Cuz's Coner for March

March Cuz's Corner
By Dennis Frost
As Darrell Scott sang the other week from the McGlohon Theatre stage, "It’s a great day to be alive!" Spring already seems to be in a state of urgency and, thankfully, the rains appear to have returned to the piedmont of the Carolinas. Speaking of Darrell Scott, my high point for the last month would have to be Darrell’s second set of his cozily attended show. I’m continually amazed at his ability to reinterpret songs right on the stage, but a number of his standards played on the theatre’s beautiful grand piano simply took my breath away.
I must admit the Belleville Outfit’s CD release party at the Evening Muse was also pretty amazing. It’s been a while since I have happened on a band this young with such a grasp of roots music. Not only are they keeping alive the Austin-meets-Spartanburg swing tradition of Uncle Walt’s Band, but are also taking it in other, eclectic directions. I would recommend not missing them the next time they come through. Many of my Nashville compadres were absolutely blown away by them at the Folk Alliance Conference last week. Have you ever heard a group coming together on stage right in front of your eyes? This describes the Belleville Outfit – look out, world!
My final "pinch me" moment since the last time we talked was getting to spend part of an afternoon with Tift Merritt as she came by WGWG radio in support of her reigning AMA chart-topping CD, Another Country. It’s a thrill for me to discover an artist or group in the process of finding their muse – such as the Belleville Outfit. Sometimes, it’s equally thrilling when an artist rediscovers her art, as Tift did during her months in France. I stand by my review last month - Another Country is about as satisfying a record as you can find these days. Look for her at MerleFest this April and later this summer when she stops off in Charlotte!
There is some bad news for roots music fans, as No Depression Magazine will cease publication with its 75th issue this May. This decision was made almost entirely because of record companies’ slashing their advertising budgets for CD promotion, reflective of buying habits changing from CD purchases to downloads. I really hate this, as No Depression was one magazine for and about roots music that I could literally read from cover to cover. The plan is to continue the tradition online, but it will never replace the look and feel of that gritty recycled paper. My fear is that another causality of this phenomenon will be the pure art form of making a record album. I’m showing my age, but remember the thrill of sitting down and listening to Sergeant Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band? At least we still have live shows!
It’s hard to know where to begin in recommending new music this month, but I’ll give it a go. Note: Cuz’s Corner will continue reviewing CDs and not song downloads, so there! After about thirteen years together, Blue Highway’s Through the Window of a Train is exceptional work of all original bluegrass tunes. I especially like the fact that the lyrics tackle contemporary topics as well as the usual themes – a keeper! (http://www.bluehighwayband.com/)
I also am thrilled with the new one from Kathy Mattea. Coal is a collection of classic mining songs and is beautifully produced by the talented Marty Stuart. This is a powerful, heartfelt, and traditional-sounding work that I would highly recommend. You know a CD about coal mining that begins with two Jean Ritchie songs and includes tunes by Darrell Scott, Merle Travis, and others is going to be a good one! (http://www.mattea.com/)
The Belleville Outfit’s Wanderin’ is as highly recommended as their live shows. I love records that move from originals to covers and back again and the listener never notices. This one is fun and swings from the rafters! (http://www.bellevilleoutfit.com/)
Texas icon Joe Ely and accordion master Joel Guzman’s Cactus is a retrospective of Joe’s legendary career performed live, which, from my experience, is the best way to experience his music. If you love Tex-Mex folk music as I do, you need this one! (http://www.joeely.com/)
Bet you couldn’t tell I’m a huge Buddy Miller fan - not only of his songwriting, playing, and performances, but also of his production magic! Allison Moorer’s Mockingbird is an example of Buddy’s mastery and it showcases a wonderful vocalist at her best. (http://www.allisonmoorer.com/) Note that Allison will be performing with "hubby" Steve Earle at McGlohon Theatre on April 19th. They will perform solo acoustic and together! The new Tim O’Brien, Ricky Skaggs, and The Waybacks’ CDs will be on the agenda next month – stay tuned.
It’s extremely difficult coming up with a gig of the month for March as there are so many excellent choices. If you’ll check out the Folk Calendar, I bet you’ll find your gig of the month! That’s it for this time and, as usual, try to hit a live show or two and be sure to catch Wood & Steel at the Gathering on the 14th for the finest in bluegrass!
Cuz

Cuz's Corner

Cuz’s Corner, December 2007


Welcome to the Christmas edition of Cuz’s Corner. The way these holiday seasons keep rolling by reminds me of a thirty-year-old Richard Thompson song called Who Knows Where the Time Goes. By the way, you will be able to catch the legendary Richard Thompson on January 9th at McGlohon Theatre when he brings his 1000 Years of Popular Music tour to Charlotte. Believe me, Richard’s idea of popular song and that of the general populace are two different things! (www.maxxmusic.com)

Speaking of the holiday season, I don’t think there is anything that makes for a better stocking stuffer that a CD. Just think, it fits perfectly and keeps on giving after everyone has gone back home! My pick for this holiday season is one I reviewed last month based on a sampler disc I received. I’m referring to the new boxed set by Emmylou Harris called Songbird. Having listened to all four discs, I can tell you it’s even better than I imagined as there is absolutely nothing approaching mediocre in this set and the historical liner notes and photos are worth the price alone. As a bonus, there is a DVD capturing about a dozen vintage performances through the years and a clip of her talking about the new passion in her life – animal rescue.

If your fanatical J. J.Cale friends are in a state of perpetual withdrawal due to the rarity of his tours and recordings, here is the gift for them. His latest release called Rewind is an interesting mix of never-released tunes recorded through the years. Although this may not be his best work, this will definitely satisfy your serious “Calehead” friends!

Yet another idea for the old stocking may take a bit of stretching, but I think if you work a bit, a DVD just might fit! In the last few years, New West Records has been releasing vintage performances of Austin City Limits shows. These are not the half-hour shows you see on PBS, but the entire concert. A few of the shows that I’ve seen and would recommend are The Flatlanders, Richard Thompson, Guy Clark, Merle Haggard, Lucinda Williams and John Hiatt. (www.newwestrecords.com)

I must say the annual AMA festival in Nashville more than lived up to my expectations. By the way, the “M” stands for “music,” not “medical,” although my fifty-something carcass felt like it needed some medical attention after days of 2 and 3 AM bedtimes! My four days got off to an emotional start as the Tennessee Museum in conjunction with the AMA presented a heartfelt tribute to Porter Wagoner, who passed just days before the conference. Passionate performances were given by Jim Lauderdale, Mike Farris, and Rodney Crowell. When Rodney Crowell sang Love Is All I Need, written after the death of his parents, there were no dry eyes in the house, folks. The high point was a surprise appearance by Emmylou Harris, who sang a half-dozen songs with Buddy Miller. I must say I’m proud of a music association that honors the heroes of real country music!

The awards show at the Ryman was the best ever and was produced by Claire Armbruster, whom many of you know from the tremendous lineups she booked during her tenure with MerleFest. As with MerleFest, she has a sixth sense for the artists that need to be on the stage together to make the magic happen. And the awards went to: Patty Griffin, album of the year and artist of the year; Buddy Miller, instrumentalist of the year; Darrell Scott, song of the year (Hank William’s Ghost); Lyle Lovett, trailblazer award; Joe Ely, lifetime achievement for performance; Mavis Staples, freedom of speech; Avett Brothers, emerging artist and best duo; Ry Cooder – lifetime instrumentalist; Willie Nelson, lifetime achievement for songwriting; Townes Van Zandt, president’s award; Mary Martin and Jim Dickerson won for lifetime executive and producer, respectively.

The teaming of the AMA with the Country Music Hall of Fame and The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame resulted in two tremendous keynote interviews with the great Lyle Lovett and Emmylou Harris. Emmy was ready to talk in her interview and I must admit I was spellbound during her nearly hour-and-a-half talk, which really got into the history and legacy she shared with the legendary Gram Parsons. It occurred to me during both of these sessions that these artists go beyond just being great musicians; they are simply outstanding and special human beings that would have excelled in any field or endeavor.

Oh, did I mention that there were four nights of stellar showcase performances featuring the “best of the best” roots music artists? Listing my favorites would literally take me into the January edition of Cuz’s Corner – I’m serious. I suppose my favorite sets would have to be Uncle Earl and Buddy Miller back to back at the Mercy Lounge and simply listening to acoustic music at the epicenter of bluegrass and old-time music, The Station Inn. My musical discovery, however, was the wizardry of instrumentalist and producer Gurf Morlix. I was familiar with his work producing such masterpieces as Lucinda Williams’ Car Wheels on a Gravel Road and others, but had no idea of what he could do for a live performance. There are musicians that can make everybody on stage sound better – Gurf is one of them. Appropriately, my last set was Ray Wylie Hubbard’s closing set at the Cannery, which featured, in addition to his own players, Gurf Morlix and Buddy Miller on electric guitars – we’re talking the proverbial wall of sound, folks!

This festival is highly recommended for both members of the AMA and non-members. I guess the coolest thing for me in attending every year is realizing that there are actually others all over the country that enjoy this type of music and the sense of family I derive from the friendships forged over the four days. Think of it as an adult camp for music nuts! By the way, the annual Folk Alliance is coming up in Memphis, February 20-24, which is another fun, educational destination!

Since we seem to be spending most of Cuz’s Corner in Nashville anyway, I need to tell you that Amy Kurland, who opened the Bluebird Café in 1982, is transferring this national landmark to the Nashville Songwriter’s Association International (NSAI). The announcement was made November 8th at a performance by founding member Kris Kristofferson and will be effective January 1st. I think this is good news for all the folks that have loved this place throughout the many years.

Well, I’m into page two, which means I’m out of time and room. Please have the happiest and safest Christmas ever and we’ll see you next year! Pray for world leaders to listen to more roots music – the planet would be a safer place!

Cuz

Cuz's Corner for October

CUZ’S CORNER, OCTOBER 2007

By Dennis Frost

Well, folks, here we are in late September; the heat of summer still persists and the incessant drought continues to wrap its dry, parched fingers around the piedmont of the Carolinas. It’s interesting that this situation is forcing us to discuss and think about water issues that have long been a huge part of the consciousness, the art, and the music of the American Southwest. Well, that said, there has not been a drought in terms of great musical performances, great new CDs, and wonderful shows and events coming up in October.

September’s highlights were as varied as music itself and spanned the musical spectrum from two rock and roll hall-of-famers at Belk Theatre to an impressive first-time Charlotte appearance of an up-and-coming, progressive, old time band at the most recent CFS gathering in intimate Bryant Hall. Even though I’ve enjoyed the songs of Elvis Costello through the years, as well his recent collaborations with the likes of Lucinda Williams, Emmylou Harris, and New Orleans legend Allen Toussaint, it was his performance with Steve Naive that sealed the deal for me. The nearly three-hour performance not only covered most elements of our human condition, but covered many of today’s compelling social issues in a masterful style that had the sellout crowd hanging on every word and every emotion.

Another highlight of the month came just a few days later at the CFS gathering with Polecat Creek at CPCC. I love musicians that tap into the music of the past and then add their own personality, creativity, and songwriting into the mix, creating new traditional music. Although the group’s songs are extremely fresh and new, they creatively meld the sounds and history, as well as southern sayings and expressions from the past, into some unbelievably compelling music. I love it when a crowd of real music lovers leaves a show “buzzing” and this was certainly the case with the overflow crowd at last month’s gathering. I have a feeling they will be back through soon, so if you didn’t catch them this time, be sure to the next time around! I just heard they will be showcasing at this years Americana Music Festival in late October, so the little secret about this group is out of the bag – good for them!

Speaking of the AMA conference, it rolls into Nashville and will take place October 31 – November 3. If you like American roots music, the performers are way too many to list in the space left, so please check it out at www.americanamusic.org. My highlight every year is the annual awards show in the “mother church.” The music is tremendous, but there is nothing like sitting in the Ryman Auditorium and absorbing decades of hillbilly dust oozing out of those creaky old floors. If you don’t want to do the entire conference, all you need is a room, a $30 wristband, and a ticket to the awards show – this is an affordable way to have access to more good music than you can possibly hear in four days.

Also in October, don’t forget fall LEAF, taking place the 19th – 21st of the month in Black Mountain. Artists include Doc Watson & David Holt, The Wilders, Henry Butler, John Doyle & Liz Taylor, Tony Trischka. (www.theleaf.com) The very same weekend, the Art of Sound Festival takes place at various locations all over Shelby. Headliners include Jim Lauderdale, The Wilders, Ernie Hawkins, James Leva, and a stellar lineup of local and regional artists. (www.ccartscouncil.org) By all means, don’t forget the festivities surrounding the Charlotte Folk Society’s 25th anniversary celebration on the weekend of October 12th and 13th. The weekend culminates with an incredible concert at Halton Theater, headlined by NEA Heritage Award winner Joe Thompson and many others. Please see the write-up in this publication for all the details – hope to see everybody there!

I don’t know if it is because Christmas is around the corner or because the AMA conference is coming up soon, but there has definitely been escalation in recordings coming out of late. Of the many fine recordings I’ve listened to this month, I’ve somehow managed to narrow it down to three absolute favorites. Emmylou Harris has stayed true to the music through the years, going all the way back to her collaborations with the great Gram Parsons. Her Songbird box set deftly illustrates why this twelve- time Grammy winner has become such a force in country, folk, and traditional music the years. (www.emmylou.net) This handpicked set gives us not only a retrospective of a woman at her peak her entire career, but you get unrecorded tracks, collaborations, and demos to boot. The thing I like about this set is the fact that both longtime fans with Emmylou catalogs and those new to her music will both treasure this set of recordings. Having recovered from a divorce and being smushed by ranch animals, Lyle Lovett’s It’s Not Big, It’s Large CD is perhaps his best in years. In fact two or three of the cuts may be some of his best songs ever. The predominant theme of this disc seems to be not to take life for granted because, “ it could all be downhill from here.” You can check this disc out at www.lylelovett.net. Steve Earl has been known as not only a gifted songwriter, but also as a known union, antiwar, anti-death penalty activist through the years. Steve has left behind some of the anger present in the last few CDs and has delivered an excellent batch of songs in his new Washington Square Serenade effort. (www.steveearl.net) I love the heart-felt tribute to Pete Seeger in the song Steve’s Hammer, as well as the cover of Tom Wait’s Down in the Hole. The mix of songs on this one is just right, as you have everything from tender love songs and ballads to songs about strip mining and other social issues. This is the gentler and kinder Steve Earl and whether or not this is a trend, only time will tell. Two more CDs I like a lot are Merle Haggard’s Bluegrass Sessions (his first bluegrass record) with Rob Ickes, Marty Stuart, and others, as well as the new one from hard working Jim Lauderdale called Bluegrass Diaries. There are so many great CDs out now, it’s impossible to mention all of them in this space. I think a great way to explore new and interesting music is to visit the AMA site listed above and pull up the weekly play chart from public radio stations and follow your nose and ears. Have a great fall and mark the week of October 12th and 13th on your calendar and help the Folk Society celebrate 25 big years of keeping this American art form alive and kicking! Heard any great music you would like to share with our community? Let me know and I’ll pass it on!

CUZ

Cuz's Corner

SEPTEMBER CUZ’S CORNER

Welcome to yet another edition of Cuz’s Corner. By the time you read this, I’m hoping the thermometer is a bit more cooperative. Today it’s 101degrees outside and climbing. I guess it’s a good day to stay indoors and flash back to cooler times in the North Carolina mountains and a couple of festivals I attended that exceeded my high expectations.

It’s been three years since I last attended Floydfest and I must say I was amazed at how the community of Floyd, Virginia has improved on an already beautiful festival. The music ranged from old-time and traditional bluegrass at the Virginia Folklife stage to traditional African music and dance at the Global Village stage. The setting is wonderful, the food was exceptional, and the festival had energy one rarely experiences these days. I must also mention those new pegged-beam permanent stages that Bob the Builder and neighborhood volunteers have constructed – just amazing! Floydfest demonstrates what a community can accomplish by working together for the greater good of both the community and the planet. The weekend was all about music and community, so hats off to Floyd and I’ll see you next July 24-27!

Last weekend I attended my first Ola Belle Reed Festival in Lansing, North Carolina and I and a half dozen other music lovers from the Charlotte area had the time of our lives. This is an extremely small festival that never loses sight of its purpose, which is to pay homage to the music and the family of Ola Belle Reed. I really can’t recall a festival as small as this with such a high level of musicianship. If you are tired of those big ole festivals that sometimes tend to lose sight of what it’s “all about,” this festival might be for you. The highpoints for me were area favorites The Whitetop Mountain Band, Tim O’Brien’s solo set, and the exceptional Laurelyn Dossett, Kari Sickenberger, and Polecat Creek. Laurelyn and Kari’s songwriting workshop in the old turn of the century Lansing schoolhouse absolutely blew my wife, Carolyn, and me away – their songs and harmonies are just simply as good as it gets.

Speaking of Polecat Creek, this is a great time for this article to morph into my monthly gig of the month and that will no doubt be their September 14th concert for the CFS’s monthly gathering. When you combine an instrumentalist of the caliber of Riley Baugus with two amazing vocalists and songwriters, one of which (Laurelyn Dossett) has won MerleFest’s Chris Austin songwriting contest in the gospel category and has a song on the upcoming Levon Helm CD; you have a no-miss concert. Please read the write-up on this show and I hope to see you there!

Another compelling September (30th) show takes place at the Neighborhood Theatre (www.neighborhoodtheatre.com) and features Rodney Crowell, Elizabeth Cook, and Tim Carroll. Across the street the night before (29th) The Believers bring their brand of folk/country/ punk originals to The Evening Muse and are definitely worth a listen. (www.maxxmusic.com) Craig, Cynthia and their pug, Beenieboy, take the stage at 8 PM.

There were a bunch of great CDs that came out since last time and Polecat Creek’s Ordinary Seasons was one of them. (www.polecatcreek.net) If you like well constructed songs, beautiful harmonies, and back-up instrumentals that accompany perfectly, this one should be part of your collection. This one does not yet have a street date, but will be available from the website and at the September gathering - hint, hint!

Mock Turtle Soup’s Bound for Carolina is another recommendation that not only has Carolina roots, but connections to the Charlotte Folk Society (Willie Repoley and Chris Holleman). (www.mockturtlesoup.net) This CD is both well played and sung throughout and covers about every aspect of acoustic folk music from Celtic to old time and bluegrass to Western and Hispanic genres and back again. It’s great to see such a young group of players with such a mature take on folk music – well done!

Staying close to home, you might check out the new one from one time gathering performers Buffalo Creek Stringband. ( www.buffalocreekband.com) I found Weary Woman Blues to be a potent instrumental album and suitable for a long road trip.

Now let’s take a trip over the mountains, past Knoxville and the Cumberland plateau, to the town of Nashville and check out a couple of hot releases I am enjoying immensely. The self-titled Kane Welch Kaplin is the third great effort from this Americana super group. (www.compassrecords.com) I just can’t say enough about the groove, the instrumental prowess of Fats Kaplin and the fine songs from both Kieran Kane and Kevin Welch. In a month of excellent releases, this one gets Cuz’s pick of the month.

The connection between Bill Monroe, bluegrass, and Elvis Presley goes all the way back to the release of Elvis’s cover of Blue Moon of Kentucky. In celebration of the 30th anniversary of Elvis’s untimely passing, check out the new release from Shawn Camp and Billy Burnette called The Bluegrass Elvises. ( www.americanrootspublishing.org) Yep, you guessed it – these are bluegrass covers of your very favorite Elvis tunes with the backing of some of the best bluegrass instrumentalists in the business. This one is just plain fun to listen to.

I also especially love Peter Case’s Let Us Praise Sleepy John for not only its songwriting execution and social commentary, but for its live feel. No wonder, as this ex-street performer and consummate troubadour is the real deal. Catch him live on October 12th at The Evening Muse. (www.maxxmusic.com)

Finally, Ryan Adams has released, in my thinking, the finest and most consistent solo effort to date with his edgy Easy Tiger release. This release has been number one on the AMA charts for weeks now and hopefully signals the fact that this most creative North Carolinian has now found a consistent voice. I am extremely impressed with this CD! That’s all the room I have for this month, so, as always, get out and enjoy some live music in September and don’t forget CFS’s big 25th anniversary coming up in October!

CUZ

Cuz's Corner

Welcome to the summer solstice edition of Cuz?s Corner. The music recently has been every bit as hot as the weather & this appears to be the case right through the sweltering months ahead. Highpoints last month were fantastic shows by Uncle Earl, Carrie Rodriguez & my old pals, the Waybacks with the Carolina Chocolate Drops. I was fortunate enough to have interviewed the G. Earls and Carrie and it continually amazes me just how much talent, creativity and class there is in roots music these days.
This seems to be a rather busy early summer for music not only in the Charlotte area, but in the surrounding areas and as usual, I?d like to throw a few of these out for your consideration. On July 5th I am looking forward to yet another McGlohon theatre co- bill featuring the early bluegrass stylings of Chatham County Line with the more progressive sounds of the Greencards. This will be, no doubt a show much like the Waybacks/Chocolate Drops show, where in the span of 3 hours or so you can hear where roots music came from, where it is and where it?s headed. Another show of note in this ethereal venue coming up on the 29th of July will be an appearance of Hot Tuna. This band began eons ago, as most of you know, as an outlet for Jefferson Airplane?s Jack Casady & Jorma Kaukonen?s love of the blues. Hot Tuna sets were both played preceding an Airplane gigs or later that evening in the local clubs. Although Jefferson Airplane has come and gone, Hot Tuna is still going strong after all these years. If you are a fan of finger style blues guitar in the tradition of the Reverend Gary Davis, Jorma Kaukonen is about my favorite on the planet and this show just might be for you. (More information on both of these shows can be found at http://www.maxxmusic.com/.) A quick footnote, even though I tend to review coming shows by national acts quite a bit in this article, please never forget that there are local and regional performers playing in a club near you just about every night of the week. Many of these performers are on equal footing with national acts. I would encourage you to check out club web-sites or entertainment sections in the paper and go out and hear what the Queen City has to offer musically ? you?ll be glad you did! Another favorite festival of mine is coming up July 26th-29th in beautiful Floyd Virginia. This year?s Floydfest (http://www.floydfest.com/) has one of it?s strongest roots based lineups that I can recall & this eco-friendly event takes place on the top of a mountain with western Virginia as it?s backdrop. This years stellar lineup includes Feufollet, The Red Stick Ramblers, The Infamous Stringdusters, The Waybacks, Blue Highway, The Carolina Chocolate Drops, The Duhks, The Hackensaw Boys, Sam Bush, Railroad Earth and Donna the Buffalo. If world music is your passion, you can always find an exquisite lineup of performers and dancers from around the world at every Floydfest!
The 2007 Americana Music Association awards nominations are in and can be found at http://www.americanamusic.org/. One note in passing is that Uncle Earl, whom many of us enjoyed so much a couple of weeks ago, received a nomination for emerging artist of the year and all I have to say is go G?Earls, you have my vote! Congratulations to local favorites the Avett Brothers for their three nominations. It?s great that local music is now getting a national audience! It is my intention to write a piece on the AMA and it?s award show in the September edition of Cuz?s corner, so stay tuned.
Although not overwhelmed with new releases last month, there were several stellar CDs that I feel are worth a mention. Native American activist Marty Stewart?s new release, ?Compadres? (http://www.martystewart.com/) is a compilation of duet recordings from the 15-year-old playing with Lester Flatt in the Ryman to a bluegrassy version of the Who?s ?I can see for Miles? with Old Crow Medicine show. Being that Marty was for a while a mainstream country music star complete with his own TV show (Marty Party), one loses track of how eclectic and true to the music he has actually been. This is a wonderful recording with enough diversity to keep me listening for hours. The duets on this CD include the likes of Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash, Loretta Lynn, Earl Scruggs, The Staple Singers, B.B. King, Del McCoury and many more. Speaking of the Staples Singers, be sure to also check out his ?Soul?s Chapel? gospel recording with his Fabulous Superlatives. Not only are the songs done in the tradition of this groundbreaking group, but Marty is actually playing Pops Staples? guitar which was given to him by the family a couple of years ago. You might also want to check out the new one from Mavis Staples, called ?We?ll Never Turn Back. (http://www.mavisstaples.com/) This Ry Cooder produced recording revisits the protest songs of the civil rights movement, paying homage to the relationship the Staples family had with the Reverend Martin Luther King. Also satisfying is the new disc from David Holt & the Lightening Bolts with a title that says it all ? ?Old Time Music with a New-time Jolt?. (http://www.davidholt.com/) The rearrangements on this CD of familiar old-time and country blues standards are crisp and delightful and are given a delightful vocal touch by Asheville?s Laura Boosinger. Finally, my CD pick of the month, and one that will have to be surgically removed from my vehicles player, is the Subdude?s new one, called ?Street Symphony?. (http://www.thesubdudes.com/) This group was formed 20 years ago in New Orleans and has put together a literal gumbo of sounds with some of the richest vocal harmonies you will ever hear. It?s all here in terms of influences; bayou sounds, jazzy grooves, a folky consciousness and a bit of R&B thrown in for good measure ? all executed the way only a veteran, band can. This is the good stuff! That?s all for July & we?ll see you next month. Be sure to get out and support live music at a venue near you. The best Cuz

Cuz's Corner for June

This was originally published in the June addition of the Charlotte Folk Society Newsletter.

Greetings to all of you music lovers out there and welcome to yet another addition of Cuz's corner. As I am writing this article, the sights and sounds of May's Leaf Festival are still very much fresh in my memory; the music, fire dancing by the lake, the contra-dancing, the beautiful black mountains in the distance, late night campfires & jams with friends, the arts & crafts and simply being in a special place with special people for a whole weekend. As if we needed icing on the cake, the festival ended with a two hour inspired set by the one & only Arlo Guthrie and family singing tunes from both the Woody Guthrie songbook, some of Arlo's tunes through the years and inspired material from Johnny Irion & Sarah Lee Guthrie. Those of us from the times were even treated to Alice's Restaurant. I must say that you realize the years are flying by when Arlo begins the song with the line, "40 years ago last Thanksgiving Day".. Wow!

June is shaping up to be a busy month for folk and roots music so let's cut to the chase and give you some ideas for music to catch. Better erase those old notes on the fridge! First of all, my gig of the month takes place on June 10th when Uncle Earl takes the stage at the Evening Muse on the they're way to Bonnaroo 2007. All of you folks that have seen these talented ladies performing know what the buzz is about. This is a band I feel will take old time music well through this century as their music is fresh and creative without sacrificing the essence and spirit of this Appalachian art form. Although their songs, instrumentals and harmonies are breathtaking, the thing that really struck me at Merlefest was the absolute joy they get playing music, the experience is absolutely infectious. Great bands usually move up to larger venues after playing Bonnaroo, so don't miss this opportunity to catch this wonderful old time band in an intimate setting! (www.maxxmusic.com) If this is not enough, how about a co-bill with two of the hottest young bluegrass bands touring these days when the Infamous Stringdusters and King Wilkie take the stage at the Muse on June 7th. Like Uncle Earl they are steeped in their musical traditions, while at the same time bringing something fresh and new to the table. Also, another long time favorite of mine has roots in the Texas fiddling tradition & is known for her popular duet recordings with the great Chip Taylor. Carrie Rodriguez makes her Charlotte debut as a solo artist also at the Muse on June 16th. Her solo cd, "Seven Angels on a Bicycle" reached the number four spot on the Americana charts. The next night at McGlohon Theatre on June 17th, there is show definitely worth consideration as we have the Carolina Chocolate Drops opening for perennial Merlefest favorites, The Waybacks. The Chocolate Drops have set festival crowds buzzing lately with their brand of black string band stylings and it's good to know that the music of Joe Thompson will live on for some time to come. The Waybacks are essentially too eclectic to describe as you will typically hear most of the branches of the proverbial roots music tree, along with awesome instrumental work, and some great humor to boot, all in one set. If you are still in the festival mood, don't forget the annual Big Lick Bluegrass Festival down in Oakboro. (www.oakboromusichall.com) Headliners this year include the Lewis Family, Cherryholmes & the Grascals. This festival happens on the 10th & 11th of June and may just the festival for you if you enjoy the bluegrass festivals indicative of times gone by. Being that Big Lick is only 30 minutes away, this makes for a perfect day trip without burning a tank full of gas!
Now that we've covered the live music side of the spectrum, there are several exquisite discs that I would love to turn you on to. The new one from Adrienne Young gets five big stars on the Cuz scale. The new one is called "Room to Grow" and is strong musically, spiritually & lyrically throughout. (www.adrienneyoung.com) Not only is Adrienne a gifted songwriter, but this young woman has for years championed sustainable agriculture, in fact a portion of the proceeds from each disc sold goes to CommunityGarden.org and FoodRoutes.org. Please check these organizations out, also. She writes, "community gardening dramatically affects individual lives and neighborhoods by fostering environmental justice, mitigating hunger through increased food security, building infrastructures which facilitate the support of local food systems and sustainable living practices, and by simply allowing us to connect to mother earth, no matter where we live." Another cd definitely worth you attention is the new one from Jimmy Lafave entitled "Cimarron Manifesto". (www.jimmylafave.com) I first came to know Jimmy's music through the Ribbon of Highway tour a few years ago, which was a tribute to the music of Woody Guthrie. Whether singing a cover of a Dylan or Woody Guthrie song or singing one of his originals this man's delivery is absolutely breathtaking, another five stars for this one, also. Richard Thompson delivers yet again in his latest, "Sweet Warrior". (www.richardthompson-music.com) Although perhaps not as strong as Richard's "Mock Tutor" effort a number of years ago, this winner of the BBC lifetime achievement award & founder of the ground breaking group, Fairport Convention has come up with an effort that will satisfy most fans of British folk-rock.

That's about all the room I have for this month so, as usual, try to feast on some of the musical bounty we have in the area, catch a show & consider the next CFS gathering.

Have a wonderful early summer and see you in July!
CUZ

Cuz's Corner for May 2007

Note that this first appeared in the Charlotte Folk Society Newsletter
Cuz is a friend of mine and a fellow music lover. Cuz is also a volunteer Dj at WGWG.

Cuz’s Corner – May 2007

As I write this May edition of Cuz’s Corner, I have to admit that my senses are still overwhelmed by all the music I heard at Merlefest last weekend. As usual the musical choices were beyond eclectic, ranging from 4 days of old time traditions & demonstrations in the traditional tent to a very respectful set of music on the main stage by Elvis Costello. I guess my absolute highlight among many would have to be the long awaited reunion on stage of Pat Flynn, John Cowan, Bela Fleck & Sam Bush, better known and loved as the New Grass Revival. Their rendition of Townes Van Zandt’s “White Freightliner Blues” brought the massive Saturday night crowd to its feet and tears to my eyes. (I was not alone!) Another impressive aspect of this year’s festival was how many fantastic young bands and performers there were at this year’s festival. I guess the main thing that I took home from this year’s Merlefest was the fact that acoustic music may be perhaps the best shape it’s ever been since the big folk scare of the 60’s. Some of the young groups I really enjoyed included; the fresh old time sounds of Uncle Earl; the Joe Thompson mentored Carolina Chocolate Drops; the fresh bluegrass sounds of the Infamous Stringdusters: the stunningly odd interpretations of traditional music by Crooked Still; 15 year old mandolin whiz, Sierra Hull: the blistering bluegrass of Cherryholmes; the unbelievable fiddle techniques of the Wayback’s 23 year old Warren Hood. These kids have learned well the techniques of the present day masters & I have no doubts that they will also take the music through this century and beyond. Although their interpretations are new and fresh, none of these young performers lose sight of the traditions – the state of the music is in fine hands!
My friends will find this hard to believe, but I don’t think I’ve listened to any music since Merlefest and anyone who has ever been will understand the reason why. However, there are a couple of cds I did listen to before heading up to Wilksboro I would like to share with you. Although it may be odd reviewing a rock record in a CFS newsletter, I highly recommend the new effort by Son Volt, which is perched at number one on the AMA charts at the moment. Jay Farrar has written a batch of songs, which I feel are as much in the Woody Guthrie tradition as any that I’ve heard in a while. If you are yearning for rock & roll with powerful lyrics & a consciousness, you may want to check this one out. (www.sonvolt.net) Imagine two old friends pulling out their guitars & singing the songs everybody in the room knows by the fireplace on a winter’s night. Well, that is exactly the feeling you get listening to the new one from John Prine & Mac Wiseman called “Standard Songs for Average People”. (www.johnprine.net) You’ll find such timeless songs here such as “Blue Eyed Elaine”, “Saginaw Michigan”, “Death of Floyd Collins”, and “Pistol Packin’ Mama”. Mac Wiseman is in great voice on this one as is John Prine and I think if you are a fan of duet singing, this one may be in your collection for years to come! Well, that’s about it for this month, but next month I’m expecting new ones from Adrienne Young, Richard Shindell and more. I will also give you folks the where & when of a Charlotte appearance of old time phenomenon Uncle Earl in June. Also, be sure to come out and experience the Gospel Jubilators at the next CFS gathering on the 11th of the month – they blew people away at Merlefest and are my gig of the month! In the meantime, go out & catch some live music at a venue near you and have a great spring. CUZ

Cuz's Corner - March 07

(The following column first appeared in the Charlotte Folk Society March 2007 Newsletter)
by Dennis "Cuz" Frost
As predicted, the holiday-related drought for new releases has evolved into an avalanche of highly anticipated CDs from both established artists and young up-and-comers alike. Before I get into some of my favorites, without a doubt, my gig of the month was the sold out Gillian Welch and David Rawlings show at the Neighborhood Theatre (on 2/15/07). It’s extremely difficult to put into words exactly what it is about a Dave-Gill performance that transcends into high art. Is it Gillian’s songs that sound old as the hills? Or could it be David’s oddly, wonderfully, and unique guitar style? Perhaps it’s the two-part harmony vocals that blend into one voice? Whatever it is, I cannot get enough of it. Be on the lookout for a new CD from Gillian and David in the not so distant future. If there was ever a time to trade in those record store gift certificates you got for Christmas – now is the time! My first recommendation comes from The Carolina Chocolate Drops – three young folks that met at the black banjo convention in Boone last year. Their brand new release Dona Got a Ramblin' Mind (Music Makers) not only carries on the black string band tradition of the great Joe Thompson, but also touches on other traditions, including celtic, bluegrass and gospel. To quote Taj Mahal, “the Carolina Chocolate Drops can really play, their music is electrifying.” When big Taj talks, I listen and you should too! Be sure to check them out this spring at either Merlefest or LEAF (Lake Eden Arts Festival). Martha Scanlan's new CD, The West Was Burning (Sugar Hill), is a lush blend of gorgeous, mostly original acoustic tunes steeped in all the American roots traditions she grew up loving. This one was lovingly produced in Martinsville, Louisiana by none other than Dirk Powell. Special guests include Levon Helm and his daughter Amy Helm of Ollabelle fame. Jorma Kaukonen's new disc, Stars in My Crown (Red House), is an extremely satisfying follow-up to his last effort Blue Country Heart. His new effort mixes originals, covers, and a healthy mix of depression-era gospel tunes into a very spiritual feeling piece of music. I love Jorma’s guitar playing, what can I say! I must say I was a bit skeptical when I heard Ricky Skaggs and Bruce Hornsby were putting out a disc together, but their self-titled release really works for me. This one is a combination of traditional tunes Ricky Skaggs arranged with new incarnations of some Hornsby originals. The bluegrass versions of “Mandolin Rain” and “Gulf of Mexico Fishing Boat Blues” really work for me, but the jury is still out on the kinky bluegrass version of “Super Freak”. They’ve got gumption for giving this one a go, I must admit!If you don’t have any Patty Griffin music in your collection, shame on you! Her brand new album, Children Running Through (ATO/RCA), might just be a great place to start. This one has everything a folk music lover could ever ask for – unbelievable songs, ethereal instrumental arrangements, and that signature voice. Only Patty Griffin could start a song with the line “little pink dress hanging by her knees” and then proceed to tell the emotional life story of the main character in the song, while at the same time relating it to the universal female experience. This is my pick of the month and I’m sticking to it! One of my musical highlights for the month was an on-ar interview and performance by the two Aussies and one Brit, better known as The Greencars. They have an up-and-coming release called Viridian (Dulatone) that gets the “Cuz Seal of Approval”. If you like your ballads tender, but your pickin’ hot, this one’s for you! Last but not least, the new effort from Los Lobos, The Town and the City (Hollywood) return them to the Latin groove that I fell in love with when I first heard “Kiko and the Lavender Moon”. This one backs off quite a bit from the harder rock sounds of their last two or three albums and is a satisfying effort. All I can say is that there is too much music and too little time. I hope you enjoy these picks, but most importantly, I hope you get out and check out some shows - as it’s all about the live performance.
Have a great early spring!

Dennis "Cuz" Frost began his journey into American roots music in 1972, when he was introduced to the album"Will the Circle Be Unbroken" by his college roommate. His fascination with all branches of the "Americana tree" is truly passionate. He is a voting member of the Americana Music Association as well as a volunteer program host at WGWG-FM 88.3. Dennis produces and hosts Cuz's Corner, an hour‑long music/interview show featuring some of the legends in the Americana scene.