It’s no secret that I have a ton of talented friends. My large circle contains visual artists, wordsmiths, animal experts, makers-of-things, and largest of all, musicians. Severely lacking in musical talent myself permits me the ability to sit back and enjoy. Most times, though, I enjoy from a few inches behind my camera.

I have had the privilege of enjoying the amazing talents of Shannon Watson and Ryan Luko in several musical forms. The most recent grouping is a band named Shannon and    the Merger. It is a supergroup of sorts that came together last year.  Playing freshened up versions of  pop hits from the past 50+ years, there’s something in there for everyone.  Described on their site as, “Melodic vocals + virtuoso harmonica playing + a dynamic rhythm section = Shannon and the Merger”, they prove that and then some at every show.

The most recent gig I got to shoot was at the Hard Rock cafe in Pittsburgh. I’m a sucker for a venue with good lighting. There’s nothing worse for me than a great sounding group that no one can see on stage. I understand and can appreciate the small intimate venue scene, but (pay attention owners) you’ve got to have a little light for the band. That being said, I love the Hard Rock. Nice and open with plenty of places to get good angles.

I ended up shooting a few videos for the band from this show, but still managed to snap a few stills. I’m thrilled with what the Nikon D800 allows me to capture, both in video and still frame images. I look forward to catching more from the band’s performance at the Thunderbird Cafe on Nov. 21 and a benefit show for the Food Bank on November 29th at the Hard Rock. You can see more of Shannon and the Merger on their Facebook page here