Alternate Universe

After weeks of snow and all its hardships, last night the Acoustic Showcase created an alterate universe (as Diane Taraz put it) of good music and conviviality.  We began by filling our stage with talented musicians, as Showcase regulars Mike Barrett and Chris Eastburn were joined by Paul Hatem (guitar and vocals), Adrian Rigopulos (bass and vocals), and the amazing Quinn Eastburn (violin).  (David Keevil jumped in from time to time on harmonica as well.)  

These guys were a blast!  As usual, an excellent song list from the American folk/country/early rock tradition.  Great musicianship, and up to four part harmonies!  Special mentions go to Adrian -- who earlier in the day auditioned for Tanglewood -- and Quinn, who at age 5 (?!) has a sense of intonation, rhythm, and phrasing coveted by musicians ten times his age.

A warm and enthusiastic audience turned out to hear the band.  We needed a wider lens to really capture it -- one couple dancing, a mother nursing her newborn, and numerous others singing along.  Great stuff!  Good for the heart, soul, and immune system.


The band finished with a rousing number, quickly packed up their gear (I love that rubber wheel on the bottom of the double bass case), and we welcomed the wonderful Diane Taraz.

Diane said she had a cold last night (as befits the season), but we couldn't hear it -- as usual her soprano soared, lilted, and crooned.  Her selections ranged from the 1700's to the present day, from heartfelt reflection to wry humor.

We loved her two Joni Mitchell songs; Diane's voice above that ringing dulcimer is deeply affecting.  Diane's an accomplished performer, and we're lucky to have her.  Thanks, Diane!






And finally we heard from Kevin Moore.  Kevin's an excellent singer/songwriter with a pleasing voice, satisfying guitar work (picking and strumming, open and conventional tuning), and a great song selection.  His music is both quiet and strong -- conveyed with feeling and conviction.  

We particularly enjoyed his original "That's My Child," and his moving rendition of "The Water Is Wide."

Kevin's got nice rapport with his audience -- understated, quietly humorous -- a nice counterpoint to his songs.  Another great performer we'll keep inviting back.




And thus ends another Acoustic Showcase.  Yes Diane, it's an alternate universe: in the midst of a dark, snowy, and demanding life, these gatherings continue to delight and inspire with the simple pleasure of shared music.  

See you next time!