...hundreds of them actually over the James River Saturday night as the Grucci pyrotechnicians kicked it up a notch and put on a thrilling finale to Richmond's 400th birthday party. We ventured up to our old Libby Hill Park neighborhood to find a perfect vantage point with thousands of others...the fireworks really were amazing with many new planetary and blooming flower shells that we hadn't seen before. How do they do that?
We'd picked up a bite beforehand at Buz & Ned's Real Barbecue on the Boulevard as a warmup for this week's airing of the big Bobby Flay Throwdown on the Food Network.
For those who don't know, my far better half Deveron is food & drink editor at Style Weekly and was in on setting up Richmond barbecue king Buz Grossberg for the friendly competition between superstar chef Flay and a local culinary hero of his choosing. She and Richmond Magazine writer Dave McCormack were judges. The ribbing was taped back in April on the University of Richmond campus and will air this Thursday night at 10 on Food TV. If you can't wait 'til then, Buz is inviting a thousand of his closest friends to the Byrd Theater for a pre-screening and free barbecue sliders (whatever they are and while they last) at 7pm. If you haven't heard who won by the way, let's just say long and slow does it every time.
It's time to be getting your tickets for the 3rd annual Music for Massey show with the Waybacks on the tracks at the Science Museum on June 16th. These West Coasters are so indescribably entertaining that you don't want to miss a rare chance to catch them live. Good ol' Gary Gerloff opens. Tickets
As previously stated, I hope the Graves Mountain festival is on your calendar this year...it starts day after tomorrow and arguably the hottest new band on the circuit is there on opening day...the Infamous Stringdusters. Graves lineup
Hope you had a meaningful Memorial Day...TT
5.29.2007
5.26.2007
Summer starts here...
Another "proud to be in Richmond" evening last Thursday as the 3rd Groovin' In The Garden concert of the season brought out another sellout crowd to the lawn for Medeski, Martin & Wood. This venerable trio of imaginative jazz players brought one of their fairly infrequent acoustic sets to the rose belvedere stage that began with John Medeski strumming the strings of his road-worn baby grand in beautiful autoharp-like chords. They cast a magical spell over the mellow, appreciative crowd, somewhat of a different vibe from previous week's offering of Dickey Betts & Great Southern. The Garden has something for everybody. Nice flowers too.
And last night, Old School Freight Train made tracks for their home station, Ashland Coffee & Tea for a snapshot of evolution as a band. The fifth man is still the rhythmically remarkable Robby Sinclair incorporating a sporty red Samsonite suitcase into his drum kit to great advantage. The guys were loose and comfortable, rolling out some fine new Pete Frostic tunes and giving some of their old favorites a fresh face. Their vocals and their instrumental prowess continue to grow in depth and sophistication. And for those who lament their move away from bluegrass, they even tossed a bone out for the finale, in "How Mountain Girls Can Love." OFST is ready to sign a new record deal and have a busy summer planned. Catch a ride if you can.
Richmond's four seasons always preceed themselves and this year's no exception, with the start of summer jumping the calendar by quite a few weeks. We have a had a fine spring overall, with enough rain and comfortable temperatures...I guess it's time for a good hot holiday weekend, especially as we anticipate putting the lid on the big quadricentennial with the Grucci fireworks show tonight over the river downtown. Can't miss that. And Memorial Day weekend also means it's almost time to head up the Old Blueridge Turnpike from Gordonsville to Syria for the 15th edition of the Graves Mountain Festival of Music. Haven't missed a one and if you haven't been yet, this might be a good year for at least a day trip, as all three days are stocked with great bluegrass talent (click here for lineup) not to mention the serene setting, the campground jams and the famous Graves family cooking. Hope to see a bunch of you up there.
And please find some time alone with your thoughts this weekend to reflect on the blessings we share in this country and on those who gave their all to make it possible. The sacrifice continues, and we can never be grateful enough.
And last night, Old School Freight Train made tracks for their home station, Ashland Coffee & Tea for a snapshot of evolution as a band. The fifth man is still the rhythmically remarkable Robby Sinclair incorporating a sporty red Samsonite suitcase into his drum kit to great advantage. The guys were loose and comfortable, rolling out some fine new Pete Frostic tunes and giving some of their old favorites a fresh face. Their vocals and their instrumental prowess continue to grow in depth and sophistication. And for those who lament their move away from bluegrass, they even tossed a bone out for the finale, in "How Mountain Girls Can Love." OFST is ready to sign a new record deal and have a busy summer planned. Catch a ride if you can.
Richmond's four seasons always preceed themselves and this year's no exception, with the start of summer jumping the calendar by quite a few weeks. We have a had a fine spring overall, with enough rain and comfortable temperatures...I guess it's time for a good hot holiday weekend, especially as we anticipate putting the lid on the big quadricentennial with the Grucci fireworks show tonight over the river downtown. Can't miss that. And Memorial Day weekend also means it's almost time to head up the Old Blueridge Turnpike from Gordonsville to Syria for the 15th edition of the Graves Mountain Festival of Music. Haven't missed a one and if you haven't been yet, this might be a good year for at least a day trip, as all three days are stocked with great bluegrass talent (click here for lineup) not to mention the serene setting, the campground jams and the famous Graves family cooking. Hope to see a bunch of you up there.
And please find some time alone with your thoughts this weekend to reflect on the blessings we share in this country and on those who gave their all to make it possible. The sacrifice continues, and we can never be grateful enough.
5.21.2007
So much...
This post is gonna be tough to bang out as I've soaked up so much great talent since Thursday. Now that I've opened the door to this venture, I feel a certain obligation to give the performances I've had the privilege to witness their due, which is a challenge, both to my available time and my ability to properly put it into words. Here goes...
I will say that it's not my favorite local venue for live music, as elegant as it is. The Marble Hall at The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is like one cavernous shower, but a good time was had by all thanks to the first rate bar room chops of Brad Spivey and his bona fide Honky Tonk Experience. They proved they could successfully work any room, but next time we'll head for Shenanigans or Poe's Pub for a more appropriate setting. I love these guys. Always a treat to hear Mike Lucas' tasteful guitar work and Randy Cook's ever-growing command of the pedal steel. His graceful wife Bitty even took a few turns with the ladies' urban cowboy-of-choice for the evening, Craig McFarland.
I don't usually talk a lot of theater here but I have to hand out some serious accolades to the veterans at Theatre IV who wrapped up their month-long run of "The Wizard of Oz" last weekend at the Empire. Friend/actor/voice talent Cathy Shaffner told me last week how she was blown away by the caliber of the production and I'm so glad she encouraged me to squeeze it in for the Saturday matinee. My almost-21 daughter Emily somewhat reluctantly agreed to come along, but after all was said and done, she was so glad she did. We have such a rich vein of talent running through our theater community here and they pulled out all the stops for this one at every level; the production values including beautiful and elaborate sets, complete with flying witches and monkeys, a small but big sounding live orchestra, and amazing cast including 19-year-old Alia Bisharat as Dorothy who outsang Judy Garland and seemingly channeled her in the spoken parts. My old pal Gordon Bass made a convincingly sweet and bumbling Wizard and long-time colleague Jan Guarino not only devoured the airborn Wicked Witch role, but directed the whole darn thing as well...husband Bo Wilson smoothly juggled all the balls as stage manager. There must have been fifty some cast members including a bunch of adorable kids playing Munchkins...little Emily Zinsser stole my heart. A sincere salute to Bruce Miller and Phil Whiteway for all they've done with Theatre IV and the Barksdale over all these years. We're not worthy.
Saturday continued with a late afternoon of perfect chamber of commerce weather for the Canal Walk wrapup on Brown's Island. Richmond's own Taters enjoyed a career highlight kind of a gig opening for country's silver siren Emmylou Harris. Jim Wark...you rock! I'll confess to at least a little anticipatory ambivalence when I heard she was only toting two musicians to her Richmond show. But having heard her with Buddy Miller before, I should've known that he would be all she'd need to run off a ninety-minute string of songs that made her who she is today...profound tunes like "Easy From Now On," "Pancho & Lefty, " "One Of These Days," and "Wheels." And some of her haunting newer stuff too like "Can You Hear Me Now?" Miller proved again to be one of the most worthy in a long list of backup singers to stand to Emmy's right on stage, folks like Rodney Crowell, Ricky Skaggs, Barry Tashian, Sam Bush and Jon Randall. And more lately John Starling. Chris Donohue sealed the deal with sensitive acoustic and electric bass. It was overall a very sweet and mellow afternoon, something a little unusual when compared with the typical Brown's Island summer fare. Even the trains on the river trestle seemed to pass a little more quietly and reverently, in the presence of royalty.
Sunday afternoon at historic St. John's Church, I had the privilege of narrating a special performance by the Richmond Choral Society entitled "It Started In Jamestown." It's always moved me to hear a really good well-rehearsed choir and this seasoned group fills that bill and more, under the able guidance of Thom Williams. They went through an hour's worth of music selected to illustrate life in colonial America and the British influence on our culture. I got to stand in the pulpit in the very room where Patrick Henry made his courageous cry for liberty or death and offer some context for the music. What a thrill. Thanks to Thom and Jack Winn for the opportunity, to Dawn Desmond for my well-researched script and to the amazing Markus Compton on piano. I'm fortunate enough to hear Markus every week accompanying and leading our sanctuary choir at Hebron Church in Goochland County.
Groovin' In The Garden continues Thursday at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden with one of the hottest and most adventurous jazz ensembles in the nation Medeski, Martin & Wood. This NY-based trio has a huge and growing national following and they're sure to light up the night at Richmond's most beautiful outdoor venue. Homemade Bread will open. Tasty. Daniel Clarke and son Joe will disown me if I miss this one. www.richmondconcerts.net
We'll see you on the tracks in Ashland Friday for Old School Freight Train's semi-regular stop at what amounts to their home base. Haven't talked with any of the guys since Jesse Harper's solo gig last month, so I assume it'll be Pete, Nate, Darrell and Jesse along with Robby Sinclair on percussion. I'll let you know if I hear anything different.
Closer to home, here's a first alert to another wonderful night on different tracks, at the old Union Station on Broad Street, now the Science Museum of Virginia. On Saturday, June 16th the impossible-to-cubbyhole Waybacks from the West Coast will find their way back to Richmond for the 3rd Annual Music For Massey benefit for the Massey Cancer Center at the VCU. We've moved the show from the Canal Club to this wonderful outdoor venue (we can move indoors if it rains) and urge those who've never witnessed this fabulously entertaining and engaging group of musicians before to put the date on your calendars post haste. Get your tickets now at www.ticketstobuy.com Richmond's own lovably irascible Gary Gerloff will open. See you then...if not sooner.
As I sit writing this post, the task has been made all the more pleasurable thanks to a tip from my younger sister and musical compadre Vicki Burton in Southport, NC. She emailed me a few weeks ago about this online radio station called The Folk Alley, saying that now that she's found it, she's found a friend for life...all she'll ever need. Skeptical, I checked it out and I have to say I'm now a believer. If I had my own radio station, it would sound pretty much like Folk Alley...great mix of music, knowledgeable, low-key personalities, no commercials of any kind, and it's all free. It operates like a public radio station running on listener contributions and I'm about to make a good one. Check it out and let me know if you agree. www.folkalley.com
Enough...have a great week...TT
I will say that it's not my favorite local venue for live music, as elegant as it is. The Marble Hall at The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is like one cavernous shower, but a good time was had by all thanks to the first rate bar room chops of Brad Spivey and his bona fide Honky Tonk Experience. They proved they could successfully work any room, but next time we'll head for Shenanigans or Poe's Pub for a more appropriate setting. I love these guys. Always a treat to hear Mike Lucas' tasteful guitar work and Randy Cook's ever-growing command of the pedal steel. His graceful wife Bitty even took a few turns with the ladies' urban cowboy-of-choice for the evening, Craig McFarland.
I don't usually talk a lot of theater here but I have to hand out some serious accolades to the veterans at Theatre IV who wrapped up their month-long run of "The Wizard of Oz" last weekend at the Empire. Friend/actor/voice talent Cathy Shaffner told me last week how she was blown away by the caliber of the production and I'm so glad she encouraged me to squeeze it in for the Saturday matinee. My almost-21 daughter Emily somewhat reluctantly agreed to come along, but after all was said and done, she was so glad she did. We have such a rich vein of talent running through our theater community here and they pulled out all the stops for this one at every level; the production values including beautiful and elaborate sets, complete with flying witches and monkeys, a small but big sounding live orchestra, and amazing cast including 19-year-old Alia Bisharat as Dorothy who outsang Judy Garland and seemingly channeled her in the spoken parts. My old pal Gordon Bass made a convincingly sweet and bumbling Wizard and long-time colleague Jan Guarino not only devoured the airborn Wicked Witch role, but directed the whole darn thing as well...husband Bo Wilson smoothly juggled all the balls as stage manager. There must have been fifty some cast members including a bunch of adorable kids playing Munchkins...little Emily Zinsser stole my heart. A sincere salute to Bruce Miller and Phil Whiteway for all they've done with Theatre IV and the Barksdale over all these years. We're not worthy.
Saturday continued with a late afternoon of perfect chamber of commerce weather for the Canal Walk wrapup on Brown's Island. Richmond's own Taters enjoyed a career highlight kind of a gig opening for country's silver siren Emmylou Harris. Jim Wark...you rock! I'll confess to at least a little anticipatory ambivalence when I heard she was only toting two musicians to her Richmond show. But having heard her with Buddy Miller before, I should've known that he would be all she'd need to run off a ninety-minute string of songs that made her who she is today...profound tunes like "Easy From Now On," "Pancho & Lefty, " "One Of These Days," and "Wheels." And some of her haunting newer stuff too like "Can You Hear Me Now?" Miller proved again to be one of the most worthy in a long list of backup singers to stand to Emmy's right on stage, folks like Rodney Crowell, Ricky Skaggs, Barry Tashian, Sam Bush and Jon Randall. And more lately John Starling. Chris Donohue sealed the deal with sensitive acoustic and electric bass. It was overall a very sweet and mellow afternoon, something a little unusual when compared with the typical Brown's Island summer fare. Even the trains on the river trestle seemed to pass a little more quietly and reverently, in the presence of royalty.
Sunday afternoon at historic St. John's Church, I had the privilege of narrating a special performance by the Richmond Choral Society entitled "It Started In Jamestown." It's always moved me to hear a really good well-rehearsed choir and this seasoned group fills that bill and more, under the able guidance of Thom Williams. They went through an hour's worth of music selected to illustrate life in colonial America and the British influence on our culture. I got to stand in the pulpit in the very room where Patrick Henry made his courageous cry for liberty or death and offer some context for the music. What a thrill. Thanks to Thom and Jack Winn for the opportunity, to Dawn Desmond for my well-researched script and to the amazing Markus Compton on piano. I'm fortunate enough to hear Markus every week accompanying and leading our sanctuary choir at Hebron Church in Goochland County.
Groovin' In The Garden continues Thursday at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden with one of the hottest and most adventurous jazz ensembles in the nation Medeski, Martin & Wood. This NY-based trio has a huge and growing national following and they're sure to light up the night at Richmond's most beautiful outdoor venue. Homemade Bread will open. Tasty. Daniel Clarke and son Joe will disown me if I miss this one. www.richmondconcerts.net
We'll see you on the tracks in Ashland Friday for Old School Freight Train's semi-regular stop at what amounts to their home base. Haven't talked with any of the guys since Jesse Harper's solo gig last month, so I assume it'll be Pete, Nate, Darrell and Jesse along with Robby Sinclair on percussion. I'll let you know if I hear anything different.
Closer to home, here's a first alert to another wonderful night on different tracks, at the old Union Station on Broad Street, now the Science Museum of Virginia. On Saturday, June 16th the impossible-to-cubbyhole Waybacks from the West Coast will find their way back to Richmond for the 3rd Annual Music For Massey benefit for the Massey Cancer Center at the VCU. We've moved the show from the Canal Club to this wonderful outdoor venue (we can move indoors if it rains) and urge those who've never witnessed this fabulously entertaining and engaging group of musicians before to put the date on your calendars post haste. Get your tickets now at www.ticketstobuy.com Richmond's own lovably irascible Gary Gerloff will open. See you then...if not sooner.
As I sit writing this post, the task has been made all the more pleasurable thanks to a tip from my younger sister and musical compadre Vicki Burton in Southport, NC. She emailed me a few weeks ago about this online radio station called The Folk Alley, saying that now that she's found it, she's found a friend for life...all she'll ever need. Skeptical, I checked it out and I have to say I'm now a believer. If I had my own radio station, it would sound pretty much like Folk Alley...great mix of music, knowledgeable, low-key personalities, no commercials of any kind, and it's all free. It operates like a public radio station running on listener contributions and I'm about to make a good one. Check it out and let me know if you agree. www.folkalley.com
Enough...have a great week...TT
5.17.2007
Correction...
I was misinformed when letting you guys in on who'll be backing Emmylou Harris this Saturday on Brown's Island. Thanks to Bill Craig's excellent interview in this morning's T-D, I see that she'll be bringing her long-time roadmate Buddy Miller to Richmond along with Chris Donohue. Buddy's a great singer/player in his own right and it'll be the next best thing to having Mark Knopfler along to reprise some of the terrific material from the duet album "All The Roadrunning." Should be another handsome feather in River City's musical cap...thanks to Wachovia for making it happen .
Looks like the Honky Tonk Experience has won out...see you at the Virginia Museum for Third Thursday tonight at six...TT
Looks like the Honky Tonk Experience has won out...see you at the Virginia Museum for Third Thursday tonight at six...TT
5.15.2007
Music in May...
Hats off to Steve Bassett for courageous genre-blending on his Virginia State Parks tour with Goochland's Michelle Nixon and Drive. We caught their performance last Saturday at Chippokes Plantation near Surry and I'll admit to a touch of skepticism when I saw he'd brought his trusty Hammond B-3 with Leslie along for the ride. Purists may disagree but I thought they found an intriguing middle ground between folk/bluegrass and gospel/r&b. My favorite was a rollicking version of Dylan's "Like A Rolling Stone" as their encore. Few have Steve's command of that classic organ and it's still a thrill to hear him work it so instinctively. Just ask Delbert McClinton, who often takes Mr. B on tour with him. We got into an after-show jam in the campground, and some tasty burgers on the grill before turning in, only to be awakened by a wee-hours downpour that beat on the tent so hard Deveron and I couldn't hear each other talk. We were amazed and delighted that the borrowed, untested tent kept us completely dry and cozy. Happy Mother's Day indeed.
Lots more to come this week...wish there were three of me on Thursday as I'd love to take in all the competing shows: the man, the myth, Brad Spivey and his Honky Tonk Experience, as fun and entertaining a tribute to real country music as you'll hear anywhere, play the Virginia Museum's Third Thursday. www.honkytonkexperience.com Up at the center of the universe, the mesmerizing bluesman Chris Smither returns to Ashland Coffee & Tea. www.ashlandcoffeeandtea.com To complete the trifecta, how about the guy who wrote "Jessica" and took over for Duane upon his passing in the Allman Brothers Band, Dickey Betts and Great Southern returning to Groovin' In The Garden. www.richmondconcerts.net Whew! I'm still agonizing over that call...I'll see you at one or the other for sure.
There'll be no dilemma about what to do Saturday, as Emmylou Harris makes her way to Brown's Island for an acoustic set to conclude the Canal Walk fundraiser. www.canalwalk.org Original Seldom Scene lead vocalist John Starling, who's one of my all time favorites and his new band Carolina Star will back up Emmylou. If you missed the earlier post, Carolina Star is comprised of former Scene bandmates Mike Auldridge and Tom Gray, along with Jimmy Gaudreau and Rickie Simpkins. Expect some wonderful chestnuts from Ms. Harris' Roses In The Snow era. Can't wait.
And on Sunday, I have the honor to narrate a special performance by the Richmond Choral Society at St. John's Church marking four hundred years of British influence in the making of America. It's entitled "It Started In Jamestown." www.richmondchoralsociety.org This is a top-drawer choir and goosebumps are guaranteed, especially in this historic setting.
Thanks for your time in stopping by here from time to time...makes the keyboard time worthwhile.
TT
Lots more to come this week...wish there were three of me on Thursday as I'd love to take in all the competing shows: the man, the myth, Brad Spivey and his Honky Tonk Experience, as fun and entertaining a tribute to real country music as you'll hear anywhere, play the Virginia Museum's Third Thursday. www.honkytonkexperience.com Up at the center of the universe, the mesmerizing bluesman Chris Smither returns to Ashland Coffee & Tea. www.ashlandcoffeeandtea.com To complete the trifecta, how about the guy who wrote "Jessica" and took over for Duane upon his passing in the Allman Brothers Band, Dickey Betts and Great Southern returning to Groovin' In The Garden. www.richmondconcerts.net Whew! I'm still agonizing over that call...I'll see you at one or the other for sure.
There'll be no dilemma about what to do Saturday, as Emmylou Harris makes her way to Brown's Island for an acoustic set to conclude the Canal Walk fundraiser. www.canalwalk.org Original Seldom Scene lead vocalist John Starling, who's one of my all time favorites and his new band Carolina Star will back up Emmylou. If you missed the earlier post, Carolina Star is comprised of former Scene bandmates Mike Auldridge and Tom Gray, along with Jimmy Gaudreau and Rickie Simpkins. Expect some wonderful chestnuts from Ms. Harris' Roses In The Snow era. Can't wait.
And on Sunday, I have the honor to narrate a special performance by the Richmond Choral Society at St. John's Church marking four hundred years of British influence in the making of America. It's entitled "It Started In Jamestown." www.richmondchoralsociety.org This is a top-drawer choir and goosebumps are guaranteed, especially in this historic setting.
Thanks for your time in stopping by here from time to time...makes the keyboard time worthwhile.
TT
5.11.2007
Friday Night in America...
I had to knock out a quick post after enjoying a great evening of bluegrass, delicious food & drink and old friends at the 13th annual Hoedown in the Garden at St. Joseph's Villa. The venerable Lonesome River Band is definitely back in business with the return of lead vocalist/guitarist Brandon Rickman who's honed his interpretive skills to a high level in his time away with family. Along with Matt Ledbetter (Phil's son) on Dobro, Alan Ball on mandolin and Mike Anglin (formerly with Larry Cordle and 3 Fox Drive) on bass, LRB seems to have found its trademark groove again. Hats off to a patient and dedicated Sammy Shelor for delivering something worth waiting for...solid, hard-hitting bluegrass of the highest caliber. They played at this fundraiser for the Flagler Home at St. Joseph's Villa, and it's highly recommended that you make plans for next year. It's a pretty pricey ticket ($75) but when it includes four hours of open bar and a delicious buffet of barbecue chicken and pork along with delectible crabcake and oyster apppetizers catered by David Napier of the White House Restaurant and Old City Bar, not to mention two sets of LRB, it's a serious bargain. FYI, we were treated to an opening act I hadn't had the chance to hear before...longtime banjo great Clyde Bailey (with son Christopher playing a mean bass cello) and the Rock Solid Bluegrass Band (I'll confess I might have missed their exact name) opening the evening with an impressive set of tunes. We'll be hearing more from them I'm sure.
On to America's birthday party...night all...TT
On to America's birthday party...night all...TT
Four In A Row...
I'm in the middle of four straight nights of live music...here's a quick half-time show: Another big season at Innsbrook had us among the throngs enjoying the prodigious slide guitarist Derek Trucks and his excellent band. How do twenty-somethings like Derek and Jonny Lang absorb so much of the blues and let it flow so instinctively at such a young age? Check the summer schedule at www.innsbrookafterhours.com.
Last night was the season opener for Groovin' in the Garden at Lewis Ginter...a beautiful night in every way as perennial favorites The Seldom Scene kicked things off with a few tunes for their long-awaited new studio album due out late this summer. God bless Ben Eldridge for keeping the flame alive. North Carolina's high-octane string band The Avett Brothers closed things out with their unvarnished vocal treatment of a compelling set list of original music. The boys are hot, have a growing legion of fans and have scored an appearance on Conan O'Brien's late show tonight on NBC. The brothers Beals of Haymaker Productions have come up with a big-time lineup for the next seven Thursdays. Please...take a look at www.richmondconcerts.net.
Tonight, I'm really looking forward to hearing the latest evolution of the legendary Lonesome River Band at St. Joseph's Villa's Hoedown in the Garden. LRB has played this gig for the last six years at least...it used to be at Lewis Ginter. Bandleader/banjo master Sammy Shelor has lured lead singer/guitarist Brandon Rickman back after a few years away...should be fun.
And tomorrow we're off to Chippokes State Park near Surry (across the river from Jamestown and all the 400th Birthday madness) to camp out overnight and take in Steve Bassett's acoustic summer tour with Michelle Nixon and Drive. Hope the rain holds off as our tent is untested for waterproofing.
Hope all you mothers are treated well on Sunday...you can never be thanked enough...TT
Last night was the season opener for Groovin' in the Garden at Lewis Ginter...a beautiful night in every way as perennial favorites The Seldom Scene kicked things off with a few tunes for their long-awaited new studio album due out late this summer. God bless Ben Eldridge for keeping the flame alive. North Carolina's high-octane string band The Avett Brothers closed things out with their unvarnished vocal treatment of a compelling set list of original music. The boys are hot, have a growing legion of fans and have scored an appearance on Conan O'Brien's late show tonight on NBC. The brothers Beals of Haymaker Productions have come up with a big-time lineup for the next seven Thursdays. Please...take a look at www.richmondconcerts.net.
Tonight, I'm really looking forward to hearing the latest evolution of the legendary Lonesome River Band at St. Joseph's Villa's Hoedown in the Garden. LRB has played this gig for the last six years at least...it used to be at Lewis Ginter. Bandleader/banjo master Sammy Shelor has lured lead singer/guitarist Brandon Rickman back after a few years away...should be fun.
And tomorrow we're off to Chippokes State Park near Surry (across the river from Jamestown and all the 400th Birthday madness) to camp out overnight and take in Steve Bassett's acoustic summer tour with Michelle Nixon and Drive. Hope the rain holds off as our tent is untested for waterproofing.
Hope all you mothers are treated well on Sunday...you can never be thanked enough...TT
5.09.2007
Old friends...
Welcome back to the ol' journal and congrats to my long-time friend/musician/promoter Mark Newton for his tenacity and hard work that have led to a great new album Hillbilly Hemingway produced by Carl Jackson, and a couple of fine sets last Thursday at Ashland Coffee and Tea. Those who've known Mark since his Knoxville Grass or Heights of Grass or Virginia Squires days will recognize a guy who's matured musically and has gathered not only some compelling material, but some top players for his band as well. Along with tasteful banjo work by John Wheat and solid standup bass and vocals from Beth Lawrence, we were treated to virtuoso performances from Clay Hess on guitar and Randy Kohrs on Dobro. The latter two had me shaking my head in disbelief all night over how cleanly and creatively they supported the vocals and ripped their breaks. They both are solid lead vocalists as well. A select few took advantage of one-on-one workshops with Clay and Randy, arranged by JAMinc at AC&T this past Saturday. I hope we'll see a bunch of you at the 15th annual Graves Mountain Festival of Music May31-June 2. Mark, Sonny Ludlam and Jimmy Graves have built this event into one of the nation's finest small festivals. Check the potent lineup at http://gravesmountain.com/bluegrass.htm I haven't missed a one and we might see you the Wednesday night before at the all-you-can-eat seafood buffet. Start fasting now.
And I have to pass along heartfelt thanks to our favorite balladeer George Turman for drawing another memorable evening of homemade music from the Among Friends well. What a treat for me and daughter Emily to share the stage with the likes of Frank Coleman, Libby Dunton, Jackie Frost, Sheryl Warner, Richard Ward and the inimitable Uncle George. Conspicuous in their absence were Daniel Clarke, Chris Fuller, Danny Hughes, Billy Lux and Jim Skelding. (Daniel was on the road with Mandy Moore, the rest were doing a Big Boss Combo/Johnson Brothers gig at a fancy Kentucky Derby party) So they were missed but the Shady Grove Coffee House crowd seemed to indicate they got their money's worth. They sure made us feel welcome at any rate. Big fun.
Just a heads up for late this year or early next...Deveron and I were treated to hard hat tour of the National Theater this morning, downtown at 7th and Broad. I haven't been as excited about something coming to our city for as long as I can remember. It is a true diamond in the rough at this stage but it promises to be an incredible music venue for audiences and artists alike when it's done. Harry Kollatz, Jr. did a great piece on the work-in-progress in this month's Richmond Magazine. Go to www.richmondmagazine.com and click on the Center Stage link.
And we just heard that Nickel Creek's farewell tour along with Fiona Apple will stop in Richmond at Innsbrook on August 3rd.
Last word...join us at Chippokes State Park this Saturday evening across the river from Jamestown, as Steve Bassett "blows the dust off' in an acoustic concert backed by bluegrassers Michelle Nixon and Drive. Rumor has it there'll be a fine jam in the campground afterwards...happy birthday America!
TT
And I have to pass along heartfelt thanks to our favorite balladeer George Turman for drawing another memorable evening of homemade music from the Among Friends well. What a treat for me and daughter Emily to share the stage with the likes of Frank Coleman, Libby Dunton, Jackie Frost, Sheryl Warner, Richard Ward and the inimitable Uncle George. Conspicuous in their absence were Daniel Clarke, Chris Fuller, Danny Hughes, Billy Lux and Jim Skelding. (Daniel was on the road with Mandy Moore, the rest were doing a Big Boss Combo/Johnson Brothers gig at a fancy Kentucky Derby party) So they were missed but the Shady Grove Coffee House crowd seemed to indicate they got their money's worth. They sure made us feel welcome at any rate. Big fun.
Just a heads up for late this year or early next...Deveron and I were treated to hard hat tour of the National Theater this morning, downtown at 7th and Broad. I haven't been as excited about something coming to our city for as long as I can remember. It is a true diamond in the rough at this stage but it promises to be an incredible music venue for audiences and artists alike when it's done. Harry Kollatz, Jr. did a great piece on the work-in-progress in this month's Richmond Magazine. Go to www.richmondmagazine.com and click on the Center Stage link.
And we just heard that Nickel Creek's farewell tour along with Fiona Apple will stop in Richmond at Innsbrook on August 3rd.
Last word...join us at Chippokes State Park this Saturday evening across the river from Jamestown, as Steve Bassett "blows the dust off' in an acoustic concert backed by bluegrassers Michelle Nixon and Drive. Rumor has it there'll be a fine jam in the campground afterwards...happy birthday America!
TT
5.01.2007
History made...
Well, the 20th MerleFest is now a fading memory or should I say a boxcar load of memories, and trying to sort through and recount them is a daunting task. I've been on the tech staff at this festival for all but two of those twenty years and it's become such an important part of my year every April that I can easily get choked up talking about it with folks who understand how music and those who make it can enrich your life. It's a warm reunion for the team that runs things, so many of whom return every year and pick up where they left off. It's really impossible to convey the MerleFest experience in words or even pictures. But do check the Website (www.merlefest.org) and consider joining the 80, 000 who journey to Wilkesboro from all over the world. It might change your life...it has mine.
The stars converged this year to produce an event that many of us had pretty much given up on...a New Grass Revival reunion. The band went its separate ways after opening for The Grateful Dead on new year's eve of 1989 and until last Saturday, had not been seen together, save for backing up Garth Brooks on Conan O'Brien's late night show four or five years ago.
The four, Sam Bush, John Cowan, Bela Fleck and Pat Flynn injected an amazing new power and sophistication to bluegrass that captivated fans and influenced bands all over the world. All have moved on to successful careers of their own, but legions have been waiting for a chance to see and hear them together again. Patience was rewarded during the 20th Anniversary Jam Saturday afternoon on the Watson Stage. The cool thing was, it wasn't really planned...Doc had requested that it happen, since NGR was present at the very first MerleFest, but nothing was agreed to. Sam had brought Pat on stage to play with Jam guest Pam Tillis. The Dirt Band's John McEuen was actually holding down the banjo slot until Bela entered from stage right and there they were. Although not on the set list, Sam seized the moment and lit into Townes Van Zandt's White Freight Liner Blues, and thousands were overcome with the great sense of joy and relief that the impossible is indeed possible and we might look forward to more of this down the road.
The other highlight was an emotional and loving Saturday night tribute to the music of Tony Rice by Alison Krauss and Union Station with Jerry Douglas. Sadly Tony's not singing any more but as he joined AKUS for a nearly two hour closing set, it was clear that he's still very much the impeccable guitar stylist who's become synonymous with taste and tone. Alison and Dan Tyminski rendered the lyrics to songs Tony put into the acoustic mainstream with tender loving care. Streets of London and Winter's Night were particularly haunting. As they closed with Freeborn Man, we were treated to a slideshow of Tony's life on the big video screen. Lots of moist eyes in the house, and what a wonderful thing to do for someone like Tony Rice, who's meant so much to so many musicians and fans over the years...to give him his props while he's still around to savor them. God bless you Tony.
And I haven't even mentioned Elvis Costello, and Led Zeppelin's John Paul Jones...you'll just have to imagine the possibilities. I'll try to post some more photos soon.
Today's amazing internet and satellite technology enabled folks to enjoy the festival online and on XM Radio...you can still hear many live performances in the archives at www.radiofreemerlefest.org. Very cool and convenient, but no substitute for sitting there with like-minded music lovers and witnessing it before your own eyes and ears when it's actually created. Music is such a blessing.
Here at home this week, join us at Ashland Coffee and Tea Thursday night for The Mark Newton Band performing some great tunes from Mark's Carl Jackson-produced new CD Hillbilly Hemingway.
And a bunch of us are joining old pal George Turman this Saturday night at the Shady Grove Coffee House for something close to an Among Friends show. www.shadygrovecoffeehouse.com
Come on out.
Thanks for checking in...and please forward a link to those who might be interested...TT
The stars converged this year to produce an event that many of us had pretty much given up on...a New Grass Revival reunion. The band went its separate ways after opening for The Grateful Dead on new year's eve of 1989 and until last Saturday, had not been seen together, save for backing up Garth Brooks on Conan O'Brien's late night show four or five years ago.
The four, Sam Bush, John Cowan, Bela Fleck and Pat Flynn injected an amazing new power and sophistication to bluegrass that captivated fans and influenced bands all over the world. All have moved on to successful careers of their own, but legions have been waiting for a chance to see and hear them together again. Patience was rewarded during the 20th Anniversary Jam Saturday afternoon on the Watson Stage. The cool thing was, it wasn't really planned...Doc had requested that it happen, since NGR was present at the very first MerleFest, but nothing was agreed to. Sam had brought Pat on stage to play with Jam guest Pam Tillis. The Dirt Band's John McEuen was actually holding down the banjo slot until Bela entered from stage right and there they were. Although not on the set list, Sam seized the moment and lit into Townes Van Zandt's White Freight Liner Blues, and thousands were overcome with the great sense of joy and relief that the impossible is indeed possible and we might look forward to more of this down the road.
The other highlight was an emotional and loving Saturday night tribute to the music of Tony Rice by Alison Krauss and Union Station with Jerry Douglas. Sadly Tony's not singing any more but as he joined AKUS for a nearly two hour closing set, it was clear that he's still very much the impeccable guitar stylist who's become synonymous with taste and tone. Alison and Dan Tyminski rendered the lyrics to songs Tony put into the acoustic mainstream with tender loving care. Streets of London and Winter's Night were particularly haunting. As they closed with Freeborn Man, we were treated to a slideshow of Tony's life on the big video screen. Lots of moist eyes in the house, and what a wonderful thing to do for someone like Tony Rice, who's meant so much to so many musicians and fans over the years...to give him his props while he's still around to savor them. God bless you Tony.
And I haven't even mentioned Elvis Costello, and Led Zeppelin's John Paul Jones...you'll just have to imagine the possibilities. I'll try to post some more photos soon.
Today's amazing internet and satellite technology enabled folks to enjoy the festival online and on XM Radio...you can still hear many live performances in the archives at www.radiofreemerlefest.org. Very cool and convenient, but no substitute for sitting there with like-minded music lovers and witnessing it before your own eyes and ears when it's actually created. Music is such a blessing.
Here at home this week, join us at Ashland Coffee and Tea Thursday night for The Mark Newton Band performing some great tunes from Mark's Carl Jackson-produced new CD Hillbilly Hemingway.
And a bunch of us are joining old pal George Turman this Saturday night at the Shady Grove Coffee House for something close to an Among Friends show. www.shadygrovecoffeehouse.com
Come on out.
Thanks for checking in...and please forward a link to those who might be interested...TT
4.27.2007
Day one...
The first day of MerleFest's 20th is done and a little late afternoon/evening rain did little to dampen spirits. Asheville's Steep Canyon Rangers playing nearly a home game, kicked things off on the Watson Stage followed by the beloved Waybacks (coming to Richmond's Science Museum on June 16th), and then John Cowan, sporting a new banjo player and a close-cropped new do. The remarkable (they're not a novelty act anymore) Cherryholmes put in a finely polished hour of favorites and some new stuff too. The Cow returned to host the Kickoff Jam with his own great band and a serious guest list including Led Zeppelin's John Paul Jones, The Dirt Band's John McEuen, dobro pioneer Tut Taylor, Pete Wernick, Uncle Earl, John's step son Luke Bulla, Stringdusters Chris Eldridge and Jesse Cobb, and young mando master Sierra Hull. An impressive number sat through cool, light drizzle to soak it all up.
And then, to top it off, we made it back to the motel to in time to catch Tony Trischka, Bela Fleck and Steve Martin close out the Letterman show with Steve's original instrumental The Crow. They got a huge ovation and Dave did something I'd never seen him do. He was so genuinely impressed, he came over to personally thank Tony, Bela and Steve by name, and then asked to be introduced to the rest of the band, whom he proceeded to also thank personally by name. It was probably the same band that accompanied Tony at AC&T earlier this month including the amazing Michael Daves on guitar. In decades of watching Letterman, I've never seen him do that. What a great night for this music!
It's crazy late...more to come....TT
And then, to top it off, we made it back to the motel to in time to catch Tony Trischka, Bela Fleck and Steve Martin close out the Letterman show with Steve's original instrumental The Crow. They got a huge ovation and Dave did something I'd never seen him do. He was so genuinely impressed, he came over to personally thank Tony, Bela and Steve by name, and then asked to be introduced to the rest of the band, whom he proceeded to also thank personally by name. It was probably the same band that accompanied Tony at AC&T earlier this month including the amazing Michael Daves on guitar. In decades of watching Letterman, I've never seen him do that. What a great night for this music!
It's crazy late...more to come....TT
4.25.2007
The Big One...
I knew this would happen...I'd commit to making a few musical notes from time to time and I end up putting things off until I have such a backlog that I procrastinate even longer. A quick recap though...
Tony Trischka put on a killer show at AC&T which I sadly missed. Friends who were there were particularly impressed with Greg Liszt's innovative and complementary banjo work, and the incredible vocal stylings of Michael Daves. We'd caught him guesting with Chris Thile at The Living Room in NYC last year and knew we hadn't heard the last of him. Just wait! Our JAMinc non-profit was able to arrange an early same-day performance for Tony at St. Christopher's School senior assembly. He had them in the palm of his hand or at least in the middle of his resonator. Don't forget his Letterman appearance Thursday night with Bela Fleck and Steve Martin.
My loyal bluegrass partner and I headed straight to Ashland Saturday after a couple of glorious days near Afton, VA to catch the Infamously Amazing Stringdusters again. They continue to blow us away as they set the bar ever higher for their musicianship. They're so good and tight one can't imagine much room for improvement. But past is prologue and they'll find a way. Ben Eldridge and John Starling were among the supportive fans in the crowd. Don't miss these guys live...check their schedule at www.thestringdusters.com.
The nation's biggest and best (IMHO) festival gets underway tomorrow in Wilkesboro, NC...the mighty MerleFest...thirteen stages of musical pleasure over four days in the foothills. www.merlefest.org I've been Cabin Stage manager for the last fifteen years and it's a grand experience for artists and audience alike. There have been some rumblings of change afoot this year...I'll do my best to keep you posted as to whether bigger is indeed better. Until then...
TT
Tony Trischka put on a killer show at AC&T which I sadly missed. Friends who were there were particularly impressed with Greg Liszt's innovative and complementary banjo work, and the incredible vocal stylings of Michael Daves. We'd caught him guesting with Chris Thile at The Living Room in NYC last year and knew we hadn't heard the last of him. Just wait! Our JAMinc non-profit was able to arrange an early same-day performance for Tony at St. Christopher's School senior assembly. He had them in the palm of his hand or at least in the middle of his resonator. Don't forget his Letterman appearance Thursday night with Bela Fleck and Steve Martin.
My loyal bluegrass partner and I headed straight to Ashland Saturday after a couple of glorious days near Afton, VA to catch the Infamously Amazing Stringdusters again. They continue to blow us away as they set the bar ever higher for their musicianship. They're so good and tight one can't imagine much room for improvement. But past is prologue and they'll find a way. Ben Eldridge and John Starling were among the supportive fans in the crowd. Don't miss these guys live...check their schedule at www.thestringdusters.com.
The nation's biggest and best (IMHO) festival gets underway tomorrow in Wilkesboro, NC...the mighty MerleFest...thirteen stages of musical pleasure over four days in the foothills. www.merlefest.org I've been Cabin Stage manager for the last fifteen years and it's a grand experience for artists and audience alike. There have been some rumblings of change afoot this year...I'll do my best to keep you posted as to whether bigger is indeed better. Until then...
TT
4.09.2007
Back and forth...
A quick look back at Saturday's solo debut by Jesse Harper at AC&T...Daniel Clarke had set our expectations high for this outing from Old School Freight Train's lead singer/guitarist. Daniel's credibility was more than reinforced as we were treated to a compelling set of tunes Jesse's worked up for his upcoming album. His growth as a vocal stylist, guitarist and songwriter has been impressive since the early days of OSFT and his good taste to invite such a strong supporting cast added significantly to the wide-ranging set list. It was great to see Ann Marie Calhoun, fresh from her Jethro Tull star turn, back on the trackside stage along with Richmond jazz stalwarts John Winn on clarinet and the aforementioned Mr. Clarke on keys. The band was rounded out by two terrific musicians who were part of opener Jake Armerding's group, Zach Hickman on bass and Neil Cleary on drums. Jesse and these potent players ran through a strong list of songs drawn from Randy Newman, Sam Cooke, Lennon & McCartney and his own growing vault of originals. I can't overstate what a vicarious thrill it is to watch these folks evolve into such compelling musicians since we've known them for so long. It underscores what talent and hard work can mean. Jesse's excursion is short-lived, at least for now, as OSFT has a busy spring and summer booked, including an Ashland date on May 25.
And speaking of opener Jake Armerding, he and his two-man crew (see above) set the bar pretty high Saturday night with some fine original material delivered to his own guitar and fiddle accompaniment. Check out the title track of his new CD "Walk On This World" and "Keep The River On Your Right." http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=48691665 We're working on getting him into In Your Ear for one of our JAMinc Studio Concerts...stay tuned.
And speaking of JAMinc, we've set up an early in-school performance at St. Christopher's School for five-string wizard Tony Trischka this Wednesday, preliminary to his AC&T gig that night.
Lucky kids. Hope to see you on the tracks at 8pm. www.ashlandcoffeeandtea.com
Let's warm it up around here...it's the second week of April for Pete's sake...TT
And speaking of opener Jake Armerding, he and his two-man crew (see above) set the bar pretty high Saturday night with some fine original material delivered to his own guitar and fiddle accompaniment. Check out the title track of his new CD "Walk On This World" and "Keep The River On Your Right." http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=48691665 We're working on getting him into In Your Ear for one of our JAMinc Studio Concerts...stay tuned.
And speaking of JAMinc, we've set up an early in-school performance at St. Christopher's School for five-string wizard Tony Trischka this Wednesday, preliminary to his AC&T gig that night.
Lucky kids. Hope to see you on the tracks at 8pm. www.ashlandcoffeeandtea.com
Let's warm it up around here...it's the second week of April for Pete's sake...TT
4.04.2007
Busy April...
A quick update on a musically meaty month folks, and much of it focuses on the "Center of the Universe." Legendary guitarist David Lindley (Jackson Browne, Linda Ronstadt, James Taylor) plays Ashland Coffee and Tea tomorrow night with our own Charles Arthur opening. Friday, it's venerable balladeer Page Wilson with his always Reckless Abandon. It'll be worth showing up just to see his new buzz cut alone! And don't forget about Jesse Harper's big night at AC&T this Saturday; the buzz is loud and clear. Our favorite tavern on the tracks also has banjo master Tony Trischka on tap for April 11 to showcase his Double Banjo Bluegrass Spectacular CD. www.ashlandcoffeeandtea.com The other banjo guy at the Ashland gig will be former Charlottesvillian Greg Liszt, a young and gifted five-string pioneer in his own right. And a related tube tip: Tony will have his a-list collaborators along for the ride as TT, Bela Fleck and Steve Martin do the Letterman show in NY on April 26. And if you haven't heard The Greencards yet...they're an engaging acoustic band that's toured with Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson. They play Ashland on April 12th. We've already mentioned the Infamous Stringdusters, same time, same place on April 21.
Bluegrass music's reigning royal family, the Del McCoury Band will play the Canal Club on Saturday, April 14. www.thecanalclub.com We need to encourage the promoters who bring top-drawer acts like this to town by showing up. Spread the word...
Bluegrass music's reigning royal family, the Del McCoury Band will play the Canal Club on Saturday, April 14. www.thecanalclub.com We need to encourage the promoters who bring top-drawer acts like this to town by showing up. Spread the word...
4.01.2007
Ah spring...
Hope you made it through April Fool's Day unscathed...having it fall on Palm Sunday takes most of the mischief factor away don't you think? To share a few musical highlights of the wonderful week just passed...
We are so blessed to have as potent a musical presence here in River City as the VCU Jazz program. We caught the Jazz Orchestra II under Taylor Barnett's skillful guidance roll through an engaging program of Duke Ellington and Thad Jones material with special guest (and Taylor's mentor) John D'Earth, Charlottesville's highly-pedigreed trumpet legend. He even brought his talented mate Dawn Thompson down this way for some of her soaring and often surreal vocal stylings. Anthony Garcia heads up the nationally-renowned VCU Jazz machine...shoot Tony an email and ask to be placed on his busting-at-the-seams VCU Jazz E-News list (ajgarcia@vcu.edu). Speaking of VCU, their guitar program led by John Patykula is offering up another Guitar and Other Strings series this summer, with local faves The Jackie Frost Ensemble opening up on July 7th. After that, the venerable Mike Seeger on July 13th.
http://www.pubinfo.vcu.edu/artweb/Music/concerts/other_guitar.html
I do want to acknowledge the high level of improvisational musicianship we enjoyed last Friday night during Harmonica Crossroads at In Your Ear Recording during our most recent JAMinc/Studio A concert. What a treat to hear Phil Wiggins stretch his wings with fellow harpist (and former student) Allen Holmes to the tastefully solid accompaniment of Daniel Clarke at the grand and Brian Jones on percussion.
Very cool to watch the camaraderie develop among players who'd just met the afternoon before, especially Wiggins & Clarke. The cats were killin' as Daniel might say. And kudos to Allen's wife Alison for her haunting guest vocals, Roddy Barnes who took a fine turn at the piano, Robbin Thompson for in imprompt blues wail, and to JAMinc's own Andy Garrigue for some solid harp work and for putting the whole evening together. As one of Andy's, Robbin's and Daniel's fellow JAMinc board members, let me encourage you to get on our email list so you'll be the first to know about future Studio Concerts at In Your Ear. www.JAMinc.org
This is a most gratifying time to be living in Virginia and witnessing Nature's stunning rebirth all around us. With apologies to those suffering the effects of wind-blown allergens, this time of year, with its visuals and the increasingly rich soundtrack of live music...more of it outdoors...stirs the soul. Do take advantage of at least some of the tempting offerings just ahead.
Including...Old School Freight Train's Jesse Harper sharing some of his new work with some old friends like former bandmate/fiddler Ann Marie Calhoun and the aforementioned Daniel Clarke on keys. That's this Saturday at Ashland Coffee & Tea. Daniel is giving it double thumbs up. www.ashlandcoffeeandtea.com
And Emmylou Harris on Brown's Island on May 19th...how about that?
http://www.showtimetickets.com/eventInstance.do?method=load&id=748684
And a tube tip...Alison Krauss & Union Station will be joining Don Imus on MSNBC Tuesday morning to debut her new CD "A Hundred Miles or More...A Collection" the day of its release. There's a lot of her movie stuff and earlier duets (James Taylor and Brad Paisley) on there but also 4 or 5 new ones too. Very nice.
You can preview it at http://www.cmt.com/artists/az/krauss_alison/1487164/album.jhtml
Thanks for the encouragement...no foolin'. Have a great week...TT
We are so blessed to have as potent a musical presence here in River City as the VCU Jazz program. We caught the Jazz Orchestra II under Taylor Barnett's skillful guidance roll through an engaging program of Duke Ellington and Thad Jones material with special guest (and Taylor's mentor) John D'Earth, Charlottesville's highly-pedigreed trumpet legend. He even brought his talented mate Dawn Thompson down this way for some of her soaring and often surreal vocal stylings. Anthony Garcia heads up the nationally-renowned VCU Jazz machine...shoot Tony an email and ask to be placed on his busting-at-the-seams VCU Jazz E-News list (ajgarcia@vcu.edu). Speaking of VCU, their guitar program led by John Patykula is offering up another Guitar and Other Strings series this summer, with local faves The Jackie Frost Ensemble opening up on July 7th. After that, the venerable Mike Seeger on July 13th.
http://www.pubinfo.vcu.edu/artweb/Music/concerts/other_guitar.html
I do want to acknowledge the high level of improvisational musicianship we enjoyed last Friday night during Harmonica Crossroads at In Your Ear Recording during our most recent JAMinc/Studio A concert. What a treat to hear Phil Wiggins stretch his wings with fellow harpist (and former student) Allen Holmes to the tastefully solid accompaniment of Daniel Clarke at the grand and Brian Jones on percussion.
Very cool to watch the camaraderie develop among players who'd just met the afternoon before, especially Wiggins & Clarke. The cats were killin' as Daniel might say. And kudos to Allen's wife Alison for her haunting guest vocals, Roddy Barnes who took a fine turn at the piano, Robbin Thompson for in imprompt blues wail, and to JAMinc's own Andy Garrigue for some solid harp work and for putting the whole evening together. As one of Andy's, Robbin's and Daniel's fellow JAMinc board members, let me encourage you to get on our email list so you'll be the first to know about future Studio Concerts at In Your Ear. www.JAMinc.org
This is a most gratifying time to be living in Virginia and witnessing Nature's stunning rebirth all around us. With apologies to those suffering the effects of wind-blown allergens, this time of year, with its visuals and the increasingly rich soundtrack of live music...more of it outdoors...stirs the soul. Do take advantage of at least some of the tempting offerings just ahead.
Including...Old School Freight Train's Jesse Harper sharing some of his new work with some old friends like former bandmate/fiddler Ann Marie Calhoun and the aforementioned Daniel Clarke on keys. That's this Saturday at Ashland Coffee & Tea. Daniel is giving it double thumbs up. www.ashlandcoffeeandtea.com
And Emmylou Harris on Brown's Island on May 19th...how about that?
http://www.showtimetickets.com/eventInstance.do?method=load&id=748684
And a tube tip...Alison Krauss & Union Station will be joining Don Imus on MSNBC Tuesday morning to debut her new CD "A Hundred Miles or More...A Collection" the day of its release. There's a lot of her movie stuff and earlier duets (James Taylor and Brad Paisley) on there but also 4 or 5 new ones too. Very nice.
You can preview it at http://www.cmt.com/artists/az/krauss_alison/1487164/album.jhtml
Thanks for the encouragement...no foolin'. Have a great week...TT
3.29.2007
Keeping it live...
I'm vowing to do a better job keeping current with the music-related posts but procrastination and the need to actually make a living have kept me from sharing highlights of the first quarter. But I would like to acknowledge the following for some memorable evenings over the past few months:
Old School Freight Train at Ashland Coffee and Tea on January 12...the band without Ben is forging ahead bravely in search of life without the banjo. This night saw the young and tasteful Robby Sinclair sitting in on percussion. These talented guys will continue to grow and impress.
Jesse Harper, the group's frontman vocalist/writer/guitarist will venture forth in a solo night at AC&T on April 7th with former bandmate Ann Marie Calhoun, keyboard magician Daniel Clarke and the aforementioned Mr. Sinclair. Should be great. OSFT returns as a band on May 25th.
Our favorite local venue has a great spring lineup. Check it out at www.ashlandcoffeeandtea.com
Eddie & Martha Adcock at In Your Ear Recording on February 22...another of our JAMinc house-style concerts in IYE's Studio A, a perfect place to intimately hear live music, both aesthetically and acoustically. Newgrass innovator and perennial cut-up Eddie Adcock brought wife Martha in for an an engaging evening of songs and stories. Highlights were (besides the delicious potluck hors d'oeuvres) guest appearances by JAMinc's own Andy Garrigue on blues harp, young Danielle Sargent picking a mean "Dear Ol' Dixie" on the five-string, and Randy Waller sitting in on a couple of powerful tunes including "Daddy's Old Guitar." If you haven't made one of our JAMinc/In Your Ear concerts, the next one's tomorrow night, featuring harmonica giants Phil Wiggins, Allen Holmes and guests accompanied by Daniel Clarke on keys and drummer Brian Jones. We'll be hearing the common ground between jazz and the blues and it's gonna be great. Tickets at www.jaminc.org.
John Starling & Carolina Star at The Birchmere on February 23...my 30-year travelling companion and I made the trip up 95 to catch Dr. Starling's new band and it was more than worth the run. Those who cut their bluegrass teeth on the original Seldom Scene will find John's warm, bluesy vocals as powerfully understated as ever. Carolina Star includes two fellow members of that seminal band, the forever-cool Mike Auldridge on Dobro and steel, and the one-man rhythm section Tom Gray on bass. Holding down the other spots are veteran tenor/mando man Jimmy Gaudreau and seasoned fiddler Rickie Simpkins. A high-pedigree grouping for sure, but add to that guest shots from one of Americana's most underrated artists Jon Randall, Starling's son Jay on keyboards and the legendary sound and ambience of one of this country's best music halls and your drive home is more like gliding down a lazy river. www.birchmere.com
Chick Corea & Bela Fleck at the UofR Modlin Center on February 28...I don't know enough about jazz to adequately describe what we witnessed as these two musical geniuses mixed it up at the Camp Concert Hall. Suffice to say, the unlikely meeting of two masters of their respective instruments, piano and banjo, was breathtaking both technically and musically. They both seemed to enjoy the experiment immensely and so did we. Their duet album is called "The Enchantment" and will be out in May.
Robbin Thompson & Friends at The Canal Club on March 9...Richmond's favorite singing sailor gathered a bunch of his old pals (and new) to help him debut his latest CD "Just A Blur In The Rearview" and it was a very full evening of Thompson chestnuts and his new material.
Longtime musical colleagues Steve Bassett, Mike McAdam, Bobby Antonelli, Carlos Chafin and others were joined by Robbin's new acoustic playmates Billy Lux, Chris Fuller and Jim Skelding.
Lots of us have known Robbin for a very long time and it's encouraging to see that the older guys can still rock. RT worked hard for his crowd, so did the guys on sound and lights. A big night all around for Richmond-made music. www.robbinthompson.com
Chris Thile & The Tensions Mountain Boys at Carnegie Hall on March 17...I've been drop-jawed over Chris Thile's talent ever since I first saw him jamming with David Grisman, Mark Schatz and others after hours at the Addison Motel during MerleFest a dozen or so years ago. His growth as a virtuoso and musical innovator has been phenomenal and it's hard to resist any opportunity to witness his latest evolution. Thus we braved a winter storm with lots of sleet and slush on the Jersey Turnpike and drove up to Manhattan the day before. The Lincoln Tunnel never looked so good. We're always invigorated by a few days in America's biggest city and this was a big weekend...our first St. Patrick's Day parade in NYC to boot. Chris proved loud and clear that there will be life after Nickel Creek with the potent support of Noam Pikelny on banjo, Gabe Witcher on fiddle, Greg Garrison on bass and Virginia's own Chris "Critter" Eldridge on guitar. Dad Ben and his wife Barbara were beaming after the show at the acoustically-perfect Zankel Hall. The band did a number of selections from the "How To Grow A Woman From The Ground" project and premiered Thile's 40-minute scored piece "Blind Leaving The Blind" which was breathtaking in its technical difficulty and its remarkable scope.
I hope it gets recorded and released one day...there was way too much music in there to absorb in one sitting. Chris Thile and NYC seem to be very good for each other.
Ralph Stanley & The Clinch Mountain Boys at Hermitage High School on March 24...I helped the Kiwanis Club of North Richmond with promotion and staging for this fundraiser for the Virginia Home For Boys and Girls. It was vintage Dr. Stanley who's earned the admiration of all for still taking his mountain sound on the road at age 80, when sitting back on his laurels in Coeburn would be much more comfortable. Ralph II who's enjoying a pretty solid career of his own these days, was conspicuous in his absence, but I gained a renewed appreciation for James Shelton's wonderful cross-picking guitar style on his '46 D-28 herringbone (which he bought for $600 from a naive chap back in 1984). We all dream of such deals, eh? And Jack Cooke continues to be the crowd favorite...he's got a fine new record out too, called "Sittin' On Top Of The World."
Down the road...tomorrow night, Harmonica Crossroads at In Your Ear, Jesse Harper & Friends at AC&T on April 7th, The Infamous Stringdusters at AC&T on April 22nd, and my annual pilgrimmage to Wilkesboro, NC April 26-29 for the 20th annual MerleFest. I've been Cabin Stage manager for the last 15 years and hope to put in another 15. In my mind it's THE American music festival. www.merlefest.org
Thanks for checking out the journal...back to work....TT
Old School Freight Train at Ashland Coffee and Tea on January 12...the band without Ben is forging ahead bravely in search of life without the banjo. This night saw the young and tasteful Robby Sinclair sitting in on percussion. These talented guys will continue to grow and impress.
Jesse Harper, the group's frontman vocalist/writer/guitarist will venture forth in a solo night at AC&T on April 7th with former bandmate Ann Marie Calhoun, keyboard magician Daniel Clarke and the aforementioned Mr. Sinclair. Should be great. OSFT returns as a band on May 25th.
Our favorite local venue has a great spring lineup. Check it out at www.ashlandcoffeeandtea.com
Eddie & Martha Adcock at In Your Ear Recording on February 22...another of our JAMinc house-style concerts in IYE's Studio A, a perfect place to intimately hear live music, both aesthetically and acoustically. Newgrass innovator and perennial cut-up Eddie Adcock brought wife Martha in for an an engaging evening of songs and stories. Highlights were (besides the delicious potluck hors d'oeuvres) guest appearances by JAMinc's own Andy Garrigue on blues harp, young Danielle Sargent picking a mean "Dear Ol' Dixie" on the five-string, and Randy Waller sitting in on a couple of powerful tunes including "Daddy's Old Guitar." If you haven't made one of our JAMinc/In Your Ear concerts, the next one's tomorrow night, featuring harmonica giants Phil Wiggins, Allen Holmes and guests accompanied by Daniel Clarke on keys and drummer Brian Jones. We'll be hearing the common ground between jazz and the blues and it's gonna be great. Tickets at www.jaminc.org.
John Starling & Carolina Star at The Birchmere on February 23...my 30-year travelling companion and I made the trip up 95 to catch Dr. Starling's new band and it was more than worth the run. Those who cut their bluegrass teeth on the original Seldom Scene will find John's warm, bluesy vocals as powerfully understated as ever. Carolina Star includes two fellow members of that seminal band, the forever-cool Mike Auldridge on Dobro and steel, and the one-man rhythm section Tom Gray on bass. Holding down the other spots are veteran tenor/mando man Jimmy Gaudreau and seasoned fiddler Rickie Simpkins. A high-pedigree grouping for sure, but add to that guest shots from one of Americana's most underrated artists Jon Randall, Starling's son Jay on keyboards and the legendary sound and ambience of one of this country's best music halls and your drive home is more like gliding down a lazy river. www.birchmere.com
Chick Corea & Bela Fleck at the UofR Modlin Center on February 28...I don't know enough about jazz to adequately describe what we witnessed as these two musical geniuses mixed it up at the Camp Concert Hall. Suffice to say, the unlikely meeting of two masters of their respective instruments, piano and banjo, was breathtaking both technically and musically. They both seemed to enjoy the experiment immensely and so did we. Their duet album is called "The Enchantment" and will be out in May.
Robbin Thompson & Friends at The Canal Club on March 9...Richmond's favorite singing sailor gathered a bunch of his old pals (and new) to help him debut his latest CD "Just A Blur In The Rearview" and it was a very full evening of Thompson chestnuts and his new material.
Longtime musical colleagues Steve Bassett, Mike McAdam, Bobby Antonelli, Carlos Chafin and others were joined by Robbin's new acoustic playmates Billy Lux, Chris Fuller and Jim Skelding.
Lots of us have known Robbin for a very long time and it's encouraging to see that the older guys can still rock. RT worked hard for his crowd, so did the guys on sound and lights. A big night all around for Richmond-made music. www.robbinthompson.com
Chris Thile & The Tensions Mountain Boys at Carnegie Hall on March 17...I've been drop-jawed over Chris Thile's talent ever since I first saw him jamming with David Grisman, Mark Schatz and others after hours at the Addison Motel during MerleFest a dozen or so years ago. His growth as a virtuoso and musical innovator has been phenomenal and it's hard to resist any opportunity to witness his latest evolution. Thus we braved a winter storm with lots of sleet and slush on the Jersey Turnpike and drove up to Manhattan the day before. The Lincoln Tunnel never looked so good. We're always invigorated by a few days in America's biggest city and this was a big weekend...our first St. Patrick's Day parade in NYC to boot. Chris proved loud and clear that there will be life after Nickel Creek with the potent support of Noam Pikelny on banjo, Gabe Witcher on fiddle, Greg Garrison on bass and Virginia's own Chris "Critter" Eldridge on guitar. Dad Ben and his wife Barbara were beaming after the show at the acoustically-perfect Zankel Hall. The band did a number of selections from the "How To Grow A Woman From The Ground" project and premiered Thile's 40-minute scored piece "Blind Leaving The Blind" which was breathtaking in its technical difficulty and its remarkable scope.
I hope it gets recorded and released one day...there was way too much music in there to absorb in one sitting. Chris Thile and NYC seem to be very good for each other.
Ralph Stanley & The Clinch Mountain Boys at Hermitage High School on March 24...I helped the Kiwanis Club of North Richmond with promotion and staging for this fundraiser for the Virginia Home For Boys and Girls. It was vintage Dr. Stanley who's earned the admiration of all for still taking his mountain sound on the road at age 80, when sitting back on his laurels in Coeburn would be much more comfortable. Ralph II who's enjoying a pretty solid career of his own these days, was conspicuous in his absence, but I gained a renewed appreciation for James Shelton's wonderful cross-picking guitar style on his '46 D-28 herringbone (which he bought for $600 from a naive chap back in 1984). We all dream of such deals, eh? And Jack Cooke continues to be the crowd favorite...he's got a fine new record out too, called "Sittin' On Top Of The World."
Down the road...tomorrow night, Harmonica Crossroads at In Your Ear, Jesse Harper & Friends at AC&T on April 7th, The Infamous Stringdusters at AC&T on April 22nd, and my annual pilgrimmage to Wilkesboro, NC April 26-29 for the 20th annual MerleFest. I've been Cabin Stage manager for the last 15 years and hope to put in another 15. In my mind it's THE American music festival. www.merlefest.org
Thanks for checking out the journal...back to work....TT
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