Volume 28 • Number 2 March - April 2008 Bluegrass Expresswww.oregonbluegrass.org
Music From the True Vine Written By Claire Levine CREATINGCREATING COMMUNITY OVEROVER THETHE RADIO WAVEWAVESS
im Seafeldt believes the seeds of ally roomed together in a big rented weekly time slot. They called their MusicJ from the True Vine were house in Southwest Portland that was show Back Porch Music Time. planted in the early 1950s, when he the site of many parties, many jams Jim was doing the talking; Don was was about 12 years old. “I heard Bill and much musical inspiration. working the equipment. Within 20 Monroe sing Muleskinner Blues, and “In the fall of 1970, Don was at a minutes of going on the air, the phone I haven’t been the same since.” party with a guy name of Mike started ringing with excited fans Music from the True Vine is the Palmer. Mike introduced himself as calling to spur them on. It only took Saturday morning radio show that Jim the program director of this little FM three or four weeks to convince the and a friend started in 1971. It may station in Portland called KBOO. He KBOO board of directors that blue- well be the longest running bluegrass was explaining to Don about all the grass belonged on KBOO perma- show in the nation. It’s also the blue- different kinds of music programs on nently. “Mike Palmer called us up and grass lifeline for much of Oregon and the station, and Don said, ‘You need a said, ‘You’ve got a show as long as southern Washington. bluegrass show.’ you’ve got an audience.’” For Jim, known to most Oregon “Mike said he’d like to have a And 37 years later, they’ve still got bluegrass fans as Dr. Corn (of Dr. program like that, but no one at the an audience. When Michael O’Rourke Corn’s Bluegrass Remedy), exposure station knew anyone with enough (who didn’t get really hooked on blue- to radio shows like the Wheeling records or background in that kind of grass until he heard the KBOO West Virginia Barn Dance was life music to do a show. And Don said, program) took over the show in 1973, changing. His world became all blue- ‘You’re in luck. I’m sharing a house he changed the show’s name to Music grass, all the time. He mowed lawns with a guy who does nothing but from the True Vine, after a Mike and delivered papers and babysat so work, listen to bluegrass, eat chicken Seeger song. Years later, the program that he could buy every bluegrass wings and drink beer. He’s perfect.’” moved to its current Saturday morn- recording that came his way. So it’s On the third Wednesday of March in ing slot, from 9 a.m. to noon. fitting that he brought bluegrass radio 1971, Jim and Don carried a stack of Today, five programmers rotate to Portland. records to a “rickety old building” in responsibility for the show. Ian Joel, By the time he met banjo player Don downtown Portland.The KBOO board Dave Elliott and Gareth Jenkins all Latshaw in 1969, Jim had one of the had given them six or eight weeks to have been doing the show for so long biggest bluegrass music collections in test the show and see if they could they can’t remember when they the Northwest. Don and Jim eventu- draw an audience for a 9 to midnight Continued inside on page 6 OBA Bluegrass Express - March / April 2008 Table of Contents Proud Member of: March / April 2008 • Volume 28 / Number 2 • Newsletter of the Oregon Bluegrass Association • www.oregonbluegrass.org Mar. - Apr. Vol.28 No. 2 This Issues Features 2008
www.oregonbluegrass.org Music From The True Vine! Cover Bluegrass Express Year-to-Date with the OBA 6 Bluegrass Express is a bi-monthly Bluegrass at the Beach ‘08 7 newsletter dedicated to informing River City Bluegrass Review 8 members of the Oregon Bluegrass Sound Advice 14 Association about local, regional Sharp or Flat? 15 and national bluegrass issues, events and opportunities. OBA’s Annual Meeting 17 On The Cover: Rachel Gold Having Fun Sharing The Music Inside KBOO Studio’s During Music From the True Vine. Photo: by Claire Levine. Columns & Commentary Bluegrass Express Staff Membership & Ad Information 4 Publisher and Editor OBA President’s Letter 5 Jon Ostrom A Message From Lee Highway 9 [email protected] Uncle Chippy’s Corner 10 Audix River City Review 11 Calendar & Webmaster Gene Bach Tim O’Brien,“Powered” by Audix at River City. 530-842-1611 Read the Review on Page 11. [email protected] Calendars, Lists & Info Photo: by Tracy B. Brown. Radio Time Listings 5 Rumors & Lies Editor Contributing Business Sponsors 7 Anna Snook [email protected] Jam Schedule 18 What’s Cooking? Calendar 19 Layout & Design Supporting Performer Listings 22 Donny Kersey [email protected]
Cross-Eyed Rosie - River City Bluegrass ‘08. Contact the OBA Regarding Photo: by Chip Russell. membership at [email protected]
The Oregon Bluegrass Association (OBA) PO Box 1115, Portland, OR 97207 is a 503(c)(3) non-profit corporation founded in 1982. It’s purpose is to promote,encourage, foster and cultivate the preservation, appreci- ation, understanding, enjoyment, support and performance of bluegrass and other closely related music. John Reishman and the Jaybirds “Powered” by Audix at River City Bluegrass Festival ‘08. Photo: by Tracy B. Brown. The Bluegrass Express is printed on 30% Visit www.oregonbluegrass.org today for tons of bluegrass information. post-consumer recycled paper.
OBA Bluegrass Express - March / April 2008 Oregon Bluegrass Association Board
Membership Information Advertising The OBA Board of Directors invites Your Express advertising will di- you to join the OBA and to participate rectly reach over 600 households of in its many activities.Our membership bluegrass enthusiasts while helping benefits include a subscription to the OBA to keep publishing this valuable bi •monthly Bluegrass Express, fre- resource. Tear sheets or extra copies of quent mailings about events, and tick- the Express are available. We appreci- The OBA Board et discounts to Northwest bluegrass ate your support of the Oregon Blue- events. Annual membership dues are grass Association. Contact the OBA: 503 321-5077 $20 for a General Member, $50 for www.oregonbluegrass.org Supporting Performers and $100 for Submissions a Contributing Business Sponsor (see Please contact Mark Gensman via page 7), as well as other options. To e-mail at [email protected] for Josh Cole join, complete the application on the information about placing an ad for President back cover and mail with your check your music related business in the [email protected] to: Oregon Bluegrass Association, OBA Bluegrass Express. P.O. Box 1115, Portland, OR 97207. Jon Ostrom Payment Vice President Web Site [email protected] The OBA prefers to receive adver- Features include a calendar, excerpts tising payment in advance. We would from the current issue of the Express, David Hausner like one year contracts six months in and links for local bands. Come visit Treasurer advance, and we will bill for the next us online! Visit the OBA web page to- dave.hausner@nrdsi,com six months. day! www.oregonbluegrass.org. Please make checks payable to: Chip Russell The Oregon Bluegrass Association, Secretary Sponsored Jams mail to PO Box 1115, [email protected] The OBA sponsors jam sessions in Portland, Oregon 97207. Portland, Coburg, Roseburg, as well Lisa Remmer as Pendleton. Check the Scheduled Membership Jams section of this issue for a com- Bluegrass Express Advertising Rates [email protected] plete listing of these and other jams Volunteer Coordinators througout Oregon. If you are interested (size) (dimension) (two + issues) in organizing an OBA-sponsored jam, Chris Standridge contact any of the Board members or [email protected] Express Staff at the phone numbers or Full Page 8x10” $110.00 $99.00 Holly Wyman [email protected] e-mail addresses listed on this page Half Page 8x5’’ $65.00 $58.00 and on page 3. Quarter Page 5/8x5’’ $45.00 $40.00 Member at Large Mason Smith 1/2 5/8 Articles & Editorial Deadlines Eighth Page x2 ’’ $25.00 $20.00 [email protected] The OBA Board invites you to submit Business Card 1/2x2’’ $25.00 $20.00 letters, stories, photos and articles to the Bluegrass Express.Published files Add 3% for late payment. The OBA holds board elections each remain in our archives and art is re- April as individual terms expire. The turned upon request. Deadlines for all Board of Directors invites you to join art and copy: December 10 for the Jan- Ad Specs: our monthly meetings. We welcome uary and February issue; February 10, When submitting an advertisment to your visit and ideas, opinions and pro- for the March and April issue; April 10 be in the Bluegrass Express, please be posals. Or, just come to see what we’re for the May and June issue; June10 for sure the file is black and white, 300 doing! We generally meet the second the July and August issue; August 10 dpi, and in either PDF, TIFF, or JPEG Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. The for the September and October issue; format. If you have questions about location is subject to change. Call us and October 10 for the November and your file, email: or email any board member for time, December issue. [email protected] location and directions.
OBA Bluegrass Express - March / April 2008 From the President What’s Hello Friends and Neighbors! Playing Hope the winter months have found you well and rested for all the upcoming on the concerts and festivals! Don’t worry, spring will be here soon, as will all the outdoor fun that comes with it. Radio? Local Radio Bluegrass and Country Listings. I wanted to talk about two things this issue. First, board member positions will be opening this April and we are looking for volunteers to fll these spots. Please inquire with any board member for more information. This is a great group and Albany/Corvallis-KBOO, the momentum is really picking up. The OBA needs people with all different skill broadcast from Portland, can be heard sets who would like to be more involved in the bluegrass community. at 100.7 FM. See under Portland, below. Astoria-KMUN, 91.9 FM. That leads into the second topic, the annual meeting. We had a great one last Some syndicated programming. year and this one is going to be just as much fun! This meeting we’ll (you’ll) 503 325-0010. be voting in new board members. There are a few positions open and this will “Café Vaquera,” be an important, decision making meeting. As well as the voting, there will be Tuesdays 9-11pm, Bluegrass/Old Timey general OBA business discussed, a free lunch, and jamming! The meeting is Western/ Folk with Calamity Jane. being held on Sunday April 20th at 12pm. For the second year in a row it will be [email protected]. at McMenamin’s Kennedy School in Portland. This is a wonderful space with “Shady Grove,” great hospitality and it’s easy to get to, so please join us, we’d love to see you! Saturdays 7 - 9pm. Regular folk program. Monday thru Friday 10am - noon, with As always, I want to encourage every one of you to go hear more live music. bluegrass included. We’re blessed with tremendous talent in the Northwest and the community needs audiences and enthusiasts as much as artists. Plus it’s a great way to beat the Columbia Gorge-KBOO, winter blues! So get on out and take in some live bluegrass! broadcast from Portland, can be heard at 92.7 FM. See under Portland, below. Hope to see you all down the road, take care and keep enjoying bluegrass 503 231-8187. music… Corvallis-KOAC, 550 AM, Syndicated public radio with some blue- Josh Cole grass included in regular programming. 541 737-4311. OBA President Eugene-KLCC, 89.7 FM, Local broadcast. 541 726-2224. The Josh Cole Band, River City ‘08 Mixed format, “Saturday Café”, Photo: by Chip Russell Saturdays 11am - Noon and “The Backporch”, OBA’s 1st Annual Saturdays 9pm - 10pm. Eugene-KRVM, 91.9 FM, Bluegrass & Old Time Pickers Festival 541 687-3370. August 15-16-17, 2008 Horning’s Hideout “Routes & Branches” 3 - 5pm, “Acoustic Junction” 5 - 7pm, Saturdays, Imagine warm summer days, camping in a beautiful deep-shaded forest plays bluegrass along with other while jamming all day with your friends. There won’t be any contests, acoustic music. stages, performers, or schedules to keep track of. This is a relaxing event “Miles of Bluegrass” is 7 - 9pm, Mondays. www.krvm.org for musicians who like lots of jamming and hanging out with old and new Pendleton-KWHT, 103.5 FM, friends. Tents and RV’s welcomed. All bluegrass and old time players are contact Phil Hodgen 541 276-2476. welcomed, and bring your families too. Horning Hideout is a beautiful “Bushels of Bluegrass”, Sundays 9 - 11pm. location with miles of trails to explore. Regardless the distance you have Portland-KBOO, 90.7 FM, traveled down your musical journey, you will fnd yourself surrounded by “Music from the True Vine,” folks that will be more than willing to share. Saturdays 9am - Noon. Other folk programs also include bluegrass. Look for more information coming soon. 503 231-8187.
OBA Bluegrass Express - March / April 2008 cover story The True Vine continued OBA Profit and Loss April 1, 2007 through February 1, 2008
12:51 PM 02/01/08 Cash Basis started but it’s been close to 25 years Ordinary Income/Expense for all of them. Rachel Gold and Justin Income Auld are the new kids on the block Advertising Income 5,288.00 – with three years in as programmers. Concessions & Door income 2,470.00 And in months with five Saturdays, Contributions Income 107.00 Phil Hodgen makes the long journey Interest Income 0.25 Jam Income 211.00 from Eastern Oregon to add his unique Membership Income blend of bluegrass to the mix. Angel Sponsor 150.00 KBOO and bluegrass Band Membership 457.00 KBOO Radio is a listener-sponsored Business Sponsor - 1 year 120.00 Business Sponsor - 3 year 228.00 radio station based in Southeast Golden 100.00 Portland. It offers an eclectic blend Membership Income - 3 year 741.00 of music, talk shows on a variety of One year new 685.00 different topics, commentary and One year renewal 831.00 news. Membership Income - Other 959.00 “Listener sponsored” means just Total Membership Income 4,271.00 that. Rather than rely on commercials, Miscellaneous Income 588.00 KBOO and locally based radio shows Raffle Income 694.00 like it, depend on listener contributions Uncategorized Income 110.00 to support the station. Total Income 13,739.25 KBOO plays an important role in Portland’s radio environment Expense because of the wide diversity of its Advertising Expense 20.50 programming – and because it’s an card for Clyde McCoy 2.29 outlet for both music and opinions that Dues/Annual Fees 600.00 aren’t welcome on commercial radio. Express & calendar expenses And because it has given bluegrass Postage 175.00 steady radio time for 37 years, it has Printing 6,265.98 Production 1,500.00 become a magnet for bluegrass fans, Express & Calendar Expenses - Other 153.55 who in turn show their appreciation Total Express & Calendar Expenses 8,094.53 during pledge drives. Insurance 299.00 Chris Merrick, KBOO’s program Jam Session Expenses 60.00 director, said that Music from the Library Expense 5.00 True Vine routinely is among the top Licenses and Permits 10.00 three shows for the number of callers Meals/Entertainment 7.70 to pledge financial support. When 50 Membership Meeting Expenses 1,337.25 or 60 people call during a show, as Miscellaneous 7.99 Professional Fees they do on Saturday mornings, “that Accounting 495.00 implies there is a huge number of Total Professional Fees 495.00 people tuning in who aren’t calling.” Program Expense In addition to the Saturday show, cash box 600.00 bluegrass and old time fans (who like Program Expense - Other 50.00 to get up early) can hear the music Total Program Expense 650.00 they love every weekday morning Supplies from 5:30 to 7 a.m. Offce Supplies 58.30 KBOO can be heard through much Supplies - Other 16.93 Total Supplies 75.23 of the Willamette Valley at 90.7 FM in Telephone 127.20 Portland and 100.7 FM in Corvallis, Venue Rental 400.00 and at 91.9 FM in the Columbia Gorge. Total Expense 12,821.69 If you’re interested in keeping Net Ordinary Income 917.56 bluegrass and old time music available Continued on page 11 Net Income 917.56
OBA Bluegrass Express - March / April 2008 1992- 2007, 15 years of great music and great friends!
T H A N K S TO O U R W O N D E R F U L S TA F F F O R 15 G R E AT Y E A R S - Laurie Lewis, Tom Rozum, Peter McLaughlin, Tony Furtado, Sally Van Meter, Cary Black, Dale Adkins, Suzanne Pearce, Craig Smith, Todd Phillips, Jim Nunally, Rob Ickes, Barbara Formed in 1992, Bluegrass at the Beach grew to be one of Collins, Kris Hare, Bob Evoniuk, Donella Evoniuk, Steve the premier Music Camps in the country. In 2008, we were Pottier, Mary Simkin-Maass, Jim Hurst, Lynn Morris, Dudley unable to secure our camping sites at the Nehalem Bay State Connell, Pam Gadd, David Grisman, Paul Knight, Fred Travers, Park, our home for the last 15 years, and so for this year we John Moore, Diane Elrod, Kathy Kallick, Stacy Phillips, Jeff have had to cancel our program. With all change comes new Smith, Pete Wernick, Richard Bailey, Missy Raines, Roland challenges and I have taken those on with some new ideas. White, Michael Witcher, Dale Ann Bradley, Patrice O’Neill, Check out the Institute of Acousitc Music that we have formed Scott Huffman, Phil Ledbetter, Alan Munde, Jon Neufeld, Mike with Mike Marshall, Patrice O’Neill (from Wintergrass). Bub, Leah Kominack, Michael Witcher www.InAcousticMusic.com
Our Story: Stephen used to attend the Haystack Program in Cannon Beach run thru Portland State. Stephen was disap- pointed to find out that the program was going to be dropped by Portland State. The Haystack Program was a nationally recognized Bluegrass Camp and where Stephen first met Laurie Lewis, the Bluegrass at the Beach program coordinator for all 15 years of their existence. Stephen began his journey of saving a Bluegrass camp on the Oregon coast and he connected with the OBA and enlisted the help of Claire Levine and a couple of other OBA folks and off they went. Our first year we had 25 students and in year 2 we had 27 but finally we grew to about 80 students, the number that we had set as our maximum goal. Laurie and her partner Tom Rozum have been with me for all 15 years of its existence.
www.BluegrassattheBeach.com [email protected]
Oregon Bluegrass Association - Bluegrass Express Contributing Business Sponsors
Gwen Petersen, GRI, CRB - Prudential Real Estate Professionals (503) 769-3448 - 1151 First St. Stayton, Oregon 97383 Joe Corder Drywall, Inc. (503) 738-8192 - P.O. Box 862, Seaside, Oregon, 97138, CCB#46802 Palmer Wirfs & Associates (503) 282-0877 - http://www.palmerwirfs.com
Richard Siewert, GRI - Owner/Broker, Northwest Classic Properties 1-800-440-8301 - 2265 Country Club Rd. Woodburn, Oregon 97071
Add your business name to this list: If you are a bluegrass-friendly non-music related business and would like to actively promote your business by being an OBA supporting partner - now you can, as a Contributing Business Sponsor. A non-music related business cannot advertise with the OBA, but a Contrib- uting Business Sponsor can get the recognition and promotional benefits of underwriter-style sponsorship. For $100 annually, your OBA supporting business gets all member benefits - plus a year of promotional print and announcement recognition at OBA-sponsored shows and promotions, as well as a prominent listing in the Bluegrass Express. For more information please contact Lisa Remmer by email at [email protected]
OBA Bluegrass Express - March / April 2008 A Review of The River City Bluegrass Festival
River City Bluegrass Festival: mid-set, with some wonderful vocal “Midnight Train.” Where the community is as big harmonies partnered with Rachael 10:30am Saturday came early, yet a draw as the bands! Cole’s fiddle and Dan Wolken on bass. the Cascade Stage seats were already They’d set the tone for a great festival. filled for Portland’s own Cross-Eyed The 4th annual River City Bluegrass Having caught one of the acts I didn’t Rosie. Lincoln Crockett’s vocals Festival rang in the first weekend of want to miss, I headed over to the paired with Allison Longstreth’s 2008 with wide-open arms. Seeing Oregon Bluegrass Association (OBA) harmonies started the set and the folks walk toward the convention table to check in for volunteering. morning off just right awakening center toting instruments, I knew I A brief check in with Holly Wyman the crowd with “Little Switzerland.” was in the right place. Then, one of (OBA Volunteer Coordinator) and I After which, Lincoln joked about the the center’s employees glanced my was set. Bumper stickers are a buck transition from usual evening shows way and shouted, “Hey Bluegrass!?” or free with OBA memberships – a to a morning set, “There’s a different I smiled and said, “Yup.” “Right steal at only $20. In essence, spread drink than usual in my hand,” he said this way,” he said gesturing toward the Bluegrass love. The gem about toasting his coffee to the crowd. The the escalator. Must’ve been my the table was the location, just even band’s skills are formidable and shine beard. “Great music,” he said, “Gotta with the Cascade Stage, allowing me in various stylings from Allison’s love that banjo!” “I couldn’t agree to catch any of the Cascade sets while vocals throughout the set, highlighted more,” having just bought a banjo in “working.” in “Cowboy” and “Second Chance,” July. Descending the escalator, the Alas, the Coast Stage was calling. I to Ellie Holzemer’s fiddle fluidly magnitude of the festival began to take left my post to catch David Grisman guiding “Moonbeams & Kerosene” hold. People of all ages were milling at and team pull out all the stops in – not to mention her vocals in the tables with instrument cases in hand or much more “Dawg” fashion (Gypsy- three-part harmonies. Then you’ve toted on their backs. Jams had already Jazz-Folk-Bluegrass morph) than last got Jon Ostrom’s (OBA V.P.) pickin’ started at the entrances to some of year’s reportedly awesome Bluegrass and Jason Mellow’s superb upright the workshop meeting rooms, on the set. The fans embraced it just the bass holdin’ it all together. Cross- steps at the north end, and up against same with songs like “Lil’ Samba” Eyed Rosie closed the first set of the random walls. Everyone shared a and “Cinderella’s Fella.” Matt Eakle’s morning with an awesome rendition of friendly smile or nod as familiar faces (dubbed “Flutor” by Grisman) flute “In My Time of Dying” giving the rest flourished either working tables or set rhythms and solos combined with of the day’s acts a true performance to to enjoy, if not play, a great evening his charismatic stage presence gave rise toward. of music. the Quintet’s energy a strong visual. Not due at the OBA table until I’d timed the night to catch the Josh Grisman and percussionist George 1pm, I remained a crowd member for Cole Band (JCB) on the Cascade Stage. Marsh’s duel awakened the crowd as the next Cascade set. It was a tough The band wore all black, but were they let some funk out. The crowd was decision, passing up Jackstraw on all smiles opening with “Kentucky especially pleased when the encore the Coast Stage, but they’d be back Girl.” As their set progressed, they brought Darol Anger and Portland’s again on Sunday and I didn’t want showcased their individual talents in prodigy, Alex Hargreaves, on stage. to miss any of Cross-Eyed Rosie nor true bluegrass style. Lincoln Crockett A couple of well-played fiddles never any of TAARKA’s performance. The sang “Cabin Home on the Hill.” hurt the mix! ex-Portlander husband and wife duo Lincoln can be found all over the place With still another act to go, Tony has a unique sound. Enion Pelta- whether it’s with JCB, Cross-Eyed Furtado played a couple of songs as Tiller’s violin skills are astounding Rosie, Crockett and Robb, or solo – a the stage was set for the Flatlanders. and together she and David Tiller true working musician and masterful I was pleasantly impressed by this weave influences from nearly every mandolin player. Joe Lapidus showed band from Lubbock, Texas, with a genre you can imagine to form high- off his banjo pickin’ skills on Jimmy sound that went well beyond Country. energy melodies that will make Martin’s “Hit Parade of Love.” I’d Going 30 years between recordings your ears wonder what they’ve been heard “Katy Daley” several times a as a band and maintaining their missing. Branching out from pure la Josh Cole (OBA President) as he, notoriety throughout was equally instrumentalists, Enion’s smooth, like Lincoln, can be found all over impressive. True entertainment ranged soft vocals revealed TAARKA’s ever- Portland from one Bluegrass stage to from comical songs like “I’m Gonna growing arsenal of talent. They’ll another either with Curt Alsobrook or Strangle You Shorty,” a short man’s surely take their artistry even further. in the newly formed Clampitt Family. lament, to Jimmy Dale Gilmore’s It’s just too bad that their hub is now However, this was a rousing rendition, more mystical leanings evident in in Boulder, CO Continued on page 13
OBA Bluegrass Express - March / April 2008 OBA Bluegrass Express - March / April 2008 Uncle Chippy’s Corner
Sonny Hammond Memorial of “Wayfaring Stranger”. Watch out Jeff Wold on banjo, and Jared Widman Portland Gospel Show for the New Old Friends when they on guitar. These two provide a strong Central Bible Church come to a venue near you. backing to all of the Hakanson’s, and wonderful harmony vocals. And Hakanson Family Band Portland, OR Jared sings a beautiful Doyle Lawson Rob Hakanson told me that among song, “River of Tears”, that I think his goals had been to get his family Sonny Hammond started the tradition was one of the real highlights of the band (Rob is also a member of the of OBA sponsored gospel shows back Hakanson’s set. Watch for this band to popular band, Great Northern Planes) in the ‘80s, and the tradition is strong be performing at a venue near you. and healthy. The OBA works hard to to play live at the KBOO radio studios, put on this show, and it is one of the and to play at the Portland gospel Mollybloom highlights of year for many of us. show. Well, Rob achieved both of his Last, but certainly not least, the The past two years, the show has wishes on the same day! I have to say evening closed out with Mollybloom. been held at the lovely Central Bible that I am happy that I played a small This long-time Salem band provides Church in NE Portland. This church part in helping him to accomplish great harmonies and musicianship, is very nice, and well set up for this. While thinking of ways to help combined with an entertaining stage performances with a large, altar/stage publicize the gospel show, I came up presence. Mollybloom is comprised of area, and a modern, powerful sound with the idea of getting one of the Ron Relaford on mandolin; Bob Rindy system. The administration at the participating bands to play live on on fiddle (so glad that you found the church really loves the gospel shows KBOO on the “Music From The True “missing fiddle” that night); Clark that the OBA has been able to bring, Vine” bluegrass show the morning Blanchard on bass and vocals; David and has encouraged us to come back. of the gospel show. With the aid of Dahl on guitar and vocals. They were Gareth Jenkins and Chris Merrick at joined that night by Amy Severin on The Bands KBOO, we got the Hakanson’s on banjo, a wonderful musician that I had First of all, it should be mentioned the radio, and it proved to be a great not heard play before. Mollybloom’s that all three bands at this year’s help in spreading the word about that set was a fantastic combination Gospel Show volunteered their time night’s show. of traditional and original tunes and talents in order to support the The Hakanson Family Band is truly (“Crooked Road” was a highlight) that OBA, and should be commended for a “family band”. Rob (mandolin) and had the house rockin’! Mollybloom this. Kathy (bass) Hakanson are joined by plays a lot in the Willamette Valley New Old Friends their very talented offspring; Ellie on area, so watch for them to come to a This “reconstitution” of an old fiddle and cello, and Amy on fiddle. In venue near you. Portland bluegrass band has really addition, these two fine young ladies The evening ended with almost all been a welcome addition to the have beautiful voices, and provide of the musicians coming back to the Oregon musical landscape. The New some real highlights in every set. stage for ensemble versions of “I’ll Old Friends is made up of old pros on Ellie’s vocal rendition of “Wayfaring Fly Away” and “Will The Circle Be the Portland music scene, and they are Stranger” is one of the finest that you Unbroken”, led by the OBA’s own a very tight, hard driving bluegrass will ever hear (and she did this on both Mason Smith on mandolin. aggregation that is quickly gaining a the KBOO show, and at the gospel A very big thanks needs to go out large following. Peter Schwimmer, show). And I don’t want to forget to Mason Smith for spearheading the on banjo and guitar; Rollie Champe young Henry Hakanson (another organizing efforts for the Portland on mandolin; Randy Oman on guitar; fiddle player at 10 years old), and his Gospel Show. And to Sharon Sandgren Chuck Davidshofer on bass. I can’t “bluegrass hat”, a fixture that he never for helping out with mc’ing duties, think of a better overall combination performs without. At the gospel show, and providing some of the corniest in any local band. And as great as their the 3 young Hakanson’s were joined jokes, and bits of useless knowledge proficiency is on their instruments, the on fiddle by their grandmother Helen ever heard from a bluegrass stage. You highlight of the performances is their Hakanson, making a 4 fiddle ensemble should make a promise to yourself to beautiful, precise harmonies, both 3 on a beautiful rendition of “Ashokan come out to the 2009 Sonny Hammond and 4 part. And all of these talents were Farewell”. And Rob’s dad, John, came Memorial Gospel Show, and see what on display on this night, with an all up a sang a wonderful version of the all of the talk is about. gospel set. A couple of the highlights old hymn, “Softly and Tenderly”, truly were “You Go To Your Church and I’ll making this night a family affair. And Uncle Chippy Go To Mine”, “The Journey’s End”, I don’t want to forget the two members and a very nice instrumental version of the band that are not blood relations,
OBA Bluegrass Express - March / April 2008 10 PORTLAND’S RIVER CITY BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL cover story The True Vine continued JAMS WITH AUDIX MICROPHONES on the radio – while supporting a This year’s River City Bluegrass Festival, traditionally held the first lively, locally based radio station – be weekend of January in Portland, Oregon, had a new star performer; Audix sure to make a pledge to KBOO. It microphones. takes a lot of small contributions to Stew Dodge, of Portland based Stew Dodge Sound, provided all the audio for run a radio station, so your pledge is the event. Microphones used included the Audix OM5, i-5, CX-112, the DP5a important to the future of independent drum pack (yes, drums at a bluegrass festival), and the new VX-5 condenser. radio. The VX-5 was used for both vocal and instrument miking. “We were really stunned at how versatile the VX5 microphone is,” said Dodge. “We put it on just about everything, from string bass to banjo.” It was also used on fiddle, guitar, cello, and mandolin.
Justin, working at the KBOO Station. Photo: by Claire Levine.
Rachel and Justin Rachel Gold had been helping out with Music from the True Vine when the first Saturday spot came open. Rachel, who plays guitar and banjo, sings and is a no-holds-barred entertainer, jumped in. She brought her husband and band-mate Justin Auld with her. Rachel is as enthusiastic about KBOO as she is about her stage performances. Rachel says the best part of doing the show is inviting bands into the studio. She and Justin have hosted Chickweed, the Broken Valley Roadshow, Feed and Seed, the Pickups, the mighty Ghosts of Heaven, and many more. They also invite guest hosts to choose their favorite songs. How does she sum up the experience? “Doing this show on KBOO is one of the most fun and rewarding experiences of my life. Become KBOO members, everyone!”
OBA Bluegrass Express - March / April 2008 11 ENJOY THE GREAT OUTDOORS ALL YEAR LONG!
www.wagersrv.com Travel Trailers, 5th Wheels & Motorhomes PROFESSIONALSERVICE * PARTSAND ACCESSORIES STORE
Since 1969
3282 Silverton Rd. NE Salem 503-585-7713 “Just West of I-5”
OBA Bluegrass Express - March / April 2008 12 RCBF ‘08 Review continued Well, it was volunteer time, again. As Rachel Harrington played the Cascade Stage, I got to know some fellow members and shake a lot of hands of prospective members. Musicians were milling through, striking up conversations. Luciana Lopez of the Oregonian stopped by the OBA booth to chat with Holly Wyman (perhaps you saw the Oregonian A&E spread on the festival, Holly got a whole page worth of justice…go Chickweed!). Luciana had some good things to say about us Bluegrassers, “Out of all the types of shows…Bluegrass shows have the nicest people.” A sentiment that we all feel and what drew me into this world of Oregon Bluegrass. Portland’s own Kung Pao Chickens followed by Ida Viper made boothing it easy with their jazz-grass flavorings spicing up the Cascade Stage. 5:30pm came quickly and it was time for Chickweed’s RiverCity Bluegrass Fest debut. All nerves aside, these ladies were ready and gave a packed lobby an awesome show. Opening with “Saddle Up Now” they found their groove – all smiles. Finn Fox on mandolin quickened things up with “Satisfied That Way.” Abby Downs proved her talent goes beyond guitar picking and a great voice with the debut of some of her own songs like “Miss Sure Shot,” “Come Tomorrow,” and “High Moon.” “Count Me Out” started with Holly’s giggle in the background, showing the crowd how to have fun while playing a mean bass. Chickweed closed out their set with an old Jimmy Martin song, “Ain’t No One Gonna Miss Me When I’m Gone.” The women of Misty River mingled in the crowd giving the “Chicks” their support and due. Mark Pettey’s of Ida Viper shouted “Busted” as a song request in between tunes to a rouse of laughter amongst Chickweed and the crowd as they’d already played “Busted” a couple songs prior. *Catch the rest of the article on the OBA website: www.oregonbluegrass.com
OBA Bluegrass Express - March / April 2008 13 Sound Advice with Mark Gensmen
Hey there bluegrass fans, it’s time the band. Pick noises, string squeaks, isolated recording. for your favorite festivals once again. fnger nails on the pick guard, etc. all When I have an individual track Lot’s of great music coming our way can be lost in a full band mix, but stand to edit, there are so many things that and I hope everyone gets a chance to out in stark detail in an isolated track. may need to be changed or edited in see and hear their favorite band. And So, how do you discover these instrument and vocal tracks. Having be sure to buy a CD from the band interesting little buggers before you the ability to zero in on problems after their set, that really helps keep start recording your band masterpiece? and fx them is one great feature of them making money and helps pay for Simple. Take your recorder and sing digital editing. But the song should more recordings of their music. the song. Just sing your vocal part with not be about the editing skill of the And speaking of recording, I have no instrument playing. Then play back sound engineer, it should be about the been working with some bands in the track and really listen. What do you music. the studio and realized that there is a hear? Is the voice in tune all the way There is nothing sweeter than tremendous teaching tool available through? Are there lip noises or mouth hearing a vocal part that just sounds to just about every musician that is clicks in the track? Do you tail flat at great by itself without any editing and affordable and extremely helpful. the end of a phrase? It can be really the same is true for instrument tracks. In the studio, it is normal to have interesting and quite surprising when I often wish the musicians could take every instrument and vocal part on all you hear is the vocal part without the time to hear for themselves what it’s own track to allow for individual instruments. Even if you are lightly their instrument or voice sounds like track editing. This allows me to zero strumming on an instrument when you in isolation. Now, with modern and even not so modern equipment, it is “This Multi-track audio recording technique possible. Another great beneft of recording can be done by a musician on a budget.” just yourself playing or singing a song all the way through is that you in on each instrument or voice and sing, the vocal part will stand out and will learn how the song goes without hear the part in isolation. It can be be noticed. relying on visual cues from the rest of a pretty daunting experience for Now, do the same thing with your the band. You will know the song! . those musicians who haven’t heard instrument. Play the song all the way themselves play all by themselves. through without the band. Then listen If you have any questions about This multitrack audio recording trick to the playback. Is the tone pure? Are anything involving recording, can actually be done by a musician on there pick noises, string noises, fnger mastering, audio software, duplicating, a budget. Even an inexpensive cassette nails on the pick guard, or did you play mics, speakers or sound reinforcement, deck normally has a microphone any “clams” that you didn’t realize please feel free to contact me at : input and it can be turned into a until you heard the playback? Now [email protected]. great learning tool. Radio Shack has you are getting an idea of the value of inexpensive mics that plug right into most cassette decks and small hand held recorders are getting cheaper by the minute. So get your recorder ready and try this neat learning trick. A great vocal track, when played with the band, can sound wonderful and no problems will be heard. But if you isolate that same vocal track, all kinds of problems can be discovered. There are breath noises, mouth noises like clicks and pops and interesting vocal habits like going flat on long Hot Bluegrass, Cowboy & Folk Entertainment words and even humming at the end of a phrase or word. All subconscious but still there in the track. Contact Larry: Instrument tracks also can sound (503) 407-8676 [email protected] great when blended in with the rest of
OBA Bluegrass Express - March / April 2008 14 Sharp or Flat? with Chick Rose
I recently read, with interest, an Jacoby Brothers, who were one of the Jacoby Brothers tune “Cannonball”. inquiry in Bluegrass Unlimited, about many acts who followed the Monroe Dad settled back to listen and Dub a Country singer/Movie Cowboy Brothers format of guitar and mandolin suggested we work up the “Bicycle named Dave McEnery. He was better with great sibling harmonies. Wreck”, another Jacoby favorite, known as “Red River Dave”, a stage Red River Dave had Bluegrass which was a humorous re-write of the name he used, reflecting his early connections as a song writer; Lester “Wreck of the Ol’ 97”. My Mother got days learning to play the guitar and Flatt did a great version of a McEnery up and said, “ You know he is Walter practicing “Red River Valley”. He was tune called “I Won’t Care (100 Years Calmbach’s cousin.” “During the fifties and sixties, McEnery had a live music variety show on WOAI - TV, in San Antonio.” a radio star on border radio station, from Now)”, but his classic “Amelia “Who?” we all said. XERF , where he sold his songbooks Earhart’s Last Flight”, had been a “Red River Dave,” she answered, as over the air. Red River Dave was staple “novelty” song for rural string she headed for the kitchen, turning at the frst paid performer to appear on bands, long before people started the door and adding, “except Walter commercial television when it debuted calling any of them Bluegrass bands. doesn’t sing very well.” at the New York World’s Fair in 1939 In the Northwest, Portland’s Dr. I felt defensive for a moment, but (the same year that the Bluegrass Boys Corn’s Bluegrass Remedy used to was immediately transported into a debuted on the Grand Ol’ Opry). He do a version flled with their special nostalgic re-run of my frst encounter also appeared in several B Westerns, brand of drama and humor. McEnery with the guitar. including Swing in the Saddle, which continued writing songs about I was fve years old. We were at the featured the Hoosier Hotshots and Nat historical events, including the flight Calmbach’s house, attending a social “King” Cole. of Gary Powers, the triumph of Apollo event of some kind. Walter got out During the ffties and sixties, 11, the Watergate break-in and the his guitar and everyone settled down McEnery had a live music variety kidnapping of Patty Hearst. to hear him do a little picking and show on WOAI- TV, in San Antonio. Sitting in the living room, my family singing. I was captivated by the big The show featured local Country and I fnished watching the Red River flat-top box and when Walter noticed musicians, many of whom received Dave Show and Ron and I grabbed a my interest, he said, “Do you want to national attention. One of the most mandolin and guitar and started trying help me?” popular was a brother duet called the to get the harmony right on our favorite “Yeah!” I enthusiastically replied. Walter picked me up and put me on his lap, then put the guitar on my lap and began to play. I just sat there, smiling and feeling those bass notes vibrating through my fve year old body. I then looked up and saw all of B LU E G RA S S A LP H A B E T the people looking at us, while Walter sang “Blue-tail Fly”. I wanted to sing along but was too overwhelmed Featuring to make the sounds come out. I did, James King Band, Cedar Hill, however, know that I liked being part of something so magic and wanted it Ron Stewart, Tim Crouch, to continue. Scott Vestal, Randy Kohrs, Years later, when I fnally got a Bryan Bowers, Radim Zenkl, guitar and learned enough chords, the Al Brinkerhoff, & others frst thing I did was sit down and sing ”Jimmy crack corn and I don’t care, L>G= *.!BG OBA Bluegrass Express - March / April 2008 15 20082008 Chickweed Fiddlin’Fiddlin’ AroundAround Lee Highway Fiddlegrass TheTheBluegrass CampStarsStarsn’ Jam Prairie Flyer www.fiddlinaroundthestarsbluegrass.com Tuesday,May 27th following Memorial Day through Sunday,June 1st Chick Rose - Workshops Hardshell Harmony Performances by: Chickweed, Fiddlegrass, Hardshell Harmony, Ida Viper,Kathy Boyd &Phoenix Rising, Lee Highway, Prairie Flyer, Whiskey Puppy On stage entertainment will begin Friday, May 30th at 1:00 p.m. through Sunday, June 1st with a Whiskey Puppy Gospel Show from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Ida Viper ♦ Art, Wine, Open Mic and Bluegrass... & Band It doesn't get any Scramble better than this! KathyBoyd&PhoenixRising ♦ Saturday, May 31st The City of Goldendale is offering Goldendale Motorsports FREE DRY CAMPING Association at E’Kone Park for the first Truck &Tractor Pull 100 Bluegrassers to register. ♦ The Goldendale Golden Event Planning, LLC Observatory will Lorraine Reynolds host "Star Gazing" (509) 773.0567 [email protected] every night. www.cityofgoldendale.com Don’t miss this FREE festival! THERE IS SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO IN BEAUTIFUL GOLDENDALE,WASHINGTON! 16 Join Us For Our Annual Membership Meeting OBA Annual Membership Meeting McMenamin’s Kennedy School Oregon Bluegrass Association Mandolin Raffle 5736 NE 33rd Ave Twin point mandolin donated by Carver Mandolin Co. Portland, OR : 503-249-3983 Sunday, April 20th Time: Noon to 4 pm The winning ticket will be drawn at the OBA annual meeting, held It is time again for the OBA Annual Meeting – held in April every year to April 20th at the Kennedy School. join together as many members of the OBA as possible in one place. The goal of the meeting is to give an update on the OBA, talk about the past year in financials, elect new board members, have a question and answer period and get ideas for the year ahead. The real reason we come together is to jam as always! There is a great jam after a catered meal and the meeting agenda. It is really a great time and all are welcome. Come on out, support the OBA and your Bluegrass Express! Under the Direction of Mike Marshall, Stephen Ruffo and Patrice O’Neill Django Camp August 20-22, 2008 Icicle Creek Music Center, Leavenworth WA 3 days of intensive study with the members of Pearl Django at the beautiful Icicle Creek Music Center and the Sleeping Lady Conference Center. Program, registration & lodging info available at www.InAcousticMusic.com or 360-385-6836 • [email protected] 17 Scheduled Jams - You can send regularly scheduled jam information to the OBA website editor at [email protected] SUNDAYS Grants Pass Oregon City Coburg Bluegrass Jam Last Sunday of the month.Fruitdale Grange on Third Thursday of the month, Oct.-June: Rogue River Highway in Grants Pass. Jam will Wally’s Music, 7:30 p.m. 2nd Sunday of each month, Willakenzie Grange, continue through spring at 2:00 p.m. 607 Washington Street, Oregon City. 3055 Willakenzie Road, Eugene, OR. Take the [email protected]. Call (503)656-5323 for information. Beltline Exit off I-5. West 1 mile to Coburg Rd. Turn South 1⁄2 mile and turn left onto Willak- Roseburg Vancouver enzie. The grange is down 2 blocks. Regular jam Oct.-May, 3rd Sunday of the 6-9 p.m., All Acoustic String Instruments Wel- Call Joe Cannaday at (541)344-3966. month. (541)440-0684. Umpqua Community come, Non Smoking, Spurs Bar & Grill, 109 W Portland Center, 806 Hubbard Creed Rd, Umpqua, OR. 15th st, Vancouver WA. Take Sutherlin exit off I-5, hwy 138 toward First Sunday of every month October-May: Reedsport. First road, left, Ft. McKay, 8 miles, FRIDAYS Portland Area OBA jam, 12:30-4:30 p.m., it’s on the left across from Henry’s Winery. Portland Audubon Center, 5151 NW Cornell Dallas Road, Portland. MONDAYS Guthrie Park acoustic music jam, 7:00 p.m. (503)292-6855, Call Sally Clark (503)623-0874. or email: [email protected]. Portland Rambling Bluegrass Jam every Monday night Scio Tigard all year. For info & location: 4th Friday of every month, year ’round at the Third Sunday of every Month, Oct-April The www.ramblingbluegrass.org. ZCBJ Hall in downtown Scio. Activities and Off-Key Beginner Bluegrass Jam. 1 p.m. at beginners jam starts at 7 p.m., with more ad- 11725 S.W. Springwood Drive in Tigard. Be- TUESDAYS vanced jamming beginning at 8:30 p.m. All tween Scholls Ferry Road and S.W. 125th. Or Portland acoustic. All ages welcome! Bring a munchie take Hillsboro Max to the Millikan Way, then McMenamin’s Rock Creek Tavern. Starts at to share if you can, but not required. Donations bus 62 to stop on Scholls and 121st. 7:00 p.m. Call (503)544-5535, accepted to help with the Hall rent and the cost (503)590-6464 or [email protected] art_ [email protected]. of activities. Contact Starla Becker (503)394-3811. Ridgefield Eugene Last Sunday of the month. Bluegrass & Old- Bluegrass jam at Sam Bond’s Garage, every SATURDAYS Time Music Jam; 1:00 to 4:00. All acoustic in- Tuesday. 407 Blair Blvd, Eugene. Salem struments are welcome. No drums or amplifed Call (541)343-2635. The Almost Home Restaurant, located at 3310 instruments please! Intermediate & Advanced Market St. NE, just off the Market Street I-5 level Jam. Beginners are encouraged to bring Ashland exit. From 6:30 p.m. to 9p.m. Various hosts instruments, lay back and participate in this 2nd Tuesday, Siskiyou Micropub, 31 Water weekly every Saturday evening, year round. fast jam. Zebruns Deli, 320 Pioneer, Ridgefeld Street, Ashland. 7-11 p.m. Call (541)535-7001. (503)378-0100. WA, 30 minutes north of Portland at I-5 Exit [email protected]. 14, [email protected]. Ridgefield Snohomish Season’s Coffee Shop & the Old Liberty The- First Saturday of the month: Maltby Bluegrass Hood River Jam, 2:00 p.m. to midnight at Maltby Com- Second Sunday of every month, 2:00-6:00 ater, 115 N MainStreet. 6:30 till 9:30 p.m. From munity Club, 206th St. S.E. & 87th Ave. S.E., p.m. at Eliot Glacier Pub, 4945 Baseline Rd. in I-5 take exit14, head West to downtown; at the Jamming, potluck dinner, stage show and more downtown Parkdale. stoplight, turn right. It’s the frst building on jamming. Call Jan (360) 568-3685 For info call the left. Classes based around bluegrass instru- or email [email protected]. (541)352-1022. ments & music $35 for eight lessons or $5 per class; lessons 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., jam till 9:30 Dallas Oak Grove p.m. Call about family rates: (360)887-9044 Every third Saturday of the month: All gospel, 2nd Sunday of every month, year round from [email protected]. all acoustic jam, 7:00-10:00 p.m. at Guthrie 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. All-acoustic jam. Grange hall Park in Dallas. Call (503)623-0874 across the street from the church in Oak Grove, WEDNESDAYS or e-mail [email protected]. Oregon. Call for info (503)623-2410, Beaverton or email [email protected]. First and third Wednesday of every month - Tacoma 6:30-9:30 p.m. Round Table Pizza, 10150 SW Fourth Saturday, noon-5:30 p.m. jam, Carpen- La Grande ters Hall, 1322 S. Fawcett. First Sunday of every month, from noon-5pm Beaverton-Hillsdale Hwy, in Beaverton, OR, Contact James Swanson (253) 472-3729. Bluegrass and acoustic music jam session at east of hwy 217, [email protected] Chehalis the Olde Meeting House, 901 M Street in La- THURSDAYS Grande. Sponsored by Oregon Bluegrass Asso- Chehalis Senior Center next to the fairgrounds ciation, the Northeast Oregon Folklore Society, Bend in Chehalis, Washington. First Saturday of each and the Blue Mountain Old Time Fiddlers’ As- 2nd and 4th Thursday from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. month during the winter, 2:00 - 9:00 p.m. sociation. For info: at the Bend River Mall, Highway 97. For information contact: Matthew Snook (541)963-4723 Becky Brown and Verda Hinkle@ Frances Cramer [email protected] (541)318-7341 [email protected]. (360) 736-1595. OBA Bluegrass Express - March / April 2008 18 What’s Cookin’ Calendar • Bluegrass Festivals & Concerts Bands and Promoters, Cross-eyed Rosie Urban Monroes Do you want your event listed here? Mississippi Studios Emerald Valley Opry We sure do! To sumbit a gig: 3939 N Mississippi Ave, Powers Auditorium Portland, OR 7 PM Willamette High School send Chip Russell an email at 1801 Echo Hollow Road [email protected] Tuesday, March 4th Eugene,OR 8 PM Or, you can make it available on your website and make sure you have a Jackstraw Tuesday, March 11th working link from the OBA site. List Laurelthirst Public House 2958 Jackstraw your shows and make sure we can NE Glisan Street Portland, OR get to it and we will make sure it gets 6 PM Free Laurelthirst Public House here in The Express. Thanks, 2958 NE Glisan Street The Bluegrass Express. Thursday, March 6th Portland, OR 6 PM Free Always Remember Watertower String Band Saturday, March 15th Contact the venue or the performer to Axe & Fiddle 657 East Main Street Ida Viper confrm a concert or festival. All the Whiskey Puppy information in this section can also be Cottage Grove, OR 8 PM $5 Mississippi Pizza Pub found on the OBA website: 3552 N. Mississippi Ave. www.oregonbluegrass.org Saturday, March 8th Portland, OR 9 PM $7 MARCH - APRIL 2008 Hakanson Family Band Mt. Angel Performing Arts Center Prairie Flyer Saturday, March 1st 220 E Charles St. Mt. Angel, OR Saturday Night Bluegrass Thang Clampitt Family 8 PM Trent Elementary School Spokane Valley, WA White Eagle Saloon Tom May 836 N. Russell Street Portland, OR Cartwright’s Music Monday, March 17th 9 PM 429 N.3rd Avenue Stayton, OR Urban Monroes 7 PM $14 Deadwood Revival Mississippi Pizza Pub McMenamins Grand Lodge Prairie Flyer 3552 N. Mississippi Ave. 3505 Pacifc Avenue, Tri-Cities Concert Portland, OR 6 PM Free Forest Grove, OR Tri-Cities WA 6 PM 9 PM Free True North Tuesday, March 18th Lee Highway Pendleton Center for the Arts Jackstraw Milwaukie Municipal Library 214 North Main Street Laurelthirst Public House 10660 Se 21st Avenue Pendleton, Oregon 2958 NE Glisan Street Milwaukie, OR 2 PM 7 PM $12 Portland, OR 6 PM Free OBA Bluegrass Express - March / April 2008 19 What’s Cookin’ Calendar • Bluegrass Festivals & Concerts Saturday, March 22nd Tuesday, April 1st Friday, April 11th The Blackberry Bushes Jackstraw 2nd Portland String Sampler Olympic Club Hotel & Theater Laurelthirst Public House Cross-eyed Rosie 112 N. Tower Ave. 2958 NE Glisan Street Jackstraw Centralia, WA 98531 Portland, OR 6 PM Free Clampitt Family 7 PM Free Sassparilla Wonder Ballroom Tracy Reynolds Friday, April 4th 128 NE Russell Street Cartwright’s Music Ida Viper Portland, OR 429 N.3rd Avenue Rock Creek Tavern Doors 7:00 PM : Show 8:00 PM Stayton, OR 10000 N.W. Old Cornelius Pass Rd, $10 in advance : $12 at the door 7 PM $15 : children under 12 free Hillsboro, OR 9 PM Free Saturday, April 12th Tuesday, March 25th Saturday, April 5th Ida Viper The Bush Pilots Jackstraw Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort Sahalie Wine Cellar Laurelthirst Public House Mt. Hood, OR 2958 NE Glisan Street 151 NW Monroe St. Portland, OR 6 PM Free Corvallis, OR 9 PM Free Kathy Boyd & Phoenix Rising Tualatin Heritage Center Saturday, March 29th Tuesday, April 8th 8700 SE Sweek Drive Tualatin, OR Jackstraw Green Mountain Bluegrass 7 PM $10 Axe & Fiddle Laurelthirst Public House 657 East Main Street 2958 NE Glisan Street Cottage Grove, OR 8:30 PM $6 Portland, OR 6 PM Free TOOLS OF THE TRADE Here’s your invitation to test drive: D-Model Guitars Mandos—Banjos Martin D-18 Authentic Adirondack Collings M-F Custom Martin D-18GE Adirondack Brock F-5 Blonde 2006 Martin D-28 Marquis Adirondack Gibson F-2, Ca 1917 Martin HD-28 Vintage Gibson F-5, 1981 Martin Custom shop D-28 Adirondack Andersen (Seattle) F-5, 1990 Martin HD-28 Collings MT 2007 Collings D1A Varnish Adirondack Gibson RB-250 1981 Santa Cruz Tony Rice Deering Golden Era 2005 Bourgeois Slope D, Walnut (used) Deering Sierra 2005 Gibson Advanced Jumbo (used) www.pioneermusicco.com 907 SW 9th Avenue - Portland - 503-224-4047 - Monday to Saturday 10am -6pm OBA Bluegrass Express - March / April 2008 20 What’s Cookin’ Calendar • Bluegrass Festivals & Concerts Roundhouse Whiskey Puppy Saturday, April 26th Steam Heat Coffee House Mighty Ghosts of Heaven 3860 River Road N. The Tallboys Deadwood Revival Keizer, OR 8 PM $7 White Eagle Saloon Landmark Restaurant 836 N. Russell Street 254 Highway 101 S. True North Portland, OR 9 PM $5 Yachats, OR 9 PM Salem Community Radio Project Grand Theater Tuesday, April 29th 191 High Street NE Tuesday, April 22nd Salem, OR Deadwood Revival Jackstraw Time TBA No Cover Hoo Hah Laurelthirst Public House Donations accepted Oregon State University 2958 NE Glisan Street Corvallis, OR Portland, OR 6pm Free Friday, April 18th Back Porch Revival Jackstraw 9 Muses Acoustic Pub Laurelthirst Public House 2715 SE Belmont Street 2958 NE Glisan Street Portland, OR 7 PM Portland, OR 6 PM Free Saturday, April 19th Thursday, April 24th Urban Monroes Deadwood Revival Muddy Rudder Public House Sam Bond’s Garage 8105 SE 7th Ave, 07 Blair Blvd. Portland, OR 8 PM Eugene, OR 9 PM Appearing At TUALATIN HERITAGE CENTER on Saturday, April 12th, 2008 OBA Bluegrass Express - March / April 2008 21 OBA Supporting Performer Directory OBA Supporting Memberships are $50 per year. This includes a 35-word band listing in the Supporting Performers Directory and on the OBA Website. 2 Licks 2 Many Bluegrass Band Flat Mountain Girls The Kindreds These old friends have played bluegrass together for A high-energy old-time string band based in Port- Rooted in Americana music, acoustic country nearly 7 years, blending classic bluegrass music with land, OR. The Flats are known for tight, raw three- flavored folk with a dash of bluegrass and mixed- some new surprises. part harmonies, powerful fiddling, and performances with original compositions and rich three part vo- Website: www.2licks2many.com that explode with irrespressible glee and bawdy hu- cals. Email: [email protected] or visit www. Booking contact: mor.503 227-0647 or email:flatmountaingirls@ya- the-kindreds.com, 541 929-7021. Peyton Starr, 503-747-3066 hoo.com or visit www.flatmountaingirls.com. Larry Wilder and the Stumptown Stars E-mail: Galloway and Luckett Hot, solid bluegrass, a guaranteed success for your [email protected] Playing bluegrass, blues, old country style music. private, corporate, wedding or concert occasion! Chickweed Performs in a variety of festivals, farmer’s markets, Top-notch picking, bluegrass, cowboy, gospel, folk, Chickweed delivers choice traditional bluegrass special events, concerts, and weddings. Barb Gal- hundreds of Americana tunes & amazing yodel- tunes with new “old” originals. The humorous and loway: lead guitar and mandolin, Donna Luckett: ing, Members: Garrett Maass, mandolin; Gretchen entertaining nature of their personalities is conta- rhythm guitar and bass. Amann, bass; Andy Emert, fddle; Nolan Bronson gious. Abby Downs: strong lead vocals that puts Booking contact: Barb Galloway, – Guitar and Larry Wilder – banjo/ guitar Nolan the blues in bluegrass. Finn Fox: gets the crowd go- phone: 503-283-7651, Bronson-guitar; Larry Wilder-banjo-guitar. 503 407- ing with her lightning fast mandolin playing. Holly email: [email protected], 8676 [email protected]. Wyman: keeps up the low end with a rock-solid bass visit www.gallowayandluckett.com. Lee Highway line.Email:[email protected] or Girls Can Jam Bluegrass Band Mike Stahlman (banjo), Mike Eisler (fiddle), John visit www.myspace.com/chickweedmusic. Lively all women band known for their traditional Averill (mandolin), Sue Averill (bass) and Rich Ho- Coyote Moon bluegrass music and original heart warming songs. glen (guitar). All members share vocals. For book- “Cowboy” Bluegrass, traditional & contemporary Marnie Allbritten, guitar; Liz Crain, fiddle/banjo; ings: call Mike Eisler 541 745-7122 with intricate three and four part harmonies. Tom Sandy Hails, bass; Stef Neyhart on mandolin. [email protected],www.leehighway.net. O’Connor (Guitar), Steve Rogers (Mandolin), Norm 541 863-3969 or email: [email protected]. The Loafers Ault (Banjo), Larry Huntley (Bass). The Hakanson Family An acoustic quartet specializing in bluegrass, jazz 503 805-4413 Portland. Hot fiddling and close family harmony.Featuring and old time instrumentals, with a few good classic Cross-Eyed Rosie mom, dad, 3 young kids, and guest on the banjo. To- vocals thrown in for good measure. Mike Stahlman: Cross-Eyed Rosie creates acoustic music that ac- gether four years, play festivals all over the Pacific banjo, Dave Elliot: mandolin, Aaron Stocek: guitar, knowledges their bluegrass roots while incorporat- Northwest. Contact Rob Hakanson at 503 452-1469 Holly Johnson: bass 503 663-3548. ing pop, jazz and funk in this inventive and emotion- or [email protected]. Lost Creek Bluegrass Band ally stirring music. Often dubbed “blues-grass,” the Ida Viper Lost Creek delivers driving bluegrass and old time masterful and beautiful music created by this quintet Drawing on the roots of American music from blue- standards with outstanding vocal harmonies and comes from the heart. 503 318-8268, grass and swing to jazz tunes from the 20’s and 30’s. tasteful instrumentation. For years they’ve delighted [email protected],www.crosseyedrosie.com. 503 359-7674, audiences at bluegrass festivals, pubs, parks, wed- Down The Road [email protected], visit www.idaviper.com. dings, and markets in both Oregon and Washington. A trio of bluegrass and American roots music musi- Joe Ross and the Roots of Bluegrass Show Email:[email protected] 503-442-2832 cians from the Seattle, Washington Area. Husband Joe Ross “Edu-taining” Roots of Bluegrass solo- Lucky Gap /wife duo Cathi and Gary Davidson on guitars and show. Also Zephyr Duo, Celtic Tradition, Swingco- Chas Malarkey, Linda Sickler, Lincoln City, email vocals and John Tubbs on mandolin and vocals. Old- pators, HotQua String Band (Gypsy jazz quintet) & Bob Llewellyn at [email protected] or at 541 time, country and traditional bluegrass, folk and con- storytelling. 541 673-9759 or 541 464-3248, 444-2069. Good Old-time Traditional Americana temporary bluegrass, with a focus on duet and trio [email protected], and Bluegrass on the Oregon Coast. Guitar, Banjo, harmony singing, www.downtheroadband.com. www.talentondisplay.com/joerosshome.html. Fiddle, Mandolin, Dobro, Bass. Weddings, Parties, The Emmons Sisters Kathy Boyd & Phoenix Rising Dances, Special Occasions. “The Princesses of Bluegrass,” music that will bring Performing original songs of hard driving bluegrass/ Matt Gray and Jeff Shippy a whole new future to bluegrass music. Four young Americana music while providing quality enter- Matt, a past Oregon State bluegrass banjochamp, sisters ages 13, 15, 17 & 19 playingenergetic music tainment featuring the talents of Kathy Boyd, Tim and Jeff, a past Oregon State bluegrass fiddle champ, while singing beautiful soaring harmonies. Crosby, Tom Tower and Dennis Nelson. This group have played together for years as members of the [email protected], or visit is family oriented, willing and able to travel, and a bands True North and Mollybloom. www.TheEmmonsSisters.com. sure fred winner for your next event or festival! Contact Phone number: 503-659-6274, Fiddlegrass Contact 503-691-1177, Mailing Address: 3912 SE Olsen, Milwaukie, OR, Five talented instrumentalists, mixing traditional [email protected]. 97222, email:[email protected], fiddle tunes with traditional bluegrass, add in a little Check KBPR out at www.phoenixrisingband.org or Website:www.banjomatt.com/. of everything else including down home humor and www.myspace.com/kathyboydphoenixrising. Misty Mamas entertainment to spice up the mixtureand create their Purchase your very own copy of “Burning Down the Misty Mamas serve up powerful harmonies and taste- own brand of music called “Fiddlegrass.” House” at www.cdbaby.com/cd/kbpr! ful instrumentals combining the American genres fi[email protected] or of bluegrass, gospel, folk and countrymusic. Carol www.fiddlegrass.net, 541 386-2633. Harley (vocals, guitar, banjo, mandolin), Katherine OBA Bluegrass Express - March / April 2008 22 Go To www.oregonbluegrass.org For More Info & Links Please contact Lisa Remmer,(OBA Database & Membership Manager) at [email protected] if you are interested in receiving a Supporting Performer Membership form. Nitsch (vocals & guitar), April Parker (vocals & Pacific Rim Bluegrass Band Runs Real Good mandolin) and Eilee Rocci (vocals & upright bass). Plays bluegrass in the beautiful Willamette Valley Runs Real Good is Clayton Knight, Tom Marshall, Mollybloom region of Oregon, just south of Portland. Bandmem- Kelli Plummer, and Bill Marshall. We Play not-too- Original contemporary bluegrass quintet. David Dahl, bers are Paul King (bass), Gary Schottle (mando- traditional bluegrass, respectful of our roots, but guitar; Ron Relaford, mandolin; Clark Blanchard, lin/guitar), Les Cox (banjo), Mary Cox(fiddle) & willing to roam a little now and then bass; Bob Rindy, fiddle; and Rand White. Debra King (guitar mandolin). 503 363-9682, Email: Contact Clayton Knight, 503-358-0658 Contact: www.mollybloombluegrass.com pacifi[email protected] or [email protected] or Anita Blanchard at [email protected] www.pacificrimbluegrass.com. Sidekicks Bluegrass and Nostalgia Band 503 399-1965. Prairie Flyer Perfect for weddings/anniversaries, conventions, Mud Springs Gospel Band Prairie Flyer is Jim Faddis (guitar), Andre Vachon community events and cruises. Bluegrass, Country, Gospel Bluegrass/Country band plays originals and (mandolin/dobro), Jason Stewart, (banjo), Steve Swing, and Ragtime. CD’s available. 2105 NW 12th classics. George Klos: banjo, guitar, whistle, har- Blanchard (guitar) and Dave Hackwith (bass). Prai- Street, Redmond, OR 97756. monica; Don Mobley: bass; Darrell Glaspie: man- rie Flyer moves flawlesslyfrom songs by Steve Earle 541 923-6946 or 503 580-5274, dolin, guitar; Alan Smoke: fiddle. 541 475-6483 or to original compositions, from Townes Van Zandt to www.leroynewportsband.com. [email protected], Bill Monroe, from Jackson Browne to solid traditon- Siskiyou Summit www.mudspringsgospel.com. al bluegrass. 541 466-7018 www.prairieflyer.com. A special brand of bluegrass music with a growing No Strings Attached Rogue Bluegrass Band fan base in the Pacifc Northwest. Six strong singers Lively, entertaining band specializes in humorous Music the way music should be: Bluegrass style, Ed and instrumentalists, song writers and arrangers. De- songs and audience participation. No musical genre Hershberger, banjo technician; Don Tolan, professor cades of individual musical performance experience. left uncovered or untwisted: bluegrass, country, celt- of mandolin; Ben Trump,fiddlin’; Paul Hirschman, 541 488-0178, ic, gospel and folk. flat pickin’; Deb Smith-Hirschman, bass thumpin’. www.siskiyousummit.com. Contact Loren Ford at 503 314-3995 or Contact Ed 503 245-4158 Whiskey Puppy [email protected], www.geocities.com/roguebluegrassband Dedicated to preserving americana roots music, www.nsagrass.com. or email: [email protected]. while exploring early & contemporary bluegrass. On The Street Gospel Band Rose City Bluegrass Band 503 227-0647, Gospel music band, playing bluegrass and country Pure entertainment for young and old! Bluegrass, email:[email protected] music. Willing to play festivals,churches, granges, Irish, Americana and more. Contact us for your wed- www.whiskeypuppy.com. special events, etc. ding, picnic, party or club. Charlie Williamson 503 Contact Dale Reynolds at 541 935-3862 248-1854 (days) or503 892-2641 (evenings). char- or email [email protected]. [email protected] www.rosecitybluegrass.com. 3552 N Mississippi Avenue - 503 288-3231 • Saturday, March 1st Professor Banjo’s Old Time Play Party 4pm • Saturday, March 8th Lorna Miller’s Little Kids’ Jamboree 4pm • Saturday, March 15th Whiskey Puppy and Ida Viper 9pm • Monday, March 17th St. Patricks Day show with Urban Monroes 9pm • Wednesday March 19th Cartwright’s Oz St. Fossils 6pm • Friday, March 21st Music & Repair Shop Ebenezer 6pm Acoustic Instruments-Repairs-Concerts-Lessons • Saturday, March 22nd Lorna Miller’s Little Kids’ Jamboree 4pm Oregon’s Only Bluegrass Store • Saturday, March 29th Chickweed 9pm • Saturday, April 5th Cartwright’s Music & Repair Shop Professor Banjo’s Old Time Play Party 4pm is 12 miles east of Salem on Hwy. 22 • Saturday, April 12th Lorna Miller’s Little Kids’ Jamboree 4pm 429 N. 3rd. Ave., Stayton OR 97383 • Saturday, April 26th Lorna Miller’s Little Kids’ Jamboree 4pm 503-769-2778 Email [email protected] 3552 N Mississippi Avenue - 503 288-3231 Non-Profit Org. US Postage Paid P.O. Box 1115, Portland, OR 97207 Portland OR Address Service Requested Permit No. 2956 A subscribing member of the OBA according to expiration date. Cut along dotted line for a handy OBA Membership ID card. Oregon Bluegrass Association Post Office Box 1115 Portland, Oregon 97207 www.oregonbluegrass.org Oregon Bluegrass Association Membership Membership Check all that apply The Board of Directors of the Oregon Bluegrass Association cordially invites you to join the organization. Benefits include a subscription to the Bluegrass Express and discounts to OBA ____ New Member ____ Renewal sanctioned events. The Oregon Bluegrass Association is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit corporation founded in 1982. __ General Member ...... $20 (1yr.) / $57 (3 yrs.) ______Supporting Performer ...... $50 (1 yr.) Name ______Angel Sponsor ...... $60 (1 yr.) Address __ Golden Sponsor ...... $100 (1 yr.) ______City State Zip Code __ Contributing Business Sponsor ....$100 (1 yr.) / ______$275 (3 yrs.) Home Phone Work Phone ______Volunteering E-MailAddress __ Yes! I am interested in helping as a volunteer at Please send this form with your check to: OBA-sanctioned events. Please add me to your list Oregon Bluegrass Association Check out our website at: of volunteers. P. O. Box 1115, Portland, OR 97207 www.oregonbluegrass.org OBA Bluegrass Express - March / April 2008