John McAndrew at Kulak’s Woodshed – Live Review
John McAndrew
John McAndrew, Kulak’s Woodshed, North Hollywood, CA., June 28, 2025
John McAndrew is a critically acclaimed singer/songwriter from Nashville who was in the Southland for a very special show at Kulak’s Woodshed in the NoHo Arts District. The occasion was the record release party of his Quarto Valley Records debut entitled Better Side Of Me. Joining John at this show were guitarist Davey Johnstone from Elton John’s band and former Toto keyboardist Steve Porcaro – making this a not to be missed event. With the relaxing atmosphere of Kulak’s Woodshed and heartfelt pop and blues presented by John McAndrew and his band, this would become a night to remember for music fans of all ages.
A true inspiration, John McAndrew presented songs about overcoming difficulty, redemption, and not giving up – and the audience responded tenfold to the amazing auditory journey. With impassioned vocals and stylish piano playing, McAndrew unveiled solo artistry at its most vibrant and ambitious. And what a wonderful cast of musicians who joined McAndrew for this one-of-a-kind musical experience! First and foremost was guitarist Fernando Perdomo, and then renowned drummer Denny Seiwell (founding member of Wings with the one and only Paul McCartney) – both producers on the album being celebrated on this night, playing alongside John McAndrew with skill and imagination.
Davey Johnstone
In demand session player Jason Berk played bass for this show – his own very impressive credits include working with the likes of Cat Power, Louise Goffin, Wings – as well as how own solo endeavors. Steve Porcaro of Toto fame colored in the songs magnificently on keyboards.
And what an absolute treat it was to see the legendary Davey Johnstone performing on guitar in such as intimate setting. Being a long time Elton John fan and having experienced one of the final Farewell Yellow Brick Road stadium shows at Dodger’s Stadium, it was massive to see such an iconic player in such a laid back, intimate setting.
Yes, it was star heavy on the musician’s side, but the night definitely belonged to John McAndrew and his absolutely wonderful songs! John and his band played the first four selections from Better Side Of Me in a row –Only You, Up On River Road, Before They All Slip Away, and Let It Go Tonight – each and every one of these sonnets absolutely memorable and should-be radio hits. If only the airwaves would play songs this inspiring and liberating!
Steve Porcaro
Like A Child was a sweet anthem that had the audience members signing along to its sweeping chorus. Other song highlights including the wistful Where Nobody Know My Name and the stirring Expecting Nothing In Return – both delving deep in the heart and soul of this epically underrated singer / songwriter.
Closing out the set with just one voice and piano, John McAndrew presented the title track Better Side Of Me, showing just how dynamic and effective he is as a solo performer. Definitely a magical night filled with timeless songs presented from the heart of John McAndrew and his many musician friends. Here’s hoping we see and hear a whole lot more of John McAndrew live here in Los Angeles soon. In the meantime, be sure to check out Better Side Of Me and discover the absolutely brilliant artistry of John McAndrew. Thank you to Kulak’s Woodshed for hosting this unforgettable event! And special thanks to publicist John Lappen for introducing me to the musical world of John McAndrew!
John McAndrew Photo Gallery by Jack Lue – Click here for additional photos from this show!
(Review by Ken Morton – Photos by Jack Lue)
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