Blown Away...

For those of us on hand for the first of two evenings with harmonica virtuoso Howard Levy at In Your Ear last night, it was one of those special nights that makes one grateful for the gift of music and those who invest their hearts and souls into the art of making it.  Howard and his gifted and tasteful guitarist Chris Siebold mesmerized the intimate audience which included local blues legend L'il Ronnie along with jazz mentor and JAMinc co-founder Doug Richards.  It was a profound experience to see such serious musicians truly astounded by Chris' and Howard's stunning artistry.  And the recording is spectacular...we'll let you know when some of it might air on WCVE-FM.  You should have been there...but the beautiful thing is, we have them for one more incredible show tonight at 7:30.  (Doors at 6:30, $20)   I can't urge you strongly enough to be spontaneous.  Just do it.  And be looking out for a short Flecktones reunion tour with Howard onboard this November.  In Your Ear Studios are at 19th and Broad.  (photo by Page Dowdy)

 

And it was a big night for Brad Spivey and his Honky Tonk Experience as they provided the proper backdrop for Black Tie & Boots, the annual pre-State Fair throwdown at the brand new venue, Meadow Event Park.  Don't let a little needed rain keep you away from this sprawling and much more appropriate setting for the State Fair of Virginia.  Just north of Ashland, exit 98 off I-95.  It runs through Oct 4th and there's a lot to see...and hear.

 

The Experience is playing one of a handful of terrific pre-Folk Festival gigs starting Sunday, October 4th (theirs is at the Hat Factory on the 7th) called the Richmond Roots Music Sessions.  Check out the full lineup here.  Big thanks to Todd Ranson for all his legwork in putting this awesome addition to the Festival together.  Crank it up!

TT