Jeff & Karen - acoustic duo

About

Jeff & Karen - Bio

New Jersey residents, singer/songwriter Jeff Penque and songstress, Karen Fairweather have joined forces to create a fresh and unique acoustic duo that have been taking NJ coffee houses, wineries, and restaurants by storm. They blend classic folk/rock from the 60s through today - with original tunes - to create a truly memorable musical performance.

It all began when Jeff was performing solo one evening at The Sanctuary Cafe in Little Falls, New Jersey, and Karen happened to stop in for a Cappuccino and some tunes. Jeff was captivated by her silky soprano as she harmonized from her table – and the rest - as they say, is history.

They began working together at gigs where Jeff was showcasing songs from his solo CD, Hidden Feelings, it was then that they discovered that their voices blended perfectly - and the feedback was so positive, that they decided to work together permanently and formed, Jeff & Karen – Acoustic Duo.

As Jeff & Karen, they have toured the state of New Jersey playing festivals, libraries, shopping outlets, coffee houses, restaurants, wineries and more. This journey exposed them to new towns, landscapes and experiences throughout the state –which inspired them to name their first CD – Jersey Fresh.

Jersey Fresh features (11) original songs written by Jeff and are performed in brilliant harmony with driving acoustic guitar arrangements. They achieve an overall retro 60’s/70’s sound - mixed with today’s musical influences.

In the past two years, Jeff & Karen have traveled to Rehobeth Beach, DE to Provincetown, MA and lot's of places in between including the Jersey Shore and New York City! They have been profiled in several periodicals and have appeared live on WMOR and WFDU radio. In 2010 they appeared before an audience of over 2,000 people at New Jersey Pride in Asbury Park.

Personnel

Jeff Penque: founder, guitar & vocals
Karen Fairweather: lead female vocals & percussion

Influences

Jeff & Karen have been compared to The Mamas and the Papas, Ian and Sylvia, Sonny & Cher, Peter, Paul and Mary, Carpenters, and more. Have been influenced by the music of the great artists of the 60's and 70's including John Denver, James Taylor, Carly Simon, etc.

What to Expect

Typical Gig Duration: 60 - 240 minutes

Jeff & Karen acoustic duo performs folk & pop music from the 50's through today, focusing on the music of the 60's and 70's. Performances can be completely acoustic or backing tracks may be used to create a fuller sound. Some artists covered are - Sonny & Cher, The Monkees, Fleetwood Mac, Melissa Etheridge, Lady Gaga, Pink, Connie Francis, John Denver and more!

Jeff & Karen also present a Holiday Show called - "Spirit of the Season." The Holiday Show includes secular holiday tunes such as - Jingle Bells, Cool Yule, The Dreidel Song, Dominic The Donkey, Winter Wonderland, and many many more!

J&K also perform a retro music program called, "Retro Rewind" - which is the music of the psychedelic 60s and sensational 70s. This show pays tribute to the folk and pop singer/songwriter icons of each respective era! Music includes tributes to Cat Stevens, The Mamas and the Papas, James Taylor, John Denver, The Monkees, Jefferson Airplane, Janis Joplin, John Lennon, and more. This show is perfect for Libraries, Cultural Centers, Assisted Living facilities and more!

Performance Schedule

Past Booked Dates:

04-06-2013 — Hurdy Gurdy Music Society, Fairlawn, NJ - 7 PM
02-15-2013 — The Winemakers Cellar, Hawthorne, NJ - 7 PM
02-01-2013 — Thisilldous Eatery, Belvidere, NJ - 6 PM
01-19-2013 — The Winemakers Cellar, Hawthorne, NJ - 7 PM
01-04-2013 — The Winemakers Cellar, Hawthorne, NJ - 7 PM
12-16-2012 — Music at the Mansion, Oakeside Bloomfield Cultural Center, Bloomfield, NJ - 3 PM
12-11-2012 — Jefferson Chase Seniors, Oak Ridge, NJ - 7 PM
12-08-2012 — Somerville Public Library, Somerville, NJ - 2 PM
12-07-2012 — Jefferson County Library, Oak Ridge, NJ - 7 PM
12-04-2012 — Private Event for Outreach Angels, Wood-ridge, NJ - 7 PM
12-01-2012 — Asbury Park First Saturday, Asbury Park, NJ - 6 PM

Available for Your

Anniversary Party, Bar/Lounge, Birthday Party, Christmas Party, Club/Nightclub, Concert Venue, Cruise, Fair, Festival, Fundraiser, Grand Opening, Holiday Party, Hotel, Private Party, Restaurant

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