Bill Kirchen-<\/strong> 5:30 PM<\/h1>\n\n\n\nDarrel Nulisch-<\/strong> 3:45 PM<\/h1>\n\n\n\nOrganizing the Dead- <\/strong> 2:00PM<\/h1>\n\n\n\nMiss Laurie Ann & the Saddletones-<\/strong> 12:15 PM<\/h1>\n\n\n\nFreight-<\/strong> 7:45 PM<\/h1>\n\n\n\n_____________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/honesdalerootsandrhythm.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/download-1.jpg?resize=275%2C183&ssl=1\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBill Kirchen- Titan of the Telecaster! Back by popular demand. <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nUpon tallying how many decades he\u2019s worked as a professional guitar slinger, Telecaster master Bill Kirchen quips, \u201cWell, they don’t make 50 years like they used to.\u201d They don\u2019t often make careers like his, either.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nFrom performing with his Who Knows Pickers jug band in Ann Arbor High School\u2019s senior talent show (also on the program: the future Iggy Pop), to birthing the Americana genre with the original \u201chippie country band,\u201d Commander Cody and his Lost Planet Airmen, this affable Austinite has been everywhere, man, flying alongside some of the planet\u2019s coolest cats \u2014 including the Jesus of Cool, Nick Lowe, and Lowe\u2019s old prot\u00e9g\u00e9, Elvis Costello.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kirchen has toured the world with Lowe, who produced an album by Kirchen\u2019s post-Airmen band, the Moonlighters, and Costello recruited Kirchen for high-profile gigs like the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival \u2014 and even named his festival band after Kirchen\u2019s Hammer of the Honky-Tonk Gods<\/em> album. Lowe appears on that 2006 album, and its 2010 follow-up, Word to the Wise<\/em>, along with Costello, Maria Muldaur, Dan Hicks and other luminaries.<\/p>\n\n\n\nNow those albums, plus Kirchen\u2019s third Proper Records release, 2013\u2019s Seeds and Stems,<\/em><\/strong> are being combined with three bonus tracks from Transatlantica<\/em><\/strong>, his 2016 project with pub-rock progenitor Austin de Lone, as a two-CD retrospective titled The Proper Years. <\/strong>Waxworks,<\/em><\/strong> is a vinyl best-of version of the full collection. <\/p>\n\n\n\nA well-balanced mix of engaging originals and wonderfully rendered covers, The Proper Years<\/em><\/strong> admirably conveys Kirchen\u2019s versatility as a player and singer \u2014 one of the first to mash up rockabilly, country, western swing, honky-tonk, jump blues, jazz, boogie-woogie and even the \u201cpsychedelic folk rock\u201d he played with the Seventh Seal, the band he formed while attending the University of Michigan. (MC5 manager\/activist John Sinclair got them a dealon the ESP-Disk label, home of Sun Ra, but the band turned it down.)<\/p>\n\n\n\nSomewhere between steering Commander Cody\u2019s \u201cHot Rod Lincoln\u201d into a top-10 hit and scoring a Grammy nomination for Best Country Instrumental Performance, Kirchen dubbed his sound \u201cdieselbilly,\u201d wrapping his fondness for country\u2019s truck-driving song subgenre (as in big rigs, not pickups), its intersection with the Bakersfield Sound and his own name into one memorable moniker. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kirchen\u2019s right-place-at-the-right-time career has put him at the forefront of many musical movements, including outlaw country; Commander Cody\u2019s 1974 album, Live from Deep in the Heart of Texas,<\/em> recorded at Austin\u2019s legendary Armadillo World Headquarters, made Rolling Stone\u2019s 100 Best Albums of All Time list. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBut whatever label Kirchen\u2019s music wears, it\u2019s always notable for its balance of high-octane energy and deft understatement. There\u2019s no leadfoot excess; Kirchen\u2019s all about finesse \u2014 a sensibility absorbed from the symphonies and Broadway musicals his parents loved, along with the orchestral works he played as a school-band trombonist. Through another major influence, Interlochen Center for the Arts summer camp counselor David Siglin (who would go on to run famed Ann Arbor venue the Ark), Kirchen became immersed in folk traditions and learned to love the \u201cbig, sonorous tones\u201d of an undistorted guitar. \u201cI was more interested in sounding like Doc Watson than Eric Clapton,\u201d admits Kirchen, whose main guitar was crafted by Rick Kelly of Carmine Street Guitars from 200-year-old pine floorboards recycled from film director Jim Jarmusch\u2019s loft. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s fitting that this collection begins with his ode to that Telly-modeled \u201cstick of wood\u201d he calls \u201cthe bicycle of the electric guitar \u2014the most efficient way to get from point A to point B.\u201d That song also serves as exhibit A in a collection showcasing a central facet of Kirchen\u2019s songwriting: his wit. If there\u2019s a laugh to be reached for \u2014 or stooped to \u2014Kirchen\u2019s goin\u2019 for it; you don\u2019t survive years in a band named Commander Cody and his Lost Planet Airmen, or drop album titles like Seeds and Stems<\/em><\/strong>, without possessing a gleefully subversive, double-entendre-loving funny bone. \u201cI like music where at least someone onstage is smiling sometimes, fer crissake,\u201d jokes Kirchen, who\u2019s often grinning happily when he\u2019s not busy singing.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBut for every injection of humor, there\u2019s an equal dose of heart (and in some cases, heartbreak). And songs like \u201cTell Me the Reason\u201d or \u201cGet a Little Goner\u201d illustrate another truism: Kirchen often sets the saddest or mostbiting lyrics to the jauntiest melodies. Those two were cowritten by his wife, Louise; \u201cGoner\u201d also features frequent contributor Sarah Brown (coincidentally also raised in Ann Arbor).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kirchen likes collaborating; on Word to the Wise,<\/strong> a musical reminiscence of sorts, he tapped several favorite artists to join him, carefully selecting or writing songs for each. In the liner notes, he explains, \u201cThe criteria we used were that you had to be A) someone I had actually played with, either on stage or record, and B) not dead yet.\u201d Sadly, Norton Buffalo, who played harmonica with the Airmen and Moonlighters, passed away shortly after recording \u201cValley of the Moon\u201d \u2014 in which Kirchen revisits scenes of his early life with Louise on a trip to attend a funeral (for Hacienda Brother Chris Gaffney, another musical mate). Dan Hicks, who delivered a note-perfect duet on the title tune \u2014 written for him \u2014died in 2016. But as of this writing, Lowe, Costello, Maria Muldaur, Paul Carrack, original Asleep at the Wheel vocalist Chris O\u2019Connell and Commander Cody (aka George Frayne) are still very much with us. <\/p>\n\n\n\nKirchen\u2019s entertaining liner notes explain his connection to each, tracing many of these relationships directly to longtime collaborator and \u201cmainman\u201d Austin de Lone, who appears on all three solo albums and shares billing on Transatlanticana<\/em><\/strong>. Philadelphia-born keyboardist de Lone and his band, Eggs Over Easy, moved to England in 1970, urged by Jimi Hendrix\u2019s manager, Chas Chandler. Their rootsy mix of blues, country and rock caught on \u2014 and germinated the pub rock movement, whose acolytes included Brinsley Schwarz, in which Lowe played bass. In 1972, de Lone moved to California, where he met Kirchen. Years later, de Lone wound up joining the Moonlighters and introducing Kirchen to Lowe, who produced the band\u2019s 1983 album, Rush Hour <\/em>(and introduced Kirchen to Costello). That album was engineered by Paul Riley, who eventually would produce all four of Kirchen\u2019s Proper Records albums. <\/p>\n\n\n\nA devoted Anglophile, thanks to two aunts who married Brits, Kirchen began recording for the label after owner Malcolm Mills promised, \u201cI’m going to give you the best deal you’ve had in 25 years.\u201d He did, too. Mills not only supports Kirchen\u2019s recorded output, he also supports the guitarist on stage, right alongside bassist Riley. \u201cWhere else do you get a record company where the owner plays drums, the producer plays bass, and they tour with you?\u201d Kirchen says of his good friends. \u201cThey\u2019re the best.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That\u2019s just another twist in an incredible career trajectory set in motion, according to Kirchen, by two pivotal events: the 1964 and \u201965 Newport Folk Festivals. As a high-school kid on a quest to catch Mississippi John Hurt, he thumbed to the first one, then went back the following year \u2014 and witnessed Dylan going electric. \u201cThat pretty well blew away the competition for what I was going to do before, or if, or when I grew up,\u201d he says of those experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Five years later, he found himself sharing a bill with John Lennon, Yoko Ono and Stevie Wonder, when Commander Cody and the Airmen, who\u2019d formed in Ann Arbor, played a benefit for Sinclair after he got 10 years for two joints. A mere 50 years later, Kirchen\u2019s still having a blast. He\u2019s even planning another tour with Riley and Mills. But releasing this package, he says, \u201cnicely puts a bow on a whole, very enjoyable period of my life.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cNot that it’s over,\u201d he adds quickly. \u201cI mean, I’ve got more stuff in the works.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then he cracks, \u201cDon\u2019t tell anybody, but it’s not as hard as it looks.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDarrel Nulisch<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\nDarrell Nulisch (Dallas, Texas) is an American blues singer and harmonica player. <\/strong>A
two-time Grammy Award Nominee, Darrell was a key member of The James Cotton
Band, founding member of Anson Funderburgh and the Rockets and member of Ronnie
Earl and The Broadcasters. Nulisch’s repertoire incorporates soul combined with R&B
and Chicago blues, redesigned to complement his distinctive vocals.<\/h2>\n\n\n\nNulisch was raised listening to Texas radio, soaking in the sounds of soul, blues and
R&B. In 1978 he was a founding member of Anson Funderburgh’s Rockets and sang
with them until 1985. He was then part of Mike Morgan’s Crawl, before moving to
Massachusetts and joining up with Ronnie Earl’s Broadcasters in 1988. He began his
solo career late in 1990, relocating to Boston.
James Cotton then asked him to sing with Cotton’s band on tour, after Cotton had lost
his own voice. Nulisch recorded and toured with James Cotton for 10 years and sang
on James Cotton\u2019s critically acclaimed and Grammy Award Winning release \u201cCotton
Mouth Man\u201d.
Darrell Nulisch, renowned for his captivating “blue-eyed” soul and blues vocals takes
center stage, showcasing his powerful voice and exceptional harmonica skills rooted in
the heart of Texas. Supported by a stellar, world class lineup featuring guitarist
Chris Vitarello (Vanessa Collier, Jimmy Mcgriff, Bruce Katz), organist Dave Limina
(B.B. King, Chuck Berry, Ronnie Earl), drummer Lorne Entress (Mary Chapin
Carpenter, Ronnie Earl, Big Al Anderson), and bassist Mike Law (Kim Wilson, Lurrie
Bell, Jerry Portnoy), this quintet promises an unparalleled evening of pure blues and
soul.
Video link: https:\/\/youtu.be\/jVfESC-hOHg?si=YoTq0YkyKA5lP7_U<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n_________________________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOrganizing the Dead<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\nAn Organ Trio reimagines Grateful Dead classics and more with a soulful twist\u2014<\/strong>grooving through jazzy improvisations, deep pocket rhythms, and organ-fueled jams that breathe new life into timeless psychedelic anthems.<\/h2>\n\n\n\nMicheal Bram <\/strong> is a drummer, singer, harmonica and guitar player. He has been the drummer and musical director on multiple tours with Grammy winning artist, Jason Mraz since 2007. He is also the drummer and vocalist for The Weight Band featuring members of Woodstock NY\u2019s iconic \u201cThe Band\u201d and \u201cLevon Helm Band\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\nHe has performed at venues across the world including Carnegie Hall, Royal Albert Hall, Ryman Auditorium, Red Rocks Amphitheater, Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden etc\u2026 has appeared multiple times on Saturday Night Live, David Letterman, Jay Leno, Jimmy Kimmel, Ellen, The Today Show as well as international television in Canada, South America, Europe, Asia and Australia. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Michael has performed with an amazing variety of musicians including music legends Willie Nelson, Levon Helm, Arlo Guthrie, Maria Muldaur, John Sebastian, Pop musicians Colbie Caillat, Zac Brown Cristina Perri Jason Mraz, John Popper, G.Love and special Sauce, Joan Osbourne and many more. Michael also specializes in Blues and American roots music and has performed with some of the best in the genre (Johnny Nicholas, Steve Riley, Augie Myers, Bill Kirchen, Steve Guyger, Mark Hummel, Dennis Gruenling, Dean Shot, Dave Gross, Albert Castiglia, Larry Campbell, Jimmy Vivino, Amy Helm, Chris O\u2019Leary, Cindy Cashdollar, Steve Kimock and more)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chris Vitarello <\/strong>is a gifted guitarist and a blues hall of famer.Inducted on November 14th 2013.Nominee and performer at the 32nd Blues Music Awards.(Chris O\u2019Leary Band best new artist) and a Blues Blast winner. (Chris O\u2019Leary Band 2013)<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhile Chris chooses blues to be the main part of his career,he also branches out and leans toward the jazzier side of things.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chris also is a Worship Director at Walnut Hill Community Church in Bethel, Connecticut, where he helps facilitate musical direction and guidance for four campuses and over 60 volunteer musicians. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Vitarello’s guitar solos display a lyricism and inventiveness that’s reminiscent of the late Grant Green” (John Kleinman- Elmore Magazine 2018)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Matt Zeiner<\/strong>– It took little convincing for Matt to leave college and pile into a van to tour with Matt “Guitar” Murphy of Blues Brothers fame. Matt Murphy was Zeiner’s first serious education in the blues, but Murphy was more than just your average Bluesman. Matt’s band was made up of himself and a group of top-notch New York jazz musicians. The band played everything from hard jazz-fusion to straight blues. Murphy, himself an excellent jazz player, encouraged the band to stretch out and play whatever they wanted. It was all about the music and the wonderful fusion that comes from having such a diverse group of musicians.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThen in 2000 Zeiner got a call. He was told that Dickey Betts (Allman Brothers Band) was putting a band together and needed a keyboard player and vocalist. Zeiner jumped at the opportunity and got on the first plane to meet Dickey. Matt\u2019s musicianship and sound appealed to Dickey, who offered Matt to join them and hit the tour circuit with the new band.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Matt said he came to realize that he had found a kindred spirit in Dickey, especially in terms of songwriting. Dickey picked two of Matt’s tunes and asked him to rework parts of “Tombstone Eyes” so that Matt could sing the tune with the kind of conviction that such a piece of music demanded. Matt was able to add his own personal note to the tune without sacrificing the artistic intent and meaning that Dickey was so eager to put forth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
After four years on the road, Zeiner was ready to come home and focus on his own growing material. He dedicated himself to recording in his home studio and soon formed his own band. Propelled by 2007 release, Live on a Summer Night, the band performed to live audiences throughout the Northeast, sharing the stage with Johnny Winter, Roomful of Blues, Jamie McLean, and Dickey Betts and Great Southern. The recording drew critical acclaim for the band and swelled the ranks of their fan base.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The band stepped back from touring for a year to make some changes and give Matt a chance to collaborate with some other veteran artists, such as Melvin Sparks and CS&N guitarist Jeff Pevar. During the hiatus there emerged some new players and new material for the band, the product of which has spawned work on another album. An ambitious recording effort so far, the project already demonstrates Zeiner\u2019s knack for writing infectious melodies complemented by tight arrangements from his latest players. Together, they tear into a catalog of original soul\/R&B tunes, some funky vintage blues and a fresh take on some well-known rock standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nMiss Laurie Ann & the Saddletones<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\nMiss Laurie Ann started writing songs at an early age and has developed an extensive collection of tight, well-crafted songs that tell stories of love, come and gone. She refers to her style of music as Rock-Boppin-Country, combining elements of traditional country, rockabilly, and the blues.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nThe second album from Miss Laurie Ann & The SaddleTones, Ease My Mind, showcases her American Music<\/p>\n\n\n\n
influences. Produced by legendary guitarist and songwriter Dave Gonzalez of The Paladins, the album covers<\/p>\n\n\n\n
a wide range of roots styles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Miss Laurie Ann has been performing with her band, The SaddleTones, for over 15 years. They have<\/p>\n\n\n\n
performed at honky-tonks such as the legendary Rodeo Bar in New York City, theaters such as The Sellersville<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Theater and festivals such as The Lancaster Roots & Blues Festival. Along the way the band has shared the<\/p>\n\n\n\n
stage with various artists including Rock & Roll Hall of fame member Wanda Jackson, The Blasters, Reckless<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kelly, Dale Watson, Wayne Hancock, Dave Gonzalez, Big Sandy & His Fly-Rite Boys, Nikki Hill and others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nFreight<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\nFreight is a 5 piece, original Alt Country \/ Rural Rock \/ Roots band based out of Ithaca, NY. <\/strong>The band is comprised of veteran musicians who individually have shared stages with the likes of John Prine, The Mavericks, Leon Russell, James McMurtry and many other roots music heavyweights. Founded by midwest transplant JP Payton in early 2020, Freight has risen to the fore of the region’s growing Americana landscape. Drawing comparisons to the art rock of Wilco, the psychedelia of The Grateful Dead and the songcraft of Jason Isbell, Freight is both traditionally familiar and sonically adventurous. Freight’s debut album, Hard Worker,<\/em> released in October 2022 on Switchyard Records, has been met with critical acclaim. Their sophmore release Old Bones is garnering rave reviews<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\u201cOld Bones <\/em>seamlessly and flawlessly blends stirring old-school songcraft with strikingly stylish production. Earthy and ethereal, raw-boned and rich, immersive and impeccably crafted, this 10-song set comfortably inhabits the sweet spot between country, folk, roots-rock and Cosmic American Music.\u201d -Tinnitist<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cIn the Cosmic American tradition of looking beyond the grave and past the atmosphere, FREIGHT have mastered an art form of transcendental country.\u201d – Americana UK<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n“This is a recording of skilled musicians and friends enjoying what they do. In so many ways it is like a debut album, but by grown-ups, and it sounds like they had such fun bringing it to life together.” – Americana UK<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n“The debut album, Hard Worker, sometimes reminds us of the long-awaited Jason Molina’s way of making songs. Although with a greater optimism in the lyrics, Payton’s voice is close to the emotional tone of the late singer.” – Dirty Rock Magazine<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n“Hard Worker’s 10 songs traverse a wide musical terrain, blending country, funk, rock and psychedelic influences with traces of Wilco, The Grateful Dead, John Prine, Dave Alvin and other roots-music staples – all woven together to a blue collar backdrop for Payton’s warm baritone vocals and deeply personal lyrics.” – Jim Catalano WXXI<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nPayton\u2019s plaintively poetic and confessional songwriting belies a nuanced and empathetic understanding of the human condition. Drummer and Knoxville native Bowman Townsend (Black Lillies) has toured nationally showcasing his pocket centric groove, and veteran bassist Mike Brando (Janet Batch) rounds out the rhythm section with a commanding sense of tone earned from decades of professional gigging. Oklahoma native Steve Streetman, brings a decidedly red dirt feel to the slide guitar, and Peter Glanville, is renowned as one of the most in demand melodic guitar players in upstate New York. All told, Freight’s groove is seasoned, road-tested, and danceable fun. Recent highlights include several successful regional tours thru the midwest and Northeast with appearances at main stage Ithaca Fest, Fall Down Fest, City Winery Pittsburgh and the famed Purple Fiddle in Thomas, West Virginia. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
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<\/h2>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
2026 Roots & Rhythm Main Stage: Bill Kirchen- 5:30 PM Darrel Nulisch- 3:45 PM Organizing the Dead- 2:00PM Miss Laurie Ann & the Saddletones- 12:15 PM Freight- 7:45 PM _____________________________________________________________________ Bill Kirchen- Titan of the Telecaster! Back by popular demand. Upon tallying how many decades he\u2019s worked as a professional guitar slinger, Telecaster master Bill … <\/p>\n
Organizing the Dead- <\/strong> 2:00PM<\/h1>\n\n\n\nMiss Laurie Ann & the Saddletones-<\/strong> 12:15 PM<\/h1>\n\n\n\nFreight-<\/strong> 7:45 PM<\/h1>\n\n\n\n_____________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBill Kirchen- Titan of the Telecaster! Back by popular demand. <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nUpon tallying how many decades he\u2019s worked as a professional guitar slinger, Telecaster master Bill Kirchen quips, \u201cWell, they don’t make 50 years like they used to.\u201d They don\u2019t often make careers like his, either.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nFrom performing with his Who Knows Pickers jug band in Ann Arbor High School\u2019s senior talent show (also on the program: the future Iggy Pop), to birthing the Americana genre with the original \u201chippie country band,\u201d Commander Cody and his Lost Planet Airmen, this affable Austinite has been everywhere, man, flying alongside some of the planet\u2019s coolest cats \u2014 including the Jesus of Cool, Nick Lowe, and Lowe\u2019s old prot\u00e9g\u00e9, Elvis Costello.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kirchen has toured the world with Lowe, who produced an album by Kirchen\u2019s post-Airmen band, the Moonlighters, and Costello recruited Kirchen for high-profile gigs like the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival \u2014 and even named his festival band after Kirchen\u2019s Hammer of the Honky-Tonk Gods<\/em> album. Lowe appears on that 2006 album, and its 2010 follow-up, Word to the Wise<\/em>, along with Costello, Maria Muldaur, Dan Hicks and other luminaries.<\/p>\n\n\n\nNow those albums, plus Kirchen\u2019s third Proper Records release, 2013\u2019s Seeds and Stems,<\/em><\/strong> are being combined with three bonus tracks from Transatlantica<\/em><\/strong>, his 2016 project with pub-rock progenitor Austin de Lone, as a two-CD retrospective titled The Proper Years. <\/strong>Waxworks,<\/em><\/strong> is a vinyl best-of version of the full collection. <\/p>\n\n\n\nA well-balanced mix of engaging originals and wonderfully rendered covers, The Proper Years<\/em><\/strong> admirably conveys Kirchen\u2019s versatility as a player and singer \u2014 one of the first to mash up rockabilly, country, western swing, honky-tonk, jump blues, jazz, boogie-woogie and even the \u201cpsychedelic folk rock\u201d he played with the Seventh Seal, the band he formed while attending the University of Michigan. (MC5 manager\/activist John Sinclair got them a dealon the ESP-Disk label, home of Sun Ra, but the band turned it down.)<\/p>\n\n\n\nSomewhere between steering Commander Cody\u2019s \u201cHot Rod Lincoln\u201d into a top-10 hit and scoring a Grammy nomination for Best Country Instrumental Performance, Kirchen dubbed his sound \u201cdieselbilly,\u201d wrapping his fondness for country\u2019s truck-driving song subgenre (as in big rigs, not pickups), its intersection with the Bakersfield Sound and his own name into one memorable moniker. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kirchen\u2019s right-place-at-the-right-time career has put him at the forefront of many musical movements, including outlaw country; Commander Cody\u2019s 1974 album, Live from Deep in the Heart of Texas,<\/em> recorded at Austin\u2019s legendary Armadillo World Headquarters, made Rolling Stone\u2019s 100 Best Albums of All Time list. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBut whatever label Kirchen\u2019s music wears, it\u2019s always notable for its balance of high-octane energy and deft understatement. There\u2019s no leadfoot excess; Kirchen\u2019s all about finesse \u2014 a sensibility absorbed from the symphonies and Broadway musicals his parents loved, along with the orchestral works he played as a school-band trombonist. Through another major influence, Interlochen Center for the Arts summer camp counselor David Siglin (who would go on to run famed Ann Arbor venue the Ark), Kirchen became immersed in folk traditions and learned to love the \u201cbig, sonorous tones\u201d of an undistorted guitar. \u201cI was more interested in sounding like Doc Watson than Eric Clapton,\u201d admits Kirchen, whose main guitar was crafted by Rick Kelly of Carmine Street Guitars from 200-year-old pine floorboards recycled from film director Jim Jarmusch\u2019s loft. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s fitting that this collection begins with his ode to that Telly-modeled \u201cstick of wood\u201d he calls \u201cthe bicycle of the electric guitar \u2014the most efficient way to get from point A to point B.\u201d That song also serves as exhibit A in a collection showcasing a central facet of Kirchen\u2019s songwriting: his wit. If there\u2019s a laugh to be reached for \u2014 or stooped to \u2014Kirchen\u2019s goin\u2019 for it; you don\u2019t survive years in a band named Commander Cody and his Lost Planet Airmen, or drop album titles like Seeds and Stems<\/em><\/strong>, without possessing a gleefully subversive, double-entendre-loving funny bone. \u201cI like music where at least someone onstage is smiling sometimes, fer crissake,\u201d jokes Kirchen, who\u2019s often grinning happily when he\u2019s not busy singing.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBut for every injection of humor, there\u2019s an equal dose of heart (and in some cases, heartbreak). And songs like \u201cTell Me the Reason\u201d or \u201cGet a Little Goner\u201d illustrate another truism: Kirchen often sets the saddest or mostbiting lyrics to the jauntiest melodies. Those two were cowritten by his wife, Louise; \u201cGoner\u201d also features frequent contributor Sarah Brown (coincidentally also raised in Ann Arbor).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kirchen likes collaborating; on Word to the Wise,<\/strong> a musical reminiscence of sorts, he tapped several favorite artists to join him, carefully selecting or writing songs for each. In the liner notes, he explains, \u201cThe criteria we used were that you had to be A) someone I had actually played with, either on stage or record, and B) not dead yet.\u201d Sadly, Norton Buffalo, who played harmonica with the Airmen and Moonlighters, passed away shortly after recording \u201cValley of the Moon\u201d \u2014 in which Kirchen revisits scenes of his early life with Louise on a trip to attend a funeral (for Hacienda Brother Chris Gaffney, another musical mate). Dan Hicks, who delivered a note-perfect duet on the title tune \u2014 written for him \u2014died in 2016. But as of this writing, Lowe, Costello, Maria Muldaur, Paul Carrack, original Asleep at the Wheel vocalist Chris O\u2019Connell and Commander Cody (aka George Frayne) are still very much with us. <\/p>\n\n\n\nKirchen\u2019s entertaining liner notes explain his connection to each, tracing many of these relationships directly to longtime collaborator and \u201cmainman\u201d Austin de Lone, who appears on all three solo albums and shares billing on Transatlanticana<\/em><\/strong>. Philadelphia-born keyboardist de Lone and his band, Eggs Over Easy, moved to England in 1970, urged by Jimi Hendrix\u2019s manager, Chas Chandler. Their rootsy mix of blues, country and rock caught on \u2014 and germinated the pub rock movement, whose acolytes included Brinsley Schwarz, in which Lowe played bass. In 1972, de Lone moved to California, where he met Kirchen. Years later, de Lone wound up joining the Moonlighters and introducing Kirchen to Lowe, who produced the band\u2019s 1983 album, Rush Hour <\/em>(and introduced Kirchen to Costello). That album was engineered by Paul Riley, who eventually would produce all four of Kirchen\u2019s Proper Records albums. <\/p>\n\n\n\nA devoted Anglophile, thanks to two aunts who married Brits, Kirchen began recording for the label after owner Malcolm Mills promised, \u201cI’m going to give you the best deal you’ve had in 25 years.\u201d He did, too. Mills not only supports Kirchen\u2019s recorded output, he also supports the guitarist on stage, right alongside bassist Riley. \u201cWhere else do you get a record company where the owner plays drums, the producer plays bass, and they tour with you?\u201d Kirchen says of his good friends. \u201cThey\u2019re the best.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That\u2019s just another twist in an incredible career trajectory set in motion, according to Kirchen, by two pivotal events: the 1964 and \u201965 Newport Folk Festivals. As a high-school kid on a quest to catch Mississippi John Hurt, he thumbed to the first one, then went back the following year \u2014 and witnessed Dylan going electric. \u201cThat pretty well blew away the competition for what I was going to do before, or if, or when I grew up,\u201d he says of those experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Five years later, he found himself sharing a bill with John Lennon, Yoko Ono and Stevie Wonder, when Commander Cody and the Airmen, who\u2019d formed in Ann Arbor, played a benefit for Sinclair after he got 10 years for two joints. A mere 50 years later, Kirchen\u2019s still having a blast. He\u2019s even planning another tour with Riley and Mills. But releasing this package, he says, \u201cnicely puts a bow on a whole, very enjoyable period of my life.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cNot that it’s over,\u201d he adds quickly. \u201cI mean, I’ve got more stuff in the works.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then he cracks, \u201cDon\u2019t tell anybody, but it’s not as hard as it looks.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
_________________________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDarrel Nulisch<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\nDarrell Nulisch (Dallas, Texas) is an American blues singer and harmonica player. <\/strong>A
two-time Grammy Award Nominee, Darrell was a key member of The James Cotton
Band, founding member of Anson Funderburgh and the Rockets and member of Ronnie
Earl and The Broadcasters. Nulisch’s repertoire incorporates soul combined with R&B
and Chicago blues, redesigned to complement his distinctive vocals.<\/h2>\n\n\n\nNulisch was raised listening to Texas radio, soaking in the sounds of soul, blues and
R&B. In 1978 he was a founding member of Anson Funderburgh’s Rockets and sang
with them until 1985. He was then part of Mike Morgan’s Crawl, before moving to
Massachusetts and joining up with Ronnie Earl’s Broadcasters in 1988. He began his
solo career late in 1990, relocating to Boston.
James Cotton then asked him to sing with Cotton’s band on tour, after Cotton had lost
his own voice. Nulisch recorded and toured with James Cotton for 10 years and sang
on James Cotton\u2019s critically acclaimed and Grammy Award Winning release \u201cCotton
Mouth Man\u201d.
Darrell Nulisch, renowned for his captivating “blue-eyed” soul and blues vocals takes
center stage, showcasing his powerful voice and exceptional harmonica skills rooted in
the heart of Texas. Supported by a stellar, world class lineup featuring guitarist
Chris Vitarello (Vanessa Collier, Jimmy Mcgriff, Bruce Katz), organist Dave Limina
(B.B. King, Chuck Berry, Ronnie Earl), drummer Lorne Entress (Mary Chapin
Carpenter, Ronnie Earl, Big Al Anderson), and bassist Mike Law (Kim Wilson, Lurrie
Bell, Jerry Portnoy), this quintet promises an unparalleled evening of pure blues and
soul.
Video link: https:\/\/youtu.be\/jVfESC-hOHg?si=YoTq0YkyKA5lP7_U<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n_________________________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOrganizing the Dead<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\nAn Organ Trio reimagines Grateful Dead classics and more with a soulful twist\u2014<\/strong>grooving through jazzy improvisations, deep pocket rhythms, and organ-fueled jams that breathe new life into timeless psychedelic anthems.<\/h2>\n\n\n\nMicheal Bram <\/strong> is a drummer, singer, harmonica and guitar player. He has been the drummer and musical director on multiple tours with Grammy winning artist, Jason Mraz since 2007. He is also the drummer and vocalist for The Weight Band featuring members of Woodstock NY\u2019s iconic \u201cThe Band\u201d and \u201cLevon Helm Band\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\nHe has performed at venues across the world including Carnegie Hall, Royal Albert Hall, Ryman Auditorium, Red Rocks Amphitheater, Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden etc\u2026 has appeared multiple times on Saturday Night Live, David Letterman, Jay Leno, Jimmy Kimmel, Ellen, The Today Show as well as international television in Canada, South America, Europe, Asia and Australia. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Michael has performed with an amazing variety of musicians including music legends Willie Nelson, Levon Helm, Arlo Guthrie, Maria Muldaur, John Sebastian, Pop musicians Colbie Caillat, Zac Brown Cristina Perri Jason Mraz, John Popper, G.Love and special Sauce, Joan Osbourne and many more. Michael also specializes in Blues and American roots music and has performed with some of the best in the genre (Johnny Nicholas, Steve Riley, Augie Myers, Bill Kirchen, Steve Guyger, Mark Hummel, Dennis Gruenling, Dean Shot, Dave Gross, Albert Castiglia, Larry Campbell, Jimmy Vivino, Amy Helm, Chris O\u2019Leary, Cindy Cashdollar, Steve Kimock and more)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chris Vitarello <\/strong>is a gifted guitarist and a blues hall of famer.Inducted on November 14th 2013.Nominee and performer at the 32nd Blues Music Awards.(Chris O\u2019Leary Band best new artist) and a Blues Blast winner. (Chris O\u2019Leary Band 2013)<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhile Chris chooses blues to be the main part of his career,he also branches out and leans toward the jazzier side of things.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chris also is a Worship Director at Walnut Hill Community Church in Bethel, Connecticut, where he helps facilitate musical direction and guidance for four campuses and over 60 volunteer musicians. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Vitarello’s guitar solos display a lyricism and inventiveness that’s reminiscent of the late Grant Green” (John Kleinman- Elmore Magazine 2018)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Matt Zeiner<\/strong>– It took little convincing for Matt to leave college and pile into a van to tour with Matt “Guitar” Murphy of Blues Brothers fame. Matt Murphy was Zeiner’s first serious education in the blues, but Murphy was more than just your average Bluesman. Matt’s band was made up of himself and a group of top-notch New York jazz musicians. The band played everything from hard jazz-fusion to straight blues. Murphy, himself an excellent jazz player, encouraged the band to stretch out and play whatever they wanted. It was all about the music and the wonderful fusion that comes from having such a diverse group of musicians.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThen in 2000 Zeiner got a call. He was told that Dickey Betts (Allman Brothers Band) was putting a band together and needed a keyboard player and vocalist. Zeiner jumped at the opportunity and got on the first plane to meet Dickey. Matt\u2019s musicianship and sound appealed to Dickey, who offered Matt to join them and hit the tour circuit with the new band.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Matt said he came to realize that he had found a kindred spirit in Dickey, especially in terms of songwriting. Dickey picked two of Matt’s tunes and asked him to rework parts of “Tombstone Eyes” so that Matt could sing the tune with the kind of conviction that such a piece of music demanded. Matt was able to add his own personal note to the tune without sacrificing the artistic intent and meaning that Dickey was so eager to put forth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
After four years on the road, Zeiner was ready to come home and focus on his own growing material. He dedicated himself to recording in his home studio and soon formed his own band. Propelled by 2007 release, Live on a Summer Night, the band performed to live audiences throughout the Northeast, sharing the stage with Johnny Winter, Roomful of Blues, Jamie McLean, and Dickey Betts and Great Southern. The recording drew critical acclaim for the band and swelled the ranks of their fan base.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The band stepped back from touring for a year to make some changes and give Matt a chance to collaborate with some other veteran artists, such as Melvin Sparks and CS&N guitarist Jeff Pevar. During the hiatus there emerged some new players and new material for the band, the product of which has spawned work on another album. An ambitious recording effort so far, the project already demonstrates Zeiner\u2019s knack for writing infectious melodies complemented by tight arrangements from his latest players. Together, they tear into a catalog of original soul\/R&B tunes, some funky vintage blues and a fresh take on some well-known rock standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
_______________________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nMiss Laurie Ann & the Saddletones<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\nMiss Laurie Ann started writing songs at an early age and has developed an extensive collection of tight, well-crafted songs that tell stories of love, come and gone. She refers to her style of music as Rock-Boppin-Country, combining elements of traditional country, rockabilly, and the blues.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nThe second album from Miss Laurie Ann & The SaddleTones, Ease My Mind, showcases her American Music<\/p>\n\n\n\n
influences. Produced by legendary guitarist and songwriter Dave Gonzalez of The Paladins, the album covers<\/p>\n\n\n\n
a wide range of roots styles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Miss Laurie Ann has been performing with her band, The SaddleTones, for over 15 years. They have<\/p>\n\n\n\n
performed at honky-tonks such as the legendary Rodeo Bar in New York City, theaters such as The Sellersville<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Theater and festivals such as The Lancaster Roots & Blues Festival. Along the way the band has shared the<\/p>\n\n\n\n
stage with various artists including Rock & Roll Hall of fame member Wanda Jackson, The Blasters, Reckless<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kelly, Dale Watson, Wayne Hancock, Dave Gonzalez, Big Sandy & His Fly-Rite Boys, Nikki Hill and others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
_________________________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nFreight<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\nFreight is a 5 piece, original Alt Country \/ Rural Rock \/ Roots band based out of Ithaca, NY. <\/strong>The band is comprised of veteran musicians who individually have shared stages with the likes of John Prine, The Mavericks, Leon Russell, James McMurtry and many other roots music heavyweights. Founded by midwest transplant JP Payton in early 2020, Freight has risen to the fore of the region’s growing Americana landscape. Drawing comparisons to the art rock of Wilco, the psychedelia of The Grateful Dead and the songcraft of Jason Isbell, Freight is both traditionally familiar and sonically adventurous. Freight’s debut album, Hard Worker,<\/em> released in October 2022 on Switchyard Records, has been met with critical acclaim. Their sophmore release Old Bones is garnering rave reviews<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\u201cOld Bones <\/em>seamlessly and flawlessly blends stirring old-school songcraft with strikingly stylish production. Earthy and ethereal, raw-boned and rich, immersive and impeccably crafted, this 10-song set comfortably inhabits the sweet spot between country, folk, roots-rock and Cosmic American Music.\u201d -Tinnitist<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cIn the Cosmic American tradition of looking beyond the grave and past the atmosphere, FREIGHT have mastered an art form of transcendental country.\u201d – Americana UK<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n“This is a recording of skilled musicians and friends enjoying what they do. In so many ways it is like a debut album, but by grown-ups, and it sounds like they had such fun bringing it to life together.” – Americana UK<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n“The debut album, Hard Worker, sometimes reminds us of the long-awaited Jason Molina’s way of making songs. Although with a greater optimism in the lyrics, Payton’s voice is close to the emotional tone of the late singer.” – Dirty Rock Magazine<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n“Hard Worker’s 10 songs traverse a wide musical terrain, blending country, funk, rock and psychedelic influences with traces of Wilco, The Grateful Dead, John Prine, Dave Alvin and other roots-music staples – all woven together to a blue collar backdrop for Payton’s warm baritone vocals and deeply personal lyrics.” – Jim Catalano WXXI<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nPayton\u2019s plaintively poetic and confessional songwriting belies a nuanced and empathetic understanding of the human condition. Drummer and Knoxville native Bowman Townsend (Black Lillies) has toured nationally showcasing his pocket centric groove, and veteran bassist Mike Brando (Janet Batch) rounds out the rhythm section with a commanding sense of tone earned from decades of professional gigging. Oklahoma native Steve Streetman, brings a decidedly red dirt feel to the slide guitar, and Peter Glanville, is renowned as one of the most in demand melodic guitar players in upstate New York. All told, Freight’s groove is seasoned, road-tested, and danceable fun. Recent highlights include several successful regional tours thru the midwest and Northeast with appearances at main stage Ithaca Fest, Fall Down Fest, City Winery Pittsburgh and the famed Purple Fiddle in Thomas, West Virginia. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/h2>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
2026 Roots & Rhythm Main Stage: Bill Kirchen- 5:30 PM Darrel Nulisch- 3:45 PM Organizing the Dead- 2:00PM Miss Laurie Ann & the Saddletones- 12:15 PM Freight- 7:45 PM _____________________________________________________________________ Bill Kirchen- Titan of the Telecaster! Back by popular demand. Upon tallying how many decades he\u2019s worked as a professional guitar slinger, Telecaster master Bill … <\/p>\n
Freight-<\/strong> 7:45 PM<\/h1>\n\n\n\n_____________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBill Kirchen- Titan of the Telecaster! Back by popular demand. <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nUpon tallying how many decades he\u2019s worked as a professional guitar slinger, Telecaster master Bill Kirchen quips, \u201cWell, they don’t make 50 years like they used to.\u201d They don\u2019t often make careers like his, either.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nFrom performing with his Who Knows Pickers jug band in Ann Arbor High School\u2019s senior talent show (also on the program: the future Iggy Pop), to birthing the Americana genre with the original \u201chippie country band,\u201d Commander Cody and his Lost Planet Airmen, this affable Austinite has been everywhere, man, flying alongside some of the planet\u2019s coolest cats \u2014 including the Jesus of Cool, Nick Lowe, and Lowe\u2019s old prot\u00e9g\u00e9, Elvis Costello.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kirchen has toured the world with Lowe, who produced an album by Kirchen\u2019s post-Airmen band, the Moonlighters, and Costello recruited Kirchen for high-profile gigs like the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival \u2014 and even named his festival band after Kirchen\u2019s Hammer of the Honky-Tonk Gods<\/em> album. Lowe appears on that 2006 album, and its 2010 follow-up, Word to the Wise<\/em>, along with Costello, Maria Muldaur, Dan Hicks and other luminaries.<\/p>\n\n\n\nNow those albums, plus Kirchen\u2019s third Proper Records release, 2013\u2019s Seeds and Stems,<\/em><\/strong> are being combined with three bonus tracks from Transatlantica<\/em><\/strong>, his 2016 project with pub-rock progenitor Austin de Lone, as a two-CD retrospective titled The Proper Years. <\/strong>Waxworks,<\/em><\/strong> is a vinyl best-of version of the full collection. <\/p>\n\n\n\nA well-balanced mix of engaging originals and wonderfully rendered covers, The Proper Years<\/em><\/strong> admirably conveys Kirchen\u2019s versatility as a player and singer \u2014 one of the first to mash up rockabilly, country, western swing, honky-tonk, jump blues, jazz, boogie-woogie and even the \u201cpsychedelic folk rock\u201d he played with the Seventh Seal, the band he formed while attending the University of Michigan. (MC5 manager\/activist John Sinclair got them a dealon the ESP-Disk label, home of Sun Ra, but the band turned it down.)<\/p>\n\n\n\nSomewhere between steering Commander Cody\u2019s \u201cHot Rod Lincoln\u201d into a top-10 hit and scoring a Grammy nomination for Best Country Instrumental Performance, Kirchen dubbed his sound \u201cdieselbilly,\u201d wrapping his fondness for country\u2019s truck-driving song subgenre (as in big rigs, not pickups), its intersection with the Bakersfield Sound and his own name into one memorable moniker. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kirchen\u2019s right-place-at-the-right-time career has put him at the forefront of many musical movements, including outlaw country; Commander Cody\u2019s 1974 album, Live from Deep in the Heart of Texas,<\/em> recorded at Austin\u2019s legendary Armadillo World Headquarters, made Rolling Stone\u2019s 100 Best Albums of All Time list. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBut whatever label Kirchen\u2019s music wears, it\u2019s always notable for its balance of high-octane energy and deft understatement. There\u2019s no leadfoot excess; Kirchen\u2019s all about finesse \u2014 a sensibility absorbed from the symphonies and Broadway musicals his parents loved, along with the orchestral works he played as a school-band trombonist. Through another major influence, Interlochen Center for the Arts summer camp counselor David Siglin (who would go on to run famed Ann Arbor venue the Ark), Kirchen became immersed in folk traditions and learned to love the \u201cbig, sonorous tones\u201d of an undistorted guitar. \u201cI was more interested in sounding like Doc Watson than Eric Clapton,\u201d admits Kirchen, whose main guitar was crafted by Rick Kelly of Carmine Street Guitars from 200-year-old pine floorboards recycled from film director Jim Jarmusch\u2019s loft. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s fitting that this collection begins with his ode to that Telly-modeled \u201cstick of wood\u201d he calls \u201cthe bicycle of the electric guitar \u2014the most efficient way to get from point A to point B.\u201d That song also serves as exhibit A in a collection showcasing a central facet of Kirchen\u2019s songwriting: his wit. If there\u2019s a laugh to be reached for \u2014 or stooped to \u2014Kirchen\u2019s goin\u2019 for it; you don\u2019t survive years in a band named Commander Cody and his Lost Planet Airmen, or drop album titles like Seeds and Stems<\/em><\/strong>, without possessing a gleefully subversive, double-entendre-loving funny bone. \u201cI like music where at least someone onstage is smiling sometimes, fer crissake,\u201d jokes Kirchen, who\u2019s often grinning happily when he\u2019s not busy singing.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBut for every injection of humor, there\u2019s an equal dose of heart (and in some cases, heartbreak). And songs like \u201cTell Me the Reason\u201d or \u201cGet a Little Goner\u201d illustrate another truism: Kirchen often sets the saddest or mostbiting lyrics to the jauntiest melodies. Those two were cowritten by his wife, Louise; \u201cGoner\u201d also features frequent contributor Sarah Brown (coincidentally also raised in Ann Arbor).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kirchen likes collaborating; on Word to the Wise,<\/strong> a musical reminiscence of sorts, he tapped several favorite artists to join him, carefully selecting or writing songs for each. In the liner notes, he explains, \u201cThe criteria we used were that you had to be A) someone I had actually played with, either on stage or record, and B) not dead yet.\u201d Sadly, Norton Buffalo, who played harmonica with the Airmen and Moonlighters, passed away shortly after recording \u201cValley of the Moon\u201d \u2014 in which Kirchen revisits scenes of his early life with Louise on a trip to attend a funeral (for Hacienda Brother Chris Gaffney, another musical mate). Dan Hicks, who delivered a note-perfect duet on the title tune \u2014 written for him \u2014died in 2016. But as of this writing, Lowe, Costello, Maria Muldaur, Paul Carrack, original Asleep at the Wheel vocalist Chris O\u2019Connell and Commander Cody (aka George Frayne) are still very much with us. <\/p>\n\n\n\nKirchen\u2019s entertaining liner notes explain his connection to each, tracing many of these relationships directly to longtime collaborator and \u201cmainman\u201d Austin de Lone, who appears on all three solo albums and shares billing on Transatlanticana<\/em><\/strong>. Philadelphia-born keyboardist de Lone and his band, Eggs Over Easy, moved to England in 1970, urged by Jimi Hendrix\u2019s manager, Chas Chandler. Their rootsy mix of blues, country and rock caught on \u2014 and germinated the pub rock movement, whose acolytes included Brinsley Schwarz, in which Lowe played bass. In 1972, de Lone moved to California, where he met Kirchen. Years later, de Lone wound up joining the Moonlighters and introducing Kirchen to Lowe, who produced the band\u2019s 1983 album, Rush Hour <\/em>(and introduced Kirchen to Costello). That album was engineered by Paul Riley, who eventually would produce all four of Kirchen\u2019s Proper Records albums. <\/p>\n\n\n\nA devoted Anglophile, thanks to two aunts who married Brits, Kirchen began recording for the label after owner Malcolm Mills promised, \u201cI’m going to give you the best deal you’ve had in 25 years.\u201d He did, too. Mills not only supports Kirchen\u2019s recorded output, he also supports the guitarist on stage, right alongside bassist Riley. \u201cWhere else do you get a record company where the owner plays drums, the producer plays bass, and they tour with you?\u201d Kirchen says of his good friends. \u201cThey\u2019re the best.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That\u2019s just another twist in an incredible career trajectory set in motion, according to Kirchen, by two pivotal events: the 1964 and \u201965 Newport Folk Festivals. As a high-school kid on a quest to catch Mississippi John Hurt, he thumbed to the first one, then went back the following year \u2014 and witnessed Dylan going electric. \u201cThat pretty well blew away the competition for what I was going to do before, or if, or when I grew up,\u201d he says of those experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Five years later, he found himself sharing a bill with John Lennon, Yoko Ono and Stevie Wonder, when Commander Cody and the Airmen, who\u2019d formed in Ann Arbor, played a benefit for Sinclair after he got 10 years for two joints. A mere 50 years later, Kirchen\u2019s still having a blast. He\u2019s even planning another tour with Riley and Mills. But releasing this package, he says, \u201cnicely puts a bow on a whole, very enjoyable period of my life.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cNot that it’s over,\u201d he adds quickly. \u201cI mean, I’ve got more stuff in the works.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then he cracks, \u201cDon\u2019t tell anybody, but it’s not as hard as it looks.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
_________________________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDarrel Nulisch<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\nDarrell Nulisch (Dallas, Texas) is an American blues singer and harmonica player. <\/strong>A
two-time Grammy Award Nominee, Darrell was a key member of The James Cotton
Band, founding member of Anson Funderburgh and the Rockets and member of Ronnie
Earl and The Broadcasters. Nulisch’s repertoire incorporates soul combined with R&B
and Chicago blues, redesigned to complement his distinctive vocals.<\/h2>\n\n\n\nNulisch was raised listening to Texas radio, soaking in the sounds of soul, blues and
R&B. In 1978 he was a founding member of Anson Funderburgh’s Rockets and sang
with them until 1985. He was then part of Mike Morgan’s Crawl, before moving to
Massachusetts and joining up with Ronnie Earl’s Broadcasters in 1988. He began his
solo career late in 1990, relocating to Boston.
James Cotton then asked him to sing with Cotton’s band on tour, after Cotton had lost
his own voice. Nulisch recorded and toured with James Cotton for 10 years and sang
on James Cotton\u2019s critically acclaimed and Grammy Award Winning release \u201cCotton
Mouth Man\u201d.
Darrell Nulisch, renowned for his captivating “blue-eyed” soul and blues vocals takes
center stage, showcasing his powerful voice and exceptional harmonica skills rooted in
the heart of Texas. Supported by a stellar, world class lineup featuring guitarist
Chris Vitarello (Vanessa Collier, Jimmy Mcgriff, Bruce Katz), organist Dave Limina
(B.B. King, Chuck Berry, Ronnie Earl), drummer Lorne Entress (Mary Chapin
Carpenter, Ronnie Earl, Big Al Anderson), and bassist Mike Law (Kim Wilson, Lurrie
Bell, Jerry Portnoy), this quintet promises an unparalleled evening of pure blues and
soul.
Video link: https:\/\/youtu.be\/jVfESC-hOHg?si=YoTq0YkyKA5lP7_U<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n_________________________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOrganizing the Dead<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\nAn Organ Trio reimagines Grateful Dead classics and more with a soulful twist\u2014<\/strong>grooving through jazzy improvisations, deep pocket rhythms, and organ-fueled jams that breathe new life into timeless psychedelic anthems.<\/h2>\n\n\n\nMicheal Bram <\/strong> is a drummer, singer, harmonica and guitar player. He has been the drummer and musical director on multiple tours with Grammy winning artist, Jason Mraz since 2007. He is also the drummer and vocalist for The Weight Band featuring members of Woodstock NY\u2019s iconic \u201cThe Band\u201d and \u201cLevon Helm Band\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\nHe has performed at venues across the world including Carnegie Hall, Royal Albert Hall, Ryman Auditorium, Red Rocks Amphitheater, Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden etc\u2026 has appeared multiple times on Saturday Night Live, David Letterman, Jay Leno, Jimmy Kimmel, Ellen, The Today Show as well as international television in Canada, South America, Europe, Asia and Australia. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Michael has performed with an amazing variety of musicians including music legends Willie Nelson, Levon Helm, Arlo Guthrie, Maria Muldaur, John Sebastian, Pop musicians Colbie Caillat, Zac Brown Cristina Perri Jason Mraz, John Popper, G.Love and special Sauce, Joan Osbourne and many more. Michael also specializes in Blues and American roots music and has performed with some of the best in the genre (Johnny Nicholas, Steve Riley, Augie Myers, Bill Kirchen, Steve Guyger, Mark Hummel, Dennis Gruenling, Dean Shot, Dave Gross, Albert Castiglia, Larry Campbell, Jimmy Vivino, Amy Helm, Chris O\u2019Leary, Cindy Cashdollar, Steve Kimock and more)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chris Vitarello <\/strong>is a gifted guitarist and a blues hall of famer.Inducted on November 14th 2013.Nominee and performer at the 32nd Blues Music Awards.(Chris O\u2019Leary Band best new artist) and a Blues Blast winner. (Chris O\u2019Leary Band 2013)<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhile Chris chooses blues to be the main part of his career,he also branches out and leans toward the jazzier side of things.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chris also is a Worship Director at Walnut Hill Community Church in Bethel, Connecticut, where he helps facilitate musical direction and guidance for four campuses and over 60 volunteer musicians. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Vitarello’s guitar solos display a lyricism and inventiveness that’s reminiscent of the late Grant Green” (John Kleinman- Elmore Magazine 2018)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Matt Zeiner<\/strong>– It took little convincing for Matt to leave college and pile into a van to tour with Matt “Guitar” Murphy of Blues Brothers fame. Matt Murphy was Zeiner’s first serious education in the blues, but Murphy was more than just your average Bluesman. Matt’s band was made up of himself and a group of top-notch New York jazz musicians. The band played everything from hard jazz-fusion to straight blues. Murphy, himself an excellent jazz player, encouraged the band to stretch out and play whatever they wanted. It was all about the music and the wonderful fusion that comes from having such a diverse group of musicians.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThen in 2000 Zeiner got a call. He was told that Dickey Betts (Allman Brothers Band) was putting a band together and needed a keyboard player and vocalist. Zeiner jumped at the opportunity and got on the first plane to meet Dickey. Matt\u2019s musicianship and sound appealed to Dickey, who offered Matt to join them and hit the tour circuit with the new band.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Matt said he came to realize that he had found a kindred spirit in Dickey, especially in terms of songwriting. Dickey picked two of Matt’s tunes and asked him to rework parts of “Tombstone Eyes” so that Matt could sing the tune with the kind of conviction that such a piece of music demanded. Matt was able to add his own personal note to the tune without sacrificing the artistic intent and meaning that Dickey was so eager to put forth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
After four years on the road, Zeiner was ready to come home and focus on his own growing material. He dedicated himself to recording in his home studio and soon formed his own band. Propelled by 2007 release, Live on a Summer Night, the band performed to live audiences throughout the Northeast, sharing the stage with Johnny Winter, Roomful of Blues, Jamie McLean, and Dickey Betts and Great Southern. The recording drew critical acclaim for the band and swelled the ranks of their fan base.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The band stepped back from touring for a year to make some changes and give Matt a chance to collaborate with some other veteran artists, such as Melvin Sparks and CS&N guitarist Jeff Pevar. During the hiatus there emerged some new players and new material for the band, the product of which has spawned work on another album. An ambitious recording effort so far, the project already demonstrates Zeiner\u2019s knack for writing infectious melodies complemented by tight arrangements from his latest players. Together, they tear into a catalog of original soul\/R&B tunes, some funky vintage blues and a fresh take on some well-known rock standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
_______________________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nMiss Laurie Ann & the Saddletones<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\nMiss Laurie Ann started writing songs at an early age and has developed an extensive collection of tight, well-crafted songs that tell stories of love, come and gone. She refers to her style of music as Rock-Boppin-Country, combining elements of traditional country, rockabilly, and the blues.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nThe second album from Miss Laurie Ann & The SaddleTones, Ease My Mind, showcases her American Music<\/p>\n\n\n\n
influences. Produced by legendary guitarist and songwriter Dave Gonzalez of The Paladins, the album covers<\/p>\n\n\n\n
a wide range of roots styles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Miss Laurie Ann has been performing with her band, The SaddleTones, for over 15 years. They have<\/p>\n\n\n\n
performed at honky-tonks such as the legendary Rodeo Bar in New York City, theaters such as The Sellersville<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Theater and festivals such as The Lancaster Roots & Blues Festival. Along the way the band has shared the<\/p>\n\n\n\n
stage with various artists including Rock & Roll Hall of fame member Wanda Jackson, The Blasters, Reckless<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kelly, Dale Watson, Wayne Hancock, Dave Gonzalez, Big Sandy & His Fly-Rite Boys, Nikki Hill and others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
_________________________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nFreight<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\nFreight is a 5 piece, original Alt Country \/ Rural Rock \/ Roots band based out of Ithaca, NY. <\/strong>The band is comprised of veteran musicians who individually have shared stages with the likes of John Prine, The Mavericks, Leon Russell, James McMurtry and many other roots music heavyweights. Founded by midwest transplant JP Payton in early 2020, Freight has risen to the fore of the region’s growing Americana landscape. Drawing comparisons to the art rock of Wilco, the psychedelia of The Grateful Dead and the songcraft of Jason Isbell, Freight is both traditionally familiar and sonically adventurous. Freight’s debut album, Hard Worker,<\/em> released in October 2022 on Switchyard Records, has been met with critical acclaim. Their sophmore release Old Bones is garnering rave reviews<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\u201cOld Bones <\/em>seamlessly and flawlessly blends stirring old-school songcraft with strikingly stylish production. Earthy and ethereal, raw-boned and rich, immersive and impeccably crafted, this 10-song set comfortably inhabits the sweet spot between country, folk, roots-rock and Cosmic American Music.\u201d -Tinnitist<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cIn the Cosmic American tradition of looking beyond the grave and past the atmosphere, FREIGHT have mastered an art form of transcendental country.\u201d – Americana UK<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n“This is a recording of skilled musicians and friends enjoying what they do. In so many ways it is like a debut album, but by grown-ups, and it sounds like they had such fun bringing it to life together.” – Americana UK<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n“The debut album, Hard Worker, sometimes reminds us of the long-awaited Jason Molina’s way of making songs. Although with a greater optimism in the lyrics, Payton’s voice is close to the emotional tone of the late singer.” – Dirty Rock Magazine<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n“Hard Worker’s 10 songs traverse a wide musical terrain, blending country, funk, rock and psychedelic influences with traces of Wilco, The Grateful Dead, John Prine, Dave Alvin and other roots-music staples – all woven together to a blue collar backdrop for Payton’s warm baritone vocals and deeply personal lyrics.” – Jim Catalano WXXI<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nPayton\u2019s plaintively poetic and confessional songwriting belies a nuanced and empathetic understanding of the human condition. Drummer and Knoxville native Bowman Townsend (Black Lillies) has toured nationally showcasing his pocket centric groove, and veteran bassist Mike Brando (Janet Batch) rounds out the rhythm section with a commanding sense of tone earned from decades of professional gigging. Oklahoma native Steve Streetman, brings a decidedly red dirt feel to the slide guitar, and Peter Glanville, is renowned as one of the most in demand melodic guitar players in upstate New York. All told, Freight’s groove is seasoned, road-tested, and danceable fun. Recent highlights include several successful regional tours thru the midwest and Northeast with appearances at main stage Ithaca Fest, Fall Down Fest, City Winery Pittsburgh and the famed Purple Fiddle in Thomas, West Virginia. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/h2>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
2026 Roots & Rhythm Main Stage: Bill Kirchen- 5:30 PM Darrel Nulisch- 3:45 PM Organizing the Dead- 2:00PM Miss Laurie Ann & the Saddletones- 12:15 PM Freight- 7:45 PM _____________________________________________________________________ Bill Kirchen- Titan of the Telecaster! Back by popular demand. Upon tallying how many decades he\u2019s worked as a professional guitar slinger, Telecaster master Bill … <\/p>\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBill Kirchen- Titan of the Telecaster! Back by popular demand. <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nUpon tallying how many decades he\u2019s worked as a professional guitar slinger, Telecaster master Bill Kirchen quips, \u201cWell, they don’t make 50 years like they used to.\u201d They don\u2019t often make careers like his, either.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nFrom performing with his Who Knows Pickers jug band in Ann Arbor High School\u2019s senior talent show (also on the program: the future Iggy Pop), to birthing the Americana genre with the original \u201chippie country band,\u201d Commander Cody and his Lost Planet Airmen, this affable Austinite has been everywhere, man, flying alongside some of the planet\u2019s coolest cats \u2014 including the Jesus of Cool, Nick Lowe, and Lowe\u2019s old prot\u00e9g\u00e9, Elvis Costello.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kirchen has toured the world with Lowe, who produced an album by Kirchen\u2019s post-Airmen band, the Moonlighters, and Costello recruited Kirchen for high-profile gigs like the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival \u2014 and even named his festival band after Kirchen\u2019s Hammer of the Honky-Tonk Gods<\/em> album. Lowe appears on that 2006 album, and its 2010 follow-up, Word to the Wise<\/em>, along with Costello, Maria Muldaur, Dan Hicks and other luminaries.<\/p>\n\n\n\nNow those albums, plus Kirchen\u2019s third Proper Records release, 2013\u2019s Seeds and Stems,<\/em><\/strong> are being combined with three bonus tracks from Transatlantica<\/em><\/strong>, his 2016 project with pub-rock progenitor Austin de Lone, as a two-CD retrospective titled The Proper Years. <\/strong>Waxworks,<\/em><\/strong> is a vinyl best-of version of the full collection. <\/p>\n\n\n\nA well-balanced mix of engaging originals and wonderfully rendered covers, The Proper Years<\/em><\/strong> admirably conveys Kirchen\u2019s versatility as a player and singer \u2014 one of the first to mash up rockabilly, country, western swing, honky-tonk, jump blues, jazz, boogie-woogie and even the \u201cpsychedelic folk rock\u201d he played with the Seventh Seal, the band he formed while attending the University of Michigan. (MC5 manager\/activist John Sinclair got them a dealon the ESP-Disk label, home of Sun Ra, but the band turned it down.)<\/p>\n\n\n\nSomewhere between steering Commander Cody\u2019s \u201cHot Rod Lincoln\u201d into a top-10 hit and scoring a Grammy nomination for Best Country Instrumental Performance, Kirchen dubbed his sound \u201cdieselbilly,\u201d wrapping his fondness for country\u2019s truck-driving song subgenre (as in big rigs, not pickups), its intersection with the Bakersfield Sound and his own name into one memorable moniker. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kirchen\u2019s right-place-at-the-right-time career has put him at the forefront of many musical movements, including outlaw country; Commander Cody\u2019s 1974 album, Live from Deep in the Heart of Texas,<\/em> recorded at Austin\u2019s legendary Armadillo World Headquarters, made Rolling Stone\u2019s 100 Best Albums of All Time list. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBut whatever label Kirchen\u2019s music wears, it\u2019s always notable for its balance of high-octane energy and deft understatement. There\u2019s no leadfoot excess; Kirchen\u2019s all about finesse \u2014 a sensibility absorbed from the symphonies and Broadway musicals his parents loved, along with the orchestral works he played as a school-band trombonist. Through another major influence, Interlochen Center for the Arts summer camp counselor David Siglin (who would go on to run famed Ann Arbor venue the Ark), Kirchen became immersed in folk traditions and learned to love the \u201cbig, sonorous tones\u201d of an undistorted guitar. \u201cI was more interested in sounding like Doc Watson than Eric Clapton,\u201d admits Kirchen, whose main guitar was crafted by Rick Kelly of Carmine Street Guitars from 200-year-old pine floorboards recycled from film director Jim Jarmusch\u2019s loft. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s fitting that this collection begins with his ode to that Telly-modeled \u201cstick of wood\u201d he calls \u201cthe bicycle of the electric guitar \u2014the most efficient way to get from point A to point B.\u201d That song also serves as exhibit A in a collection showcasing a central facet of Kirchen\u2019s songwriting: his wit. If there\u2019s a laugh to be reached for \u2014 or stooped to \u2014Kirchen\u2019s goin\u2019 for it; you don\u2019t survive years in a band named Commander Cody and his Lost Planet Airmen, or drop album titles like Seeds and Stems<\/em><\/strong>, without possessing a gleefully subversive, double-entendre-loving funny bone. \u201cI like music where at least someone onstage is smiling sometimes, fer crissake,\u201d jokes Kirchen, who\u2019s often grinning happily when he\u2019s not busy singing.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBut for every injection of humor, there\u2019s an equal dose of heart (and in some cases, heartbreak). And songs like \u201cTell Me the Reason\u201d or \u201cGet a Little Goner\u201d illustrate another truism: Kirchen often sets the saddest or mostbiting lyrics to the jauntiest melodies. Those two were cowritten by his wife, Louise; \u201cGoner\u201d also features frequent contributor Sarah Brown (coincidentally also raised in Ann Arbor).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kirchen likes collaborating; on Word to the Wise,<\/strong> a musical reminiscence of sorts, he tapped several favorite artists to join him, carefully selecting or writing songs for each. In the liner notes, he explains, \u201cThe criteria we used were that you had to be A) someone I had actually played with, either on stage or record, and B) not dead yet.\u201d Sadly, Norton Buffalo, who played harmonica with the Airmen and Moonlighters, passed away shortly after recording \u201cValley of the Moon\u201d \u2014 in which Kirchen revisits scenes of his early life with Louise on a trip to attend a funeral (for Hacienda Brother Chris Gaffney, another musical mate). Dan Hicks, who delivered a note-perfect duet on the title tune \u2014 written for him \u2014died in 2016. But as of this writing, Lowe, Costello, Maria Muldaur, Paul Carrack, original Asleep at the Wheel vocalist Chris O\u2019Connell and Commander Cody (aka George Frayne) are still very much with us. <\/p>\n\n\n\nKirchen\u2019s entertaining liner notes explain his connection to each, tracing many of these relationships directly to longtime collaborator and \u201cmainman\u201d Austin de Lone, who appears on all three solo albums and shares billing on Transatlanticana<\/em><\/strong>. Philadelphia-born keyboardist de Lone and his band, Eggs Over Easy, moved to England in 1970, urged by Jimi Hendrix\u2019s manager, Chas Chandler. Their rootsy mix of blues, country and rock caught on \u2014 and germinated the pub rock movement, whose acolytes included Brinsley Schwarz, in which Lowe played bass. In 1972, de Lone moved to California, where he met Kirchen. Years later, de Lone wound up joining the Moonlighters and introducing Kirchen to Lowe, who produced the band\u2019s 1983 album, Rush Hour <\/em>(and introduced Kirchen to Costello). That album was engineered by Paul Riley, who eventually would produce all four of Kirchen\u2019s Proper Records albums. <\/p>\n\n\n\nA devoted Anglophile, thanks to two aunts who married Brits, Kirchen began recording for the label after owner Malcolm Mills promised, \u201cI’m going to give you the best deal you’ve had in 25 years.\u201d He did, too. Mills not only supports Kirchen\u2019s recorded output, he also supports the guitarist on stage, right alongside bassist Riley. \u201cWhere else do you get a record company where the owner plays drums, the producer plays bass, and they tour with you?\u201d Kirchen says of his good friends. \u201cThey\u2019re the best.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That\u2019s just another twist in an incredible career trajectory set in motion, according to Kirchen, by two pivotal events: the 1964 and \u201965 Newport Folk Festivals. As a high-school kid on a quest to catch Mississippi John Hurt, he thumbed to the first one, then went back the following year \u2014 and witnessed Dylan going electric. \u201cThat pretty well blew away the competition for what I was going to do before, or if, or when I grew up,\u201d he says of those experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Five years later, he found himself sharing a bill with John Lennon, Yoko Ono and Stevie Wonder, when Commander Cody and the Airmen, who\u2019d formed in Ann Arbor, played a benefit for Sinclair after he got 10 years for two joints. A mere 50 years later, Kirchen\u2019s still having a blast. He\u2019s even planning another tour with Riley and Mills. But releasing this package, he says, \u201cnicely puts a bow on a whole, very enjoyable period of my life.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cNot that it’s over,\u201d he adds quickly. \u201cI mean, I’ve got more stuff in the works.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then he cracks, \u201cDon\u2019t tell anybody, but it’s not as hard as it looks.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
_________________________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDarrel Nulisch<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\nDarrell Nulisch (Dallas, Texas) is an American blues singer and harmonica player. <\/strong>A
two-time Grammy Award Nominee, Darrell was a key member of The James Cotton
Band, founding member of Anson Funderburgh and the Rockets and member of Ronnie
Earl and The Broadcasters. Nulisch’s repertoire incorporates soul combined with R&B
and Chicago blues, redesigned to complement his distinctive vocals.<\/h2>\n\n\n\nNulisch was raised listening to Texas radio, soaking in the sounds of soul, blues and
R&B. In 1978 he was a founding member of Anson Funderburgh’s Rockets and sang
with them until 1985. He was then part of Mike Morgan’s Crawl, before moving to
Massachusetts and joining up with Ronnie Earl’s Broadcasters in 1988. He began his
solo career late in 1990, relocating to Boston.
James Cotton then asked him to sing with Cotton’s band on tour, after Cotton had lost
his own voice. Nulisch recorded and toured with James Cotton for 10 years and sang
on James Cotton\u2019s critically acclaimed and Grammy Award Winning release \u201cCotton
Mouth Man\u201d.
Darrell Nulisch, renowned for his captivating “blue-eyed” soul and blues vocals takes
center stage, showcasing his powerful voice and exceptional harmonica skills rooted in
the heart of Texas. Supported by a stellar, world class lineup featuring guitarist
Chris Vitarello (Vanessa Collier, Jimmy Mcgriff, Bruce Katz), organist Dave Limina
(B.B. King, Chuck Berry, Ronnie Earl), drummer Lorne Entress (Mary Chapin
Carpenter, Ronnie Earl, Big Al Anderson), and bassist Mike Law (Kim Wilson, Lurrie
Bell, Jerry Portnoy), this quintet promises an unparalleled evening of pure blues and
soul.
Video link: https:\/\/youtu.be\/jVfESC-hOHg?si=YoTq0YkyKA5lP7_U<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n_________________________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOrganizing the Dead<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\nAn Organ Trio reimagines Grateful Dead classics and more with a soulful twist\u2014<\/strong>grooving through jazzy improvisations, deep pocket rhythms, and organ-fueled jams that breathe new life into timeless psychedelic anthems.<\/h2>\n\n\n\nMicheal Bram <\/strong> is a drummer, singer, harmonica and guitar player. He has been the drummer and musical director on multiple tours with Grammy winning artist, Jason Mraz since 2007. He is also the drummer and vocalist for The Weight Band featuring members of Woodstock NY\u2019s iconic \u201cThe Band\u201d and \u201cLevon Helm Band\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\nHe has performed at venues across the world including Carnegie Hall, Royal Albert Hall, Ryman Auditorium, Red Rocks Amphitheater, Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden etc\u2026 has appeared multiple times on Saturday Night Live, David Letterman, Jay Leno, Jimmy Kimmel, Ellen, The Today Show as well as international television in Canada, South America, Europe, Asia and Australia. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Michael has performed with an amazing variety of musicians including music legends Willie Nelson, Levon Helm, Arlo Guthrie, Maria Muldaur, John Sebastian, Pop musicians Colbie Caillat, Zac Brown Cristina Perri Jason Mraz, John Popper, G.Love and special Sauce, Joan Osbourne and many more. Michael also specializes in Blues and American roots music and has performed with some of the best in the genre (Johnny Nicholas, Steve Riley, Augie Myers, Bill Kirchen, Steve Guyger, Mark Hummel, Dennis Gruenling, Dean Shot, Dave Gross, Albert Castiglia, Larry Campbell, Jimmy Vivino, Amy Helm, Chris O\u2019Leary, Cindy Cashdollar, Steve Kimock and more)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chris Vitarello <\/strong>is a gifted guitarist and a blues hall of famer.Inducted on November 14th 2013.Nominee and performer at the 32nd Blues Music Awards.(Chris O\u2019Leary Band best new artist) and a Blues Blast winner. (Chris O\u2019Leary Band 2013)<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhile Chris chooses blues to be the main part of his career,he also branches out and leans toward the jazzier side of things.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chris also is a Worship Director at Walnut Hill Community Church in Bethel, Connecticut, where he helps facilitate musical direction and guidance for four campuses and over 60 volunteer musicians. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Vitarello’s guitar solos display a lyricism and inventiveness that’s reminiscent of the late Grant Green” (John Kleinman- Elmore Magazine 2018)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Matt Zeiner<\/strong>– It took little convincing for Matt to leave college and pile into a van to tour with Matt “Guitar” Murphy of Blues Brothers fame. Matt Murphy was Zeiner’s first serious education in the blues, but Murphy was more than just your average Bluesman. Matt’s band was made up of himself and a group of top-notch New York jazz musicians. The band played everything from hard jazz-fusion to straight blues. Murphy, himself an excellent jazz player, encouraged the band to stretch out and play whatever they wanted. It was all about the music and the wonderful fusion that comes from having such a diverse group of musicians.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThen in 2000 Zeiner got a call. He was told that Dickey Betts (Allman Brothers Band) was putting a band together and needed a keyboard player and vocalist. Zeiner jumped at the opportunity and got on the first plane to meet Dickey. Matt\u2019s musicianship and sound appealed to Dickey, who offered Matt to join them and hit the tour circuit with the new band.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Matt said he came to realize that he had found a kindred spirit in Dickey, especially in terms of songwriting. Dickey picked two of Matt’s tunes and asked him to rework parts of “Tombstone Eyes” so that Matt could sing the tune with the kind of conviction that such a piece of music demanded. Matt was able to add his own personal note to the tune without sacrificing the artistic intent and meaning that Dickey was so eager to put forth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
After four years on the road, Zeiner was ready to come home and focus on his own growing material. He dedicated himself to recording in his home studio and soon formed his own band. Propelled by 2007 release, Live on a Summer Night, the band performed to live audiences throughout the Northeast, sharing the stage with Johnny Winter, Roomful of Blues, Jamie McLean, and Dickey Betts and Great Southern. The recording drew critical acclaim for the band and swelled the ranks of their fan base.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The band stepped back from touring for a year to make some changes and give Matt a chance to collaborate with some other veteran artists, such as Melvin Sparks and CS&N guitarist Jeff Pevar. During the hiatus there emerged some new players and new material for the band, the product of which has spawned work on another album. An ambitious recording effort so far, the project already demonstrates Zeiner\u2019s knack for writing infectious melodies complemented by tight arrangements from his latest players. Together, they tear into a catalog of original soul\/R&B tunes, some funky vintage blues and a fresh take on some well-known rock standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
_______________________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nMiss Laurie Ann & the Saddletones<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\nMiss Laurie Ann started writing songs at an early age and has developed an extensive collection of tight, well-crafted songs that tell stories of love, come and gone. She refers to her style of music as Rock-Boppin-Country, combining elements of traditional country, rockabilly, and the blues.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nThe second album from Miss Laurie Ann & The SaddleTones, Ease My Mind, showcases her American Music<\/p>\n\n\n\n
influences. Produced by legendary guitarist and songwriter Dave Gonzalez of The Paladins, the album covers<\/p>\n\n\n\n
a wide range of roots styles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Miss Laurie Ann has been performing with her band, The SaddleTones, for over 15 years. They have<\/p>\n\n\n\n
performed at honky-tonks such as the legendary Rodeo Bar in New York City, theaters such as The Sellersville<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Theater and festivals such as The Lancaster Roots & Blues Festival. Along the way the band has shared the<\/p>\n\n\n\n
stage with various artists including Rock & Roll Hall of fame member Wanda Jackson, The Blasters, Reckless<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kelly, Dale Watson, Wayne Hancock, Dave Gonzalez, Big Sandy & His Fly-Rite Boys, Nikki Hill and others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
_________________________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nFreight<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\nFreight is a 5 piece, original Alt Country \/ Rural Rock \/ Roots band based out of Ithaca, NY. <\/strong>The band is comprised of veteran musicians who individually have shared stages with the likes of John Prine, The Mavericks, Leon Russell, James McMurtry and many other roots music heavyweights. Founded by midwest transplant JP Payton in early 2020, Freight has risen to the fore of the region’s growing Americana landscape. Drawing comparisons to the art rock of Wilco, the psychedelia of The Grateful Dead and the songcraft of Jason Isbell, Freight is both traditionally familiar and sonically adventurous. Freight’s debut album, Hard Worker,<\/em> released in October 2022 on Switchyard Records, has been met with critical acclaim. Their sophmore release Old Bones is garnering rave reviews<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\u201cOld Bones <\/em>seamlessly and flawlessly blends stirring old-school songcraft with strikingly stylish production. Earthy and ethereal, raw-boned and rich, immersive and impeccably crafted, this 10-song set comfortably inhabits the sweet spot between country, folk, roots-rock and Cosmic American Music.\u201d -Tinnitist<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cIn the Cosmic American tradition of looking beyond the grave and past the atmosphere, FREIGHT have mastered an art form of transcendental country.\u201d – Americana UK<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n“This is a recording of skilled musicians and friends enjoying what they do. In so many ways it is like a debut album, but by grown-ups, and it sounds like they had such fun bringing it to life together.” – Americana UK<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n“The debut album, Hard Worker, sometimes reminds us of the long-awaited Jason Molina’s way of making songs. Although with a greater optimism in the lyrics, Payton’s voice is close to the emotional tone of the late singer.” – Dirty Rock Magazine<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n“Hard Worker’s 10 songs traverse a wide musical terrain, blending country, funk, rock and psychedelic influences with traces of Wilco, The Grateful Dead, John Prine, Dave Alvin and other roots-music staples – all woven together to a blue collar backdrop for Payton’s warm baritone vocals and deeply personal lyrics.” – Jim Catalano WXXI<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nPayton\u2019s plaintively poetic and confessional songwriting belies a nuanced and empathetic understanding of the human condition. Drummer and Knoxville native Bowman Townsend (Black Lillies) has toured nationally showcasing his pocket centric groove, and veteran bassist Mike Brando (Janet Batch) rounds out the rhythm section with a commanding sense of tone earned from decades of professional gigging. Oklahoma native Steve Streetman, brings a decidedly red dirt feel to the slide guitar, and Peter Glanville, is renowned as one of the most in demand melodic guitar players in upstate New York. All told, Freight’s groove is seasoned, road-tested, and danceable fun. Recent highlights include several successful regional tours thru the midwest and Northeast with appearances at main stage Ithaca Fest, Fall Down Fest, City Winery Pittsburgh and the famed Purple Fiddle in Thomas, West Virginia. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/h2>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
2026 Roots & Rhythm Main Stage: Bill Kirchen- 5:30 PM Darrel Nulisch- 3:45 PM Organizing the Dead- 2:00PM Miss Laurie Ann & the Saddletones- 12:15 PM Freight- 7:45 PM _____________________________________________________________________ Bill Kirchen- Titan of the Telecaster! Back by popular demand. Upon tallying how many decades he\u2019s worked as a professional guitar slinger, Telecaster master Bill … <\/p>\n
From performing with his Who Knows Pickers jug band in Ann Arbor High School\u2019s senior talent show (also on the program: the future Iggy Pop), to birthing the Americana genre with the original \u201chippie country band,\u201d Commander Cody and his Lost Planet Airmen, this affable Austinite has been everywhere, man, flying alongside some of the planet\u2019s coolest cats \u2014 including the Jesus of Cool, Nick Lowe, and Lowe\u2019s old prot\u00e9g\u00e9, Elvis Costello.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kirchen has toured the world with Lowe, who produced an album by Kirchen\u2019s post-Airmen band, the Moonlighters, and Costello recruited Kirchen for high-profile gigs like the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival \u2014 and even named his festival band after Kirchen\u2019s Hammer of the Honky-Tonk Gods<\/em> album. Lowe appears on that 2006 album, and its 2010 follow-up, Word to the Wise<\/em>, along with Costello, Maria Muldaur, Dan Hicks and other luminaries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Now those albums, plus Kirchen\u2019s third Proper Records release, 2013\u2019s Seeds and Stems,<\/em><\/strong> are being combined with three bonus tracks from Transatlantica<\/em><\/strong>, his 2016 project with pub-rock progenitor Austin de Lone, as a two-CD retrospective titled The Proper Years. <\/strong>Waxworks,<\/em><\/strong> is a vinyl best-of version of the full collection. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A well-balanced mix of engaging originals and wonderfully rendered covers, The Proper Years<\/em><\/strong> admirably conveys Kirchen\u2019s versatility as a player and singer \u2014 one of the first to mash up rockabilly, country, western swing, honky-tonk, jump blues, jazz, boogie-woogie and even the \u201cpsychedelic folk rock\u201d he played with the Seventh Seal, the band he formed while attending the University of Michigan. (MC5 manager\/activist John Sinclair got them a dealon the ESP-Disk label, home of Sun Ra, but the band turned it down.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n Somewhere between steering Commander Cody\u2019s \u201cHot Rod Lincoln\u201d into a top-10 hit and scoring a Grammy nomination for Best Country Instrumental Performance, Kirchen dubbed his sound \u201cdieselbilly,\u201d wrapping his fondness for country\u2019s truck-driving song subgenre (as in big rigs, not pickups), its intersection with the Bakersfield Sound and his own name into one memorable moniker. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Kirchen\u2019s right-place-at-the-right-time career has put him at the forefront of many musical movements, including outlaw country; Commander Cody\u2019s 1974 album, Live from Deep in the Heart of Texas,<\/em> recorded at Austin\u2019s legendary Armadillo World Headquarters, made Rolling Stone\u2019s 100 Best Albums of All Time list. <\/p>\n\n\n\n But whatever label Kirchen\u2019s music wears, it\u2019s always notable for its balance of high-octane energy and deft understatement. There\u2019s no leadfoot excess; Kirchen\u2019s all about finesse \u2014 a sensibility absorbed from the symphonies and Broadway musicals his parents loved, along with the orchestral works he played as a school-band trombonist. Through another major influence, Interlochen Center for the Arts summer camp counselor David Siglin (who would go on to run famed Ann Arbor venue the Ark), Kirchen became immersed in folk traditions and learned to love the \u201cbig, sonorous tones\u201d of an undistorted guitar. \u201cI was more interested in sounding like Doc Watson than Eric Clapton,\u201d admits Kirchen, whose main guitar was crafted by Rick Kelly of Carmine Street Guitars from 200-year-old pine floorboards recycled from film director Jim Jarmusch\u2019s loft. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s fitting that this collection begins with his ode to that Telly-modeled \u201cstick of wood\u201d he calls \u201cthe bicycle of the electric guitar \u2014the most efficient way to get from point A to point B.\u201d That song also serves as exhibit A in a collection showcasing a central facet of Kirchen\u2019s songwriting: his wit. If there\u2019s a laugh to be reached for \u2014 or stooped to \u2014Kirchen\u2019s goin\u2019 for it; you don\u2019t survive years in a band named Commander Cody and his Lost Planet Airmen, or drop album titles like Seeds and Stems<\/em><\/strong>, without possessing a gleefully subversive, double-entendre-loving funny bone. \u201cI like music where at least someone onstage is smiling sometimes, fer crissake,\u201d jokes Kirchen, who\u2019s often grinning happily when he\u2019s not busy singing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But for every injection of humor, there\u2019s an equal dose of heart (and in some cases, heartbreak). And songs like \u201cTell Me the Reason\u201d or \u201cGet a Little Goner\u201d illustrate another truism: Kirchen often sets the saddest or mostbiting lyrics to the jauntiest melodies. Those two were cowritten by his wife, Louise; \u201cGoner\u201d also features frequent contributor Sarah Brown (coincidentally also raised in Ann Arbor).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Kirchen likes collaborating; on Word to the Wise,<\/strong> a musical reminiscence of sorts, he tapped several favorite artists to join him, carefully selecting or writing songs for each. In the liner notes, he explains, \u201cThe criteria we used were that you had to be A) someone I had actually played with, either on stage or record, and B) not dead yet.\u201d Sadly, Norton Buffalo, who played harmonica with the Airmen and Moonlighters, passed away shortly after recording \u201cValley of the Moon\u201d \u2014 in which Kirchen revisits scenes of his early life with Louise on a trip to attend a funeral (for Hacienda Brother Chris Gaffney, another musical mate). Dan Hicks, who delivered a note-perfect duet on the title tune \u2014 written for him \u2014died in 2016. But as of this writing, Lowe, Costello, Maria Muldaur, Paul Carrack, original Asleep at the Wheel vocalist Chris O\u2019Connell and Commander Cody (aka George Frayne) are still very much with us. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Kirchen\u2019s entertaining liner notes explain his connection to each, tracing many of these relationships directly to longtime collaborator and \u201cmainman\u201d Austin de Lone, who appears on all three solo albums and shares billing on Transatlanticana<\/em><\/strong>. Philadelphia-born keyboardist de Lone and his band, Eggs Over Easy, moved to England in 1970, urged by Jimi Hendrix\u2019s manager, Chas Chandler. Their rootsy mix of blues, country and rock caught on \u2014 and germinated the pub rock movement, whose acolytes included Brinsley Schwarz, in which Lowe played bass. In 1972, de Lone moved to California, where he met Kirchen. Years later, de Lone wound up joining the Moonlighters and introducing Kirchen to Lowe, who produced the band\u2019s 1983 album, Rush Hour <\/em>(and introduced Kirchen to Costello). That album was engineered by Paul Riley, who eventually would produce all four of Kirchen\u2019s Proper Records albums. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A devoted Anglophile, thanks to two aunts who married Brits, Kirchen began recording for the label after owner Malcolm Mills promised, \u201cI’m going to give you the best deal you’ve had in 25 years.\u201d He did, too. Mills not only supports Kirchen\u2019s recorded output, he also supports the guitarist on stage, right alongside bassist Riley. \u201cWhere else do you get a record company where the owner plays drums, the producer plays bass, and they tour with you?\u201d Kirchen says of his good friends. \u201cThey\u2019re the best.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n That\u2019s just another twist in an incredible career trajectory set in motion, according to Kirchen, by two pivotal events: the 1964 and \u201965 Newport Folk Festivals. As a high-school kid on a quest to catch Mississippi John Hurt, he thumbed to the first one, then went back the following year \u2014 and witnessed Dylan going electric. \u201cThat pretty well blew away the competition for what I was going to do before, or if, or when I grew up,\u201d he says of those experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Five years later, he found himself sharing a bill with John Lennon, Yoko Ono and Stevie Wonder, when Commander Cody and the Airmen, who\u2019d formed in Ann Arbor, played a benefit for Sinclair after he got 10 years for two joints. A mere 50 years later, Kirchen\u2019s still having a blast. He\u2019s even planning another tour with Riley and Mills. But releasing this package, he says, \u201cnicely puts a bow on a whole, very enjoyable period of my life.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cNot that it’s over,\u201d he adds quickly. \u201cI mean, I’ve got more stuff in the works.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n Then he cracks, \u201cDon\u2019t tell anybody, but it’s not as hard as it looks.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n _________________________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nulisch was raised listening to Texas radio, soaking in the sounds of soul, blues and _________________________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Micheal Bram <\/strong> is a drummer, singer, harmonica and guitar player. He has been the drummer and musical director on multiple tours with Grammy winning artist, Jason Mraz since 2007. He is also the drummer and vocalist for The Weight Band featuring members of Woodstock NY\u2019s iconic \u201cThe Band\u201d and \u201cLevon Helm Band\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n He has performed at venues across the world including Carnegie Hall, Royal Albert Hall, Ryman Auditorium, Red Rocks Amphitheater, Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden etc\u2026 has appeared multiple times on Saturday Night Live, David Letterman, Jay Leno, Jimmy Kimmel, Ellen, The Today Show as well as international television in Canada, South America, Europe, Asia and Australia. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Michael has performed with an amazing variety of musicians including music legends Willie Nelson, Levon Helm, Arlo Guthrie, Maria Muldaur, John Sebastian, Pop musicians Colbie Caillat, Zac Brown Cristina Perri Jason Mraz, John Popper, G.Love and special Sauce, Joan Osbourne and many more. Michael also specializes in Blues and American roots music and has performed with some of the best in the genre (Johnny Nicholas, Steve Riley, Augie Myers, Bill Kirchen, Steve Guyger, Mark Hummel, Dennis Gruenling, Dean Shot, Dave Gross, Albert Castiglia, Larry Campbell, Jimmy Vivino, Amy Helm, Chris O\u2019Leary, Cindy Cashdollar, Steve Kimock and more)<\/p>\n\n\n\n Chris Vitarello <\/strong>is a gifted guitarist and a blues hall of famer.Inducted on November 14th 2013.Nominee and performer at the 32nd Blues Music Awards.(Chris O\u2019Leary Band best new artist) and a Blues Blast winner. (Chris O\u2019Leary Band 2013)<\/p>\n\n\n\n While Chris chooses blues to be the main part of his career,he also branches out and leans toward the jazzier side of things.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Chris also is a Worship Director at Walnut Hill Community Church in Bethel, Connecticut, where he helps facilitate musical direction and guidance for four campuses and over 60 volunteer musicians. <\/p>\n\n\n\n “Vitarello’s guitar solos display a lyricism and inventiveness that’s reminiscent of the late Grant Green” (John Kleinman- Elmore Magazine 2018)<\/p>\n\n\n\n Matt Zeiner<\/strong>– It took little convincing for Matt to leave college and pile into a van to tour with Matt “Guitar” Murphy of Blues Brothers fame. Matt Murphy was Zeiner’s first serious education in the blues, but Murphy was more than just your average Bluesman. Matt’s band was made up of himself and a group of top-notch New York jazz musicians. The band played everything from hard jazz-fusion to straight blues. Murphy, himself an excellent jazz player, encouraged the band to stretch out and play whatever they wanted. It was all about the music and the wonderful fusion that comes from having such a diverse group of musicians.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Then in 2000 Zeiner got a call. He was told that Dickey Betts (Allman Brothers Band) was putting a band together and needed a keyboard player and vocalist. Zeiner jumped at the opportunity and got on the first plane to meet Dickey. Matt\u2019s musicianship and sound appealed to Dickey, who offered Matt to join them and hit the tour circuit with the new band.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Matt said he came to realize that he had found a kindred spirit in Dickey, especially in terms of songwriting. Dickey picked two of Matt’s tunes and asked him to rework parts of “Tombstone Eyes” so that Matt could sing the tune with the kind of conviction that such a piece of music demanded. Matt was able to add his own personal note to the tune without sacrificing the artistic intent and meaning that Dickey was so eager to put forth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After four years on the road, Zeiner was ready to come home and focus on his own growing material. He dedicated himself to recording in his home studio and soon formed his own band. Propelled by 2007 release, Live on a Summer Night, the band performed to live audiences throughout the Northeast, sharing the stage with Johnny Winter, Roomful of Blues, Jamie McLean, and Dickey Betts and Great Southern. The recording drew critical acclaim for the band and swelled the ranks of their fan base.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The band stepped back from touring for a year to make some changes and give Matt a chance to collaborate with some other veteran artists, such as Melvin Sparks and CS&N guitarist Jeff Pevar. During the hiatus there emerged some new players and new material for the band, the product of which has spawned work on another album. An ambitious recording effort so far, the project already demonstrates Zeiner\u2019s knack for writing infectious melodies complemented by tight arrangements from his latest players. Together, they tear into a catalog of original soul\/R&B tunes, some funky vintage blues and a fresh take on some well-known rock standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n _______________________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n The second album from Miss Laurie Ann & The SaddleTones, Ease My Mind, showcases her American Music<\/p>\n\n\n\n influences. Produced by legendary guitarist and songwriter Dave Gonzalez of The Paladins, the album covers<\/p>\n\n\n\n a wide range of roots styles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Miss Laurie Ann has been performing with her band, The SaddleTones, for over 15 years. They have<\/p>\n\n\n\n performed at honky-tonks such as the legendary Rodeo Bar in New York City, theaters such as The Sellersville<\/p>\n\n\n\n Theater and festivals such as The Lancaster Roots & Blues Festival. Along the way the band has shared the<\/p>\n\n\n\n stage with various artists including Rock & Roll Hall of fame member Wanda Jackson, The Blasters, Reckless<\/p>\n\n\n\n Kelly, Dale Watson, Wayne Hancock, Dave Gonzalez, Big Sandy & His Fly-Rite Boys, Nikki Hill and others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n _________________________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cOld Bones <\/em>seamlessly and flawlessly blends stirring old-school songcraft with strikingly stylish production. Earthy and ethereal, raw-boned and rich, immersive and impeccably crafted, this 10-song set comfortably inhabits the sweet spot between country, folk, roots-rock and Cosmic American Music.\u201d -Tinnitist<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cIn the Cosmic American tradition of looking beyond the grave and past the atmosphere, FREIGHT have mastered an art form of transcendental country.\u201d – Americana UK<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n “This is a recording of skilled musicians and friends enjoying what they do. In so many ways it is like a debut album, but by grown-ups, and it sounds like they had such fun bringing it to life together.” – Americana UK<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n “The debut album, Hard Worker, sometimes reminds us of the long-awaited Jason Molina’s way of making songs. Although with a greater optimism in the lyrics, Payton’s voice is close to the emotional tone of the late singer.” – Dirty Rock Magazine<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n “Hard Worker’s 10 songs traverse a wide musical terrain, blending country, funk, rock and psychedelic influences with traces of Wilco, The Grateful Dead, John Prine, Dave Alvin and other roots-music staples – all woven together to a blue collar backdrop for Payton’s warm baritone vocals and deeply personal lyrics.” – Jim Catalano WXXI<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Payton\u2019s plaintively poetic and confessional songwriting belies a nuanced and empathetic understanding of the human condition. Drummer and Knoxville native Bowman Townsend (Black Lillies) has toured nationally showcasing his pocket centric groove, and veteran bassist Mike Brando (Janet Batch) rounds out the rhythm section with a commanding sense of tone earned from decades of professional gigging. Oklahoma native Steve Streetman, brings a decidedly red dirt feel to the slide guitar, and Peter Glanville, is renowned as one of the most in demand melodic guitar players in upstate New York. All told, Freight’s groove is seasoned, road-tested, and danceable fun. Recent highlights include several successful regional tours thru the midwest and Northeast with appearances at main stage Ithaca Fest, Fall Down Fest, City Winery Pittsburgh and the famed Purple Fiddle in Thomas, West Virginia. <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n 2026 Roots & Rhythm Main Stage: Bill Kirchen- 5:30 PM Darrel Nulisch- 3:45 PM Organizing the Dead- 2:00PM Miss Laurie Ann & the Saddletones- 12:15 PM Freight- 7:45 PM _____________________________________________________________________ Bill Kirchen- Titan of the Telecaster! Back by popular demand. Upon tallying how many decades he\u2019s worked as a professional guitar slinger, Telecaster master Bill … <\/p>\n<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDarrel Nulisch<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Darrell Nulisch (Dallas, Texas) is an American blues singer and harmonica player. <\/strong>A
two-time Grammy Award Nominee, Darrell was a key member of The James Cotton
Band, founding member of Anson Funderburgh and the Rockets and member of Ronnie
Earl and The Broadcasters. Nulisch’s repertoire incorporates soul combined with R&B
and Chicago blues, redesigned to complement his distinctive vocals.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
R&B. In 1978 he was a founding member of Anson Funderburgh’s Rockets and sang
with them until 1985. He was then part of Mike Morgan’s Crawl, before moving to
Massachusetts and joining up with Ronnie Earl’s Broadcasters in 1988. He began his
solo career late in 1990, relocating to Boston.
James Cotton then asked him to sing with Cotton’s band on tour, after Cotton had lost
his own voice. Nulisch recorded and toured with James Cotton for 10 years and sang
on James Cotton\u2019s critically acclaimed and Grammy Award Winning release \u201cCotton
Mouth Man\u201d.
Darrell Nulisch, renowned for his captivating “blue-eyed” soul and blues vocals takes
center stage, showcasing his powerful voice and exceptional harmonica skills rooted in
the heart of Texas. Supported by a stellar, world class lineup featuring guitarist
Chris Vitarello (Vanessa Collier, Jimmy Mcgriff, Bruce Katz), organist Dave Limina
(B.B. King, Chuck Berry, Ronnie Earl), drummer Lorne Entress (Mary Chapin
Carpenter, Ronnie Earl, Big Al Anderson), and bassist Mike Law (Kim Wilson, Lurrie
Bell, Jerry Portnoy), this quintet promises an unparalleled evening of pure blues and
soul.
Video link: https:\/\/youtu.be\/jVfESC-hOHg?si=YoTq0YkyKA5lP7_U<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOrganizing the Dead<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n
An Organ Trio reimagines Grateful Dead classics and more with a soulful twist\u2014<\/strong>grooving through jazzy improvisations, deep pocket rhythms, and organ-fueled jams that breathe new life into timeless psychedelic anthems.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nMiss Laurie Ann & the Saddletones<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Miss Laurie Ann started writing songs at an early age and has developed an extensive collection of tight, well-crafted songs that tell stories of love, come and gone. She refers to her style of music as Rock-Boppin-Country, combining elements of traditional country, rockabilly, and the blues.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nFreight<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Freight is a 5 piece, original Alt Country \/ Rural Rock \/ Roots band based out of Ithaca, NY. <\/strong>The band is comprised of veteran musicians who individually have shared stages with the likes of John Prine, The Mavericks, Leon Russell, James McMurtry and many other roots music heavyweights. Founded by midwest transplant JP Payton in early 2020, Freight has risen to the fore of the region’s growing Americana landscape. Drawing comparisons to the art rock of Wilco, the psychedelia of The Grateful Dead and the songcraft of Jason Isbell, Freight is both traditionally familiar and sonically adventurous. Freight’s debut album, Hard Worker,<\/em> released in October 2022 on Switchyard Records, has been met with critical acclaim. Their sophmore release Old Bones is garnering rave reviews<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/h2>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"