Elli Gray

It’s girls’ night out at Blue on Friday night. OK, I’m kidding, but I just had to use that silly line. Actually, Blue is hosting a superb evening of female singer songwriters/pianists, and upon doing just a wee bit of research I’m under multiple spells. I’ve raved enough about my pal Rachel Griffin and her pal Leah Finkelstein lately, but yes, they’re on the bill, and you can’t go wrong with either of them. However, also in the mix is Elli Gray, who recorded her first record “Baby” back in 2002, though I was in the dark about her until now. This Portlander has put her own stamp on the pop/folk/acoustic sound. Vocals: Check. Songs: Check. Then there’s Stephanie Hayward, another dame I was unfamiliar with. “A Little June,” with its sparse piano and clear, delovely vocals had me practically misty-eyed. It’s gonna be a piano smackdown at Blue with three out of four of these gals banging on the 88s, and all four of them singing the house down. - Aimsel Ponti - MaineToday.com