Backstage at the Narrows

Landing This Plane

2012-01-02T10:37:00.012-05:00

Well, this is it for this blog.

Thank you to all you readers.

As you may know, I've retired as the Narrows emcee, and am also bringing "Backstage at the Narrows" to an end.

"Backstage at the Narrows" will still be around as an archive of sorts, but I will no longer be updating it. I urge you to follow Patrick's blog to keep up with Narrows info, plus follow the Narrows on Facebook and email. Exciting things are happening!!!

With our fabled venue just celebrating its 10th anniversary, it feels like the right time to make a change in my volunteer activities.

Been blogging since 2005; been at the Narrows as emcee etc. for something like 9 years. Before that, I hung out at the old Narrows in the 1990s when it was over on Martine Street in Fall River, playing guitar and hosting open mics.

Thanks to all who made these opportunities possible: Patrick, Maggie, Bert, Peter, Deb, Kathy, Clem, Marilyn and many others.

I urge all community-oriented music lovers to offer your volunteer services to the Narrows. It's a great experience with wonderful people.

For me, I'm looking forward to, maybe, taking classes, goofing off with Laura, playing my guitar, running in road races (recently ran the Alexandria, VA five mile "Turkey Trot" with my son), reading (just finished a fine biography on the late Senator Claiborne Pell), going to bed early on Friday nights, going to the movies (just saw the new Sherlock Holmes and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo--both pretty good), hanging out with my son and daughter, and attending concerts at the Narrows! I'm also looking forward to getting music and movie tips from my brother-in-music, Carl, one of the Narrows' fine volunteers (he should start his own blog).

Enough said. Landing this plane. Bye!

The Faves of 2011

2011-12-22T19:58:00.002-05:00

Thanks for all the nice messages about my retiring from the Narrows. Thank you Patrick Norton for the very kind blog post as well.

Before exiting this blog, I wanted to do, for one last time, a wrap up on the year. Please feel free to add your thoughts.

Some of my favorites:

--David Johansen in January. Very New York. An honor to hear the guy who created one of my all-time favorite records: "Funky But Chic."

--Los Straitjackets in February. Guaranteed crowd-pleasers.

--Joan Osborne in March. Went into the show thinking I wouldn't like. Came out a fan!

--Rodney Crowell in March. Classy. I read his book, too. Chinaberry Sidewalks.

--George Winston in March. I didn't do the show but my significant other, Laura, did and really loved it. Since the show she's ponied up and bought a couple of his CDs. No greater tribute.

--Janis Ian in April. Another show I went into thinking I wouldn't like, but was knocked over by her talent. If you get a chance to see her, don't pass it by.

--Soul Rebels Brass Band in June. Great energy and musicianship.

--Jake Shimabukuro in July. Brilliance with class.

--Tommy Castro Band and friends in August. Tommy breathes new life into the blues.

--Deke Dickerson in September. Great energy, fantastic musicianship and upside down guitar playing by Deke's drummer Sugarballs. These guys know how to entertain!

--Rosanne Cash in November. One of the classiest shows I've ever seen.

--Lake Street Dive in December. New and worth noticing.

--Justin Townes Earle in December. I really looked forward to this show and was not disappointed. JTE is a solid songwriter and performer. He knows what he's doing.

And, of course, the last two shows I worked, Duncan Sheik and Savoy Brown, were faves. I didn't think I would like Duncan Sheik but something about his vibe I really enjoyed. Talented singer, too, by the way. And Savoy Brown--founder Kim Simmonds on lead guitar--is always solid.

But enough about me. Please post your favorites and why.

Then I'll land this plane.

45th Anniversary Show

2011-12-18T14:34:00.006-05:00

No, not the Narrows anniversary. That's only 10 years.

Actually longer if you count when it was over on Martine Street. Patrick, Louis, me and others strumming guitars, honking harmonicas etc., while Bert and various visual artists planted the seeds to what is now an art gallery that has finally achieved deserved recognition. (Did you see the Legos exhibit?)

But I digress down memory lane.

Talking Savoy Brown--celebrating 45 years. They brought their new recording, Voodoo Moon, to the show Saturday night, so it was a CD release party in addition to a concert.

Founder and guitar god Kim Simmonds, who is now in his mid-60s, looked great and played with energy that drove his band to inspirational heights and brought the appreciative audience to its feet.

At this writing, haven't had a chance to listen to Voodoo Moon, but noticed that Mr. Simmonds writes in the CD notes that he emphasized songwriting in developing this project. Always a good thing.

I interviewed him about playing guitar before a 2010 performance. Read it here.

Our friend Mark T. Small opened the show with his faster-than-lightning hands and his deep knowledge of the blues. Mark wowed the crowd so much that I'm told people literally ran over to the front table to buys his new CD, which I wrote about awhile back. See that write up here.

Overall, a great night for the blues.

Over from College Hill

2011-12-16T21:24:00.003-05:00

Well not exactly.

Duncan Sheik spent time on Providence's East Side as a student at Brown and playing music with Lisa Loeb.

Since then he's had a gold record, written songs for theater and film, and done some acting too.

Friday night he made his Narrow's debut, and he took the occasion to play selections from his latest project, Covers 80's, in which he performs songs from the 1980s by The Cure, Depeche Mode and others.

Justin Townes Earle Gets Deserved Sell Out

2011-12-05T02:24:00.000-05:00

Twenty-nine-year-old Justin Townes Earle is one of the finest singers, songwriters and performers on the scene.

We spotted that the first time he played the Narrows to a much-less-than-full house a few years back.

Sunday night he played to a sold out room, greatly deserved considering, to these ears, his latest long-player, Harlem River Blues, is one of the finer and funner recordings you'll hear. He's got a new one coming out in 2012. From what I saw surfin' on-line, it's supposed to have a Memphis-soul feel.

He played solo Sunday night (displaying some pretty good guitar playing btw), but check out his appearance on Letterman with a band.

R.I.P. Hubert Sumlin

2011-12-04T19:15:00.002-05:00

Just got word that Narrows alum Hubert Sumlin passed away today at age 80.

Mr. Sumlin was Howlin' Wolf's guitar player, and was named by Rolling Stone to their list of 100 greatest guitarists of all time.

You can see him jammin' with Narrows alums Robert Cray & Jimmie Vaughan on Eric Clapton's "Crossroads" DVD for 2010.

Fun

2011-12-02T22:33:00.001-05:00

Wow!

Are they retro, rockabilly, jazz, pop, camp? Yep! Most of all Lake Street Dive were fun as they made their debut at the Narrows Friday night.

No question, a retro vibe, but somewhat understated (compared to Jenny Dee), although they did a nifty version of one of my favorite tunes, "This Magic Moment," made famous by The Drifters and Jay and the Americans in the 1960s.

And there was a Motown feel, too.

But wait--they did one of the better Paul McCartney solo songs "Let Me Roll It" (the horn handled the song's riff) from Paulie's 1974 near-masterpiece Band on the Run.

Very cool.

Narrows Grass

2011-11-19T23:00:00.001-05:00

The "Father of Newgrass," Sam Bush, from Bowling Green, Kentucky, made his Narrows debut Saturday night.

Without Sam getting the ball rolling decades ago (at a fairly young age I might add), there might not be Narrows fave Crooked Still, jam banders, and others who've taken the banjo, mandolin etc. to a new level.

A 2011 Country Music Association nominee for "Musician of the Year," he's a 3-time Grammy winner and the 2010 Americana Music Association "Instrumentalist of the Year."

He was a founding member of the New Grass Revival, which is like being a Beatle for those following the genre.

The Narrows making history again with this show. Yeah, yeah, yeah!

A Night of Friends

2011-11-18T20:48:00.004-05:00

It was like a gathering of old friends--because, in fact, it was!

The annual invitation-only show for Narrows' donors Friday night.

Narrows fave Seth Walker and his group provided the tunes and vibe, and people like Patrick, Clem, Deb, Peter, Marilyn, Laura, Fred, Eddie, Catherine, John, Helen, Mary, Mike, Deirdre, Maggie, Carl, Kathleen, Polly, Kevin, David, Sue, Gary, Joseph, Ed & Peggy, Beth & Buzz, Andrew, Bingo, Bill, Paul, Robin & Beth, Eileen, Valerie, Vangy, Kim, Jim, Alex, Senator Tom...provided the friendship.

Not a bad way to start the weekend!

Are You a Friend of the Narrows?

2011-11-13T10:39:00.004-05:00

This coming Friday is an invitation-only event featuring a Narrows fave, Seth Walker.

Sounds kinda exclusive, huh?

It's not really--if you help the Narrows as a donor.

Not a bad way to help the arts and help the community, too. The Narrows is clearly an economic engine for a city that has fought high unemployment for decades. People flock to Fall River to attend the concerts and see the art shows--and many spend their money at local restaurants and other local businesses.

So keep the Narrows healthy for years to come. Join me in becoming a donor. Here's more information.

Rosanne Wraps It Up!

2011-11-06T10:23:00.005-05:00

What if there were 101 songs? Rosanne Cash mused midway through Saturday night's concert at the Narrows, referencing her CD The List, from a compilation of 100 essential country songs developed by her dad.

The list includes "Long Black Veil," and "500 Miles," both performed during the show.

Hmmm. What would be the 101st? What might fall into the classic category?

Her husband--producer, co-writer, and sideman-- John Leventhal answered the question by strumming the distinctive, ominous yet bouncy rhythms of a song from decades ago: Bobbie Gentry's Ode to Billy Joe. Ms. Cash performed it reverently, breathing in new life, new feeling and a renewed interest in the question: Why did Billie Joe McAllister jump off the Tallahatchie Bridge? And what did the narrator and Billy Joe toss off the bridge?

It was a particularly special evening as the sold-out Narrows wrapped up its 10th anniversary celebration with a historic first visit to our performance space by Ms. Cash.

You may remember she came into the nation's mainstream consciousness through her 1981 country and pop hit "Seven Year Ache," which she performed last night. The track and the album of the same name were produced by Narrows alum Rodney Crowell, who happened to be her husband at the time.

Another momentous evening at the Narrows, thanks to Ms. Cash and Mr. Leventhal's warmth and musicality. Hope they visit us regularly!

Opening for Rosanne

2011-11-05T19:20:00.004-05:00

Jeffrey Foucault opening for Rosanne Cash, as we celebrated our 10th anniversary tonight!

Jeffrey is an old friend of the Narrows, dating back to nearly our beginnings! So it was particularly appropriate he join us as we celebrate our 10 years.

Eclectic? You Bet!

2011-11-03T20:32:00.005-05:00

Roots faves David Wax Museum brought their joy to the Narrows on Thursday night, as we continued our celebration of the Narrows 10 years!

The wonderful Parkington Sisters provided a strong opening to the show, no doubt winning new fans.

And You Thought We Were Only About Music

2011-11-03T18:57:00.003-05:00

The show, "The Art of the Brick," continuing through November 19, is the most popular art exhibit in Narrows history!

Since the show opened in early October, we've been doing about 16 tours weekly of 4th graders from Fall River area public and private schools. Each tour has about 25 children. So that's a lot of kids! And more are coming!!!

And the Narrows has arranged for the transportation for many of the tours, with the help of the Rotary Club of Fall River. So the taxpayers aren't footing the transportation bill!!

And many of the kids get a hands-on Lego workshop, courtesy of the Children's Museum of Greater Fall River.

Congrats to Deb Charlebois, Patrick Norton and all making this happen!

The Narrows' Ten Years: Personal Memories

2011-10-30T09:32:00.008-05:00

This week the Narrows is marking 10 years at our Anawan Street location!

Concerts by Sonny Landreth, David Wax Museum, Jorma Kaukonen, and Rosanne Cash. Hope you'll be coming to at least one of 'em. Rosanne is sold out, btw.

I started hanging out at the Narrows when it was on Martine Street on the other side of Fall River. The focus was visual arts, but music was soon added, although I think there was maybe one concert from a well known performer. Anybody remember? The rest was us at open mics and the like playing our guitars and what-have-you.

My first exposure to the Narrows was as a weekly columnist with the New Bedford Standard Times back in maybe 1998 or thereabouts, interviewing Bert Harlow, a founding honcho, for a column. Soon I was hosting open mics and playing guitar with now executive director Patrick Norton and now frequent concert opener Louie Leeman.

After a couple years or so, property issues led the Narrows to re-locate to Anawan Street. Bert, Patrick, Peter Belanger and other hardy souls took up the challenge and got the ball rolling. Meanwhile, I was involved in other things, but soon re-connected by attending a Professor Louis and the Cromatix show, possibly the second concert at the new location (the first, I believe, was with the Continental Drifters, featuring Newport's Susan Cowsill).

Pretty soon I was working the door, hauling equipment etc. with Patrick, his wife Maggie (and their two boys), Bert, Peter, and a few others. The first show I remember being involved with was with Kris Delmhorst, who had come down from the Boston area despite a rather fierce snow storm. Don't think we had many at that show. Another early performer was Stephen Bruton, who was involved with the Crazy Heart movie before his untimely passing.

After a time I suggested I might start emceeing the shows, something I had done a bit of in Providence.

For years, since I lived in Fall River and there were fewer shows than today, I emceed nearly every show and often did the equipment load-out after the show (great way to get to know the artists). One of my fondest memories was carrying out former-Byrd Roger McGuinn's 12-string Rickenbacker guitar.

About five years in, the blogging technology was available, so I began writing a frequent blog for the Narrows called "Backstage at the Narrows." I remember asking people from the stage if they knew what the word "blog" meant. Few did.

In time, I moved to Attleboro, so I couldn't work as many shows, but fortunately the Narrows had great volunteers to replace me on stage and with the equipment, although I usually work a show or two every week, emceeing, taking photos and blogging.

To make a long story short: a lot more volunteers got involved, the physical plant improved (artist studios, the elevator, improved bathrooms, better sound, better lighting, better seating), more concerts, a fantastic partnership with mvyradio.com, and more as well as better visual art shows, some paid staff, and now fame and incredible respect nationally and internationally.

It's been a fun, enriching experience. Thanks to Patrick, Maggie, Bert, Louie, Peter, Deb Charlebois, Kathleen Duffy, and others who have put up with me for a long, long time.

Looking forward to our 20th anniversary! Hope you'll be along for the ride!

Quiet Night

2011-10-29T13:51:00.001-05:00

During my more or less 10 years hanging around the Narrows I've developed a preference for quieter shows with new faces, new voices.

Catherine MacLellan fit the bill, as this Canadian songstress made her Narrows debut Friday night, accompanied by guitarist Chris Gauthier.

A beautiful rich voice singing beautiful rich songs, a combination somewhere in between Kris Delmhorst and Eilen Jewell in sound and feel.

Plus, for those of us who pay attention to such things, she's the daughter of the late Gene MacLellan, composer of the song "Snowbird," a hit for Anne Murray (and covered by Ms. MacLellan during the show and on her CD Silhouette), and "Put Your Hand in the Hand," a hit for a group called "Ocean."

Lovely concert. Hope she visits again soon.

Strangler and Blondie Skinsman

2011-10-25T20:39:00.005-05:00

Tuesday night was New Wave night at the Narrows, featuring Hugh Cornwell, former frontman of Brit group The Stranglers, and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, and Blondie drummer, Clem Burke making sure we got the beat.

Glen Campbell: Last Studio Recording a Gem (Rhinestone?)

2011-10-18T10:43:00.005-05:00

Ghost on the Canvas--Glen Campbell--He's not the fresh-faced guy in the 1960s and 1970s who had what some called "countrypolitan" hits: "Gentle on My Mind" (written by the late John Hartford), "Galveston," "Wichita Lineman," "Rhinestone Cowboy" and others.

These days he's in his mid-70s; it's been announced he's battling Alzheimer's disease; and he says this is his last studio release (since he's touring, I figure there'll be a follow up live recording).

So, you may ask, "I haven't paid attention to Glen Campbell in years, or maybe never, so why should I now?"

I realize some hip tastemakers may not immediately give Mr. Campbell his due. He really wasn't part of the hippie folk scene of the 1960s, and his records had strings on them so he wasn't "rootsy." He had a popular mainstream television show--Johnny Cash did, too, by the way--and his image was wholesome, instead of "counter-culture."

But did you know that he struggled for years for solo success (his first single was in the late 50s, about a decade before the hits)? And did you know he was part of the "Wrecking Crew" (which included Narrows alum Leon Russell)? The crew consisted of crack studio players brought in by producers. Mr. Campbell, per the recording's notes, played on "Good Vibrations," "You've Lost that Lovin' Feelin' " and other important records of the period.

So, the fact is Glen Campbell was no overnight sensation. He worked hard, and was a heck of a guitar player and singer. And I liked most of his hits; come to think of it, I liked ALL of his hits.

Ghost on the Canvas is a superbly crafted recording, with songs contributed by Jakob Dylan, alternative rocker Paul Westerberg and others. Contributing musicians include surf guitarist Dick Dale (from Massachusetts by the way) and Cheap Trick's Rick Nielsen.

So has Glen gone hip and rootsy?

Not really. If you liked "Galveston," you'll like Ghost on the Canvas. And if you appreciate heartfelt music that is well-written, well-produced, and well-performed, you'll like it too. One more note: the last track "There's No Me...Without You" sounds like a John Lennon recording, probably deliberately.

She Could Perform at a Narrows Comedy Night

2011-10-15T23:22:00.000-05:00

She's very funny, as she reflects on the ordinary foibles that confront us all at one time or another. Cats, cruise ships, mean people, cell phones.

And she can write and sing a song with the best.

That's why we're always pleased to host the SouthCoast's very own Cheryl Wheeler.

And she likes the fact that the Narrows is something like 10 miles from her home.

She made her annual appearance before a packed house--she said she pretty much knew everyone--at the Narrows Saturday night. It was streamed live on mvyradio.com and should be in their archives soon in case you missed it.

By the way, although I was surprised when I learned this, one can now follow Cheryl on Twitter! Never thought she'd do it! Looks like she started November 5 of last year under the tutelage of Jill Sobule.

Becky Chace, who plays in Narrows' faves Forever Young, opened as a solo, something she noted she prefers not doing. She charmed us all nonetheless.

Gentle Ben

2011-10-07T22:57:00.000-05:00

Jazz bassist Ben Allison teamed with guitarist Steve Cardenas to perform an understated evening of jazz Friday night the first weekend of October.

It was a "must see" for local jazz enthusiasts, according to the Providence Phoenix, because Mr. Allison rarely works in the duet format.

A highlight: an interpretation of John Lennon's "Jealous Guy."

Comedy in this Economy

2011-10-01T20:06:00.009-05:00

Imagine you, alone, on stage, in front of a crowd of strangers expecting you to make 'em laugh--not once, but many times.

And in this economy.

And after the Red Sox were just eliminated.

And after Tom Brady showed how throwing a bunch of interceptions is no way to beat the Buffalo Bills.

A nightmare? Maybe for you and me.

Saturday night, headliner Paul Nardizzi (photo), along with fellow comedians Mitch Stinson and Chris Pennie, showed how it's done at the Narrows.

If you haven't attended a Narrows Comedy Night, join the growing audience that has.

We can't do anything about the Red Sox and, apparently, the economy. Now if Brady will just throw passes to fellow Patriots this Sunday instead of guys on the other team...

Shawn Colvin Debuts

2011-09-30T22:33:00.000-05:00

It was a long time coming, but Shawn Colvin finally made her Narrows debut on Friday night.

The Grammy-winner performed for a sold-out house, as you might expect.

Narrows-fave Liz Longley opened.

Candidate for Record of the Year

2011-09-24T10:50:00.004-05:00

Revelator--Tedeschi Trucks Band--Narrows alum and Massachusetts native Susan Tedeschi has teamed up with husband Derek Trucks--current Allman Brother and nephew of original Allman Butch Trucks--to create a blues/rock/soul masterpiece.

Imagine if Bonnie Raitt were fronting the Allman Brothers, who brought in as special guests The Meters and a 70's soul horn section. That's the sound, although Ms. Tedeschi is an edgier singer than Ms. Raitt to these ears. (Off the record tidbit--a Narrows crew member told me the other day that he was, if memory serves, traveling in an elevator with Ms. Tedeschi during her visit to the Narrows in 2009 (photo), and she referenced how hard she works on her vocals.)

Hard work seems to be key to Revelator's success. According to the Tedeschi Trucks Band website, both put their solo careers on hold to make it happen. Says Mr. Trucks, "We spent a whole year putting a band together, with different lineups, different approaches, different mindsets, and during the same time began songwriting. After about six months we had over 30 songs to choose from." Success is 10% inspiration and 90% perspiration, said Thomas Edison. Clearly, Ms. Tedeschi and Mr. Trucks lacked neither in making Revelator.

This recording deserves a shot at a Grammy and to be in your CD player/computer/smart phone. Here's a video taste:

That's Entertainment!

2011-09-23T20:49:00.006-05:00

What show features one of the hottest guitarists on the scene; a drummer, named "Sugarballs," who gets held upside down by a couple audience members while he plays guitar; and, on bass, a member of the nationally known cowpunk band Social Distortion?

Just another night with Deke Dickerson and his crew.

And these guys turned a soggy Friday night at the Narrows into a rockabilly, smilin', toe-tappin' experience.

One of the funnest shows of 2011. These guys get it done!

A Singer and Her Songs

2011-09-22T22:25:00.000-05:00

Karla Bonoff graced the Narrows stage Thursday night with her crystal clear vocals, side guitarist Nina Gerber, and, of course, stellar songs.

Her compositions include "All My Life," a Grammy-winner for Linda Ronstadt and Aaron Neville, and "Tell Me Why," a hit for Wynonna Judd. She had her own top 20 hit with "Personally" in the 1980s.

She has been closely associated with Linda Ronstadt, who covered a number of her tunes. And they shared Kenny Edwards, a member of the Stone Poneys (remember "Different Drum"?) with Ms. Ronstadt. Kenny worked for years with both artists, touring with Ms. Bonoff, including a show or two at the Narrows, until his passing last year.

A Day in the Life of a Narrows Performer

2011-09-17T01:57:00.001-05:00

Canadian icon Bruce Cockburn made an impressive Narrows debut Friday night, replete with chimes and a customized backdrop.

This after a busy day in which, we hear, he went to a Fall River laundromat to do a load or two. One of the many ways the Narrows brings dollars into the city to benefit business.

You'd be surprised what some of the artists do when they roll into town. Blues guitar great Robert Cray, for example, purchased shoes on Plymouth Avenue in Fall River during a visit. Greg Brown bought a guitar in Swansea. Eric Lindell bought a bass cabinet over there too. And, of course, local eateries regularly host the Narrows performers.

On a more serious note, with the thousands upon thousands of people that the Narrows draws to the city every month maybe we ought to change our name: the Narrows Center for Economic Development.

Narrows Jazz

2011-09-16T17:29:00.006-05:00

Jazz trumpeter Christian Scott, accompanied by a fabulous pianist, bassist and drummer, wowed the crowd Thursday night at the Narrows.

Not even 30 years, he's already been up for a Grammy and even appeared with George Clooney in a movie (Leatherheads)! His--what might one call--"progressive" or maybe "fusion" stylings put me in the mood to listen to Miles Davis' Bitches Brew.

His appearance reflects the Narrows' commitment to bringing more jazz to the local stage, recognizing that jazz has some of the finest musicians in the world. Their artistry deserves to be heard, though filling a room for a jazz performance is challenging.

That's why we're asking all our jazz devotees to help us spread the word. When we have a jazz show, Facebook it, Twitter it, call up your friends. Then be here!

Our next jazz show is October 7 with Ben Allison.

Pass the word.

Narrows Festival 2011: Thanks for the Memories

2011-09-12T15:05:00.005-05:00

It was Liz Longley's tears as she sang an a capella "Amazing Grace" recalling the 9/11 tragedy; the cool psychedelic country of the New Riders of the Purple Sage; and the rootsy Girls, Guns and Glory doing an energetic medley of Johnny Cash songs.

It was the many Narrows volunteers who not only made the event flow, but this year, through their work, honored the spirit of the 9/11 National Day of Service and Remembrance.

It was Amy Black (photo) who tore up the stage as she sang the traditional-- and covered by Johnny Cash--"Ain't No Grave"; the Dino Govoni Organ Trio Plus One and their instrumental jazz adventures; the classic folk photos, courtesy of the New England Folk Music Archives, on the Narrows' exhibition space walls, sporting a young Tom Rush, Phil Ochs, Joan Baez, Richie Havens and many others.

All of this and much more (including picture-perfect weather) made the 2011 Narrows Festival of the Arts one for the history books. Hope you were there!

A Rush for the Weekend

2011-09-09T19:32:00.003-05:00

Looking like a very dapper Mark Twain, Tom Rush brought us into Friday night with a sold out show, and into a weekend filled with fabulous free music!

Will you join us this Sunday just outside the Narrows? It's the annual Narrows Festival for the Arts!

On the indoor stage (inside the Narrows) starting at 11:30 it's Rocky Roberts and Friends, Narrows fave Liz Longley, the Dino Govoni Organ Trio plus One, and the Amy Black Band.

On the outside stage, it's Girls, Guns and Glory starting at noon, Bill Kirchen, New Riders of the Purple Sage, and then Roomful of Blues.

Also, starting at 11 a.m. there will be entertainment and arts and crafts celebrating "music in motion," presented by the Children's Museum of Greater Fall River.

This is a rain or shine event, but we're hearing the weather will be perfect Sunday.

Hope you're there!

Your Next Door Neighbor Who Happens to be a Blues Guitar Phenom

2011-08-29T05:35:00.000-05:00

Blacks, Whites & The Blues--Mark T. Small--Want to get a feel for blues history without chasing down records from scores of artists? Getting Blacks, Whites & The Blues by Narrows fave--and guitar wunderkind--Mark T. Small should be on your to-do list. "Blues is a 20th century music with roots in the 1880s and 1890s," he writes in the recording's notes. "My intention is to highlight various pieces and styles that have shaped my guitar playing," pieces and styles that, in fact, include songs not usually associated with the blues e.g. a Scott Joplin composition.

Some of the more familiar influences are "Bang Bang Bang Bang" by John Lee Hooker, Willie Dixon's "Little Red Rooster," and Robert Johnson's "Sweet Home Chicago," all included. For those interested in the tunes' history, Mark has helpfully included write ups about the original version e.g. noting that Roy Hawkins was the first to hit the charts--back in 1951--with "The Thrill is Gone," usually associated with B.B. King. By the way, Mark does an adventurous and surprising interpretation of this classic, which Mr. King had success with about 1970.

Blacks, Whites & The Blues feels like your next-door-neighbor, who happens to be an under-appreciated guitar wizard and blues scholar--stopped by for pickin' and conversation.

If you've never seen Mark, check out this video from a festival out in Arizona:

Pre-Hurricane Blues Blowout!

2011-08-28T10:03:00.006-05:00

Friday night, August 26, 2011, was tense as the area prepared for Hurricane Irene, which, at the time, looked like it might hit us squarely between the guitar strings.

Folks needed to to relax--and our therapists were (photo left) Tommy Castro and the Legendary Rhythm and Blues Review--guitarist Joe Louis Walker, harpist Rick Estrin, saxophonist/keyboardist Deanna Bogart and a rocking band.

This was Tommy Castro's show and band, but he was more than generous in showcasing his colleagues who showed why they're stars on their own.

Check out this video from a 2010 blue cruise to get a feel for the evening:

Dude

2011-08-18T20:34:00.004-05:00

Tommy Malone, of the subdudes, playing without the group this time, Thursday night at the Narrows.

The subdudes, out of Louisiana, should be back touring next year. No doubt they'll be at the Narrows, since they have a strong fan base around these parts.

He kicked off a Narrows three show weekend, which includes the Holmes Brothers and David Wilcox.

Long Ago Sounds Today and Vice Versa

2011-08-13T00:01:00.006-05:00

Carolina Chocolate Drops/Luminescent Orchestrii (EP)--Carolina Chocolate Drops & Luminescent Orchestrii--An energetic collaboration that at times merges roots with rap. Both groups are new traditionalists who--one might say--make long ago sound today and make today sound long ago. The Carolina Chocolate Drops, Narrows alums (photo from September, 2010 visit) and purveyors of the black string band tradition, and the Luminescent Orchestrii, who describe themselves as "Romanian Gypsy Punks from NYC," may be serious musicians, but they never forget to entertain on this recording. Check 'em out performing a song from the EP, "Short Dress Gal." Recorded live and lively, this EP is an exciting pleasure. The Drops, who just performed at the Newport Folk Festival, return to our stage in March. Get this and be there.

What Did the Dow Do Today?

2011-08-05T14:55:00.005-05:00

So Late It Hurts--the 'Mericans--These old ears hear the 'Mericans as sounding like the Byrds--harmonies, jingly-jangly--without the optimism. Maybe not much to be optimistic about. Gee--ya think? What did the Dow do today? Any other city besides Central Falls file for bankruptcy? Did your brother get a job yet? At the Narrows we're spotting a trend among some of the younger performers--volume down. Perhaps waiting to hear the next shoe drop? In person, the group's prime mover Chris Daltry (photo, August 4, 2011 at the Narrows) doesn't seem particularly depressed. He shouldn't be. This recording is to be proud of. And he and his group--who can rock pretty good live--have a spiffy interview in August's SOCO magazine to boot, and positive reviews for So Late It Hurts, including this one. They're based in the Providence area, so if you live in these parts you can likely easily catch 'em live at the Narrows or another nearby venue.

Outlaw Songwriter

2011-07-29T21:22:00.004-05:00

We were honored to have one of the Texas country outlaws perform at the Narrows, Ray Wylie Hubbard. It was his second appearance over our 10 year history.

He, of course, enlivened Friday night with his songs, such as "Drunken Poet Dream" which he co-wrote with Narrows fave Hayes Carll. And "Up Against the Wall Redneck Mother," made famous by Jerry Jeff "Mr. Bojangles" Walker.

But his between-song patter was entertaining as well, telling stories of how he admired his grandfather's guitar (on the stand in the photo above), though grandpa wouldn't let him play it--and sold it to Ray on his deathbed ("I wrote him a hot check"). And being whacked by his grandmother at something like eleven years old for smoking a corncob pipe behind the smokehouse. Even then he understood the irony of the situation, he said.

Hope Ray will come back and visit soon.

Listening

2011-07-18T22:26:00.000-05:00

Marc Cohn showed how a singer-songwriter can be entertaining as well as thought-provoking during his Narrows' performance Monday night. Tunes to contemplate, yes; but he didn't forget to rock either, with the help of extraordinary guitarist Shane Fontayne.

Marc's highly entertaining last CD was called Listening Booth: 1970, covering "The Letter" and other songs from that year. It was released in 2010, and chart-wise has been his most successful.

Did a little write up on it here.

Hoppin' Thursday Night

2011-07-14T21:28:00.000-05:00

A beautiful Thursday night in July turned hoppin' as rockabilly's Kim Lenz and the Jaguars made their Narrows debut before the local sock hoppers.

Is it retro? Is it nostalgia? (Hey, she writes a lot of her tunes, so they're not really oldies.)

No matter. Whether it's Big Sandy, Deke Dickerson (coming in September) or Kim Lenz, the bottom line is "fun."

Serious Fun

2011-07-09T21:11:00.005-05:00

He's a serious artist who doesn't take himself too seriously.

For decades the ukelele was defined for many as a novelty instrument. Tiny Tim, a beloved act in the 1960s (and no stranger to Fall River, btw, playing this area frequently until his passing), had a ukelele hit with the campy "Tiptoe Thru the Tulips," warbling the tune in falsetto.

Now Hawaii's Jake Shimabukuro is defining the instrument worldwide, and others, like Pearl Jam's Eddie Vedder, who recently released a ukelele recording, are in his shadow. And he showed why Saturday night at the Narrows.

Aside from his instrumental prowess--which is in the same league as another Narrows fave, the California Guitar Trio--he's an entertainer, mixing artistry with amusing stories about growing up and going to high school.

A fabulous night and a sold out show (featuring two openers Tripping Lily and Jimmy Buffet discovery Ilo Ferreira) streamed live on mvyradio.com. Should be in their archives soon.

I leave you with a must-see: Jake and his version of George Harrison's "While My Guitar Gently Weeps." Nearly 1.4 million views on YouTube.

Classic

2011-07-07T20:53:00.003-05:00

It could have been WZLX at the Narrows Thursday night.

And why not?

Hall of Famer Dave Mason was on the bandstand!

Traffic, the Stones, George Harrison, even Fleetwood Mac--he jammed with 'em all.

He wrote "Feelin' Alright," a monster for Joe Cocker, and a rock 'n' roll staple. "We Just Disagree" was a hit for him solo.

Classic.

New York Across the Water

2011-07-01T17:35:00.006-05:00

Dancing Backwards in High Heels--New York Dolls--Narrows alum David Johansen, along with the other original Doll, Sylvain Sylvain, and other players gathered recorded this in Newcastle, England and mixed it there and in California.

But from note one it sounds New York, circa 1966, in the lyrics, in the noisy reverb-soaked production, and as they show their devotion to girl groups like the Shangri-Las, particularly in their backing vocals. Check out the video for "Fool for You Baby (Dom Dom Dippy). "

At this writing they're touring with hair metallers Motley Crue and Poison, two groups who borrows their looks if not their sound from the Dolls. A quick comparison: the Dolls in 1973. Fast-forward a decade and a half for Poison.

A clangy, goofy recording (lyrics like "Mello like a cello like Pablo Casals" and "I'm so fabulous, you're Las Vegius") that, in parts, sounds straight from a soundtrack of a "hip" 1960s movie. Garage rock, replete with a farfisa organ. Nobody makes records like this.

Buy This Now

2011-06-27T04:24:00.003-05:00

KMAG YOYO--Hayes Carll--Narrows alum Hayes Carll's latest is one of the funnest recordings you'll hear, somewhere between a John Prine and a John Anderson record--twangy, goofy, poignant, and thought-provoking.

First, the name of the project: KMAG YOYO, which, I learned, is military slang for "Kiss My Ass Guys, You're On Your Own." It's the title of a stream-of-consciousness tune a la Dylan about...well, let Hayes tell it:

Put me in the Army on the day that I turned seventeen

Here I am standin' in the desert with a gun

Thought of going AWOL but I'm too afraid to run

But it's the song "Another Like You," a duet with Cary Ann Hearst, that may be up there with Mr. Carll's previous "hit" "She Left Me for Jesus." Check out this video, featuring a cameo from political couple James Carville (operative for the Democrats) and his wife, conservative icon Mary Matalin.

Another fab outing for Hayes, who last played the Narrows in 2009. Hope we get him back soon.

The Day After Opening for Michael McDonald

2011-06-26T02:38:00.001-05:00

This is the biggest crowd we played for this tour, said Zoe Muth at the Narrows Saturday night, noting, however, they somehow ended up opening for former Doobie Brother Michael McDonald the previous night in New Jersey. Fourteen hundred people.

Washington State's Zoe Muth and the Lost High Rollers are driving around the country making themselves and their pedal-steel music known.

It's working. Spoke to a guy in the crowd of about 100 before the show. He saw 'em a few days ago in his hometown of Amherst, MA. He wants to see them as much as possible, he said. A little obsessive, I pointed out, thinking maybe I needed to back off a few steps. Aw, he's alright. Just feeling what the Narrows crew has felt for months as we listened to Ms. Muth (pronounced like "ruth") and her twangsters coming out of the venue speakers before shows.

Keep an eye on this one. As opener Bob Kendall said after his set: She's going to be huge.

You Had to be Here

2011-06-25T01:00:00.001-05:00

Christine Olhman, who is the longtime singer for the Saturday Night Live Band--currently on summer hiatus--showed how straight ahead rock and blues gets played on a Friday night. She's known as the "Beehive Queen." Guess why.

She and her band, Rebel Montez, kicked off a night that also included the Swinging Steaks, playing cool 70s-sounding rock, country rock etc. Narrows patron saint Gram Parsons could have sat in.

Brass Attack

2011-06-24T01:49:00.001-05:00

The Soul Rebels Brass Band flew into NYC Thursday and drove to Fall River, climbed up onto the stage without missing a beat or catching their breath, and proceeded to groove the house!

Whew! A mix of traditional New Orleans with a flavoring of hip hop--all in an energetic "let's keep the party moving" flow.

In Case You Missed It...

2011-06-23T18:54:00.002-05:00

Photo of James McMurtry last week at the Narrows.

You've Heard Him

2011-06-15T22:00:00.001-05:00

Maybe you don't know the name, but if you've heard Rod Stewart's "Maggie May" you've heard Ian McLagan.

If you've heard one of my faves from Rod Stewart and the Faces, "Stay with Me," or, from The Rolling Stones, "Miss You." The hands of Ian McLagan on the keys.

And we hosted this member of British rock royalty--who will be touring with the Faces this summer (no Rod, but Ronnie Wood will be playing)--at the Narrows Wednesday night.

It all started way back when, as Narrows honcho Patrick Norton wrote in his blog recently, "when he joined a scruffy group from East London called The Small Faces...Steve Marriot on guitar and vocals, Kenny Jones (Keith Moon's replacement in The Who) on drums, Ronnie Lane on bass and vocals, and Ian McLagan, keyboard and vocals."

You can look the rest of it up. Suffice it to say that Mr. McLagan is doing well, these days based in Austin, Texas, even as Ronnie Lane (of whom he spoke often during the show) and Steve Marriot are gone.

Remember When Rock 'n' Roll Stood for Something?

2011-06-11T01:16:00.000-05:00

Streetwise New York rock 'n' roll at the Narrows Friday night as Garland Jeffreys made his Narrows' debut.

Lou Reed, John Cale, John Peel, the Brecker Brothers, Dr. John, some of his early colleagues. Gerde's Folk City, the Bitter End, some of the venues.

"Wild in the Streets" his best known track.

Remember when it all meant something? Maybe it still does.

Two, Count 'Em, Two in a Row

2011-06-10T18:33:00.003-05:00

Wow, the line-up of shows is amazing. Go to www.ncfta.org to see everything, but just a few new ones that that particularly caught my eye:

In January--I know that's a long way off--Americana star (and Narrows discovery we like to think) Eilen Jewell will be performing for 2 nights in a row. Who else has done this in Narrows history? Maybe Richard Thompson? She's become a Narrows sell-out, so we're going for two to warm up one of the most depressing times of year.

One of my faves Karla Bonoff has had a rough couple years--colleagues Kenny Edwards and Andrew Gold passed away. She's put on several fabulous shows at the Narrows, and she'll be on-deck in September, this time without Kenny, who performed with her last time. Great songwriter and performer.

Her last album was fab, she's got a book out, and she likes to Twitter--Rosanne Cash makes her Narrows' debut in November as part of our 10th anniversary celebration.

Gotta run. Writing this just before the Garland Jeffreys show and it's almost time to hit the stage.

Sometimes Cutting Your Hair Like Keith Richards Helps

2011-06-04T10:17:00.003-05:00

Just Kids (book)--Patti Smith--Poet/rocker Patti Smith's book Just Kids had been sitting on the shelf at the Seekonk public library just waiting for somebody to read it. Not me, I thought. I liked some of her work, but figured I wasn't interested. I caved, and I'm glad I did.

Just Kids--which doesn't need my approval since it has already won a National Book Award--is one of the more enjoyable books I've read. First, it's well written and the story is paced nicely, not getting bogged down. Second, it's a compelling tale of Ms. Smith's years getting to know, live with, leave, and then mourn controversial artist Robert Mapplethorpe, who died of AIDS in 1989.

But it's about rock 'n' roll too--mid-to-late 1960s into the 1970s. She's hanging out with Janis Joplin, Kris Kristofferson, Tom Paxton, Todd Rundgren and Narrows alums Roger McGuinn and Eric Andersen. She tells of watching Kris Kristofferson playing 'Me and Bobby McGee' for Janis Joplin, apparently for the first time. Ms. Joplin went on to have a hit with the song after her untimely death.

A big career breakthrough, though, happened when she cut her hair like Keith Richards. She heads to a favorite club, Max's Kansas City, where people go wild. Suddenly, she's offered new career possibilities. Figure that!

Don't pass Just Kids by if you're a music fan. And the next time you get your hair trimmed, maybe you should think about Keith...or maybe, since it's 2011, Lady Gaga...hmmm.

Tie-Dye Thursday

2011-06-02T22:05:00.001-05:00

Possibly the most colorful show we've seen in a long time at the Narrows Thursday night as the 7 Walkers brought their Grateful-Dead-meets-New-Orleans vibe.

The backdrop and the fans were tie-dye, and the music was "swampadelic," a description drummer Bill Kreutzmann uses on their website.

As you may know, Mr. Kreutmann was the Grateful Dead's drummer from the beginning until their end in 1995. That's him in the photo along with guitarist Papi Mali.

A bit oomp-pa-pa, a bit jam band.

The Dead's wordsmith Robert Hunter, by the way, contributed lyrics to the 7 Walkers' first recording, released last fall.

During the show's break I chatted with a guy who came down from the Burlington, VT, area specifically for the show. Wow.

Narrows Alum Offers Richly Textured Refuge

2011-05-30T16:48:00.007-05:00

City of Refuge--Abigail Washburn--A beautiful recording from a Narrows alum who combines her banjo artistry with experience living in China. Even the CD package is gorgeous! Narrows audiences know her from her former membership in Uncle Earl, a celebrated string ensemble (Narrows photo above from 2006; Ms. Washburn is 2nd from left) that famously had a recording produced by Led Zeppelin's John Paul Jones. City of Refuge's sound is bluegrass mixed with a lushness that suggests China; supporting players include two members of a group from Mongolia called Hanggai. Vocally, she reminds me of Narrows alum Kris Delmhorst with a dash of Dusty Springfield. Bottom line: City of Refuge is a rootsy yet richly textured and well produced listening experience. Suggestion: Check out her "making of" video.

Summer Simmers in with the Blues

2011-05-27T20:50:00.003-05:00

The first day of the 3 day Memorial Day Weekend kicked off with the electric blues styling of former John Mayall guitarist Coco Montoya.

Mr. Mayall made his debut at the Narrows just a few days ago (check out an earlier entry in this blog), but Coco has been a Narrows' mainstay for years.

Traffic from New York City caused a show delay, quickly minimized by our lightening fast crew along with Coco and his band. A big salute to the fans for their patience!

Dig These New Shows

2011-05-22T16:46:00.004-05:00

Just added...wow!

CJ Chenier and the Red Hot Louisiana Band, August 6.

Carl Parlmer--yes that Carl Palmer--celebrating the music of Emerson, Lake and Palmer. October 22.

Girlyman, November 12.

Shemekia Copeland, November 17--She did a heck of a show at last year's Narrows Festival of the Arts, didn't she?

www.ncfta.org.

The British Blues Had a Daddy

2011-05-19T20:59:00.003-05:00

A tremendous honor to host the gent from across the pond who was doing the British blues before all the greats from the 1960s, and fostered the careers of Eric Clapton, Peter Green, Mick Taylor, John McVie, and others.

We're talking John Mayall, and he played the Narrows to a sold out house Thursday night.

Thanks Dad!

Meet Kenny White

2011-05-13T19:30:00.003-05:00

A guy whose name keeps popping up at the Narrows is Kenny White. He's a musician's musician, and though the photo (taken as he opened for Judy Collins the other night) has him playing guitar, he's particularly celebrated for his keyboard skills.

If you've seen a Cheryl Wheeler, Peter Wolf or Judy Collins show either at the Narrows or elsewhere, there's a chance Kenny's been involved. And if you're a fan of Peter Wolf's CDs in recent years, you can thank Kenny White, who produced 'em.

So go to his website and get to know more about this huge talent. Chances are if you visit the Narrows on a regular basis, you'll bump into him--and will consider yourself lucky!

Don't Wait So Long Next Time

2011-05-11T20:03:00.000-05:00

Low Country Blues--Gregg Allman--The voice and writer of the longtime Allman Brothers classic "Whipping Post" has put together, with the help of producer T Bone Burnett, an enjoyable collection of atmospheric blues tracks, including Muddy Waters' "I Can't Be Satisfied," a personal favorite of mine. "On a gritty 1959 afternoon at a B.B. King concert in segregated and grimy Nashville, Tennessee, two white kids were caught in a sonic explosion that would change their lives..." say the CD notes, referring to legendary and late Duane Allman and his younger brother Gregg, both not even teenagers. "We gotta get into some of this," said Duane. They did, and one of the great voices in blues and rock continues although Duane passed decades ago. It's been nearly 15 years since Gregg's last recording of new material. He shouldn't wait so long for his next. Get this. It's great.

Narrows Alums in Rolling Stone

2011-05-07T17:52:00.003-05:00

Not that it really makes a difference, but it is nice to see mentions of Narrows alums in Rolling Stone magazine. Just perusing the April 28th issue I noted that:

Richie Furay, who played the Narrows in 2009 (check out the blog post about the show here) is officially back with Neil Young and Stephen Stills for Bonnaroo and other tour dates.
David Johansen, who played the Narrows in January (blog post here), will be touring as a member of the New York Dolls with Motley Crue and and Poison. I'm a huge metal fan, so I'm probably digging this item more than you are.
Jake Shimabukuro, who played the Narrows in 2008, is Rolling Stone's "Best Ukulele Hero." The magazine writes "One of the hottest axemen of the past few years doesn't actually play guitar..." Jake returns to our stage in July.

Roomful Debuts at the Narrows

2011-05-06T22:52:00.000-05:00

It's been a long wait, but we were proud to host Roomful of Blues for the first time in our history on Friday night. And it was a sell out!

And get this: the Narrows is announcing that Roomful will be playing for FREE at our annual Festival of the Arts, Sunday, September 11. Mark it down!

Of course, Roomful filled our Friday night with lively and loud jump blues! Our friends at mvyradio.com streamed it live, and we hope the performance will be posted in their archives soon.

Tuesday is for Total Relaxation

2011-05-03T22:38:00.000-05:00

Ottmar Liebert and his group Luna Negra brought their soothing sounds to the Narrows Tuesday night.

Quiet, yet at times lively flamenco guitar and accompaniment soared through the performance area, underscoring, no doubt, that the Narrows can't be topped as a listening room.

The 5-time Grammy nominee may be the first Zen Monk ever to perform at the Narrows. He's also probably the first musician to have opened for Miles Davis AND performed on recordings by Diana Ross, Celine Dion and Kenny Loggins!

Congrats to Andrea! On to Bonnaroo!

2011-05-01T10:45:00.003-05:00

Congrats to Berklee student Andrea Belanger on being chosen for Bonnaroo!

Details courtesy of the Herald News here.

Andrea is a true "daughter of the Narrows." Congrats to her mom and dad as well!

Learn more about her music here.

It's Summer and the Livin' is Rhythmic

2011-04-29T22:40:00.001-05:00

How does one describe Entrain's sound? Rhythmic, for sure. Jam band? Yep. Rock 'n' roll? Works for me. Funk, R & B? Could be. World? At times and maybe even jazz.

Most of all, they sound like summer.

They've been around since the early 1990s after drummer and founder Tom Major returned from a trip to West Africa where he sampled the local sounds. As he writes on their website, he came back more determined than ever to start a rhythm heavy band.

Friday night at the Narrows they showered us with their rhythms, energy, musicianship and, yes, joy.

Welcome to summer!

Winning

2011-04-22T18:30:00.003-05:00

This week's Providence Phoenix published the annual "Readers' Picks," and guess what? The Narrows is, once again, "Best Folk Venue." Won it last year and 2008. The Phoenix writes: "It's sizable but intimate. It's rustic to a degree. And best of all, it has a homey vibe." We're just regular folks here, see, looking to spread music that matters throughout the world--or at least our little part of it. Thanks Phoenix readers!
Have you seen Patrick Norton's blog? He's the Narrows' executive director, bookings guy, etc. He brings a unique viewpoint on the music world. Check out his write up about record stores here. Kinda choked me up. I love hanging out in record stores, and am sad when one closes its doors. I like the Newbury Comics in Attleboro and the Providence Place Mall, FYE in the Swansea Mall too. And, almost forgot, the Time Capsule on Route 6 in Seekonk.
At this writing, Roomful of Blues is close to a sell-out. They're coming Friday, May 6. First time at the Narrows, believe it or not. Long overdue.
Yes, Judy Collins is sold out.
But Rickie Lee Jones isn't. Michelle Shocked tickets still available.
Don't forget, John Popper makes his Narrows debut April 28. Blues Traveler guy.
Really like the new Narrows t-shirt. Grabs the eye.
I don't care what you think. I like American Idol, and enjoy seeing Steven Tyler on the show. Plus, interesting performance tips from Jimmy Iovine.

Groove

2011-04-14T22:00:00.000-05:00

Morphine was an alt-rock band based in Boston led by Mark Sandman, who collapsed on stage in Rome, Italy and passed away from a heart attack in 1999.

Since then former members have pursued various projects, with the latest involving Narrows' regular Jeremy Lyons and Morphine members Dana Colley, on baritone sax, and Jerome Duepree on drums. They created a groovy, dark, bluesy vibe Thursday night.

Looked at that big old baritone sax! Puts a real bottom on the sound.

Learning the Truth

2011-04-08T22:00:00.002-05:00

Above all there's the voice--compelling, on the note, with feeling. Janis Ian, a pro in the finest sense.

An accomplished guitarist. A musician.

The songs, "Society's Child" etc. Etc. understates, of course.

Her personality, her humor, her stories--about playing "Society's Child" in concert as a teenager and being attacked with vile taunts; leaving the stage before the show was over; crying, then returning after the promoter told her that he couldn't believe that the writer of that song was a coward.

If you missed Janis Ian this time round, you can check the archives at mvyradio.com and see if the recording of the show is posted. Better yet, catch her live, preferably at the Narrows.

Poignant.

All That Jazz

2011-04-06T20:20:00.003-05:00

Gretchen Parlato, a rising jazz presence with the current #1 jazz album on itunes, brought her voice and talented group--piano, bass, drums--to the Narrows Wednesday night, helping us through the mid-week hump.

It was a kinda CD release party, although she's already succeeded chart-wise in the world of Apple, for her new recording The Lost and Found, which was released Tuesday. Our esteemed stage was the first performance in support of the disc.

Spread the word: the Narrows is the premier listening room for jazz--and everything else, come to think of it!

RIP Melvin Sparks

2011-04-02T13:38:00.003-05:00

Was reading the Providence Phoenix this morning when I noticed that the Cool, Cool World column noted the passing of Melvin Sparks. Here's the NY Times obit with more details about Mr. Sparks. As far as I can remember, the Narrows did at least one show with him--a Google search found a performance in 2004, which is why I couldn't find anything in the Backstage at the Narrows archives, since this blog started in 2005. If my memory is correct, the house was empty for Mr. Sparks' concert. Too bad, since he was a celebrated session and jazz guitarist. Perhaps with our new emphasis on cultivating jazz at the Narrows we might have booked him in the months ahead. And since we're much better known than back in 2004, Mr. Sparks may have drawn the audience he deserved. If you saw Mr. Sparks perform at the Narrows or elsewhere, please leave your thoughts in the comments section. RIP.

No Foolin'

2011-04-01T20:11:00.003-05:00

It may have been April Fools, but it was no joke that the Narrows showed it's growing as a comedy venue, based on Friday's draw.

Who doesn't need a laugh during these tough times?

Mike Koutrobis, Paul Keenan and headliner Joe Yannetty (photo) took the edge off the world for awhile with their observations.

Comedy fans don't have to wait too long for the Narrows' next comedy night. The word is it's May 13. The performers will soon be announced.

Narrows Artists on the Billboard Charts

2011-03-27T07:43:00.003-05:00

--Nice to see that new Narrows alum Al DiMeola's brand new CD entitled Pursuit of Radical Rhapsody is number 4 on the latest Billboard jazz chart. Hear selections here.

--The Avett Brothers have a couple on Billboard's folk chart, I and Love and You, as well as a live recording.

--Abigail Washburn has something new out called City of Refuge, and it's at #7 on the bluegrass chart. She's played the Narrows as a member of Uncle Earl, who had a recording produced by Led Zeppelin's John Paul Jones.

Name That Genre

2011-03-22T21:04:00.004-05:00

We're trying to feature more jazz at the Narrows, and Tuesday night with Al DiMeola's World Sinfonia reflected this commitment.

Of course, defining what is and isn't jazz is the subject of debate, and Al DiMeola's performance was jazz, world, rock, classical--depending how one wants to frame a musical genre.

Mr. DiMeola, from New Jersey, brought with him a new CD, out just a few days, called Pursuit of Radical Rhapsody. He played numbers from this recording as well as selections from earlier in his career.

Your humble blogger urged the audience to spread the word to their friends who enjoy jazz that the Narrows is the place to check out for jazz, in addition to folk, Americana, blues, bluegrass, country and what have you. And why not? It's the best listening venue in the area, is it not?

Fab Week Ahead

2011-03-20T10:33:00.002-05:00

Not exactly sure, but I think this is the first time that every day of the week (except Sunday if you're getting technical) has a Narrows show. Some tickets still available:

Monday--Peter Wolf. This is sold out, which may be surprising since we hosted Mr. Wolf not long ago. But his latest CD, Midnight Souvenirs, is terrific, and he's a great showman too. Good for him!

Tuesday--Al DiMeola. The jazz guitar great's debut at the Narrows.

Wednesday--George Winston, another debut. His shows benefit a local food bank. Bring in canned food! The Greater Fall River Food Bank, the recipient. Here's an article about him from the Herald News. Never met him, but sounds like a good guy.

Thursday--Leon Redbone. A big favorite in these parts!

Friday--Aztec Two-Step. Another big favorite. 40th anniversary show with friends Buskin & Batteau.

Chely Wright--Narrows alum Rodney Crowell produced her latest CD, which was one of the best recordings in 2010. This is her debut at the Narrows, but she's a longtime country performer. Check out this video.

Wild

2011-03-19T01:00:00.000-05:00

What do you call a performer with big fat riffs, well written tunes, strong vocals, and monster energy? You call him Anders Osborne and he made his debut at the Narrows Friday night.

It was a classic rock sound, even from the openers, the Blue Ribbons out of Boston and featuring our old friend Mike Castellana on guitar, formerly in Sarah Borges and the Broken Singles.

Anders, with his full Viking beard, offered almost a fearsome presence on the stage--and, baby, the amps were turned to "11."

Fab Stuff Coming to the Narrows

2011-03-18T18:44:00.004-05:00

Wow, 2011 is turning into a heck of a year.

For example, next week we've got Peter Wolf, Al DiMeola, George Winston, Leon Redbone, Aztec Two Step, Chely Wright.

Some recent adds to the schedule for later this year:

Coco Montoya May 27

James McMurtry June 16 (Been a few years, hasn't it?)

Jake Shimabukuro July 9 (Amazing ukelele player! Don't miss this!)

John Gorka July 30

And much more. Check 'em out: www.ncfta.org.

Storyteller

2011-03-13T12:49:00.002-05:00

It was music and book readings on Saturday night at the Narrows, as Rodney Crowell made his debut.

He's touring in support of his memoir Chinaberry Sidewalks, which came out in January. Excerpts he read during the show included the story of when his mother, an epileptic, was "exorcised" because some religious folks felt her condition was the result of being possessed by a devil.

A representative from Dartmouth, MA's Baker Books sold Chinaberry Sidewalks at the Narrows. Rodney noted he's using the tour as an opportunity to not only sell the book but to support independent booksellers. Nice.

BTW, Rodney produced Chely Wright's terrific latest recording. She's debuting at the Narrows March 26.

Bare Bones Soul

2011-03-10T21:44:00.007-05:00

Joan Osborne made her Narrows debut Thursday night, accompanied only by herself and soulful pianist Keith Cotton.

She explained she normally performs with a band, but wanted to get back to the bare bones a bit.

Her fabulous vocal abilities during her soundcheck were already the talk of the Narrows crew even before the show commenced.

It was a soulful night at the Narrows--her hit "One of Us" works great just with piano--not surprising for the person who discovered our guys The Holmes Brothers and appeared in the movie "Standing in the Shadows of Motown." While talking about touring New Zealand with The Temptations, Martha and the Vandellas etc., she and Mr. Cotton broke into an ad libbed "Heard It Through the Grapevine."

A special moment in a special night, which also saw the debut of the Narrows new t-shrt, with the Narrows' new tag line: Music that Matters; Art that Inspires.

Joan Osborne's concert mattered and inspired!

20 Years Never Sounded So Good

2011-03-04T22:32:00.001-05:00

The California Guitar Trio--guys from Japan, Belgium & the USA--brought their 20th anniversary tour to the Narrows Friday night.

Just when you think they're way out there with ethereal, otherworldly sounds, they switch gears and play surf rock.

It's an approach that's kept this unique group of super players on the road, in the studio and at the Narrows for years.

If you're a serious guitar listener, check these guys out on-line if you missed the show.

Neil Young LOUD

2011-02-25T23:12:00.002-05:00

The Providence-Fall River corridor loves Neil Young--more specifically Neil Young tribute band Forever Young, as a sold-out crowd brought their coolers on Friday night to hear this Rhode Island ensemble.

They've played the Narrows a time or two, and the crowds seem to continue to build.

Guess they know how to do Neil Young right!

Songs included "Heart of Gold," "Down by the Riverside," "Mr. Soul" and many other favorites, particularly those with piercing guitar, often courtesy of Mark Cutler. This group, and their fans, like it"Neil Young LOUD."

Well all right!

2011-02-23T21:33:00.003-05:00

Robert Cray. Wednesday, February 23, 2011. 'Nuff said!

Solo Sarah: The Voice, The Songs w/ A Sense of Humor

2011-02-20T11:58:00.004-05:00

Sarah Borges, longtime backed by The Broken Singles, is now solo, no doubt due to the economics of keeping a band on the road along with her ensuing motherhood in July.

She opened Saturday night for Los Straitjackets at the Narrows, armed with nothing more than her guitar. I figured she'd be backed by her husband, guitarist--and Broken Single--Lyle Brewer. He was otherwise engaged, so it was up to her.

The Taunton native more than pulled it off. But not surprising, really, considering she has a powerful voice, a vault of terrific songs she wrote or covered (add to that Ricky Nelson's "Travelin' Man"), and a saucy sense of humor that might earn her recognition as "the Bette Midler of acoustic music."

Plus, she's a road-hardened and talented guitar player in her own right.

In short: Sarah Borges 2.0 seems to have found its footing quite nicely. We look forward to more shows, and more recordings too, in the years ahead. Welcome, Solo Sarah!

England Swings

2011-02-19T01:48:00.001-05:00

Former Van Morrison back up singer James Hunter made the room his own Friday night at the Narrows.

It was a sellout! Thanks to all who made it possible!

It was soul from the 50s and 60s updated through the voice, guitar and songs of Mr. Hunter, who came to us from "across the pond," where I think R & B has always been better appreciated. England swings America better than we do.

Bostonian Jesse Dee opened and received a standing O for his R & B interpretations.

Narrows Hits Historic Mark: Six Days A Week

2011-02-18T19:09:00.007-05:00

From what I remember it's never been achieved in the Narrows' 9 year history: MondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday.

Monday, March 21: Peter Wolf. Sorry sold out. Good for him. He's worked hard over the past couple years recording and promoting his music. He's better than ever!

Tuesday, March 22: Jazz guitar great Al Di Meola makes his Narrows' debut. Me and my rock 'n' roll friends used to say back in the 1970s when we heard a high level local guitarist: "He's like Al Di Meola."

Wednesday, March 23: Pianist George Winston, the Windham Hill records guy, makes his Narrows debut. I was browsing at a record store the other day and came across a George Winston tribute to The Doors. Never knew that.

Thursday, March 24: Leon Redbone. Last time he was here, I was "backstage" with him taking his photo. No flash, he told me. I said, hey, my camera needs flash or the picture won't come out right. He said don't worry, it will be fine. He was right. Came out cool, didn't it?

Friday, March 25: Aztec Two Step, along with Buskin & Batteau: Despite never really having a big hit, Aztec Two Step are a strong draw in these parts. That's because they're some of the hardest working folks you'll run into. Good guys too.

Saturday, March 26: Chely Wright. To my ears, she had one of the best recordings of 2010. Here's my write up.

Our Grammy Winners

2011-02-13T18:53:00.002-05:00

Below are the Narrows' artists who won a Grammy on February 13, 2011. Congrats!!!

Best Americana Album

Mavis Staples "You are Not Alone."

Best Traditional Folk Album

Carolina Chocolate Drops "Genuine Negro Jig."

Best Compilation for Movie...

Our guy, the late Stephen Bruton along with T Bone Burnett for "Crazy Heart."

And The Grammy Goes To....

2011-02-12T20:07:00.004-05:00

Sunday night, it's the Grammys, and artists who have played the Narrows are on the docket. Here's who:

Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals

Leon Russell & Elton John's "If It Wasn't For Bad." Leon Russell has played the Narrows a couple of times, if memory serves. This recording is kind of a "hand up" from Elton to his idol who has fallen on tough times particularly health wise.

Best Rock Instrumental Performance

Los Lobos "Do the Murray."

Best Country Instrumental Performance

The Infamous Stringdusters "Magic #9."

Darrell Scott "Willow Creek."

Best Americana Album

Los Lobos "Tin Can Trust."

Mavis Staples "You are Not Alone."

I should mention that our Darrell Scott is a member of Robert Plant's "Band of Joy," which is up for a Grammy in this category.

Best Bluegrass Album

Peter Rowan "Legacy."

Best Traditional Blues Album

James Cotton "Giant."

Charles Musselwhite "The Well."

Jimmie Vaughan "Plays Blues, Ballads and Favorites."

Best Contemporary Blues Album

Bettye LaVette "Interpretations: The British Rock Songbook."

Hubert Sumlin "Live! In Chicago." This is actually a Kenny Wayne Shepherd album featuring our guy Hubert.

Best Traditional Folk Album

Carolina Chocolate Drops "Genuine Negro Jig."

Maria Muldaur "Maria Muldaur."

Best Contemporary Folk Album

Richard Thompson "Dream Attic."

Best Compilation for Movie...

Our guy, the late Stephen Bruton along with T Bone Burnett for "Crazy Heart."

Friday Night Blues

2011-02-11T22:37:00.000-05:00

Mid-winter blues with former Muddy Waters guitarist Luther "Guitar Jr" Johnson backed by The Magic Rockers, Friday night at the Narrows.

Not only was the music hot, Mr. Johnson and the band spiffed up for the occasion. We like that.

It's going to be a bluesy late winter & spring at the Narrows. Robert Cray February 23; Joe Louis Walker February 26; Tommy Castro March 19; Joe Moss April 15.

Not to mention blue-eyed British soul man James Hunter February 18, and Blues Traveler front man John Popper April 28.

Did I miss anyone?

Check Out Patrick Norton's Blog

2011-02-10T20:37:00.003-05:00

Narrows honcho Patrick Norton has created a blog!

He brings a serious insider's knowledge of the doings of the Narrows' artists. Plus he has a passion for music.

You can access his blog through www.ncfta.org or by clicking here.

JTE Keeps Getting Better

2011-02-06T12:21:00.012-05:00

Harlem River Blues--Justin Townes Earle--When we booked him in 2008 at the Narrows, we expected someone special and probably out there alone on the edge. Heck, he's the offspring of the fabulous and famously troubled Steve Earle. Something probably rubbed off. We saw it in his performance--and in his world-weary eyes--and we hear it in this latest recording. Harlem River Blues is a project we suspect Springsteen strives for when he's pursuing his inner Woody Guthrie. A touch of Woody, Johnny Cash, and some gospel too. Check out this performance on David Letterman's show--it's got all 3! And Paul Shaffer on organ too!

A practical note: Justin is a likable singer, so you can play him in the car when you're with those who don't appreciate rough hewn vocals. You know--they roll their eyes when they hear Bob Dylan or Woody Guthrie, or come to think of it, Justin's dad, Steve. "He can't sing," they tell us. "Yes, but it's a great song, and it's authentic," we reply. "Yes, but why can't he sing?" Maybe a good question, but not one that needs directing at Justin's work, although he's not Bing Crosby either.

Great songs (all originals), fine performances, understated production values and Americana lyrics like "I was wastin' my night, calling in my favorite songs on the local radio" that warm this old deejay's heart. See him sing those in a record store performance, which includes his dad getting a call on his cell phone just before his son starts playing. Cool.

BTW:I took the photo above shortly before he played the Narrows in 2008. He was hanging around, alone, outside on Anawan Street, drinking coffee (I presume) and apparently chain-smoking. Man, he had an edge. BTW part two: Justin is active on Twitter. You can follow his shenanigans if social networking is your thing.

A Welcomed Melting

2011-02-04T22:30:00.001-05:00

We put away the ice picks for at least a little while!

Jeffrey Gaines' warm vocals and songs raised the temperature for the audience Friday night, despite the glazing of the region in seemingly interminable ice.

It was his Narrows debut, and he attracted a good number of new faces to the Narrows. Welcome! We hope you'll visit us on a regular basis.

Boston-born Mieka Pauley opened with a strong set that attracted new followers.

Changing the Rules!

2011-01-30T06:29:00.003-05:00

Comedy in a center for the arts?

As usual, the Narrows Center for the Arts is changing the rules!

Over the past months, the Narrows has been building its audiences for shows featuring comedians.

Just as when the Narrows brings in new, usually young musicians. Few may attend. Then more. Then more. Then the artist--for example Eilen Jewell--sells out shows!

We think that's what centers for the arts should do! Nurture talent. Maybe change the rules for nurturing talent.

Last Friday, we changed the rules again with another comedy show, this time featuring (in the photograph) Joey Carroll, who has extensively entertained our troops overseas, Joe Holden and Jack Lynch. A good sized audience was there, maybe our largest for comedy.

We're serious about laughter, and people seem to be loving it.

The next comedy showcase will be in the spring, and we hope you'll join us! Watch this space.

Six Years Blogging

2011-01-23T19:10:00.002-05:00

A note to thank everyone following Backstage at the Narrows since it launched in January 2005, or who joined in over the six year journey. That means you.

The backstory: I was reading the paper in early 2005 and saw that "Blogger" was providing the opportunity to blog for free. So I fired up the computer and checked out how it worked. Since it wasn't too difficult, I figured I'd add it to my volunteer duties at the Narrows Center for the Arts. Back then there weren't many of us, and we'd do one or two shows a week, with some breaks in-between. A slower pace than today.

It was fun, and I appreciate the hard work of Patrick and Maggie Norton, Bert Harlow and others to keep the music playing even when things were a bit tight. Got to hang out with stars, haul equipment like a rock 'n' roll roadie, emcee and generally enjoy the sounds and talk music with my friends.

With the blog, it became even more fun--though I remember asking people from the stage if they knew what "blog" meant. Most didn't for a few years. Not sure how many were reading it; still not sure, frankly, although people tell me they do. There's probably some way to electronically track how many are checking it out, but I've never gotten around to figuring out how to do it.

I hope you enjoy perusing Backstage at the Narrows as much as I enjoy writing and taking photos for it. There are more than a thousand entries which constitute a permanent on-line, easy-to-reference "first draft" of the Narrows' history. Proud to have provided it, and consider myself fortunate.

No biggie, though. Did it, and continue doing it, just for fun.

Power Pop for the People

2011-01-21T21:50:00.003-05:00

It was shake some action night at the Narrows with power popsters The Spampinato Brothers leading the charge.

Led by an NRBQ founder, Joey Spampinato, the group played in the grand tradition of The Raspberries, Cheap Trick, and yes The Rolling Stones and The Beatles.

Covers included "Out of Time" from the Stones, and "You're Gonna Lose that Girl," and "You Can't Do That," from, of course, the Fab Four. But The Spampinato Brothers are far from being a cover band. But if they were, they'd be one of the best.

You may have seen bass player Joey Spampinato in the "Hail Hail Rock 'n' Roll" movie with Chuck Berry, Keith Richards, Linda Rondstadt and just about everybody else.

Totally fun night.

Should Count Toward Church Time

2011-01-16T22:27:00.005-05:00

You Are Not Alone--Mavis Staples--Narrows alum and soul singer supreme Mavis Staples continues to mix the secular and sacred, in the tradition of the Staples Singers, this time with Wilco's Jeff Tweedy in the producer's chair. Recorded at the Wilco Loft in the Windy City, You Are Not Alone is currently in the top twenty in the Billboard Gospel Album chart, even though it contains secular tracks like John Fogarty's "Wrote A Song for Everyone," which appeared on Creedence Clearwater's Green River LP in 1969, and Randy Newman's "Losing You," from the eye-twinkling pianist's Harps and Angels project a few years back. This is, in fact, a rock 'n' gospel album, featuring sometimes-stinging guitar and a more mainstream rock feel. Ms. Staples' flawless and powerful vocals are the show, of course, and it goes without saying that she could sing the phone book and make it scriptural. "I don't know where Tweedy's been all my life," she says in the promotional video. She's right. You Are Not Alone works and is a quality listen.

Note to Narrows history buffs: while Wilco has never played the Narrows, Jay Bennett, who had a nasty split from Tweedy and the group, did. Those of us around in the Narrows' early years remember Bennett as a fabulously talented yet troubled guy who seemed to regret his falling out with his former musical partner Tweedy. He died accidentally in 2009, in part because he couldn't get the medical treatment he needed. Learn more about him and download a free posthumous release here.

Boston Songwriter Night

2011-01-14T21:24:00.010-05:00

Boston songwriting night. Ellis Paul, left, and Meg Hutchinson below. Friday night was warm and relatively low-key at the Narrows. Both Paul and Hutchinson are based in the Boston area, though Paul (who was celebrating his birthday btw) is originally from Maine and came to Boston College to run track. Ms. Hutchinson hails from the snows of the Berkshires.

David Johansen Unplugged

2011-01-13T22:31:00.000-05:00

New York Dolls front legend David Johansen kept it simple with simple guitar accompaniment as he did his "Funky But Chic" or John Lee Hooker's "Boom Boom Boom Boom" at the Narrows Thursday night.

Of course, those who have followed his career weren't surprised since the razor thin vocalist, still sporting skinny jeans and leather, has various personas, including folk/bluesman, jump jazzer Buster Poindexter, Sirius radio jock, and actor.

One persona, perhaps not widely known, is his down-to-earth friendliness. Narrows staff loved working with him.

Let's Talk Spring and Summer, Shall We?

2011-01-12T16:02:00.002-05:00

Some great shows just added at the Narrows.

On March 18th Anders Osborne will make his debut, originally scheduled for New Year's Day. A blizzard earlier in the week messed things up. Although we can't be sure, we think we have a better shot this time because it will almost be spring! By the way, if you're unfamiliar with Mr. Osborne--as was your blogger--his sound is along the lines of classic rock, even though he wrote a number one hit for country artist Tim McGraw ("Watchin' the Wind Blow By"). Learn more here.

May 21 it's Jesse Winchester. Enough said.

And August 20 (wow, we're already talking late in the summer), it's singer/songwriter David Wilcox, whose photo, taken at the Narrows in 2006, is above. If memory serves that 2006 show was a sell-out so it might not be too early to get your tickets for that one.

Life on the Road

2011-01-07T22:27:00.004-05:00

The snow that didn't hit Fall River Friday evening did hit parts of Connecticut, slowing travel to a crawl for Po' Girl, as they raced on the highways to make their Narrows debut.

A plane delay earlier in the day didn't help.

Group member Benny Sidelinger flew in for the gig separately, and had the fun (!) of performing as the opening act while we waited for the rest of the group--who were actually not that late as it turned out. Guitarist/banjoist Benny sees himself as a sideman, and didn't cherish being the center of attention, although his mom, dad and fiancee in the audience seemed delighted. Area musician Louie Leeman, who performed at the Narrows on New Year's Day, kindly brought in his guitar for Benny, whose own guitar was with the rest of the group.

Despite the stress (and lack of food), Po' Girl enchanted with their mixture of folk, jazz and what have you--some call it "urban roots"--performing a strong set.

Unfortunately, after the gig some of the group was facing a 45 minute drive to their sleeping quarters in Plymouth (oops, they didn't know it wasn't exactly next door).

Life on the road.

Sometimes These Are The Best Shows

2011-01-02T09:33:00.004-05:00

Your humble blogger was a little disappointed that the Anders Osbourne show didn't happen Saturday night because the blizzard messed up travel. (I've been enjoying his latest American Patchwork recording.)

But I shouldn't have been because the substitute show was special--at a special price of only $10!

Curtis Prince (left), scheduled as the opener for the Anders Osbourne show, blues guitar wizard Mark T. Small, singer/songwriter Louie Leeman, and frequent Narrows opener Jeremy Lyons joined together to put on an intimate show of songs, stories and even lightning fast riffs.

And a sense of history, particularly from Mark T. Small, who pointed out that "without John Lee Hooker, ZZ Top would have been playing Zippity Do Da."

Your humble blogger suggests for future reference: when you see the Narrows pull together a show at a special price, consider attending as did the folks who attended this show. It will no doubt be a sound investment of your entertainment dollar and will enrich your life too.

Wow, Great New Shows Just Added

2010-12-22T19:56:00.003-05:00

Got the weekly notice from Kathy at the Narrows that in a few weeks we'll be hosting the New York Dolls' frontman David Johansen January 13. You may know him as Buster Pointdexter or his solo song "Funky But Chic."

PLUS

Luther "Guitar Jr." Johnson February 11.

PLUS

Robert Cray February 23.

PLUS

Ralph Stanley March 5.

PLUS

Tommy Castro March 19.

PLUS

Chely Wright March 26.

PLUS

Neil Innes (remember The Rutles?) May 14.

PLUS

All the other great performers already scheduled like Judy Collins, Eilen Jewell, Aztec 2-Step, Rodney Crowell and many more.

Visit www.ncfta.org.

Good Cookin' with a Camino

2010-12-19T11:32:00.004-05:00

Congrats to the Narrows' new fave Elizabeth Cook for having one of Rolling Stone mags top songs of 2010, "El Camino."

The track is from her Welder recording, and tells the story of a liaison with a mulleted guy who drives a 1972 El Camino, a guy who wears shirts "trippin' on LSD," and whose car "is creepy man, not in a gangster kind of way, but in a perv kind of way."

She and her group played the Narrows special show for donors in November. On the right is Ms. Cook with Narrows treasurer Tom Murray during the show's intermission.

See the Rolling Stone brief write up.

Yule Grass for Y'All

2010-12-17T23:29:00.003-05:00

Darol Anger's Republic of Strings brought the season's cheer to the Narrows on Friday night. Mr. Anger, on the right in the photo, and his ensemble melded bluegrass and classical and spun it into a Christmas "yule grass" show.

Mr. Anger was a longtime member of the acclaimed Turtle Island String Quartet, and played in the David Grisman Quintet and other groups. If you've listened to NPR's "Car Talk," you've heard Mr. Anger's music. He plays on the theme song.

Rock's Greatest Generation

2010-12-12T17:21:00.009-05:00

A representative of what is arguably rock 'n' roll's Greatest Generation, Ian Hunter, made his Narrows debut Saturday night.

Hunter, 71 years young, was Mott the Hoople, the glam rock band from the 1970s. Their hits include All the Way from Memphis ("You look like a star but you're really out on parole"), a cover of Lou Reed's Sweet Jane ("Standing on the corner, suitcase in his hand"), and David Bowie's All the Young Dudes, which gave Mott the Hoople a career after they were on the verge of being the next big thing that never was.

After Mott, Hunter went on to a solo career and songwriting. His greatest commercial successes were his Cleveland Rocks (the theme song of the Drew Carey Show, recorded by the Presidents of the United States), Ships, sung by Barry Manilow, and Once Bitten Twice Shy, covered by Great White. Did I miss anything, fans?

Saturday night he was in great voice, with plenty of energy, spurred on by former Wings member Steve Holley on drums and guitarist extraordinaire Andy York.

Hunter is one of the oldest of Rock's Greatest Generation, but Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Bob Dylan, Roger McGuinn, Chris Hillman, Paul McCartney, David Crosby, Dan Hicks, Steven Stills, Grace Slick, Jorma Kaukonen, John Sebastian,Pete Townsend, Ray Davies, Eric Clapton, Joni Mitchell, Joan Baez, Jeff Beck, Leon Russell, Van Morrison, Judy Collins, Donovan, Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, etc. aren't far behind. And many still pack venues, despite being on the scene for 40 or more years. To put that in perspective, if you were living in the 1960s, it would be like performers from the 1920s still competing in the concert halls and on the record charts. With the exception of Louis Armstrong, I don't think that was happening much if at all.

So Hail! Hail! Rock's Greatest Generation. Long may you live. Hope to see you, like Ian Hunter, at the Narrows soon.

Nanci Griffith Makes Her Narrows Debut

2010-12-08T21:32:00.002-05:00

What can one say? Nanci Griffith warmed us on a frosty December night.