The recent John Hartford Memorial festival held at the Bill Monroe Music Park in Bean Blossom IN had its best turn out of it's five years. Billed as "the most laid back festival" it has become one of my favorites. Hot Rize and Red Knuckles looked like they were having more fun than I can remember. Playing after a rain delay that cut Larry Keels set short, they enjoyed the history of the place and delivered most entertaining set. Mustard Courage had three sets, I managed to catch the second one and chat with them afterwards. They are excited about Telluride and I think we will like what this young band from Austrailia will bring to Telluride. The other band that got the best review on Appalachian Jamwich is Wisconsin's Horseshoes & Hand Grenades. After getting a start in the Telluride band contest they have become one of the best young bands around. Using a single mic they develop a really strong sound with lots of energy that really connects with the audience. They are doing a couple of western tours of Wyoming and Colorado this summer and I hope to see them back in Telluride so time soon. The one thing that this festival has is that the ghost of Bill Monroe seems to like playing shenanigans with the bands. Ask Peter Rowan about his performance last year when the sound cuts out when he plays Free Mexican Airforce but works fine for Blue Moon of Kentucky.
Listening to:
The Rum Diary 
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