Assorted Songsters' Summer Serenade

Say that five times, fast!  We had a good time last night at the Acoustic Showcase, basking in the air conditioned, coffee-scented atmosphere, enjoying the music offered by a series of old friends.  


We started by welcoming Random Chants.  They just keep getting better and better.

There are a number of reasons to like this group. First, they're having a lot of fun up there. Second, they have great voices which sound particularly good in blended harmony. Third, they have an appealing set list with some nice surprises. Fourth, they do a great job with tricky rhythmic work. I could go on and on. 

Here's another receptive Showcase audience, featuring three generations of listeners!


Next we welcomed back Diane Taraz. I love Diane's voice; it's clear and flexible -- equally good on a lullaby, a humorous ditty, or a more risque number. Nice guitar work, and once again, a couple of Joni Mitchell covers with the lap dulcimer.

According to Diane, last night's stand-out set was chemically (legally) enhanced. If so, I'll have what she's having!


Finally, we brought on Arl-Lex Five and Dime, playing old favorites from the American folk/country/pop tradition.

Enthusiastic four-part harmony, some excellent musicianship, and a sing-along set list -- this group is always a pleasure. A few of them had already graced the stage at Passim earlier in the day (as part of the Family Folk Chorale), so we felt extra-lucky to have them with us. Special mention goes to Kate Donahue's swan song at the Showcase; a recent high school grad, she'll be spending the coming year in China or India (according to her dad). 

Another special mention goes to six year old Quinn Eastburn, rockin' that fiddle!


So passes another Acoustic Showcase. Let's hear it for singing, playing, and listening (and singing along)!