to Nashville to focus on songwriting. As an independent artist paving her own path, Toni has achieved a lot in the last few years, she has opened shows for Shawn Colvin, Steve Earle, Mary Chapin Carpenter and Chicago. She’s been a featured performer at Austin’s South by Southwest, Nashville’s Americana Conference, the Americana stage at Fan Fair, Billy Block’s Western Beat Showcases and at Tin Pan South. She has been on NPR’s the Songwriter Sessions, BBC’s London Live, Ralph McLean’s BBC Ireland broadcast, and is a favorite of London’s Bob Harris of BBC radio. Toni has toured England, Scotland, Ireland and Northern Ireland four times and has opened shows in the UK for Tift Merritt at the Borderline in London, BR549, and Allison Moorer. Paul Fenn of Asgaard Promotions in London is also a fan of Toni’s and has called upon her to open shows for some of the artists he represents.

In the pipeline…

JAZZFEST WEEK!!! HUGE LINE-UP ALL WEEK LONG!!!

Thursday, 06.04.09

D Davis (folk/blues)

***$5 suggested donation

www.myspace.com/dsdavismusic

Friday, 06.05.09

5-7 PM: Sarah Blacker

9-11 pm: Pneuma

Saturday, 06.06.09

2:30-4:30 Barbarian Horde

5:00-6:00 Lokum

9:00-11:00: Boubacar Diabate

Sunday, 06.07.09

5:00-7:00 Hokum Brothers

7:00-8:00 Laslo Cameo

9:00-10:00 Beeline Ramblers

And much much more…details to follow in the next edition of “The Skinny”!!!

Hey folks,

these are crazy days for us…almost didn’t get the newsletter out this week! Summer is rapidly advancing on the Burlington scene, we’re working to open a second location in Montpelier, our cart is in full swing–and open for lunch on the Church Street Marketplace every nice day of the week!!!–and our vegetable-oil powered bus, Sueno is “saddling up to ride” through our summer festival tour. Busy, busy days…and we’re grateful for it!.

A Marathon Memorial Day Weekend:

We’ve got a BIG weekend on our hands here in Burlington…the weather has finally broken through to summer temperatures, its Memorial Day weekend and 7000 people are taking to the streets for the Vermont City Marathon this Sunday starting at 8 am. With the farmer’s market on Saturday, the Marathon on Sunday and Memorial Day on Monday…Burlington will be alive and thriving…

Rhubarb.

Such a strange plant, a “false fruit.” Though tart in taste, its almost always found in sweet treats…like our special this week (see below). Rhubarb is high in potassium & calcium and can be used as an effective organic insecticide for leaf eating insects like cabbage caterpillars, aphids, peach & cherry slugs. And while the stalks are the tart ingredient in pies we know & love, the leaves are toxic.

A quick history: “Earliest records date back to 2700 BC in China, with the botanicla name Rheum which is said to be derived from Rha, the ancient name of the Volga, on whose banks the plants grow. Early records of rhubarb in America identify an unnamed Maine gardener as having obtained seed or root stock from Europe in the period between 1790-1800. Sugar is integral to rhubarb’s story, changing its role in the human diet during the 18th century from a medicinal vegetable to a false fruit.” For more information on this famous fruit, check out www.rhubarbinfo.com.

Our special this week:

The Hot Rhapple Crispy Crepe: Local Rhubarb & Champlain Orchard Apple Compote topped with a crunchy streusel in a classic sweet crepe. $8.50

BIG NEWS: Music is moving out onto our EXPANDED patio as weather permits all this summer!!!

That’s right, we’ve EXPANDED OUR PATIO!!!! The GREAT folks at Artistic Landscaping completed this expansion in JUST TWO DAYS!!! They worked with diligence and concern for our approval and our customer’s experience. Honestly, they just did a stand-up job building our patio and working on the adjacent landscaping. To contact Artistic Landscaping, you can call (802) 879-9535.

Now, on to the music…

Thursday, 05.21.09

Paul Cataldo (Folk singer/songwriter)

***$5 suggested donation

www.myspace.com/paulcataldo

www.paulcataldo.com

This email will probably be sent just as Paul is going on stage…too bad, because Paul was a hit last time he came through. We welcome him back for his second performance at the Skinny Pancake…this time out on our newly expanded patio!!!

Paul Cataldo is a singer-songwriter hailing from the Boston-area. Too often, singer-songwriters resort to cliches and easy rhymes. Take a listen to Paul’s songs (www.myspace.com/paulcataldo). Seems to me he’s getting at an honest truth like a diary entry or a confession to a friend…he just puts it to a melody. Definitely a nice Thursday evening activity for those with a mid-week itch to scratch…

Friday, 05.22.09

The Leaves (Alternative / Folk / Americana)

***$5 suggested donation

www.myspace.com/amidamusic

The Leaves write: “We have put together a mellower, acoustic set for your place, so hopefully that will go over well! I’ll leave our loud rockers for our upcoming show at Metronome ”

From the band: Aya Inoue has been a singer-songwriter floating around the Burlington Vermont area since 2002. When she first moved to Vermont, she found herself being drawn to performing more music, and thus began meeting various local musicians through the years. Gradually, Aya began to play her own music out in public – getting the opportunity to meet more and more talented and wonderful musicians. Over the years, Aya has played with various performers, primarily as an accompanying singer. She has been known to sing/record with artists such as Mike Gordon & Ramble Dove, Brett Hugh’s Honky Tonk Tuesdays, Lowell Thompson, Marie Claire, and Vermont-based RAQ. For years she felt safer singing other people’s works, but as of September 2007, she decided to form a band of her own and bring her “journals” to the surface. Aya describes The Leaves as a collaborative effort by four musicians to bring music that speaks to people. “I write the words and the melodies most of the time, but that’s about it. I basically bring a skeleton song to the band and they make it twenty times better.” The best high a person can feel is to connect with other musicians and realize that a song is taking on a life of its own. The Leaves hope to reach out and connect with an audience through the rawness and powerful emotions of their music. Life is full of ups and downs… music gives this band a great way to express those emotions.

Saturday, 05.23.09

Laura Meyer (folk/lyrical)

***$5 suggested donation

www.myspace.com/laurameyermusic

I’m excited for this show…in fact, I’ve already got my metaphorical tickets. Click on the link above and listen. Laura has a beautiful voice, but more importantly articulate and interesting lyrics and melodies.

What people have said about Laura:

“Beams of adeptly and uniquely finger-picked guitar support walls of elegant, earthy vocals and through tall, open windows come remarkably poetic and relatable lyrics. These songs are country roads, rich with story and movement.” – Dan D’Ippolito, Jezebel Music

“But my favorite of the evening was Laura Meyer, who positively trampled what few pieces of my heart were still beating with her forlorn crooning and subdued fingerpicking. Her poetic lyrics were particularly notable; she had a way of taking an image and stringing it out along an entire verse, cleverly leading her listeners’ expectations into trap after heartbreaking trap.” – Dan Barry, Hartford Advocate

In the pipeline…

Thursday, 05.29.09

Dave Keller (blues/soul/R&B)

***$5 suggested donation

www.myspace.com/davekellermusic

Friday, 05.30.09

Lowell Thompson & Jay Ekis

***$5 suggested donation

www.myspace.com/lowellthompson

www.myspace.com/jayekis

Saturday, 05.31.09

Toni Catlin (Southern Folk)

***$5 suggested donation

www.myspace.com/tonicatlin