Honest Mechanik ~ 2023 March 16 ~ Spire Center for the Performing Arts, Plymouth, MA
Susan Cattaneo (vocals), Paul Hansen (vocals, guitar).
Scroll to below videos for a review of the show.
Video ... if a problem with viewing, go to Youtube and search by performer and date; the Youtube account is in the name "nicepace"
Review
I first became aware of vocalist/songwriter Susan Cattaneo a few years ago when she sang backup for The Stompers at a show at the Bull Run in Shirley, MA. During the pandemic she formed a musical duo called Honest Mechanik with singer/songwriter/guitarist Paul Hansen. Susan and Paul have written quite a few songs together and have done a scattering of live performances. They met and got started during the pandemic, and their stage outfit reflects this; they wear pajama bottoms as a nod to the time spent not bothering to get dressed. This choice of clothing reflects their relaxed and upbeat attitude.
And what a treat the show was. They played for an hour and a half, mostly originals, with a few unexpected covers thrown in (Frank and Nancy Sinatra were featured, for example). Their originals ranged from uptempo fun numbers to slower, more contemplative songs. Paul played guitar and they both sang, tight, very pleasing harmonies. Vocals were shared quite equally. Susan has a fun stage presence with descriptive gestures and an obvious pleasure in presenting music to the audience. Paul's guitar playing was just sophisticated enough for these songs without stealing attention from the vocals. They have a very nice onstage rapport and I hope they continue as a duo. They have a CD out, which I brought home.
Again a show at the Spire Lobby Series delivered. The room wasn't quite full but those who did come out to take a chance on this duo, not particularly well known outside of their Boston metro north neighborhood, all went home happy.