Marco Benevento and Joe Russo have finally initiated their own digital downloads series. As they explain, ‘We are working closely with the SNOCAP folks to offer full live downloads of a variety of performances, past, present and future.’ First up is the pair’s performance at the 8×10 Club in Baltimore on November 19th, 2005. Via the Benevento/Russo Duo’s MySpace page, folks may purchase individual tracks for $.99 or the entire 17-song show for $11.98. At present they only are offering mp3s but pledge to add a FLAC option in the near future.

The Duo is off for much of the month on solo ventures but will return on August 30th for a few show at Lafayette Square in Buffalo, NY, opening for the Dirty Dozen Brass Band.

Food Drive at the Vibes

Once again, Strangers Helping Strangers will work with the Gathering of the Vibes to host a non-perishable food drive. Donations will benefit the Bridgeport Veterans Food Pantry, which is operated by the Bridgeport Office of Veterans Affairs. SHS will set up off the main concert field in the Non-Profit Organization Village. Folks who donate items will become eligible to a number of prizes, including tickets to upcoming

events, live recordings of the music from the festival, band merchandise and much more. In addition, while supplies last, those who donate fifteen or more individual items may receive a Strangers Helping Strangers poster designed by Connecticut artist Chach.