Fricke Picks Donna Jean

Narrows alums Donna Jean and the Tricksters have gotten a big thumb's up from David Fricke of Rolling Stone.

Donna Jean, as you may be aware, was a member of the Grateful Dead for a good long time.  

Anyway, Fricke writes "Fricke's Picks" and he picked her and her crew.

Read more here.

The photo is from a visit to the Narrows in 2007.

Northern Lights Brighten the Night

The Narrows, on Saturday night, was pleased to host the celebrated New England bluegrass group, Northern Lights.  Above them are flags representing American casualties in Iraq as part of a new multi-media exhibit at the Narrows.

Experiencing the War in Iraq

Your humble Backstage Blogger had the honor of taking some photos before the opening of the dramatic new art exhibit at the Narrows "Experiencing the War in Iraq."

It's a multi-media exhibit that opens April 10 and continues through May 3.  It includes thousands of flags representing American casualties.

Review of Wood Brothers' New CD

The Wood Brothers, coming to the Narrows in May, have a new CD out.  To read a review from Paste Magazine, click here.

Cool YouTube Video from Pierre

Acoustic guitar master Pierre Bensusan, who played the Narrows recently, has uploaded a new performance video onto YouTube.

It was recorded live in Paris shortly before he headed for his current tour of the USA.

The video, by the way, is a close up of his fretwork, etc. so it's particularly interesting.

See it here.

Kris Delmhorst is the "Shotgun Singer"

Narrows alum Kris Delmhorst has released a new CD called "Shotgun Singer."  Your very humble Backstage Blogger caught a track off of it on WUMB this afternoon.  Sounded very lush, which is Kris' approach on record in some instances.

More here.

Over there is a photo of Kris at the Narrows in 2007.

By the way, WUMB sounds pretty much the same, despite the announcement that they're going to "brighten" their sound and drop the "folk radio" moniker.

Sarah Borges & Broken Singles Demo for New Record

Got word that Narrows faves Sarah Borges and the Broken Singles are demo-ing songs for their NEW RECORD!!

Also, this summer they head to the U.K. and Germany.

As well as the Narrows soon.  Visit www.ncfta.org for details.

But Did She See The Zuiderzee?

From hither and yon:

--Narrows discovery Eilen Jewell just returned from a weeklong tour of Holland!  We remember when people couldn't pronounce her name!  Hey Eilen (and her great band), congrats on expanding your influence and for your successful record!  And while all being nice folks, too!  They all head back to Europe in mid-April, playing Spain, Holland, the UK and Ireland.

--Our personal favorite blogger festive living writes to note that there's a fundraiser to benefit New Orleans musicians that you might want to consider.  The Narrows features a lot of New Orleans acts, so we're kind of an outpost up north.  Visit the festive living blog for more info.  And a special tip of the Narrows cap to Lisa and Joe!

--The Drunk Stuntmen, with a new CD, return to the Narrows in June.  Details should be posted on www.ncfta.org very soon.

--Cheryl Wheeler also returning, except in October.

--Beatle roadie, business manager and close buddy Neil Aspinall died the other day.  The true "fifth Beatle."

--The Phoenix is having its Best Music Poll.  Narrows alums on the ballot: Maryann Rossoni, Zox, Barn Burning, Sasquatch & the Sick-a-Billys, Paul Geremia, Betty LaVette, Richard Thompson, and I think that's it.  www.bestmusicpoll.com.

--And speaking of polls, we urge you to vote for the Narrows in the RI Monthly Magazine poll. www.rimonthly.com.

Narrows in SoCo Magazine

Nice feature on the Narrows in the April issue of SoCo magazine--a new glossy available at the Narrows and many other places in the area.  It's an eye-catching publication.

Great to see Narrows prez Patrick Norton and the Narrows getting their props!

Italian Roots

Roots guitar master Beppe Gambetta, from Italy, charmed the crowd at the Narrows Friday night, making his first appearance ever.

He described himself as a "Led Zeppelin" boy when he was growing up, until he heard his first Doc Watson album.  From there it was roots all the way, including Woody Guthrie, Norman Blake and Leo Kottke.

By the way, not only was he a master of his instrument, he was amusing!  His cover of Guthrie's "Hard Travelin' " in his version of an American accent was funny in a warm, understated way.

If you missed him, hope you'll try to see him next time around.

Beatles Engineer Dies--Signed Pink Floyd

Norman Smith--also known as "Hurricane" Smith--recently died.

He engineered the early Beatles' sessions, and signed Pink Floyd.

He had a hit on his own called "Oh Babe, What Would You Say?"

More here.

WUMB To Brighten Sound

Sounds like WUMB intends to back away a bit from a hardcore folk format.  Details from Boston.com right here.

A Sign We Like

Sign spotted on the streets of Pittsfield, MA on Easter Sunday.

Catherine Russell, Vocalist

One of the strongest vocalists ever to perform at the Narrows, Catherine Russell, turned our former factory floor into a circa 1929 supper club. 

She and her group--a pianist, stand-up bassist and guitarist/banjoist--breathed life into songs performed by the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong and--leaping the decades--Jerry Garcia.

Catherine belted out the blues with such passion she could have put aside the microphone.  

If you missed her this time around you might want to pick up her latest CD, Sentimental Streak.

East Meets West at the Narrows

Friday night jazz guitar great Larry Coryell combined his love for jazz and Eastern music (and his wife Tracey) at the Narrows.

That's Larry up above along with Tracey on vocals and tabla guy Aditya Kalyanpur.

Sounds like a serious evening, but Larry's light-hearted approach turned it into a night of excellence in music along with more than a touch of silliness. 

Below Larry and Tracey flank East Providence guitar student John Edward Farley, who, no doubt, was looking to pick up a few tips.

Electric Blues & Tim O'Brien Coming to Narrows

These should be posted at www.ncfta.org any minute now!

Thursday May 22

Lil Ed and the Blues Imperials--Slide guitar boogie comes to the Narrows straight out of the finest Chicago electric blues tradition. Lil Ed Williams not only plays the blues, but does so while doing flying leaps on the stage along with other moves! The Boston Globe calls Lil' Ed and his group "the world's number one houserocking band." www.liledwilliams.com.

Thursday July 17 

Walter Trout--It's been too long since electric blues guitar phenom Walter Trout played the Narrows! He's a former member of John Mayall's Bluesbreakers (along with Narrows alum Coco Montoya) but has been doing his own thing with his band for many years.

www.waltertrout.com.

Saturday November 1 (brrr!)

Tim O'Brien--it's been awhile since Grammy Award winning Tim O'Brien has played the Narrows, though he's graced our stage a bunch of times! You might call what he plays bluegrass, or maybe folk, or, at times, even Celtic. No matter. It's top notch musical creativity from one of the nicest guys ever to perform on our stage. www.timobrien.net.

A Master At Work

French guitar master Pierre Bensusan graced the Narrows Saturday night.   Was it classical, folk, jazz, baroque?  The answer is "yes!"

Pierre is a Narrows fave not only for his intricate finger stylin', but for his engaging personality, too.  It might be serious music, but he doesn't take himself too seriously.

Below, Narrows president Patrick Norton chats with Pierre before the show.

Deke Dickerson Returning Later This Year

Your humble blogger is happy to report that come September, hot rod guitarist Deke Dickerson returns to the Narrows.

Deke is one of the most fabbest guitar gods you'll see.  He plays zippin' rockabilly guaranteed to make you grin.

Visit www.ncfta.org for more details.  The show should be officially posted later this week.

James Cotton Scheduled to be on VH1 Classic Tonight

The word we got is that James Cotton--who did a fab show Friday night at the Narrows--will perform during the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremonies.  He'll be doing a tribute to Little Walter.

It's supposed to be carried live on VH1 Classic, starting at 8:30 p.m. TONIGHT.

Narrows Alums Backing Joan Baez

Folk chanteuse Joan Baez has a new album coming out soon, with Steve Earle as producer.

Although Mr. Earle hasn't played the Narrows, the album features Narrows alums Tim O'Brien and Darryl Scott, and a song from Narrows alum Eliza Gilkyson.

Details here.

Fingers Flying Saturday Night

Sometimes it's not about speed.  Sometimes it is!

Saturday night at the Narrows, fleet-fingered electric bluesman Coco Montoya gave the testosterone-brimming packed house its money's worth.  It was his debut at the Narrows.

Backed by a tight band consisting of keyboards, drums and bass, Coco also exhibited excellent dynamics--alternating between quiet and commanding, slow and speedy.  Unlike some blues players, he seemed to see songs as songs, rather than as an excuse for a raved-up guitar jam.

No doubt we'll try to bring Coco back again as soon as possible. Below, super volunteer Herb Tracy, left, poses with Coco during the intermission as Herb sold the CDs and Coco signed 'em.  A dynamic duo!

"Angel Eyes" Jeff Healy Dies

This page is really looking like the obits. Sad to note that blind guitarist Jeff Healy died of cancer in Canada recently.

You may remember his song "Angel Eyes," and that he played his guitar in a rather unconventional way.

More here.

WUMB Making Changes

One of the most important radio stations to Narrows' patrons is, no doubt, WUMB, out of the UMASS Boston campus.

It's been doing a folk format for something like a quarter century.

Change is in the air, but it doesn't look like it should alarm fans too much.

Details here.

A Good Read

As I battled a bad cold or a mild case of the flu, I finished up reading The Sound of Our Town, written by Brett Milano.

It's about Boston rock & roll, from the 1950s to the present day.  Since I was on the very fringe of the scene in the mid to late 1970s (I was a DJ at Boston College's WZBC, and interviewed several Boston legends (Willie Alexander being one (at least I think I interviewed him; my memory is foggy))), I had a ball reading this.  

If you are unaware of the Boston scene, you still might enjoy the book, since it's a breezy read and mentions some names you may know: Dinosaur Jr.; Kristen Hersh (a Narrows alum); the Mighty Mighty Bosstones; the Dresden Dolls; David Champagne of Narrows alums The Heygoods; Jonathan Richman; the Dropkick Murphys; Boston; and many others.

The author has written for the Boston Phoenix and the Boston Globe.  If you've ever read the Boston Phoenix, you probably recognized his name.  Chances are his writing has been in the Providence Phoenix.

Dave Clark Five Singer Dies

This blog is starting to look like the obits!

Anyway, Mike Smith, lead singer for the Dave Clark Five, died of pneumonia.

Details here.

Buddy Miles Passes; Worked with Jimi

Drummer Buddy Miles, who worked with Jimi Hendrix, died earlier this week.

Details from Paste.

Narrows Needs Your Vote

The Providence Phoenix has nominated the Narrows for its "Best Folk Venue" award. But to receive the award--and tons of free publicity--the Narrows needs your vote.

If you enjoyed your time at the Narrows we hope you'll take the time to vote for us.

Note: after you hit "submit" you need to hit "next" and get to the end of choices in order to submit your name and email address.  If you don't, your vote won't be counted.

Go to the voting site by clicking here.

Thanks!

Wood Brothers Return in May

Our friends the Wood Brothers are coming May 15.  You may have seen them at the Narrows Festival for the Arts.  Chris Wood, by the way, is a member of jam banders Medeski, Martin and Wood.  Check 'em out at www.thewoodbrothers.com.

Also, British singer/songwriter/guitarist Steve Tilston is scheduled for May 23.  Don't know much about him, but you can learn more at www.steve-tilston.co.uk.

The shows should be posted very soon at www.ncfta.org.

Narrows Alum Kathleen Edwards Reviewed in Rolling Stone

Narrows alum Kathleen Edwards has a new album out, and Rollingstone.com has written a quickie review.

Above is a photo of Kathleen strumming her guitar in the Narrows "pews" after her show in 2006.

Some RIPs

Drew Glackin, a member of Narrows alums The Silos, died unexpectedly recently.  Your humble Backstage Blogger also remembers his performing at the Narrows backing another artist, but my memory fails me.

For more about this loss, click here.

Also, producer Teo Macero, who worked with Miles Davis, Dave Brubeck, Robert Palmer, has left the studio.

Here's a NY Times write-up about him.

Martha's Vineyard, Louisiana?

It was New Orleans, Jamaica and Margaritaville at the Narrows as Martha's Vineyard-based Entrain got a packed house moving and grooving on Saturday night.

It was drums, drums and more drums, sax and trombone, guitar, keys and what have you, as the group never slowed down, switching instruments and bouncing from reggae to ska to rhythm and blues to rock.

No Depression Magazine Ending Publication

No Depression magazine, one of the best publications covering the artists who perform at the Narrows, is going out of business this spring.

More here.

Pulp Function Preview

The wonderful art exhibit Pulp Function has arrived at the Narrows!  At this writing Narrows volunteers were still putting the exhibition together--but your humble blogger snapped a few shots to give you a preview.  More details at www.ncfta.org.

Amy Had A Baby!

Roots wranglers Ollabelle made a triumphant return to the Narrows Sunday night before a large, appreciative crowd.

Amy Helm, however, couldn't do the gig because she gave birth to a baby boy a few days ago.  So Martha Scanlan, in the photo above, not only opened the show but filled in. 

Congrats to Amy and her husband, and a special salute to Amy as well for co-producing Levon Helm's hit CD Dirt Farmer.  At this writing, it's topping the Americana radio chart. (Levon's her dad; and, unless the band was kidding us during the show, her new baby's name is Levon too!)

Ray Davies Releasing 2nd Solo CD

Kinks guy Ray Davies is releasing his second solo CD.  The Boston Globe has posted a review, which you can read here.

Conservative Talk Host Digs Sarah Borges

Laura Ingraham, national conservative talk host, lists Diamonds in the Dark by Sarah Borges and the Broken Singles as one of her favorites.  

Sarah and the guys are an official Narrows' "discovery."

Great music rises above ideologies, I suppose.

Check out Ms. Ingraham's list here.

Mardi Gras on a Saturday Night

Eric Lindell and his six piece band brought in a huge crowd Saturday night who danced to its rollicking New Orleans sound that's seasoned a wee bit with reggae and other influences, including the movie "Easy Rider."  The group covered that flick's "Don't Bogart That Joint," an inspired choice nobody expected in a million years.

The group--including two sax players who have also worked with the Iguanas and Walter "Wolfman" Washington--was fresh off an appearance on Conan O'Brien's show the night before.

Maybe bring these guys back to the Narrows Festival for the Arts at the end of the summer?  What do you think?

Hair Today

We're not sure what pedal steel great Buddy Cage is up to with this Marge-Simpson-Meets-Phil Spector hairdo, but it didn't get in the way of his playing with the New Riders of the Purple Sage at the Narrows Friday night.

A packed house whooped and boogied as these psychedelic space cowboys made their second visit to the Narrows, and kicked off their 2008 touring schedule.

The Hunter Becomes The Hunted

The wonderful jazz group the Charlie Hunter Trio is returning to the Narrows in April.  Last time they were at the Narrows their concert was one of the year's highlights.

Jazz and Jam fans: this show is for you.  Ticket info should be posted soon at www.ncfta.org.

By the way, Charlie plays an eight-string guitar, although I only count seven in the photo!

Photo credit: Michael Weintrob

Larry Coryell Slated for March

Not yet posted--March 21 guitar master Larry Coryell will be gracing the Narrows stage.  Larry has been called "a true pioneer of rock-jazz fusion" by the New York Times.

He's played with Charles Mingus, Chick Corea, etc., etc.

Keep an eye out for more information at www.ncfta.org.

Cool Sarah Borges Video

Well, it's done and posted: the video from Narrows faves Sarah Borges and the Broken Singles.

It's for the song Stop and Think It Over.

Dig it by visiting www.sarahborges.com.

Sarah returns to the Narrows in a few months.

Eilen Jewell Backstage at the Narrows

Above, that's Eilen Jewell backstage (so to speak) about a half hour before she headlined at the Narrows on Saturday night.

Last year was a great one for Eilen and her group as their CD Letters from Sinners and Strangers received national acclaim and radio airplay.

Eilen was gracious to note during Saturday night's show that the Narrows was one of the first places to take a chance and book her and the boys.

The Narrows' faith in Eilen seems to be paying off--according to our observation, she drew double the audience from the last time she visited us; a fairly large and enthusiastic crowd that seemed to know her songs.

Congrats to this talented young woman!  Her hard work is paying off!

The Dirt From Ollabelle's Amy Helm

Ollabelle is returning to the Narrows very soon (visit http://www.ncfta.org/ for more info)! They've played the Narrows several times and have blown the house away. This is a guarantee winner if you're into roots music. Absolutely brilliant stuff!

Amy Helm, of Ollabelle, is the daughter of Levon Helm, formerly of The Band. Last year was big for Levon, what with an extremely successful album (Dirt Farmer) and all. And Amy helped to make it happen for her dad.

Paste Magazine talks to Amy here.

Story Night On A Stormy Night

The wind blew and the rain fell, and, Friday night, upstairs at the Narrows the stories they did tell.

First, opener Michael Troy set the tone with his original ballads of the mills, hills and spills of Fall River.

Headliner Rosalie Sorrels, in her first appearance at the Narrows, sang of love, hopping trains and waltzing with bears, and talked of friends and acquaintances like Hunter Thompson, Ken Kesey and Rev. Gary Davis.

Rosalie Sorrels Featured in Projo

Rosalie Sorrels, playing the Narrows Friday night, was featured in today's Providence Journal.

Take a look by clicking here.

Eilen Jewell Interview Posted

Narrows fave--and one of the strongest up-and-comers we've seen--Eilen Jewell was interviewed recently.

Eilen will be at the Narrows this weekend.

To read the interview, click here.

Tickets are selling well but are still available.  

Friday Night Soul

What can one say?  Bettye LaVette and her band put down some smokin' soul Friday night at the Narrows.  

Kingston Trio Member, "Gold" Singer Passes

John Stewart, a longtime member of the Kingston Trio, who had a hit with Stevie Nicks in the 1970s with a song called "Gold" ("People out there are turning music into gold..") has died.

Details here.

Tom Rush, Kate Taylor, Pendragon

Tom Rush, Kate Taylor and Pendragon will be added to the schedule verrry soon.

Visit www.ncfta.org.

The Elevator Is In, Baby!

Your fashionably attired blogger recently demonstrated the use of the new Narrows elevator. 

Yes folks, it's finally here!

After five years climbing those steps, your blogger vows to climb no more!

Congrats to Narrows prez Patrick Norton and program director Deb Charlebois, and everybody else involved in making this happen.

By the way, the Narrows is about $15,000 short on paying off this puppy, so if you can help let us know!

Roomful of Blues Trumpet Player Dies

On the eve of the release of a new recording, Roomful of Blues trumpet player Bob Enos died.

Details here.

Old School Freight Train Rolling Down the Tracks

Friday night saw the return of a Narrows favorite--Old School Freight Train, up out of the great state of Virginia.

It was something like the 3rd visit for this young progressive bluegrass--or whatever you call it--group of young guys (the oldest is 30 years old).

And the audience continues to grow.

That's what we like to see--audience development.

Dame Judith

Jazz singer/songwriter/comedienne--yes she is verry funny--Judith Owen charmed the Narrows crowd Thursday night.

The Wales native--now living in LA with husband Harry Shearer (you know, he's involved with The Simpsons)--opened the show with what might be termed a "smooth jazz" take on Deep Purple's "Smoke on the Water."

Then it was off to the races for an evening of funny stories and excellent musicianship.

It was the first visit for Dame Judith, but we hope to bring her back again. Watch this space!

Thanks from the Prez

January 1, 2008

An open letter to our friends and family:

Thanks to our volunteers, patrons, extended family, sponsors and our board of directors, the Narrows Center for the Arts had a banner year in 2007. The biggest accomplishment was the completion of our long awaited elevator project. The elevator is complete and we are just waiting for the state inspection before it goes online. A lot of grunt work, fundraising and coordination of efforts took place to make this $192,000 project happen. In particular, I want to thank Congressman Jim McGovern who secured $100,000 from the federal government, architect JoAnn Bentley for her tireless effort and expertise and Collins Construction for their fine work.

We are in the process of installing a handicap bathroom which will complete our accessibility. A special thank you to patron and friend Matt Brown for donating 24 guitars worth over $35,000 to make this project happen.

Concert attendance significantly increased in 2007. We were awarded a Best of Rhode Island award for "Destination Concerts" by Rhode Island Monthly. Not bad for a Massachusetts-based venue.

A special thanks here to local businessman Alan Amaral for donating $20,000 worth of sound and lights. We are in the process of installing the new lighting and improving our concert sound. We will continue to strive to have the finest acts, best sound and provide the ultimate concert experience.

On the visual arts front, we recently signed a collaborative agreement with the Fuller Museum in Brockton to bring in museum quality art shows. The first of which is "Pulp Function" which debuts on February 15. This is an amazing exhibit with all the items created in paper. We will be bringing in over 1,000 local public school kids to view this exhibit. We are in the process of renovating our gallery to give it a whole new look and feel.

The 6th Annual Narrows Festival of the Arts was a smashing success. Attendance was great and we had over 40 visual artists. The music absolutely cooked with great sets by Cassandra McKinley, Buckwheat Zydeco and many others. The unique pairing of New Orleans legends Leo Nocentelli and Henry Butler tore up Anawan Street. The children's venue was a lot of fun and this event has become the premier family arts event in Southeastern New England. Thanks to Sovereign Bank and the Massachusetts Cultural Council for keeping this event free.

We have long boasted of the fact the we are run entirely by volunteers. And what a great group of volunteers they are. A lot of work goes on behind the scenes to produce the many great events that happen each year at the Narrows. It's quite amazing. We are at a transition point and we are so happy to announce our first employee will start on January 2. Our new director of operations is Deb Charlebois. Many of you who frequent the Narrows already know Deb. She has been at the heart and soul of so much of what we do for so long and she is an amazing talent. Bringing her on full time will allow our venue to continue to grow and prosper.

Once again, thanks to everyone who had a hand in our success this year. We will never take any of you for granted. We will continue to improve and excel while maintaining our core mission of providing high quality arts to as many of you as possible.

Happy New Year!

Patrick Norton
President
Narrows Center for the Arts

Singing the Unsung

John Paul Viveiros used to roadie around the area for years. These days he's a volunteer roadie at the Narrows.

That means he specializes in the equipment load in and load out--behind the scenes, thankless tasks that sometimes hurt! (Ever have an amp land on your toe?) In the photo, that's J.P. up on the loading dock getting handed something-or-other from yackety sax player Doug James, of Duke Robillard's band, hours before the show. John Paul, as usual, is smiling.

J.P., as he is know, also often works the door and is available for other tasks--all for the love of the music.

So on this last day of 2007 let's give a salute to one of the Narrows' unsung heroes!

Thanks John Paul!

Achy Breaky Stuntmen

In addition to their high powered yet tuneful sound, the Drunk Stuntmen always are interested in providing a good visual for the fans. And that's what they did Friday night at the Narrows.

One of their devoted followers helped out with this one, bringing the spirit of the "mulleted-one" onto the stage.

Nonetheless, the Stuntmen got serious in all their wildness, putting out some solid sounds. They're no doubt psyched up about their new record coming out in March. It was produced by R.E.M. producer Mitch Easter.

Alejandro!

Thursday night Alejandro Escovedo, above with his terrific sideguy, pushed back the post-Christmas blues with his energy and creativity. It was the opening of the winter season at the Narrows Center for the Arts after a few weeks off so we could get to know our friends and families again.



Jeffrey Foucault, below, was the opener.

Mavis Staples Coming to the Narrows

Great new shows for the late winter and early spring, anchored by--for the first time ever--the phenomenal Mavis Staples! That's her in the photo. 2008 is looking great at the Narrows.

March 8
Coco Montoya

He learned the electric blues guitar from Albert Collins while playing drums in his band. John Mayall recruited him for his newly re-formed Bluesbreakers, filling the spot once held by the likes of Eric Clapton and Mick Taylor. "In a world of blues guitar pretenders, Coco Montoya is the real McCoy. Be prepared to get scorched," says Billboard. http://www.cocomontoya.com/.

$20, $23

March 22
Catherine Russell

A jazz and blues singer, the Village Voice has called her "incredibly talented and classy." Talk about a solid foundation: Her dad was Louis Armstrong's music director; her mom is a bassist and singer who has performed with Mary Lou Williams and Wynton Marsalis. To give you a better feel for her work, here are some of her gigs before playing the Narrows: the Panama Jazz Festival (Republic of Panama, where her dad was born); opening for the Levon Helm Band in Woodstock; several dates as part of the American Beauty Project, a tribute to the Grateful Dead, featuring Ollabelle and Jim Lauderdale; and a performance for the Mountain Stage Radio Show. Her new album was recorded at the Levon Helms Studios in Woodstock and will be released shortly before she plays the Narrows. http://www.catherinerussell.net/.

$18 , $20

May 17
Mavis Staples

She's a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and VH1's Greatest Women of Rock and Roll. She was a member of the Staple Singers, who had two #1 singles, "I'll Take You There" and "Let's Do It Again." During the 1960s the group was the spiritual and musical voice of the civil rights movement, and were closely associated with Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Over the years, Ms. Staples has worked as a solo performer, recording her own albums and working with Bob Dylan (a Grammy nomination for her duet with him on the song "Gotta Change My Way of Thinking"), Prince, The Band, Ray Charles, Delbert McClinton, Natalie Merchant, George Jones, and others. Whew!! http://www.mavisstaples.com/.

$50, $55

To purchase tickets, visit www.ncfta.org.

At this writing, the shows aren't on the official schedule, so you may have to check back in a day or so.

Lafave, Young, Greencards & Borges Get Top Spins

Americanamusic.org has released its top 100 radio spins in 2007 list--and we're proud to say that Narrows' alums Jimmy Lafave, the Greencards, Adrienne Young (on the right playing the Narrows in 2006) and Sarah Borges & the Broken Singles made the top 20. Other Narrows alums, including Eilen Jewell and the Holmes Brothers, made it onto the overall list.

Here's the top twenty, artist and album name:

1) Lucinda Williams, West

2) Ryan Adams, Easy Tiger

3) Kelly Willis, Translated From Love

4) Son Volt, The Search

5) Patty Griffin, Children Running Through

6) Marty Stuart, Compadres: An Anthology of Duets

7) Jay Boy Adams, The Shoe Box

8) Joe Ely, Happy Songs From Rattlesnake Gulch

9) Subdudes, Street Symphony

10) Gurf Morlix, Diamonds To Dust

11) Jimmy LaFave, Cimarron Manifesto

12) Various Artists, Endless Highway The Music Of The Band

13) Greencards, Viridian

14) Adrienne Young, Room To Grow

15) Joan Osborne,Pretty Little Stranger

16) Sarah Borges And The Broken Singles, Diamonds In The Dark

17) Sunny Sweeney, Heartbreakers Hall Of Fame

18) Steve Earle, Washington Square Serenade

19) Old Crow Medicine Show, Big Iron World

20) Doug Spartz, The One Who's Leavin'

For the complete list, including exactly how many spins each got, click here.

Narrows Wins Big At Boston Music Awards

Well, not exactly--but Narrows' artists did quite well at the event, held December 1 (your humble blogger is a few weeks behind the times).

As mentioned earlier on this blog, Lori McKenna got album of the year for "Unglamorous." That was in the major label category.

Best local male vocalist was a guy we hosted just once, if I'm not mistaken: Ryan Montbleau.

Did I mention Sarah Borges received the best local female vocalist?

Our guy Chris Smither received the outstanding folk act of the year award and Josh Ritter received the outstanding singer/songwriter of the year award.

The complete list can be found here.

Top Americana/Folk/Jazz CDs of 2007

Well, well, well...it's time to gather around your Backstage Blogger to discuss the best Americana/folk CDs of 2007--or whatever you call the music we normally feature at the Narrows. We should include jazz, jam, etc. as well--and I don't know what you call the music made by the likes of Rasputina.

The CDs don't have to be by artists who have played the Narrows, though some may be.

For example, one of my favorites is Bruce Springsteen's latest "Magic." I'm not wild about the production, but it sure is a nice kick-in-your-face presentation. Great songs, great playing. The compression, or whatever you call it, is too squashed for these furry ears.

I kinda like the Eagles' latest, though as time goes on I'm not so sure. Not as interesting to me at least.

The Holmes Brothers' "State of Grace" CD was certainly a highlight, as they transformed Cheap Trick's lecherous "I Want You to Want Me" into a gospel number (!!), and interpreted tunes from folks like John Fogarty ("Bad Moon Rising") and Nick Lowe ("What So Funny About Peace, Love and Understanding"). Rollingstone.com particulary took note of the Cheap Trick cover.

Sarah Borges and the Broken Singles released "Diamonds in the Dark" in 2007. "Open Up Your Backdoor," a fun, audience-participation song during their concerts, is one of the best tracks, but garage-bandy "Stop and Think It Over" is the hit for your humble Backstage Blogger, an unabashed Sarah Borges and the Broken Singles fan. It was the major label (Sugar Hill) debut for Sarah and the fellows.

Narrows alum--and now would-be country star with the help of Faith Hill and Tim McGraw--Lori McKenna put out a compelling record called "Unglamorous" in 2007 on Warner Brothers. Not sure if it made her a C & W star at this point (though she won "Album of the Year" in the Boston Music Awards), but still an excellent outing and worth a listen. She knows how to write a tune! As you may know, she lives up in Stoughton, MA with her husband Gene and five kids. We have hosted her only once, if memory serves, a few years back. Nice woman and a great talent.

Although the record came out in 2006, let's give a tip-0f-the-hat to Cassandre McKinley, a Boston-based jazz chanteuse, for her "Til Tomorrow" CD, a tribute to Marvin Gaye. Her website isn't up and running, but here's a link to a review of her recording. Cassandre played the 2007 Narrows Festival of the Arts, and your blogger never listened to "Til Tomorrow" until 2007. By the way, her cover of the Beatles "Yesterday" (which apparently Marvin Gaye recorded as well) is worth the price of admission. Her partnership with Brad Hatfield (she and Brad did the arrangements, and Brad plays keyboards on the record) works well, and your Backstage Blogger hopes it continues.

Americanaroots.com, for which your blogger used to write reviews, has polled its writers for their Top Ten. See their stuff here. Some of the Narrows alums making their lists are Eilen Jewell, the Avett Brothers, Mary Gauthier, Uncle Earl, Grace Potter, John Gorka and Jim Lauderdale.

Leave your fave CD list in the comments section.

Learn More About Old School Freight Train

Old School Freight Train, an extremely creative bluegrass-based type group, is once again coming to the Narrows--this time Friday, January 11.

(Your humble Backstage Blogger doesn't know how tickets are going, but chances are getting entrance should be no problemo for this show. Visit http://www.ncfta.org/)

These young guys are absolutely brilliant players and know how to entertain as well. But because they're young they're still in the audience-building phase, which is why I urge that you take the time to learn more about them and consider coming to the show. Your humble Backstage Blogger has proclaimed this show a "lock"--using a sports term indicating a sure thing.

Don't just look at the schedule and say "don't know 'em" and move on. If you dig the David Grisman jazz/bluegrass thing (he's a fan of theirs, btw) then you are almost required to learn more. These are your guys.

But your humble blogger must point out that these guys are SONG GUYS. Some great instrumentalists are so into riffing that they (to kinda quote Chuck Berry), they lose the beauty of the melody. Not Old School Freight Train.

Okay, enough blathering from yours truly. Check out this write up on jambase.

Ben's List

Rasputina: Gothic but rockin' says Ben

You've heard of Craig's List? It's time for Ben's List for 2007.

Ben Norton, still in grade school, is one of the youngest volunteers at the Narrows. Nonetheless, since he's been growing up at the Narrows, his musical sophistication is well beyond his years.

Without further ado, here's the word from Ben:

In no particular order!

Rasputina--Gothic but rockin'.

Sarah Borges and Broken Singles--Good as usual.

Drunk Stuntmen--Drunk as usual (Note from your Backstage Blogger: Ben is just goofing here. At least I think he is!)

Old School Freight Train--Cool cats.

Tripping Lily--Local but good! (Note from your Backstage Blogger: Ben is apparently cleverly alluding to the misconception that if you're local, you can't be good--which as we all know, including Ben, is not true.)

Richie Havens--Awesome.

New Riders of the Purple Sage--Good show.

Holmes Brothers--Poppy is funny! Shout out to him. (Note from your Backstage Blogger: Hey Poppy! We're shoutin' out to you!)

The John Cowan Band--Great musicians.

Buckwheat Zydeco--He has cool alligator shoes.

l also liked: Henry Butler

Sorrels,Forbert,Girlyman,Jewell,Entrain

Not yet posted on http://www.ncfta.org/:

February 1
Rosalie Sorrels

Gonzo dude Hunter Thompson and folklore guy Studs Terkel wrote liner notes for some of her albums. As part of its Beat Generation Archives, the University of California set up a Rosalie Sorrels Archive. Etc. etc. etc. She's a folk icon and we're truly honored to have her perform. Don't know her? Check out her website and meet her--and learn a bit about America too: http://www.rosaliesorrels.com/.

$20, $23


February 2
Eilen Jewell

We first met her as an opening act; now her music is popular on Americana radio stations across the USA. She's gotta a kinda lazy, sexy, western swingy kind of voice and a cookin' band. And she knows how to write a tune. Give a listen to this young woman! http://www.eilenjewell.com/.

$15, $17

Feb 23
Entrain

The Boston Globe's Steve Morse described Entrain as "like a lively summit conference between the Dave Matthews Band and Little Feat.” Says it all. http://www.entrain.com/.

$15, $17


March 29
Girlyman

A strange name, perhaps, but these are serious young musicians who are classically trained, and play all sorts of guitars, banjo and mandolin to make what has been called a folk/pop/bluegrass sound. http://www.girlyman.com/.

$15, $17

April 19
Steve Forbert

Yes, he's the "Romeo's Tune" guy. But his career has been much more than that, as those who have seen him previously at the Narrows know firsthand. We particularly dig his version of the Kinks' "Star Struck." http://www.steveforbert.com/.

$20, $23

Guitar Beauty Pageant

Narrows piano tech Andrew Pettey shows off a Gretsch White Falcon worth $2,000+

He's sitting in front of some art from music legend Richie Havens

As you might have heard, the Narrows is holding a guitar auction to raise the dough to keep the music and art humming for many years to come.

A very generous collector donated a bunch of these bad boys to the cause, and you can help yourself and the Narrows by making a bid.

We're featuring just a few of the guitars on this blog. There are many more. Email publicrelations@ncfta.org if you want more info.

Narrows president Patrick Norton shows off a Tom Anderson Atom valued at $2,200+.
He's sitting below a visual art piece by Richie Havens on display in the Narrows' Gallery

Deb Charlebois, queen of the numbers at the Narrows, cradles a USA Parker Fly Mojo worth $1,500+