KS#24: Mark Mandeville & Raianne Richards, Dan Blakeslee

In Greek mythology, the iconic head of Medusa was placed on Athena’s shield to serve as a guardian. Dan Blakeslee’s guitar, with its fiery, Medusa-esque pick guard and design, is just as fearsome and determined in his Kitchen Session video, “Wizard Nor a King.” Before getting started, Dan explained that the song is about “doing what you love and never giving up.” He lives his own words as both a musician and a talented visual artist. The energy he exudes in the Kitchen Session video catches his message and inspires the creative soul. - Caroline McDonald

Wizard Nor a King:

Kitchen Session #24: Dan Blakeslee - Wizard Nor A King from Kitchen Sessions on Vimeo.

Mark Mandeville and Raianne Richards happened to be touring with Dan Blakeslee when he and I finally were able to get this show together, and it couldn't have worked out more perfectly. (A similar situation occurred when Billy Wallace was to play on our roof and told me about this great artist who he was touring with, named Joe Fletcher). Mark and Raianne play off each other with their intruments and vocals effortlessly. They have a simple yet intellectual air to them, and rather than commanding the attention of the guests with theatrics, do so with heartfelt lyrics and undeniably well-crafted songs.

Ted Kaczynski Blues:

Kitchen Session 24: Mark Mandeville & Raianne Richards - Ted Kaczynski Blues from Kitchen Sessions on Vimeo.