Hailing from Buffalo with a "Rust Belt Rock 'n' Roll" sound, Letter to Elise masterfully balances 80s alt-pop shimmer with raw, modern energy and blue-collar grit. Following a breakout run on NBC's The Voice as part of Team Reba, where Reba McEntire herself praised their high-energy performance and harmonies, the band has solidified their hometown pride with their debut record, Risen From Rust. Having shared the stage with icons like Robby Takac of the Goo Goo Dolls and captivated festival crowds like Music is Art, the group continues to build a loyal following through their authentic blend of soaring synths, driving guitars, and a story of resilience that proves something golden can always rise from the Rust Belt.

Elliott and Chris visited the Flamingo Lounge on April 28 to talk about and share their music.

This week's guest, Sal Andolina, is the BPO's hottest switch-hitter in his permanent position of clarinetist, bass clarinetist and saxophonist. He has been a full-time member of the BPO for the past 21 seasons. His association with the Orchestra began in the late '70s when he was a standout performance major at the University at Buffalo as a full-scholarship student on the clarinet. Upon completion of his degree at UB under former BPO clarinetist James Pyne, Andolina pursued advanced clarinet studies with Stanley Hasty at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester and coaching with the legendary Benny Goodman in New York City.

In addition to appearing as a soloist with the BPO, Andolina has been featured with the Rochester Philharmonic, the Grand Rapids Symphony, the Fresno Philharmonic, the Arts Nova Chamber Orchestra and the North American New Music Festival. More significantly, Andolina has been featured on at least 15 studio recordings, including his prized CD: "Like Benny to Me," a tribute to Goodman.

Note, this episode was originally recorded on April 9, 2026 where we talked about his association with Michael Tilson Thomas. Sadly Mr. Thomas passed away on April 22, 2026.

The Trend is a Buffalo-based band formed in 1966, known for covering '60s rock 'n roll and rhythm and blues at High school parties and CYO dances. They often performed at local venues including Point Gratiot in Dunkirk NY.

Fifty-plus years later, the lineup has evolved, but the core of that 1966 spirit is still there. Joining me in the lounge today are three of the guys who have been keeping The Trend moving from the garage days to right now.

The Trend members - Dave Chiarmonte, Dave Roach and Bill Basil reminisced In the Flamingo Lounge on April 20, 2026 about their days as a garage band up to the present.