Oh sure, you can do it yourself with a myriad of software and interfaces to your home computer, but there is no substitute for a professionally designed, full service, recording studio.

Well, Charleston Sound is offering an Indie Artist special. For a limited time they are offering the following packages: Four-Song Demo Deal – $399, Six-Song EP Deal (with music video) – $799, or a Ten-Song Album Deal (with music video) – $999.

I recently heard some songs that a friend recorded there. I was impressed at the sound quality and the professional mix. I would recommend checking them out at www.charlestonsound.com. Also something new to check out is www.ozziethedog.com, a new Web site that I’ve created. So far, the only content is The March Madness Battle of The Bands 2010 entry form, but to come are resources for booking, artist development and promotion. Those services are free to young, unsigned bands that are looking to find their place in the music scene. I haven’t gotten rich from my involvement with music, but I have supported myself most of my adult life playing music, mixing sound, or working as a booking agent.

Ozzie The Dog.com is a way for me to give some back. Another feature soon to come is a place where bands can buy just about anything they want with their band name printed on it.

Speaking of the March Madness Battle of the Bands 2010, it’s time for me to get rolling on pulling it together. It’s for all original, unsigned South Carolina bands. This is the fifth year of this competition that is run by musicians, for musicians. You can enter and find out more details at www.ozziethedogcom.

This Wednesday at the Awendaw Green Barn Jam it’s Cole Train. Singer/guitarist Sarah Cole, along with the John Bonham like drums of Tanner Cooper, as well as the rest of the band, are talented beyond their years. The rest of the bill includes Paul Edelman, Amber Caprias, and The Poppa Dupree Band. You might remember Dupree from the Momma’s Blues Palace Band. For years, great guitarists like Tommy Thunderfoot and Roy Brooks, were inspired by the playing of this amazing guitarist at the now closed Momma’s Blues Palace. Find out more  at Awendaw Green .com

On Friday at the Windjammer it’s Frank Royster’s Beatles Tribute Band. Royster has been a fixture on the local music scene for more than a few years and every time I’ve seen him in the various projects he’s been involved in, I have been thoroughly entertained.

Find out more at: www.myspace.com/franklinroyster.

On Saturday at A Dough Re Mi, it’s the blues power house from Savannah, Ga., Hitman. Brett “Hitman” Barnard is an electrifying performer with a no-nonsense approach to the blues. A Fender Stratocaster, plugged into a Fender amp with no pedals or gadgets is his calling card.

Always backed expertly by some of the finest musicians Savannah has to offer, it’s a show not to miss! The best comparison I can come up with is Robert Johnson, Eric Clapton and Jimi Hendrix rolled up into a ball of blues fury that has to be seen to be believed.

Next week look for my review of the latest release from Travis Allison Band called “Migrant Heart”.

Until then, remember that you can make your own corner of the universe better with a few kind words and big smiles for the people you come in contact with from day to day.

Contact Stu at allnightjohnson@gmail.com.