Laurelyn Dossett
listen now children a story I’ll tell …

I almost dropped my Gibson over this one.

Grayson Currin recently wrote a review of Levon’s new release, “Ramble at the Ryman,” and had this to say about the “Anna Lee” cut off the live album.

Not every bit of Ramble at the Ryman is noteworthy … But the highlights are essential testaments to Helm’s gravelly tenderness as a vocalist, whether on his natural, narrative delivery of “A Train Robbery” or his mix of mourning and hope on this spare, show-stopping version of “Anna Lee.”

Grayson, thank you. If I’ve never swooned before, I am right now. Meantime, I hope you all celebrate Levon’s birthday and buy this recording. He is one of those rare musicians who inspires everyone to be more authentic — as a person and a musician. He just gets better with time. Happy Birthday Levon.

Meantime, I need to stop swooning and pick up this guitar and get back to writing. Does anyone know where I left my feet on the ground?

Ramble at the Ryman is available now on Amazon.com

Vinyl

Live audio CD

.mp3 download

You all know I love a good songwriter’s round. So last summer when I first met Diana Jones and heard her original songs in the Appalachian style, I knew I had one for the round. As a long-time fan of Alice Gerrard’s work, I also knew she would complete the circle.

The three of us will be taking this short concert series on the road, cutting through the winter’s dismal gray like a bunch of red birds, singing songs and sharing stories. I look forward to seeing what comes of this.

Hope to see you all there. Meantime, you can visit redbirdround.com for more information.

7:30 pm Wednesday, December 9
EMFfringe at Triad Stage, Greensboro, NC.
Tickets: $20. Order online.

Noon, Friday, December 11
Live on WUNC’s The State of Things

8 pm Friday, December 11
House Concert and Potluck Dinner at the Clemens’ house, Cornelius, NC.
Dinner at 6 pm. Music at 8 pm. Advance payment necessary to confirm seating.
Tickets $20 adults; $12 students. Call Bethli at (704) 892-4914, or email emiescher@bellsouth.net

7:30 pm Saturday, December 12
The ArtsCenter’s new performance space at University Mall, Carrboro, NC.
Tickets $15; Friend $13. Order online.

7 pm Sunday, December 13
The Poplar Knight Spot, Aberdeen, NC
Tickets $15 presale, $18 at the door. Order online.

Tags: alice gerrard, appalachian summer festival, diana jones, emf fringe, female, house concert, redbird round, songwriter's round, songwriters, the rooster's wife, triad stage

It’s been a few years and a few records since Abigail Seymour took this picture for Polecat Creek. And this Sunday, Kari and I both have two new solo albums to sing about this year in addition to the new Polecat record, Ordinary Seasons.

Listen for tunes off Kari’s new record and a new compilation from me.

Hope to see you Sunday in park.

And, if you’re anywhere near a radio Friday night, listen to Kari on WUNC’s Back Porch Music.

Sunday May 31, 3:30 – 5:00
with Polecat Creek
Center City Park, Greensboro, NC