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Tony Mecca: News

British Invasion Show - Video Highlights!
+New Shows
+Our Music Free & At Half Price
- May 5, 2014



BRITISH INVASION VIDEO HIGHLIGHT
We thought you might like to see the video highlights of the April 19th South Jersey Saints BRITISH INVASION show. Proceeds went to the Gentle Ben Charity Donation Program, benefiting K9 heroes. Thanks to my friends for jumping over the water to support a great cause, and share this wonderful music with us. I never believed that I'd get a chance to play these magical songs... WATCH VIDEO NOW!


BREAKING NEWS - THE SAINTS AT WORLD CAFE LIVE
AUGUST 29, 2014


NEW LIVE SHOWS COMING
The Gypsy Quartet will be back at Cookies Bar with Way Out Wilson on May 23rd for the first time since last October. New shows are being added as we speak, and all performances promise new songs, old songs and several things rarely or never before performed. CHECK OUR CALENDAR

OUR MUSIC FOR FREE / HALF PRICE
We're giving our music away this month to win your affection! Jump over to CDBABY by CLICKING HERE, and look through our CD's. You'll find:

*Free song downloads;
*CD albums downloads for half price;
*All download singles cut to 49 cents;
*Physical CD albums for $5.00.

So come on, engage with an artist that's working for art's sake.
HELP US MAKE MORE MUSIC FOR YOU!

Until next month, always remember we love you - Annie Helicopter


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New Single - Joey Coyle (Live)!
+New Album & Live News
+The Saints Do The British Invasion
- January 17, 2014





THE FRIENDS OF JOEY COYLE (LIVE)
We are very proud to announce the release of our new single download release, "The Friends of Joey Coyle (Live)."

CDBaby Says:
... This moving solo rendition of his debut Purple Monkeys favorite is every bit emotive and impassioned as the blistering concert version routinely serve-up by Mecca and his Heavy MeNtal Gypsys.

DOWNLOAD IT NOW!




NEW ALBUM / LIVE NEWS
In The Studio: The final recording touches are being put on the forthcoming "Heavy MeNtal Gypsies" album. "Mostly vocals and musical eyebrows," Tony says. A true collage of a project, HMG contains:

2 new rockers;
4 new acoustic songs (Stephanie featured on two lead vocals);
2 covers songs;
2 older songs treated to new drums and enhanced sound;
another Purple Monkey that's been totally redone;
2 or 3 live songs from a 2008 performance - Wow!

In The Bars: The first two shows of the year have set for Saturdays February 15th (JR's) & 22nd (Nickel's Tavern - For all of the details, jump over to our LIVE SHOW PAGE


THE SAINTS TO DO THE BRITISH INVASION!
The South Jersey Saints will be gathering once again for an April 19th concert at The Indian Chief Tavern. This time out the gang will be tackling the early-mid 1960's British Invasion. The Beatles, Stones, Animals and all of the rest will be represented. Stay tuned for more details next month!


LIKE US ON FACEBOOK, PLEASE!
Hey, we've recently reached the "200 Likes" plateau on our Facebook Band Page. The Band Page features free music, news, opinions, Tony's psycho-prose, funky facts & quotes, fractured poetry and classic era rock band & album reviews. We may even bake you a pizza if you say please. Join us for a great time at - FACEBOOK.COM/TONYMECCA

Until next month, always remember we love you - Annie Helicopter


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Christmas Super Sale / Our Music Half Price!
+Wrapping-Up 2013
+Previewing 2014
- December 10, 2013



WRAPPING UP 2013
The year ended on a high note as Steph was invited to play the 2nd annual Women To Women (W2W2) concert benefiting Providence House and their fight against domestic abuse. She quickly assembled Justin Gonzalez, Michele Davis, John Merlino and Tony Mecca, and efficiently guided them toward her goal of performing a set of songs by her favorite singer/songwriter, Tina Dico. 'Twas a total success if I must say so myself. The photos in this section are from that show and compliments of the great Frankie Zee.




CHRISTMAS CD SALE
Just in the nick of time to stuff your music loving friends Christmas stocking, all of our CD's & Downloads have been slashed in half over at CDBABY. We will also send you and your friend a half price coupon for our upcoming 2014 album, Heavy MeNtal Gypsies

BUY TONY'S MUSIC FOR CHRISTMAS!



PREVIEWING 2014
Again, we'd like to take this opportunity to thank our loyal friends for continuing to support us through another year. We hope we never let you down on CD or at a live performance. The new year will bring a new album, two new singles and many more live shows ... so needless to say we are incredibly excited, and hope that you continue to hang out with us!



LIKE US ON FACEBOOK, PLEASE!
Hey, we've recently reached the "200 Likes" plateau on our Facebook Band Page. The Band Page features free music, news, opinions, Tony's psycho-prose, funky facts & quotes, fractured poetry and classic era rock band & album reviews. We may even bake you a pizza if you say please. Join us for a great time at - FACEBOOK.COM/TONYMECCA

Until next month, always remember we love you - Annie Helicopter


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Stephanie At W2W2 - November 30th
Our Friend, James Curley!
Tony & Steph Live!
- November 21, 2013




STEPH AT W2W2 - NOVEMBER 30TH
Our beloved Stephanie Davis has been asked to perform at the second annual Women To Women Concert (W2W2). We are so very proud of Steph, and would love to see a whole bunch of our friends come out and support and this fantastic event. Steph will be joined on stage by Tony Mecca, John Merlino, Justin Gonzalez and the wonderful Michele "Stinky" Davis. The songs to be performed are a bit of a secret. CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS!

November 30, 2013 / The Indian Chief Tavern
212 Rt 70, Medford, New Jersey 08055



OUR FRIEND, JAMES CURLEY!
We congratulate our good friend James Curley on the release of his 3rd album, There Used To Be A Train. Originally from the Grays Ferry section of our beautiful South Philly, James has made his home - and musical mark - base in Chicago with his insightful and melodious Folk/Americana musings on the life and the human condition. Please visit James' web site and sample his music. It is absolutely first rate!


TONY & STEPH LIVE!
Tony & Steph will present a short program between sets of the December 6th WAY OUT WILSON show at The Shamrock Pub - Several surprises are in store by Tony, Steph and The Wilson's --- Come on out and start the holiday season with some vintage rock, and a small - but potent - dose of rock 'n roll psychotherapy... Or you can just stay on the couch and imagine the fun you could be having had you gotten off you ass and ran down to 2nd & Reed.

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK, PLEASE!
Hey, we've recently reached the "200 Likes" plateau on our Facebook Band Page. The Band Page features free music, news, opinions, Tony's psycho-prose, funky facts & quotes, fractured poetry and classic era rock band & album reviews. We may even bake you a pizza if you say please. Join us for a great time at - FACEBOOK.COM/TONYMECCA

Until next month, always remember we love you - Annie Helicopter


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Halloween Rock 'n Roll Shindig & Farmers Ball
Steph To Perform At W2W2
Join Us On Facebook
- October 15, 2013




HALLOWEEN ROCK 'n ROLL SHINDIG & FARMERS BALL
Tony & The Gypsys will again team up with Way Out Wilson on Friday October 25, 2013 @ Cookies Bar for the 1st annual Halloween Rock 'n Roll Shindig & Farmers Ball. The gang has plenty of musical surprises in store, and wholeheartedly invites you to dress up in your favorite Halloween gear. Free Cd's, candy and kisses are promised. And don't forget to stop by JR'S BAR on November 1st as Tony & Steph premier their new persona ... ME TARZAN, YOU JANE. CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS!


STEPH INVITED TO PERFORM AT W2W2
Our beloved Gypsy Stephanie Davis has been invited to perform at the 2nd Annual Women to Women Event (W2W2). Women to Women is an advocacy group with the mission of bringing female artists together to share a night of music while raising awareness and funding for Women's causes, locally and nationally. This unique event features talented female performing artists from all over the Tri-state area. Last year W2W successfully raised $4700 dollars for Breast Cancer Research. Steph was also invited last year, but the show conflicted with Tony/Gypsys Irish Society Concert. Steph has asked Tony to accompany her for her segment of the set. CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS!

November 30, 2013 / The Indian Chief Tavern
212 Rt 70, Medford, New Jersey 08055


LIKE US ON FACEBOOK, PLEASE!
Hey, we've recently reached the "200 Likes" plateau on our Facebook Band Page. The Band Page features free music, news, opinions, Tony's psycho-prose, funky facts & quotes, fractured poetry and classic era rock band & album reviews. We may even bake you a pizza if you say please. Join us for a great time at - FACEBOOK.COM/TONYMECCA

Until next month, always remember we love you - Annie Helicopter


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Songs We Never Play
Live At Cookies Bar
New Album Update!
Join Us On Facebook
- August 15, 2013


THE "SONGS WE NEVER PLAY" SERIES
While The Gypsys performance schedule has been diminished this year to dedicate most of their time to completing the new album, a schedule of live performances is being assembled that will either spotlight, or be totally dedicated to songs that are rarely performed live. "Talk has always been in the air about doing this, and now seems like the right time," Gypsy Joe Pettit told me last week. Inspired by song suggestions from our wonderful supporters, the first show will be at Cookies Bar / Friday September 13th, and feature The Heavy MeNtal Gypsy Quartet performing an entire set of neglected gems from the back catalog - CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS, and a glimpse at a few of the songs!

NEW ALBUM UPDATE
From day one, the working title of the new album has been Heavy MeNtal Gypsys - and there is no indication that it will change. Originally named to both honor his live band, and reference a group of songs that he considers misfits, Tony has continued to shuffle the deck of songs that will eventually find a home on his fifth album. "The initial premise was that the first half of the album would include four new originals song, and a mix of cover songs, live material and two remakes of earlier songs. The second half of the album would be a sort of "best of songs" from the first 4 CD's, selected by our loyal supporters. That really hasn't changed much, but with 13 new songs in the hopper, it has been tempting to add a new song or two." I think this is the up to the minute song list:

I Ain't That Stupid Anymore / The Farmer / I Am She / Two Trees - Three Trees
Margaret / Riders on the Storm / Eleanor Rigby / The Friends of Joey Coyle (enhanced)
Say Goodbye to Judas (enhanced) / Yeah, Yeah, Yeah (live) / Simple Cindy (live)

There's been no indication of which songs will comprise the "best of" portion of the album, but we would love to know the songs that you want included. PICK YOUR FAVORITES NOW!


LIKE US ON FACEBOOK, PLEASE!
Hey, we've recently reached the "200 Likes" plateau on our Facebook Band Page. The Band Page features free music, news, opinions, Tony's psycho-prose, funky facts & quotes, fractured poetry and classic era rock band & album reviews. We may even bake you a pizza if you say please. Join us for a great time at - FACEBOOK.COM/TONYMECCA

Until next month, always remember we love you - Annie Helicopter


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EOM 2Stock / July 24, 2012
Live At The Indian Chief
Check Out Soundcloud!
- July 18, 2013


EOM 2STOCK MUSIC FESTIVAL
EOM Field at Front & Moore Streets in Philadelphia will be the place you'll want to be on Wednesday July 24th, 2013! This will be an evening of great local music, food & drink, activities for the kiddies ... and all to benefit the wonderful EOM Club, and the incredible sports programs they have provide for our community since the 1960's. Tony & The Gypsy Quartet are honored to have been asked to play the headline slot on the acoustic stage. The event will begin at 4PM and run till 10PM. Get more details and the entire list of performers over at the official EOM 2STOCK MUSIC FESTIVAL SITE.


LIVE AT THE INDIAN CHIEF
Tony & The Gypsys visited the Garden State for the first time in awhile, opening for their good friends - Jailbreak. A very enthusiastic crowd gathered on a hot July night, and watched with curious wonder as The Gypsys kicked into a high powered set of Rock 'N Roll Psychotherapy. The results were unanimous as many new friends were made, and plans are in the works for a return visit. You can jump over to our Facebook page and watch The Gypsys perform Fun House live at The Indian Chief by copying this code into your browser: FACEBOOK.COM/TONYMECCA ...


HAVE YOU HEARD OF SOUNDCLOUD?
Soundcloud is a site where independent recording artists post their songs for music lovers and other artists to listen, share, befriend and express their opinion about the artist and their music. The cool thing is that you can insert a specific comment at any point along the song's timeline. Give it a try:




Until next month, always remember we love you - Annie Helicopter


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More Live Shows Announced!
The Saints Do Woodstock
New Album Update
- May 6, 2013


THE GYPSYS LIVE!
Tony Mecca & The Heavy MeNtal Gypsys have added several new Saturday night shows including May 11, 2013 @ Cookies Bar (w/Way Out Wilson), June 1, 2013 @ Nickel's Tavern - our inaugural performance at this bar - and opening for The South Jersey Saints presentation of "Woodstock" on July 13, 2013 @ The Indian Chief Tavern - Visit our LIVE SHOWS page for more details about all of these shows.

THE SOUTH JERSEY SAINTS DO WOODSTOCK
The South Jersey Saints, that thirteen-headed monster made up of some of the area's finest musicians, will be performing a tribute to the 1969 Woodstock Music & Arts Fair. "Three Days of Peace & Music" jammed into one night. We encourage you to dress for the occasion, but you must actually dress - not undress as back in those frolicking days of free love. The club management balked and would not allow us to include a nudist stipulation in our contract. See you at The Indian Chief on July 13th!

NEW ALBUM UPDATE
Progress with the album has been slow but steady and the song selection has change a bit since our last update. Here's what I'm told will be included: I Ain't That Stupid, The Farmer, Eleanor Rigby & Riders On The Storm (last years single releases), Two Trees, I Am She (featuring Steph), The Friends Of Joey Coyle & Say Goodbye To Judas (both with live drums and other additions), Oh Caroline! (a new acoustic version) and two other new songs (another to feature Steph) that have yet to be performed. There's also talk of a live song or two, and perhaps some remixes of a few old favorites as a bonus. Stay tuned!

Until next month, always remember we love you - Annie Helicopter


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The Gypsys Live!
The Saints Greater Cause
Every CD & Download Half Price!
- March 12, 2013


THE GYPSYS LIVE!
Tony Mecca & The Heavy MeNtal Gypsys will jump back onto the stage at Cookies Bar on Saturday March 23, 2013 - The band has been a bit scattered the past few months tending to The South Jersey Saints, various solo projects, assorted surgeries and of course, the recording of the new Tony Mecca album.

This performance promises to be full of surprises, and very playful as the band looks to unwind from the many stresses of the real world. Says the head Gypsy:

"The Gypsys are not the real world. They are a slightly mystical environment filled with whimsical fractured poetry that may just bite you in the ass if you're not paying attention ... But if you follow the music - you will laugh, think, dance and - above all - you will have one of the greatest nights of your life"

THE SAINTS GREATER CAUSE
The South Jersey Saints' performance at Brewsters on February 16th turned out to be more than just a great Rock 'n Roll show. Yea the club was totally jammed packed to see the SAINTS & OUTLOUD, but this extravaganza also managed to raised 30 boxes of food for folks in need, and some much needed cash for Toms River High School.

Watch the Courier Post video interview of concert organizers Mark & Jeanne Mannix Evans and The Saints' Alf & Janet Bufano ...

... And, if you didn't get to see the show or you'd like to relive some of the performances, watch the Saints right here

ALL OF OUR MUSIC FOR 1/2 PRICE!
For the month of March, we are offering all of our CD's and Downloads for 1/2 price. Just jump on over to CDBABY and treat yourself to any album or single. They're all there waiting for you!

Until next month, always remember we love you - Annie Helicopter


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The Saints Are Here ... To Feed The Hungry!
- February 10, 2013


Last month I told you about a special band and event that I'm very privileged to have been invited to join. The South Jersey Saints are a 13 piece super-band assembled to pay tribute to the great 1970's concert events like Mad Dogs & Englishmen - The Concert For Bangladesh - The Last Waltz and more. Your response has been wonderful, and we are expecting a great turnout.

Just Recently, this show has taken on an even more significant role. Concert curators/performers, Janet Schumann-Bufano, Al Tru, Jeanne Mannix Evans and Jim Drnec, have linked our musical efforts with the great cause of helping some special folks in need. Here's the deal:

100,000 people in South Jersey are HUNGRY!
36,000 of those are children!
YOU CAN HELP ROCK FOR FOOD!


The South Jersey Saints & Outloud are holding a Food Drive for the Food Bank of South Jersey on Saturday February 16th at BREWSTERS PUB in Maple Shade. We ask each person to bring (2) non-perishable items for the Food Bank collection. Boxes will be located @ Brewster’s Entryway.

MOST NEEDED ITEMS: Peanut Butter, Canned Chicken, Canned Tuna, Canned Salmon, Beans(Dry/Canned), Peanuts, Almonds, Canned Veggies & Fruit, Fruit Cups, Jelly, Raisins, Prunes, Dry Cereal, Oatmeal, Rice, Pasta, Pancake Mix, Mac n cheese, Soups, Canned Stew, Chili, Apple Sauce (We CANNOT accept perishable – opened – repackaged – expired – baked – frozen or home made items.)

Jeanne Mannix Evans says...
We are also holding a 50/50 for the Toms River HS East for the students that lost everything including their homes in Hurricane Sandy. - Feel Free to share this information! I hope to see some Gypsy Freaks at Brewsters Pub for this show, Tony

Until next month, always remember we love you - Annie Helicopter


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The Saints Are Coming!
New Album Update
Live Shows Coming
- January 10, 2013


THE SOUTH JERSEY SAINTS ARE COMING!
I want to tell you about a special band and event that I'm very privileged to have been invited to join. The South Jersey Saints are a 13 piece super-band comprised of some of the finest musicians on the South Jersey/Philly/Delaware rock music scene today (If I must say so myself). The Saints were assembled for the purpose of paying tribute to the great concert events of the 1970's. More specifically, the boys and girls will channel music from Mad Dogs & Englishmen - The Concert For Bangladesh - The Last Waltz and more. I hope to see you there, Tony

The live performance date has been set for February 16, 2013 at Brewsters Pub - We will be the special guest of our good friends, Outloud. So if you love this music as much as we do (or) you know Jim Drnec, Bill Saltzer, Conner Saltzer, Mike Pappas, Joe DeLuca, Tom Umbra, Rich Mahn, Tony Mecca, Al Tru, Janet Schumann-Bufano, Chris Eld Hartline, Britt Zammer or Bill Mattson (or) you're just curious as to how 13 adults armed with instruments will ever fit on one stage, clear that date now.

NEW ALBUM UPDATE
Since the band's last live performances back in November, Tony has holed-up at The Opera House Recording Studio every available minute to work on tracks for album #5. Occasionally joined by members of The Heavy MeNtal Gypsys, and some surprise guests, the talk is that new concert favorites - The Farmer, I Ain't That Stupid Anymore, I Am She, Fun House - are well on there way toward completion. With the latest single releases - Riders on the Storm, Eleanor Rigby - already in the can, and enhanced/remixed versions of older favorites - The Friends of Joey Coyle, Say Goodbye to Judas - just about finished, the new project should be coming soon.

LIVE SHOWS COMING
While recording is the current priority, the Gypsys have been hankering to get back out on the live scene. The word is that several shows are being discussed right now, and should be announced very soon. Stay tuned, we can't wait to see you "out there".

Until next month, always remember we love you - Annie Helicopter


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Tony Signs New Publishing Agreement
Second Street Irish Society Review
Listen to new "Eleanor Rigby" single
- November 19, 2012


TONY SIGN OVERSEAS PUBLISHING DEAL
We are very proud to announce that we've established a new alliance for publishing interests outside of North America with TRANSAMERIKA MUSIKVERLAG KG. Based in Germany, this respected international sub-publishing enterprise will administer, license and shop Tony's music via GEMA (worldwide) and KODA (Nordic Countries). We've been looking for this type of relationship to facilitate our main focus which has shifted to exposing Tony's songs to film and television opportunities. Our search for similar relationship(s) in North America continues, and we hope to have good news on that front soon. Of course we are still continuing with new recording projects and live performances - more on that later!


SECOND ST IRISH SOCIETY
Another great time at The Second Street Irish Society. This is a show that we've done in November 2007, 2008, 2010 & 2012 - It is especially intended for our fans/friends that tell us that this venue and environment is their favorite place to see us perform. So we hoped you enjoyed the show, and perhaps we'll do it again next year. For those of you that usually make this show, but couldn't attend - The set list:

1 Laugh, Lucy Laugh / 2-3 Jack/Jack the Ripper / 4 Suzie Lone Star Hero / 5 You're Not as Tough...
6 Eleanor Rigby / 7 The Farmer / 8 Say Goodbye to Judas / 9 I Ain't That Stupid, Anymore
10 Riders on the Storm / 11 The Friends of Joey Coyle / 12 I Am She / 13 New Green Shirt
14 Two Trees / 15 We Called Her Saint Anne / 16 Fun House / 17 Logic / 18 Sweet Sunshine
19 Witch Jenny? / 20 Goodbye / 21 Hallelujah, I Love Her So / 22 Who Do You Love


ELEANOR RIGBY/AS YOU'VE NEVER HEARD IT
Covering a Beatles song can be very risky business, but we are very confident that you will absolutely embrace this entrancing and electric take of the Fab Four's Revolver album classic. Tony's arrangement, performance and production is gracefully quirky yet very respectful; and Steph's amazing lead vocal is simultaneously commanding and sympathetic. Listen and please leave your comments on the player just below!

BUY ELEANOR RIGBY - ONLY $.99



Until next month, always remember we love you - Annie Helicopter


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Live - Second Street Irish Society!
Live at Cookies Bar
Tony Revisits Eleanor Rigby
- September 17, 2012



LIVE - SECOND STREET IRISH SOCIETY
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 10, 2012

Let's do it again! Tony & The Heavy MeNtal Gypsys will close out their 2012 live schedule with a very special show at Second Street Irish Society on Saturday night November 10th. History has proven this venue to be among our friends very favorites!

For your belly, an open beer & wine bar, cold sandwiches from Primos & several other culinary treats. For your head, feet, heart & soul - Tony & The Gypsys promise the greatest show of their collective careers - GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!


LIVE AT COOKIES BAR
Also helping the Gypsys close out their 2012 live schedule, Cookies Bar will be the place to be on Friday night September 28th - A great set of music and plenty of free stuff for our great friends on Mercy Street


ELEANOR RIGBY/AS YOU'VE NEVER HEARD IT
Covering a Beatles song can be very risky business, but we are very confident that you will absolutely embrace this entrancing and electric take of the Fab Four's Revolver album classic. Tony's arrangement, performance and production is gracefully quirky yet very respectful; and Steph's amazing lead vocal is simultaneously commanding and sympathetic.

BUY ELEANOR RIGBY - ONLY $.99


BUYING OUR OLD MUSIC -
HELPS US MAKE NEW MUSIC

The love and support of our friends is the the main reason that we dedicate so much time to creating/producing new songs and playing live shows. In order to continue to record and release new music we are always in need of your financial aid. So if our music is not in your CD player, or on your Ipod, you need to get to OUR STORE and do some shopping.

Until next month, always remember we love you - Annie Helicopter


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Irish Society Concert Announced!
Tony Does The Beatles!
Buying Our Old Music...
- August 17, 2012


LIVE AT THE IRISH SOCIETY!
Tony & The Heavy MeNtal Gypsys have announced that they will be returning to The Second Street Irish Society for a "very special concert performance" on November 10, 2012 - This will be Tony/Gypsys 4th appearance at The Irish Society since beginning the tradition back in November 2007

BEATLES ANYONE?
Following on the heels of Tony's "Riders on the Storm" single and video, a remake of the Beatles' classic "Eleanor Rigby" will be released as a download single in September. If you thought the "Riders" cover was different, wait until you hear this dark, yet powerfully scintillating update.


BUYING OUR OLD MUSIC HELPS US MAKE NEW MUSIC
The love and support of our friends is the the main reason that we dedicate so much time to creating/producing new songs and playing live shows. In order to continue to record and release new music we are always in need of your financial aid. So if our music is not in your CD player, or on your Ipod, you need to get to OUR STORE and do some shopping.

Until next month, always remember we love you - Annie Helicopter


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"Riders on the Storm" Video & Single Are Released
- May 26, 2012


"RIDERS ON THE STORM" VIDEO IS RELEASED!
Our tribute to The Doors - and their 1971 classic "Riders on the Storm" - crests with the release of a video written and directed by our good friends Joe Van Blunk and Gus Rosanio. Akin to our own reading of Jim Morrison’s timeless swan song, this visual account of the song's graphic and fractured storyline leads the viewer through an abundantly interpretive landscape that is sure to fire the imagination.

Joe, Gus and Tony would really love for you to take the trip with them. They'd also be grateful if you would leave a comment and shared this video with your friends.





"RIDERS ON THE STORM" SINGLE IS RELEASED
On May 22, 2012 (our 30th wedding anniversary), Urban American Records released "Riders on the Storm" as a "Download Single" - For just 99 cents you can enjoy Tony's haunting interpretation of this 1971 classic whenever you're feeling "Doorsy". You can download via CD BABY, AMAZON, ITUNES, RHAPSODY, SPOTIFY or any other popular digital boutique.

DOWNLOAD "RIDERS ON THE STORM"

Until next month, always remember we love you - Annie Helicopter


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Preview Tony's "Riders on the Storm"
Big Medicine Places Tony's Songs!
Live Shows Announced
- April 19, 2012



PREVIEW TONY'S "RIDERS ON THE STORM"
As announced in last month's news, "Riders On The Storm" is the new single from Tony Mecca - It will be released by Urban American Records at the end of April as a "Download Single" with the companion video slated for a May premier. You can now preview a clip of this haunting and unique reading of The Doors "Riders On The Storm" by clicking on the play button at the top of this page, or by visiting our MUSIC PAGE

BIG MEDICINE PLACES TONY'S SONGS
Two of Tony's songs - "Mercy Street" & "Morning Coffee" - have been added to the playlist and artist profile section of BIG MEDICINE, which is a online journal focused on emergency services.

Music plays an important role in the lives of emergency services providers. They have about 5,000 readers a month, most of which are in the emergency services world such as paramedics, firefighters, rescuers, ER nurses, physicians etc... The 'Big Med Playlist for the Big One' evolved from a blog piece written a few years ago about the ultimate soundtrack to listen to while responding to The Big One (job jargon for a big emergency call).

NEW SHOWS ADDED
We are happy to announce that two shows have been added to our 2012 live schedule. In addition, we are hoping to add early summer and fall shows. But for now...

April 21, 2012 - Tony will give a solo performance at Philly's JR's Bar - opening for THE DEAD PIRATES - and will be joined on several songs by a popular Philly rhythm section.

May 19, 2012 - Tony & The Heavy MeNtal Gypsy Quartet will hike down to Salisbury Maryland to play the wonderful Common Grounds Coffee House.

Until next month, always remember we love you - Annie Helicopter


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Tony Mecca Covers The Doors
"Morning Coffee" Featured
Live Shows Announced
- March 24, 2012



TONY MECCA COVERS THE DOORS
The Doors classic "Riders On The Storm" will be the first in a series of recordings that Tony Mecca will release as "Single Song Downloads" throughout 2012. This unique reading, which Tony has performed sporadically throughout his career, maintains a close kinship with the original version while managing to sound very different. "Riders" will be included on Tony's next album - detailed in last month's news.

The big bonus will be a companion video originally scripted and directed by Philadelphia filmmakers Joe Van Blunk and Gus Rosa (BOARDWALK & ECHOES FROM A GHOST MINYAN). We are very excited for this project's arrival which is slated for late April, and hope to post some photos and song clips soon!

"MORNING COFFEE" FEATURED!
Salisbury Maryland's wonderful COMMON GROUNDS COFFEE HOUSE, a place Tony & The Gypsys have performed several times, has adopted Tony's song "Morning Coffee" as a sort of theme song. Taken from the 2007 album, Hello, Goodbye & Everything in Between, "Morning Coffee" blasts off as soon as you arrive at the Common Grounds web site. Check it out, and always remember: "Morning Coffee won't wake you up if you find the same person at the bottom of your cup".

LIVE SHOWS ANNOUNCED
We are pleased to announce that three shows have been added to our intentionally thin 2012 live schedule. In addition, we are hoping to add an early summer show at the World Cafe Live (Philly), and a November extravaganza at The Second Street Irish Society. The shows:

First will be a solo performance by Tony at JR'S BAR on April 21st. An eclectic set list is promised, and it now appears that Tony will be joined on several songs by a "yet-to-be-named" popular Philly rhythm section. The second show will find Tony & The Heavy MeNtal Gypsy Quartet hiking down to Salisbury Maryland on May 19th to play their favorite coffee house in the world, COMMON GROUNDS. The final show of the trio is only almost finalized for October 13th - It will be a "full band" romp up to Dunellen North Jersey and the incredible ROXY & DUKES ROCKABILLY ROADHOUSE. The Gypsys were all so impressed by this remarkable venue when they played there last September, that we're attempting to put together a car caravan of friends to accompany us this time... And we want YOU to come!

Until next month, always remember we love you - Annie Helicopter


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The Underneath Magazine Interview
Two New Album Projects
New Songs Featured At Live Shows
- February 9, 2012



THE UNDERNEATH MAGAZINE INTERVIEW
Tony has recently been interviewed by The Salisbury Daily Times (Salisbury, Maryland), Junior's Cave (Brunswick, Georgia) and Underneath Magazine. Our October and November updates featured The Salisbury Daily Times and Junior's Cave Online Magazine installments. This month Ryan Groves gets down to the business of the Internet's impact on Tony and other recording/performing artists both mega and independent. You can visit our PRESS PAGE, or you can just CLICK HERE TO READ THE INTERVIEW.

TWO NEW ALBUM PROJECTS PLANNED
After considering several options, it now appears that two new album projects will be pursued simultaneously. Project one will be a double length CD that will feature a combination of new songs, cover songs and past album favorites including at least 4 songs from the Purple Monkeys and Princes of the New Dark Age albums that will be remixed and enhanced with added performances by the members of the Heavy MeNtal Gypsys. The second project will be an album of 12 new songs, several of which are currently included in the band's live set. No release dates have been set for either album, but it's definitely not too early to email us your "favorite song" suggestions for project one.

NEW SONGS TO BE FEATURED
With the emphasis being placed on recording, the live performance schedule will dramatically decrease in 2012. "A couple of big shows, a few road shows and (hopefully) more private concerts than last year" is how Tony would like it to unfold. In addition, the musical focus will tilt more toward newer material and revisits to older songs mostly ignored over the past year. That being said, it's probably a good bet you can still count on hearing "Witch Jenny?", "Joey Coyle" and "Suzie".

Until next month, always remember we love you - Annie Helicopter


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The Junior's Cave Interview
New Songs Premering Everywhere
Final Shows/Last Days Of "Tell Tony What To Play" Contest
- November 16, 2011



THE JUNIOR'S CAVE INTERVIEW
Tony has recently been interviewed by The Salisbury Daily Times (Salisbury, Maryland), Junior's Cave (Brunswick, Georgia) and Underneath Magazine. Last month we featured an interview with The Salisbury Daily Times anticipating Tony and the Bands two performances in that area. This month we spotlight Tony's interview for Junior's Cave Online Magazine. Isaac Davis Jr gets deep into Tony's head for his opinion on the plight of the independent musician, and the one thing he would do to change the music business. You can visit our PRESS PAGE, or you can just CLICK HERE TO READ THE INTERVIEW.

NEW SONGS PREMIERING EVERYWHERE
You may have noticed several new song titles in the recent set lists. While "The World Is..." debuted November 2010 at THE 2ND STREET IRISH SOCIETY, and "Truth Or Fiction" and "The Farmer" first appeared at VAN BLUNK'S in May 2011, "Lonely Lisa" and "I Ain't That Stupid, Anymore" were recently introduced at the GREEN TURTLE (Salisbury, MD) on 11/5/11 and "I Am She" (a new one written for Steph) quickly followed in both sets at BIRDIE'S CAFE (Westminster, MD) on 11/12/11. The talk of a new album is more frequent these days, with other candidates for the new project (so I'm told) being the yet to be christened "Two Trees" - "Annie Goes Home" - "Margaret" - "Fall-Fade-Forget" - "My Girlfriend Lied" - "The Fun House" and several others currently in the works. Stay tuned!

CONTEST ENDING 11/30/11 - FINAL 2011 SHOW @ COOKIES
Time is running out to suggest a cover song for Tony & The Gypsys to perform. Don't miss your chance to win all four of Tony's CD's plus the "Pre-Fun Fan Appreciation Utility Disc" by suggesting the winning song, or being selected via a drawing of all the contest participants - CLICK HERE WITH YOUR SUGGESTION - The drawing will take place at the Gypsys final show of the year at COOKIES on December 3rd - Many gifts and surprises are planned to commemorate Tony's most successful year, and we'd love for all our friends to help us celebrate.

Until next month, always remember we love you - Annie Helicopter


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The Salisbury Daily Times Interview/Article
New Contest - Tell Tony What To Play
Final Shows Of 2011
- October 15, 2011



THE SALISBURY DAILY TIMES INTERVIEW
Tony has recently been interviewed by The Salisbury Times (Salisbury, Maryland), Junior's Cave (Brunswick, Georgia) and Underneath Magazine (Parts Unknown). We'll be featuring these interviews/articles over the next two months starting with the Salisbury Daily Times in this edition. In anticipation of Tony & The Heavy MeNtal Gypsys Salisbury visits to Common Grounds and The Green Turtle on September 17th and November 5th respectively, writer Josh Davis asks Tony about his beginnings, his singing voice and the cast of "misfits" that usually populate his songs. Both the article and the entire interview appear on our PRESS PAGE, or you can just CLICK HERE TO READ THE INTERVIEW.


NEW CONTEST...
YOU TELL TONY WHAT TO PLAY!

Tony and the band are looking for a few new "cover songs" - That'd be songs by other artists - Put on your thinking caps and suggest one or two songs that you think The Gypsys would really do well. Whoever responds will be entered into a drawing with the winner getting all four of Tony's CD's plus the "Fan Appreciation Utility Disc" which features live material, interviews and our most requested songs that we never play live. Oh, and if you suggest a song that The Gypsys perform, you'll also be receiving the above mentioned booty. You've got until Midnight, Halloween. This contest is the brainchild of our good friend Ken McCoy who suggested "Ballroom Blitz" by Sweet and "No Sugar Tonight" by The Guess Who - Good luck Ken! CLICK HERE WITH YOUR SUGGESTION!

THE FINAL LIVE SHOWS OF 2011
Sadly, "The 2011 Smiling Goat Tour" is coming to an end. This year has really been an adventure for Tony & The Gypsys having played a total of 24 shows that covered 5 states and some pretty prestigious venues. With November shows in Salisbury and Westminster, Maryland and Dunellen, North Jersey, Tony and the gang will return to wrap things up on December 3rd in their hometown and favorite bar, COOKIES! There will be plenty of surprises, free giveaways and shenanigans, so mark you calendar right now. You don't want to miss this show!

Until next month, always remember we love you - Annie Helicopter


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The Jim Santora Show Interview/Radio Crystal Blue
All CD & Download Prices Slashed!
Tin Angel Live Recap
The Archival Recording Project - Habits, Mecca & More
- September 15, 2011


THE JIM SANTORA SHOW
A Podcast out of Hammonton, NJ that has been going strong since 2007 - In ROCKCAST #4, Tony is one of three artist interviewed by host Jim Santora - Jim and Tony discuss several topics including Tony's musical style and the thematic writing process employed on the FUN album/CD - There are also a couple of songs mixed in for good measure - Tony's segment runs from 43:48 to 1:21:20 (about 38 minutes) at our MULTIMEDIA PAGE.

RADIO CRYSTAL BLUE
Also, over on the MULTIMEDIA PAGE is a new podcast from Radio Crystal Blue. Coming out of Philly, host Dan Herman does a great job of re-creating the old FM radio vibe by serving an eclectic set of great music, both new and old, with a warm low keyed delivery. Dan plays "Sweet Sunshine" and chats about Tony and the band.

CD & DOWNLOAD PRICES SLASHED!
To make it a bit easier to buy our music we've decided to cut the prices on all of our CD's and downloads. FUN and HELLO, GOODBYE & EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN are now only $10 each. PRINCES OF THE NEW DARK AGE and PURPLE MONKEYS are now only $8 each. There's also discounts for multiple purchases of each CD, and if you ask for the "Gypsy Discount" when you order, we'll give you these specially discounted packages: MONKEYS & PRINCES for $12 / MONKEYS, PRINCES & HELLO for $20 / MONKEYS, PRINCES, HELLO & FUN for $26 - CD's can be purchased at OUR STORE - CD's and/or Downloads can be purchased at the equally wonderful CDBABY.COM which is accessible via OUR STORE

TIN ANGEL RECAP
This show took place on Friday night August 26th. Opening for our good friends EVER/AFTER, and it couldn't have a much better experience. The sound was excellent, the crowd was incredibly receptive (we made several new friends) and both bands played with great energy. I hope we can do it again sometime so more of our friends get the chance to experience the magical vibe that oozes out of every crevice of that wonderful venue. The next day we we're scheduled to travel to Salisbury Maryland to play THE GREEN TURTLE, but Hurricane Irene put a prompt end to that show. Warnings against day trips through Delaware and a "state of emergency" hanging over Maryland sealed the deal so we stayed in Philly, cleaned out the studio and awaited further orders. THE GREEN TURTLE show has been rescheduled for November 5, 2011 - VIEW ALL LIVE SHOWS HERE!

THE ARCHIVAL RECORDINGS PROJECT
This upcoming CD release will feature most of Tony's recorded output prior to the Purple Monkeys era (2003). The material included will be an equal balance between HABITS, MECCA, home demos and some live material. The transferring/dumping the songs from tape into the computer (digitizing) is now underway. The MECCA "Fearless" album (with two additional songs not used on the album) and a 12 song album of acoustic material (that no one has ever heard) recorded by Tony just after the release of "Fearless" have been digitized to this point. There is still quite a bit more of these transfers and mastering that remains.

A BROTHER MOVES ON - GOODBYE T.S.
On an incredibly sad note, news came in mid August of the passing of our old band mate and dear friend Tom Stroyek. The long time drummer of all bands leading up to and including HABITS from 1979 to 1983, Tommy will always be remembered here for his smile, compassion and great friendship. Tom's drumming will be present on several songs from the aforementioned ARCHIVAL RECORDINGS PROJECT.

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Tony & The Gypsys Live @ The Tin Angel
Our Wonderful World Cafe Live Concert
New Links To Lyrics, Album/Live Show Reviews & More!
Review Our CD's, Please!
- July 23, 2011



We are pleased to announce that we've been ask to lend support for our good friends Mark Evans, Jim Drnec, John Dennis & Reggie Wu - collectively known as EVER/AFTER, at the esteemed TIN ANGEL on August 26, 2011. They will present their current repertoire, and some HEAVEN'S EDGE classics "unplugged-style" at this long time destination for folk music royalty and Philadelphia institution. You'll surely want to jump up/down to 2nd & Chestnut and join us for this celebrated evening.

Our recent WORLD CAFE LIVE show was everything we had hope. The staff was incredibly hospitable and the sound was totally top notch (thanks, Rob). Our good friends MARK EVANS/JOHN DENNIS, along with THE THOMAS CHRISTOPHER BAND were excellent in chilling things as the 100 degree temperatures did little to deter our wonderful friends who didn't let us down. Thank you for another great night of encouragement, support and for being there for us at this important show. We'll be going back in the fall for a big weekend date - Stay tuned ... (Read a review of the show)

World_Cafe_-_gmecca3_-_175.jpg Throughout this website you will soon begin to see prominently placed links that will take you directly to pages containing "Reviews of Our Albums" / "Reviews of Our Live Shows" / "Album Lyrics" / "Living Room Concert Information" / "Random Quotes from Press Folk & Friends" and anything else that you want - just let us know! We've resisted flash, bells & whistles in an attempt to keep this site as simple as possible - This is just another step in that direction.

You have an opinion, right? You always tell us how you feel about our songs, albums and live performances when we see you. Well, we'd love for you to write a review of our new "FUN" album (or any of our albums) on both CDBABY.COM and/or AMAZON.COM - It's easy and it really helps us! Just follow their directions. Feel free to email or call us with any questions or problems you encounter when attempting to write your review. Come on, we know you can do it! By following this AMAZON.COM link, you can read the first few reviews of our brand new "FUN" album.

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Tony & The Gypsys To Headline World Cafe Live
Gypsys On The Road
Living Room Concert - Review #1
New Material, Recording Talk?
- June 20, 2011



It took a little longer than we thought, but our goal of starting a working relationship with WORLD CAFE LIVE will begin with our July 20, 2011 performance. Everyone in the Gypsy camp considers this a privilege and incredibly exciting opportunity to play at one of the top venues in our own hometown. We've ask our good buddies MARK EVANS (Heaven's Edge & Ever/After) & THOMAS CHRISTOPHER to get things started, and we hope that all of our friends will come out and help us celebrate this great evening. Get show and ticket details at our Live Shows Page.

Tony & The Gypsys began the out-of-town phase of The 2011 Smiling Goat Tour back in April with shows in West Chester PA and New York City. June has seen the quartet and the full band visit Salisbury MD and Bellmawr South NJ respectively. With upcoming shows already scheduled in Havertown PA (Living Room Concert Series), Salisbury MD (The Green Turtle) and Dunellen North NJ (Roxy & Dukes Rockabilly Roadhouse), the Gypsys interminable crusade to find "real music lovers" is well underway, and succeeding! If you would like to hit the road with Tony & The Gypsys, or plan a "Living Room Concert" of your own, reach us through our Contact Page.

To give you a feel for the special intimacy and uniqueness of a "Living Room Concert", we've asked several friends who have attended these shows to share their feelings and observations. The first of several to arrive is from Jay Schweitzer. Jay is a beautiful person who has watched us "grow-up" by gracing our shows on several occasions with his wisdom, wit and a general good nature and aura that makes it all very real. Enjoy Jay's reflections right here, and look for more commentary on the "Living Room Concert Series" in the upcoming months. To inquire about having your own "Living Room Concert", call or email us by visiting our Contact Page.

Well, once again, the familiar talk of recording is in the air. With new songs like "Truth or Fiction", "The Farmer" and "The World Is..." already establishing themselves as fixtures in the live set, it won't be very long before the "tape" (showing our age there just a bit) is rolling again. Tony says:

"For the next project, we'll record the songs in sets of four, and release them digitally in pairs before committing them to a full album. From a strategic and budgeting standpoint, this will allow us to record the drums, bass and rhythm instruments first, like you're suppose to do. Conversely, the FUN album was recorded totally backward in order to capture the proper psychological state necessary to facilitate the abounding mirth." Wot?

Send us your bootlegs - Photos, audio, digital video - whatever you have!
This month from our beloved Kim Falcione it's a digital video. Kim captured Tony & The Heavy MeNtal Gypsys in February 2009 performing "SWEET SUNSHINE" - Live at The North Star Bar.





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The Tony Mecca Radio Special
Kbeach Radio (California State University - Long Beach)
Living Room Concert Madness
Send Us Your Bootleg Photos, Audio & Film
- May 22, 2011



Tony Mecca is the Featured Artist on this KBEACH RADIO special aired in April 2011. The broadcast emanates from California State University - Long Beach, and is hosted by Earl Beecher - Earl is the president of both Morrhythm and Outstanding Records, which released our first three CD's (Purple Monkeys - Princes of the New Dark Age and Hello, Goodbye & Everything in Between) - The show is 82 minutes in duration and features songs from the aforementioned albums and Mr. Beecher's passionate and probing commentary - Thanks Earl!


Tony was also one of the Featured Artist ("Morning Coffee" & "The Girl from the Sand") on Episode #293 of a great podcast called MICHAEL ANGEL'S COSMIC GRAB BAG from Dallas, Texas on May 23, 2011 - If that program sounds familiar, it's because Tony was featured on the same podcast show this past January - Be sure to check-out this funny and "way-out" podcaster over on our Multi Media Page

"The Return of the Townhouse Goat" is how we titled our latest visit to Joe Van Blunk's in our native South Philadelphia for another "living room" concert. Our 5th such venture with Mr Van Blunk, which started back in 2004, was once again a total blast for both us and the wonderful assembly of invited friends that have continued to support us through the years. If you've never been to a concert of this nature, you truly do not know what you are missing. To give you a true feel for the uniqueness of this event, several of our friends have agreed to share comments, opinions and general impressions of their experience at our latest "living room concert" which we will print in the very near future - Once again, thanks to all involved for another extremely remarkable evening, and don't forget to ask us about doing a "living room concert" at your house.

Send us your bootlegs! Photos, audio, digital video - whatever you have! This month from our friend Ronnie Groz it's a digital video. Ronnie captured Tony & The Heavy MeNtal Gypsys sometime in 2010 performing "PLAIN JANE & AVERAGE JOE" - Live at Cookies Bar.




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"We Always Lie" Released Internationally
Tony & The Gypsys Headin' Out-Of-Town!
Amazon and CDBaby Reviews
- April 23, 2011



As reported in our February News headline, we are proud to announce that our song "We Always Lie" from our Hello, Goodbye & Everything in Between album has been released by NBT Records as part of their popular "Ride The Train" compilation CD series - NBT Records is based in Berkeley Springs, West Virginia and has released many wonderful compilation CD's throughout the years with a constant theme relating to trains, speed, movement etc - The music is selected from both national and international artists, and styles as diverse as Rock, Country, Folk, Gospel and more are proudly represented. We truly believe you'll enjoy all of the fun music and excellent artists on this CD, so we are now making it available through OUR STORE. Just look for Ride The Train - Volume Twenty Six (NBT #987).

When you visit our LIVE SHOWS page you'll notice that we've played or will be playing in West Chester, PA / New York, NY / Bellmawr, NJ and Salisbury, Maryland (with even more road fun ahead). Yes, we are making an honest effort to spread our music outside of Philly and so far so good. We've picked-up new fans at our first two stops and hope to continue. By the way, if anyone wants to make a road trip with us, please contact one of the band members. We'll either jam you into one of the Gypsys' cars, or organize a ride for you.

You have an opinion, right? We know you have an opinion about our music because you always tell us how you feel about our songs, albums and live performances. Well, we'd love for you to release that inner music critic, and write a review of our new "FUN" album on both CDBABY.COM and/or AMAZON.COM - It's easy and it really helps us - just follow their directions - feel free to call us with any questions, or if your attempt to review our albums is being delayed because you've never purchased at these sites - Come on, we know you can do it! You may not want to stop after you do it once. By following this AMAZON.COM link, you can read the first review of our brand new "FUN" album.

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