Like the Sleepy's Mattress radio commercial, I just can't get Devon Sproule out of my head. The Virginia-native singer/songwriter has been making waves lately at the ripe age of 26 with her folksy jazz/country sound. And while her music rings of Applachian routes, Sproule was born a fellow Canuck on a hippy commune in Kingston, Ontario. However, some might say the combination of influences have rooted Sproule as a funky amalgamation of traditional folk, vocal jazz, and a dash of rockabilly.
Her newest album "Keep Your Silver Shined" seems to be her best work yet. It includes a rockin' ditty called "Old Virginia Block" and a more tradional folk song titled "The Weeping Willow" that features legend Mary Chapin Carpenter. At a low online price of $15, this CD is a steal. And better yet, Sproule will be opening up for Rachel Unthank this Thursday night at the Iron Horse. Get your tickets now as this seems to be another popular show. Pioneer in the Valley will be there, come say hi to Mike and Chris at the show!
Stay tuned and we will report back soon about how the show went.
We made it! This is our last blog about the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival. We have covered most of the do's and dont's and the Q's and A's, but for our last post I wanted to make sure to included a small but potentially vital detail about the Falcon Ridge seating system.
Visitors are allowed to place tarps or blankets in front of any of the stages at Falcon Ridge including the main stage. Falcon ridge asks, however, that you limit the size of your tarps. Also, there is no rule about claiming your spot for the day, and leaving the spot whenever you feel like it. The non-regulation of the tarps encourages a few really disappointing problems:
People line up at 5 a.m. and reserve there spots for 7 p.m. shows leaving everyone else to sit behind their sacred spots and the performers playing for empty rows the entire day.
People have large tarps so they save spots for not only themselves, all of their friends, coolers, vision-blocking umbrellas, lawn chairs, and much more as well.
People argue all weekend about the who is on whose tarp, and who wasn't at their tarp all day, and who moved whose tarp. It's really silly and immature.
Now we were one of the many people who didn't understand the system the first day, but for Saturday, we decided that we would have to rise early and compete for a spot. I awoke at 5:30 a.m. because a sign said "no tarps until 7 a.m." I came running down the hill to see a line had already formed. However, I figured that because I could only see about 15 people, that I would be able to reserve a small 2x2 spot for Chris and I.
When I got the line, I was greeted with dirty looks, whispers, and finally a man who felt compelled to be the spokesman for his entire block of friends. He approached me and told me that "we have all been doing this for years, and we really have priority over these whole front section." He continued to explain to me that he and his friends tie their regulation-sized tarps together, to create one big tarp that takes up the entire first few rows. They then tie one end of that larger tarp to the ground. When the Falcon Ridge volunteer gives the signal that people can begin placing their tarps, all they do is roll out their tarp and take up the entire front section (see images of the starting line above). However, everone else with just one tarp runs around in madness and hopes they can find a pot in between the tarp-tiers. Seriously, it's a frenzy. I literally lost a flip flop in the altercation.
Now, in the end we got good seats for the day, however, I think considering all of the positive, familial action throughout the weekend that we have blogged about, this kind of scenario is just appalling. I think it is unbelievable that people would rather stake claim for their umbrellas and coolers then to let people share a good view of the concert. And worst of all, a good 90% of these people leave their tarps for the entire day, and only return around 7 p.m. for the evening shows. I think shame on them for being such selfish and immature adults, but shame on Falcon Ridge as well for not putting an end to this system. I think it sends a really poor message to first time visitors, and is bad for recidivism. Throughout the weekend we spoke with many people who said the arguments and drama over the seating had turned them off from the Falcon Ridge experience. This is a sad, but fixable reality.
With that being said, you should prepare for this if seeing the show from a good spot is important to you when attending Falcon Ridge. You should either be up at 4:30 or 5 a.m. on the day of the show, or make a point to mention to the organizers of the show that you are not happy with the system. Unfortunately I think this has gone on for so long that people have gotten used to this strange group of people who feel some sort of entitlement to the entire front section because they are return visitors. I have news for them, there are a lot of return visitors who also invest a lot of time and money in Falcon Ridge, but don't have the guts to act like children.
Well, I know that is a bit of a sour note, but I want to say that aside from the tarps, the entire Falcon Ridge experience was somewhat magical. We great music, eat great food, experienced some nature, got away from cell phone reception for a weekend, and met some great people. I would recommend the festival to anyone who loves music, and does not fear a little mud between the toes.
I hoped you enjoy our 2008 Falcon Ridge Journey. See you again next year, bring your tarps.
So in advance, Chris and I realized that we had some prior unavoidable committments on Sunday, and it would be best if we left after the final show on Saturday evening. So that day we knew we would be our last. In the long run, we were quite fortunate because of our decision. On Sunday, the finald day of Falcon Ridge 2008, a rare tornado hit Hillsdale and cancelled the remaining hours of the show. Check out some of the crazy video this Youtuber posted. The people at Falcon Ridge have established a Tornado Fund to help pay for all the damage.
We began the day remarkebly like we ended as Vance Gilbert was on the main stage again by noon for his full solo set. He was sharp as usual, and gave a very comical performance. He took the opportunity to poke at the signer who was interpreting his lyrics by holding a very long note for more than a minute. When the signer looked puzzled and desperately search for a cue, Vance just smiled and kept going.
Following Vance was the Most Wanted Song Swap, complete with performances from last years' Upcoming Artists Showcase. Anthony Da Costa, Joe Crookston, Randall Williams and Lindsay Mac took turns sharing songs for the small early crowd. However, each of the performers seemed well received.
After really great sets by both John Gorka and Patti Larkin, Chris Smither took the stage as clouds began to hover over. Unaffected, the 65-year old Smither smoothly layered old and new tunes from his large library. His personality, voice, and amazing talent seemed to stun the entire crowd and other performers. Mr. Smither is clearly a hidden gem in folk music that deserves a lot more credit than he often gets. I implore anyone to check out his most recent album Leave the Light On, as well as the title track. He is brutally honest and insightful, and his voice has a perfectly matured tone throughout the album. Check it out!
Nerissa and Katryna Nields, the belles of Northampton, were up next on the main stage. I need to say that for 8 1/2 months pregnant, Nerissa can rock. The girls gave a raucus hour-set which included stuff from their new double disc Rock All Day/Rock All Night. They even also brought Dar Williams out in advance to her set ot play out a couple of tunes. Check out some of the Nields performances with Pioneer in the Valley original videos beneath.
Nerissa and Katryna Nields - Easy People - 2008 Falcon Ridge Folk Festival
Nerissa and Katryna Nields - The Right Road - 2008 Falcon Ridge Folk Festival
Nerissa and Katryna Nields with Dar Williams - I Know What Kind of Love This Is - 2008 Falcon Ridge Folk Festival
Nerissa and Katryna Nields with Dar Williams - Endless Day - 2008 Falcon Ridge Folk Festival
The Nields were great, and as always, a perfect leadup to Dar Williams. Now, guessing by the size of the crowd when Dar took stage just after dark on Saturday night, many people came to Falcon Ridge specifically for Dar.
Her shows and music are legend, and a great source of pride for the pioneer valley. This night her set seemed politically charged. She played her new song buzzer, as well as some great Dar favorites such as "As Cool as I Am" and "Mercy Of the Fallen."
When it came time to play her standard and Falcon Ridge Tradition, Dar had a surprise. Now, every year when Dar plays "Iowa" at Falcon Ridge, the crowd puts up their cell phones to show a beautiful image of a sea full of lights. Last year Dar brought her son on stage to catch a glimpse of the light show. This year she told us all to hide our lights while she brought up Patty Larkin, the Nields, her hsuband and all of their children to the stage. She began to sing and when she said go, everyone held up the lights for what must have been a great view for the young children. Then Dar began to talk about how the world is in a tough place right now, but she told the children that "these people" were looking out for them. It was one of those beautiful moments where you just had to be there.
Beneath I have posted the last of the Falcon Ridge videos as we left soon after Dar. Please not that once dar took stage, my video camera battery had dies. So, unfortunately the Dar Williams perofmance videos are not complete as they were shot on my digital camera. Either way, enjoy.
Also, stay tuned yet again for the last of our Falcon Ridge posts. Next time, tarp people. I'll explain letter. Until then, enjoy Dar, I always do.
Dar Williams - Mercy of the Fallen - 2008 Falcon Ridge Folk Festival
Dar Williams - Mercy of the Fallen - 2008 Falcon Ridge Folk Festival
Dar Williams - Spring Street - 2008 Falcon Ridge Folk Festival
Dar Williams - The Babysitter's Here - 2008 Falcon Ridge Folk Festival
Dar Williams w/ John Gorka and Patty Larkin - Iowa - 2008 Falcon Ridge Folk Festival
We dropped the big Vance Gilbert interview yesterday, and now it's time to pickup where we left off on our Falcon Ridge journey. Next up, the Summer's Eve Song Swap on Friday evening.
The song swap is a tradition at Falcon Ridge where performers get together and take turns playing us some of there tunes. In 2008, a great lineup was produced consisting of none other than Mr. Vance Gilbert, John Gorka, Patty Larkin, and Eliza Gilkyson. I must say, they all were as good as advertised.
The four artists all played great sets of music old and new. Combined they have about a hundred years of writing and performing music under their belts, so it was nice to catch a glimpse of some of the best in this genre, as well as a lot of the history of the music we all gathered to celebrate.
The show made for a great way to end off the night at the main stage.
Here are a couple of pictures of the group laughing and performing. Next up, Saturday, crazy tarp people, and the return of Dar Williams and the Nields.
Well, I have to say I am very excited about this one. During Falcon Ridge we were lucky enough to catch up with our friend Vance Gilbert on Friday for a 25-minute exclusive interview! For Vance fans this is going to be a real gem. Vance spills about how he writes songs, the new album, his inspirations, and his time with the late and great George Carlin. First a bit of background about Vance for those of you soon-to-be Vanceheads.
Vance Gilbert is a native of Philadelphia. He began his career singing jazz. However, he soon began rocking the folk-filled open mics of Boston in the early '90s. Today he is credited as one of the great bards that shaped the thriving Boston folk scene.
I first met Vance in 1998 when he was promoting his unbelievable album "Shaking Of Gravity." I was 14 years old and trying to see any free concert I could reporting for the Gardner News. Vance was appearing at the local Mount Wachusett Community College in a small show with this the cellist, Gideon Freudmann. To be honest I went in very curious about what to expect. Vance, who is black and stands at least 6-feet tall and 200+lbs (at thattime) did not fit the description of your average folk singer. When I got to the show, I realized that that wasn't the only thing about Vance that wasn't average.
Going to see Vance live is sort of like being trapped in an elevator with Richard Pryor and Stevie Wonder. His upfront and at times hillariously abrasive humor is so refreshing for a folk show, which can sometimes be stuffy. He is honest about life, music, and most importantly people. His hilarious banter between songs has become legend between folk artists. I think it brings a whole new element to the music scene. The audience in most folk concerts are very quiet, stiff and suburban. However, at a Vance show people are laughing, singing, and hoping he won't make a crack about them! It has the same "on the edge of your seat" energy of a standup show.
But the thing about Vance is, his comedic talents are only enhanced by his remarkable musical gifts. He has an incredible vocal range with a pure, slick tone (picture if Tracy Chapman and Stevie Wonder had a child). In addition, his guitar playing is nothing to scoff at. He takes no shortcuts on any of his tracks, and each of his albums have included little more than him and a guitar.
Before I go on and on and on about Vance, check him out for yourself in this exclusive interview. Or make sure to visit his Web site http://www.vancegilbert.com/ and pick up his new album Up on Rockfield which will be released Sept. 23 but is availble now online! And, this is very important, Vance will be making his self proclaimed " great Western Mass album release celebration" at the Iron Horse this Friday. Tickets will sell out quick so get yours now at the Iron Horse Web site.
So, a few things you should know about this interview.
A) It takes place at the booth that you purchase ice at Falcon Ridge as per Vance's suggestion. (We has nowehere else to go.) So I apologize for the lack of atmosphere, it is missing a certain Je ne sais quoi.
B) Vance was super generous with his time on and off camera.
OK, so it feels just shameful that this is when we are getting back to the folk at hand, but it is what it is. I had disastrous computer situations, and it is what it is.
That being said. I want to get back to some of the great action at Falcon Ridge, for past visitors and future alike.
So where were we? Ah yes, Friday. Friday was our first full day at Falcon Ridge. Our goal was to start out early and get a good feel for the whole experience. In order to do so, we already felt the need to have a breakfast recoup, escape from the mud, and proper bathroom with modern plumbing. Lucky for us we only have to drive two miles or so down the road to "downtown" Hillsdale. We were psyched to find the Hillsdale Country Diner. It had the atmosphere of the Great American Diner. The coffee was great, the waitress charming, and the Eggs Benedict helped my full recuperation. If you go to Falcon Ridge, this is no doubt a must stop in the morning.
Above: I can still taste the Eggs Benny.
Following breakfast we arrived back in time to watch the emerging artist showcase. Twenty three artists were picked out of more than 600 applicants to appear in the showcase. Highlights for us included Martha Wainwright of Wainwright family fame (see Loudon , Rufus, and Lucy Wainwright Roche or Martha's Mother Kate McGarrigle) and Brooke Brown Saracinoof Northampton! This is a great show if you want to see some hidden newcomers that might end up on the main stage next year.
Above: A patchwork of quilts and tarps begin to form as performers set up for the "Beatles Forever" workshop.
The group played a really great mixed set of Beatles hits included highlights such as Gandalf Murphy and the Slambovian Circus of Dreams performing "All You Need is Love," the Nields rendition of "Lovely Rita," and Lindsay Mac strumming "Blackbird" on her standup bass. Lowlights however included Randall Williams, who sounds and writes like a C- Dave Matthews at best, performing "Come Together."
Also, I need to address something that bothered me the entire weekend, and its name is Anthony Da Costa. Now, anyone who has been around this folk scene for the past couple of years has heard a lot about Anthony. Upon first listen to his music online, I thought the 16-year-old sounded sort of juvenile, but had definite potential. However, it seems like every single time he is introduced by anyone he is called really inappropriate, ego-inflating titles, such as in this occasion "the next Bob Dylan, the next Bruce Springsteen, the next Beatles, the next Mozart..." by Pete Kennedy of the Strangelings. Now, not that I think the kid is horrible, but let's be honest. He is 16, all of his songs are ripoff Ryan Adams / Bright Eyes tunes (trying to be deep for the sake of being deep), and everybody is really inflating his ego because they are too afraid to risk sounding uncool if they are honest. He performed a version of the Beatles 2 minute "Revolver"diddy"I'm Looking Through You" that must have lasted 6 painful minutes. Everything was drawn out and dramatic. Now I would not mention this if it was not a theme of Da Costa's performances throughout the weekend. Every time he gets on stage you are bound to hear a story that alludes to how seasoned he is as a performer and songwriter at the ripe age of 16. It's just not very charming.
Well, now that I got that off my chest moving on . Enjoy some video snippets of the workshop below.
Above: The Nields sing Lovely Rita.
Above: Tracy Grammar and Joe Crookston perform "Eleanor Rigby"
So All in all I think people really dug the "Beatles Forever" theme. I am always sort of partial to the music of the Beatles, but it seemed like a great deal of the crowd was as well.
Above: These people definitely dug it, hence the jamming and dancing to "Eight Days a Week."
Above: This lady knitting next to us, not so much.
So we were able to take a little break from the performances following the workshop to visit with Vance Gilbert! I know it's very exciting. Tune in to the next entry to see the entire 30-minute interview with Vance!
I have always been fascinated with writing. As a reporter I felt the amazing and sometimes dangerous power of words. I worked for some of the biggest papers in the area, the Boston Globe, the Eagle Tribune and the Worcester Telegram and Gazette. Now that my career has changed focus, I still want to write. I have the wonderful opportunity to share my unique and sometimes peculiar insights into the world, popular culture, and life how I see it in the Pioneer Valley.
Above: A patchwork of quilts and tarps begin to form as performers set up for the "Beatles Forever" workshop.
Above: These people 
Above: This lady knitting next to us, not so much.
