Cask of Characters

The Cask of Characters is the collaboration of song writers Joel Smyers and Bob Otting.

They have utilized the one on one coaching talents of Richard Leigh (nine #1 hits, Don't it Make My Brown Eyes Blue, etc. ) RC Bannon (two #1 hits, "I Don't Have to be Me Til Monday", etc.) NSAI, SonU, and  other industry  professionals for feedback.

Their efforts are bearing fruit. Within their first year of pitching their songs have been:
1.  Awarded Honorable Mention by the American Songwriter magazine lyric contest
2.  Awarded Honorable Mention in the 2013 SongDoor International Songwriting contest.
3.   Forwarded to film music supervisors, and made the final round of an established publishing board decision process. 
4.  Selected for consideration for the NSAI  Pitch to Publisher Luncheon on their first submission. Quoting the veteran reviewer "I'm really glad I got to hear this one."
5.  Garnished a songwriter 'One to Watch' in the Feb. 2014 NSAI monthly newsletter.

Joel has ~40 years of experience front lining and playing guitar, bass, and ukulele in bands in the mid-west ( country rock, country swing, Americana, & bluegrass). Over the years, Joel's bands have opened for The Oak Ridge Boys, The Flying Burrito Brothers, Asleep at the Wheel, Vassar Clements, and other top acts. Joel is the owner of a custom framing and art gallery with his wife Linda.

Bob has a theater/acting background, having performed leading roles in Division 1 University main stage productions and competitions. Bob plays guitar. Bob is a Director of Research and Development for the worlds largest tire company.

Lights are flashing. Please take your seat and enjoy the show!