Think Globally, Listen Locally

by | Jan 9, 2013 | Welcome Column

I know of no art form that embraces amateur participation like bluegrass. It’s instantly accessible, eminently portable and provides both instant gratification and lasting enjoyment. The professionals in this music form are a curious anomaly – it’s not their fault...

Thinking About the Groove

by | Oct 1, 2020 | Welcome Column

It’s fricking October already and I haven’t played any music with anyone (besides my wife) in 7 months. I see and hear of others doing it and I am very envious of them. I was invited a couple of times a few months back and turned them down as the news was indicating...

This ain’t no mouse music

by | Sep 11, 2015 | Welcome Column

I just saw a wonderful documentary on Netflix about the history of Arhoolie Records and it’s interesting founder, a fellow named Chris Strachwitz. Chris is a German immigrant who  was smitten by the beauty and primitive majesty of all forms of American roots...

This Ain’t Your Granny’s Generation

by | Jul 1, 2012 | Welcome Column

It’s Friday night and I sat down at my desk and thought that I might actually get a jump on my Sunday column. After pouring a bit of my customary pre-writing bourbon, I began to stare at the computer screen. I’d planned out my bit of monthly prose while watching the...