Listen Fresh, Listen Local

By: Elise Hugus, September 12, 2011

Rebecca Forster - Bassist Fernando Huergo, drummer Steve Langone, guitarist Pat Ryan, and pianist Perry Rossi.

There is more to Cape Cod than meets the eye.

Musician Pat Ryan wants Cape Codders to start experiencing where they live with all five senses, taking in the tastes and sounds that make up the idyllic landscape.

A desire to combine his musical talents and concern for sustainability and ecological issues led Ryan to organize “Listen Fresh, Listen Local” this Thursday at the Cotuit Center for the Arts.

 “Like healthy, sustainable ecosystems, vibrant music is imbued with both diversity and complexity. The best way to experience it is locally, and live,” says Ryan, a Barnstable-based guitarist

He will be joined by drummer Steve Langone, Argentinian bassist Fernando Huergo, and pianist Perry Rossi, in an eclectic program of originals and “new standards” by artists ranging from Jimi Hendrix and Jeff Beck to Pat Metheny, Steely Dan and Led Zeppelin. 

Barnstable native and eco-activist Dave Scandurra will open the program at 7 PM with his positive songs of hope and change.

Just as plants and geological features make the Cape unique, so do the musicians who come together to create a distinct soundscape.

Supporting your local music scene is just as important is supporting local farmers, Ryan says.

“Just like I’d rather eat at Coonamessett Farm rather than McDonald’s, I’d like to see musicians be able to make a sustainable living on a local level, producing quality that’s not sanctioned by corporate labels and American Idol,” he says.

So try a taste of live, organic local music, starting with this Thursday’s “Listen Fresh, Listen Local.”

The Southeastern Massachusetts Agricultural Partnership (SEMAP) will offer appetizers made from locally produced food, alongside a cash bar and information on how to participate in the “local foods, local culture” movement. 

Listen Fresh, Listen Local  takes place Thursday, September 15 at 7 PM

Cotuit Center for the Arts

4404 Falmouth Road, Cotuit

Tickets are $20 ($15 CCftA members) and benefit Buy Fresh, Buy Local Cape Cod and the Southeastern Massachusetts Agricultural Partnership (SEMAP)