Talls & Smallz Talent Smash shines brightly

Visual artists of different genres are set up throughout the venue, each in his own private space, making it feel as if you are visiting the artist's private work area. A spoken word artist is on his "soapbox" pleading his case while several ladies with exotically painted faces pose with patrons. In the main hallway, the "Doors of Change" are painted with the faces of famous people who reshaped the world for the better during their lifetimes. The door painter and ring leader of all the live artists, Efren Rebugio Jr. of Seren Clothing, paces the halls like an expectant father.

The music for the night begins in one of the front rooms with "Cover Stars," a round robin of talented karaoke singers who climb the stage and belt out their selected tune. The show stopper was "F**k You" by Cee Lo Green as performed by Zac Bohannon.

Next up is the band Tahoe Fox fronted by lead singer and rhythm guitar player Kim Stein. They identify themselves as an acoustic trio but that sells them short 'cause they can rock with the best 'em. Kim has a raspy rock and roll voice that was a pleasure to listen to.

After Tahoe Fox's set was over I wandered down to the main hall where I found Josh Lamkin of The Automatic Heat laying down a scorching guitar solo. Josh's guitar playing and singing was electrifying. He reminded me of one my guitar heroes, Stevie Ray Vaughn.

At this point I was truly impressed with the level of talent bLuE and Jen had put together. And since there were acts playing simultaneously I only got to experience about half the performers, much to my disappointment.

After Automatic Heat wrapped up I made my way back to the front room. There was an anticipation in the crowd. Something cool was about to happen. The next thing I knew I was watching a jaw dropping lip synch rendition of The Rocky Horror Show's classic "Time Warp" performed by the Cheap Little Punks.

It was then just a jump to the left before bLuE was belting out three original songs to a cheering crowd, accompanied by her talented guitar player, Alex Catalano, of Tribeca Blue.

Midnight came and my batteries were running low but they were quickly recharged with the amazing work of word smith and slam poet, Nic Rodriquez, who acted as the evening's Master of Ceremonies. I was quite taken with his mastery of language and the powerful message he delivered about race relations.

The last band of the night that I saw was Curious Mornings. Fronted by Alex Bowers on keys and singing, they pleased the crowd with their high energy, kick ass indie rock.

It was now past my bed time so I ducked out past a ten foot tall stilt walker and his four foot side kick. As I left, the event was still going strong, bLuE and Jen were smiling and the lights were still burning brightly.