Tom Zamostein’s project is Bastards of Earle. The title enough suggests one who does his own thing and does it well. Tom is something of an icon in terms of Philly’s own music scene. I last saw him when he was performing with the North Lawrence Midnight Singers at the now-closed Tritone. Tom’s solo effort was full of energy, generally kicking up energy with his tomato-red shoes, also sporting a brown suit jacket and old-school hat The songs fit nicely on the musical shelf near those of Springsteen and Westerberg. One line from one song, “Downtown Girl”, possibly, makes reference to a ‘cubic zirconia polyester smile’. Another song, about London and Camden in the UK, easily could be referencing NYC instead, as his smile and impassioned delivery a delight to watch. A favorite tune from the set, and the available media on his website is the tune Weightless.


Tall Tall Trees had shared billing the night before at the beloved Pete’s Candy Store in northernmost Brooklyn with Heidemann. Monika Heidemann presented music that has an 80’s throwback feel. I was struck by her personal style, which reminded me a bit of Chrissie Hynde, and a commanding mid-range voice. The songs appear a bit provocative tho I think its’ the voice that makes them so more than the lyrics. Monika was recently in a band that shared her interest in 80’s music. Nowadays she appears solo with a warm bass and synth and loops.
Here’s VIDEO of Michael in action. This was my first attempt at HD video with my new camera.

