While I do not get to the westside of Binghamton often, I am glad I managed to make it over there yesterday.  West Fest 7 – yes, it is in its seventh year – is taking place this weekend behind the Cyber Cafe West.  Now being a bit older, I remember when the Cyber Cafe did not include West in its name and actually was a coffeehouse and had computers.  Now that the reminiscing is over, let’s talk about Deni Bonet at West Fest 7.

I have always been intrigued with classically trained artist who vear off in another direction.  They just appeal to me.

Deni has an ecclectic combination of lyrics and music.  She played three different instruments yesterday – violin, ukelele, and accordian.  I have to say I love the ukelele and accordian but I am in love with the bright, electric blue violin!

Absolutely loved “Don’t Make Promises,” which was one of the first songs she did.  The lyrics spoke to me in a way I haven’t had a song make me feel in years.  Then, as she put on the accordian to play “Don’t Turn Away From Love,” I was living her lyrics again.  The story is that on the CD Cyndi Lauper’s horn section plays on “Don’t Turn Away From Love,” but since they were not going to travel to West Fest 7, Deni played their part on the accordian.  I have the song in both versions now and love it regardless.

I have to say that if you are in the NYC area and get a chance, go see Deni Bonet.  The performance is one you will treasure for a long time.  I can’t wait to either head to the City or for her to be closer to home so I can see her again.