A POEM IN PRAISE OF
THE LOVESTRUCK BALLADEERS

There’s a super group that gets plenty of cheers:
They’re called The Lovestruck Balladeers.
They had a Birdland three-night gig.
And the repertoire was pretty darn big.
They play vintage music – originals, too.
One cute highlight’s a song that’s called “Looking for You.”
And this delight just happens to be
The title tune of their brand new CD.

Jake Sanders, guitarist, was emcee as well:
Announcing each song and the band personnel.
By Sean Cronin, the cool guy who’s strumming the bass,
Handily handled the vocals in ’most every case
Dalton Ridenhour, playing the keys
Is a polished pianist who is certain to please.
On violin, clarinet, and mandolin
Dennis Lichtman’s work is a win, win, and win.
As if that ain’t enough to make the gig a sure bet
There was splendid Mike Davis aboard on cornet.

“I’ve Got a Feeling I’m Falling” was frolicsome fun
And a spot of Scott Joplin entertained everyone.
This ideal feel-good show is sure to bring smiles
For lovers of music in various styles:
Joyful jazz with a swing and some blues and some rags.
The energy’s bright and it just never lags.
A lift for your mood, a gift for your ears:
With luck you will catch The Lovestruck Balladeers.

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photos by Lorelei Edwards

The Lovestruck Balladeers
Birdland Theater, 315 West 44th St
played January 16-18, 2026
reviewed on January 16
for more info and other dates, visit Love Struck Balladeers

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