Sat 1/30 Jeff Sipe Trio at Pisgah Brewing

Saturday Jan 30

The Jeff Sipe Trio

at Pisgah Brewing

8pm

The Jeff Sipe trio has been together since the Summer of 2007 touring and performing primarily in the Southeast. As the drummer and leader of the group, Sipe has the opportunity to play tunes that feature strong melodies and interesting rhythms to showcase the group’s extremely talented musicians.



Guitarist Mike Seal is currently in his final semester of study at UT’s Music school in Knoxville, TN. He breaks away from school with the group for short tours.



On the bass is Vince Ilagan who is also from Knoxville and is a UT Alumni. He plays both acoustic and electric bass with the trio. Influenced by of a wide spectrum of genres, the group enjoys performing in a variety of styles and grooves.



The collective influences of the band members include: the electric Jazz-Funk of Miles Davis and thus Weather Report, John Scofield, Bill Frisell, Keith Jarrett Trio, etc.


Another of the several facets of this group includes the influences of James Brown, Sly and the Family Stone, Maceo Parker, Stevie Wonder, and P-Funk.


With a love for melody, the group is continually rediscovering the beauty of many older standards.














www.myspace.com/jeffsipetrio


http://www.pisgahbrewing.com/

Sat 1/30 Mac Arnold at White Horse

Saturday Jan 30
Mac Arnold
and Plate Full Of Blues
8pm

One of the hottest blues band's in America returns to White Horse Black Mountain for a special Concert !!!!!

From a farm in rural Pelzer, South Carolina to the South Side of Chicago to Los Angeles and back to South Carolina, Mac Arnold has lived and breathed music for most of his 67 years.

Growing up in a large farming family, Mac got his first taste of the blues when he learned to play his brother Leroy’s home-made guitar at the age of ten. He quickly decided that playing music had far more promise and far less back aches than the farming life and soon embarked on a musical career that would take all over America and into Europe.

Mac quickly made a name for himself in upstate South Carolina. His high school band “J Floyd & The Shamrocks” were often joined by a young relatively unknown piano player from Georgia, James Brown. Of course James Brown would go on to become the "Godfather of Soul".

After playing local clubs and fish-fry's in Greenville County SC, Mac decided he was ready for a musical challenge and what better challenge than a move to Windy City of Chicago where a bluesman was sure to get work playing bass at a local Chicago clubs for the local blues bands.

It was at one of the clubs, that blues legend Muddy Waters heard the young country boy and hired him on the spot. The Muddy Waters Band including Mac Arnold, helped shape the electric blues sound that inspired the rock and roll movement of the late 60’s and early 70’s. Regular guests of the band included Eric Clapton, Paul Butterfield, Mike Bloomfield, and Elvin Bishop. The Muddy Waters Band (as a unit) shared the stage with the likes of Howlin’ Wolfe, Elmore James, Jimmy Reed, Junior Wells, Big Joe Williams, and Big Mama Thornton just to name a few.

After more than a year with Muddy Waters, Mac formed his own band, the Soul Invaders which backed up many artists, including The Temptations and B. B. King. During this time, Mac Arnold also played on John Lee Hooker’s “live “album, Live at the Café Au Go-Go, as well as Otis Spann’s classic recording “The Blues is Where It’s At”.

Mac retired back to Pelzer SC and resumed his life as a farmer for several years before being rediscovered.

Mac Arnold is again at the top of the blues world having made two tours of Europe in 2009. He rolls into Black Mountain with a fresh new CD and a barrel of blues fun to deliver. BE THERE !!!!!

Sat 1/30 Bluestopia Highway at Town Pump

Saturday Jan 30
Bluestopia Highway
at Town Pump Tavern
8:30 pm

What is Bluestopia?
Bluestopia is a place, way back in your mind, where Blues, R&B and Rock and Roll all come together to share their roots. Bluestopia Highway is the medium to take you there.

Bluestopia Highway is a rocking blues band, playing high powered, fast moving blues and R&B and rock and roll covers and originals. If you can't dance to Bluestopia Highway then you just can't dance! Bluestopia Highway is a band to have fun with.
BLUESTOPIA HIGHWAY in existence since 2007, founded by lead vocalist Maria Lieteau. Bluestopia Highway comes at you with a strong driving rhythm and powerful lead vocals.

Add to that, the popping sound of Joey D' Bass player on bass guitar and the super serious sound of Joel "Crispy Cat” Schantz on lead guitar. Mix in a little "Fast Fingers" Kevin Scala tickling the ivories and Albert "Sticks” Norris " Beating out that beat, with his syncopated rhythm and the rap, tap, tap, tap, tap, tap on the drums". Now you have Bluestopia Highway.

http://www.myspace.com/bluestopiahighway
www.myspace.com/townpumptavernllc

Fri 1/29 Richard Shulman at White Horse Black Mtn

Friday Jan 29
Richard Shulman
at White Horse Black Mountain
8 pm

..Sacred Within: Music from the Center..

COVR award winning (2009 Meditational/Healing Music) pianist / composer, Richard Shulman presents a concert to touch the center of the sacred within.

Keyboardist and composer Richard Shulman creates music intended to be a positive influence for himself, audiences, and society.

Richard has recorded 23 of his own albums as well as more than two dozen other recordings for which he has provided compositions, performances and/or musical production. Trained in the classical and jazz fields, he has developed a heartfelt language in these genres while focussing a significant amount of his output on music for meditation, healing and inspiration. He currently divides his concert schedule between performances of his meditation music and his original jazz as personified by the Richard Shulman Trio.

Shulman has performed at the Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, Art Park, the United Nations, the Kool Jazz Festival, The Amenia Peace Festival and a wide variety of other venues throughout North America and in Europe.

As a composer, Shulman has created over sixty pieces for jazz quartet as well as songs and pieces for chamber ensembles, choir, and symphony orchestra. In 1986 aAnd 1987 he composed music for orchestra and jazz quartet during residencies at the Virginia Center for the Creative Arts.

From 1986 through 1995, Shulman was the principal composer for "Theatre of the Heart," a cooperative of dancers, singers, and musicians dedicated to fostering community and the environment. Commissions include a piece for the Amherst Saxophone Quartet, and "May Peace Prevail on Earth" for singers, symphony orchestra, three choirs, and jazz quartet, created for the World Peace Prayer Society. In addition, he has created hundreds of 'Musical Soul Portrait' recordings for individuals, couples, and groups.

Tune in to your Divine Presence by resonating with uplifting and meditative music from his CD's and a piece composed spontaneously for the audience.

Fri 1/29 Chalwa at Pisgah Brewing

Friday January 29

Chalwa

at Pisgah Brewing

8pm

With the release of their new self tiled album Asheville, NC Reggae collective Chalwa takes a step to further the boundaries of the genre. A fusion of music blending high energy improvisation with roots, rock and reggae the release reaches deep into Jamaica to build an identity. Along with a fresh batch of material the release features an intimate look into the actual Jamaica experience offering field recordings made during the band's frequent trips tothe island. The album leaves the listener captivated by the hooks and melodies and transported by the dreamy interludes to a Jamaica that feels very present yet distant at the same time.

Chalwa has been located in the western North Carolina mountain town of Asheville since 2006. Their sound is heavily influenced by roots they have established through years of family ties to Jamaica. Despite cultural boundaries, Chalwa finds a way to create music that is both progressive and steeped in tradition. Perhaps this is what links Chalwa so closely to the spirit of reggae music in Jamaica; it is the comfort of and understanding of self that allows one to transcend sufferation and stereotypes and create something truly original and powerful. Chalwa brings to the stage"a fusion of sounds all wrapped up in a roots reggae beat that will make all ages dance and have a truly positive experience (Black Mountain News)."

www.myspace.com/chalwa
http://www.pisgahbrewing.com/

Fri 1/29 Will Straughan at Straightaway Cafe

Friday January 29th

Will Straughan

at Straightaway Cafe

6pm

Will Straughan is a talented multi-instrumentalist and regionally popular sideman and session player. He's what is referred to as a "musicians musician", a player who makes everyone he plays with sound better.

While most folks know Will for his work with numerous other musicians, he is rapidly establishing himself as a talented singer, songwriter, and solo performer.

Along with Natalya Weinstein and John Cloyd Miller, Will performs regularly in the Americana band Red June, as well as with members of Jim and Jennie, the Pinetops, and the Greasy Beans in the band Garbage Bear.

In addition, he is currently touring and recording with regional favorites Eliza Lynn and Lance Mills. He has performed or collaborated with the Emma Gibbs Band, Lo-Fi Breakdown, Kellin Watson, and Aaron Price, among many others.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?v=info&id=1437923109
www.myspace.com/willstraughan
http://www.straightawaycafe.com/

Thu 1/28 Great Blue Ridge Talent Search at White Horse

Thursday Jan 28

Great Blue Ridge Talent Search

at White Horse Black Mountain

8pm

This unique event launches on Jan.28, 2010 at 7pm at White Horse Black Mountain great singers will compete for $1000 in cash and prizes, and the chance to be on the stage at White Horse.

Audiences admitted for FREE !!!

The competition continues on alternate Thursdays through February (2/11 and 2/25)....and possibly longer.

Prizes include a showcase performance at White Horse Black Mountain, professional career consultations with White Horse co-owner Bob Hinkle (former manager of J Geils Band, Harry Chapin, Etta James, Kenny Rogers, Dottie West, Manfred Mann, etc( www.bobhinkle.com), a free demo recording in the wonderful White Horse listening room, and other prizes.

Come see the best in regional unsigned talent as they compete in front of a panel of judges.

http://greatblueridgetalentsearch.blogspot.com/
http://www.whitehorseblackmountain.com/

Sat 1/23 Every Mothers Deam at White Horse

Saturday Jan 23

Every Mothers Dream

featuring

Jay and Mandy Carter

White Horse Black Mountain

8pm

"Jay and Mandy’s vocal harmonies are impeccable. The two blend naturally as if they were born to perform together.”-Dale Allen Hoffman, The Indie





“Jay and Mandy have a way of mingling melodies that turns the nature of harmony on its head.”-Julie Loyd, Singer/Songwriter

A special concert featuring Every Mothers Dream with special guests, Aimee Sullivan on sax/Rhodes piano and Trevor Stoia on bass.

Award winning songwriter, Ken Kiser opens the show.

Tickets are only $5.00

Over the years, EMD has gained respect in the regional music community with their own fresh brand of roots music inspired by various folk, funk, rock & roll, country, pop, and jazz musicians – a little something for everyone. The band’s front duo, Jay Kaiser and Mandy Carter, bring intelligent and inspiring songwriting to a mix of impeccable acoustic guitar work, dreamy vocal harmonies, and a driving rhythm section. Every Mother’s Dream delivers a rocking good time while maintaining a refreshingly varied set of music.

The longer story...Jay Kaiser and Mandy Carter have been making music as a pair since 2001. Jay, who was trained in classical guitar at the University of Illinois, moved to Asheville to join a local rock band where Mandy was fresh on the singer/songwriter scene. Noticing the matching stickers on one another’s guitar cases, the two found musical common ground.



http://www.everymothersdream.com/
http://www.whitehorseblackmountain.com/

Sat 1/23 The Zealots at The Town PUmp

Sat Jan 23rd

George Terry and the Zealots

at Town Pump Tavern

8:30pm

The Zealots will come at you with everything they've got, including some momentous songs. Fronted by the Carolina legend George Terry, this band converts new Zealots with every appearance.

Zealots' songs deal with the always-touchy subjects of religion, taxes, and death (not to mention love). Lazy conformists beware of these sharp hooks which drop from the sky like viscious arch-angels.

http://www.myspace.com/borndreamin

www.myspace.com/townpumptavernllc

Sat 1/23 Dave Turner at Straightaway Cafe

Saturday January 23rd

Dave Turner

at

The Straightaway Cafe

6pm

"My earliest memory of being moved by music is from 1968, when at age six I heard Hey Jude by The Beatles on a jukebox at the YMCA in Rochester, Minnesota. The sound of that song still takes me back there."

As a singer-songwriter-pianist Dave Turner has developed his style in part by combining the traditions of Elton John and Tom Waits. He is a prolific writer of words and music, plays the piano with power and passion, and has a strong, soulful voice.

His most recent album, "Could Have Talked All Night," was released November 16, 2007. Its captivating songs were inspired by empty pockets and starry skies, Kentucky bourbon, late-night diners, old lovers, Blue Ridge mountains, California dreams, desperation, roadside shrines, hangovers, unsent letters, beer joints, bar buddies, staying put and getting away.

In fall 2007, Dave was one of eight finalists selected from across the United States in the North Carolina Songwriters Co-op 10th Annual Song Contest with two songs from the "Could Have Talked All Night" album, "Never Meant To Stay" and "Amber River."

"I began playing the piano shortly after and I started writing songs in grade school, inspired by Elton John at the height of his career. After high school my band mates and I went off to college with dreams of making it big, but by the end of college I had succumbed to a variety of external and internal pressures with a degree in journalism and a fledgling career in corporate communications. But all along the desire to make music has churned inside me.

So after 18 years in advertising and public relations, after many late nights at home playing the piano and writing songs, and after countless experiences wishing I was doing what I saw and heard musicians doing all around me in venues, on television and on my stereo, I released my first album (Stories That Are True) in 2004.

With the realization that I was 43 years old, releasing the CD lit a fire under me. I cannot, I concluded, live out my life without staying engaged in performing and recording music. In 2007 I released what I consider my first serious attempt at a professionally produced album: Could Have Talked All Night. I'm working on my third record now, including the large task of raising the money I need to produce it."

http://www.daveturnermusic.com/

http://www.thestraightaycafe.com/

Fri 1/22 Makia Groove at Town Pump Tavern

Fri Jan 22nd

Makia Groove

at Town Pump Tavern

8:30pm

Makia (Muh-kee-uh), a Hawaiian Shaman term meaning “Energy Flows Where Attention Goes,” irrefutably characterizes the band’s live improvisational style, which is fueled by the infinite circle of energy that encompasses the band as well as the audience. Although they utilize the studio’s capabilities, a live show is the only way to truly experience Makia Groove.

Formed in Kingsport, TN, Makia Groove was established on one solid foundation, in which each member of the band is encouraged to exercise complete artistic freedom. Self described as “World Funk Fusion”, the band combines Funk, Reggae, Jazz, and Afro-Cuban while still exploring the future. With their innovative spirit and drive, Makia Groove achieves a shapeless identity with unprecedented originality and diversity.

The overall vibe of Makia Groove is generated by intense collaboration efforts, where each of the member’s contributions come together to make the sound and essence of Makia Groove unlimited in viewpoints and directions.

www.myspace.com/townpumptavernllc
http://www.makiagroove.com/about.html

Fri 1/22 The ToneBlazers at White Horse Black Mountain

Fri January 22

The ToneBlazers

at White Horse Black Mountain

8pm

ToneBlazers was formed in 2009 by four seasoned musicians who love the thrill, buzz and magic of playing and performing every type of music that trips their trigger – from bluegrass to country to rock, blues, Motown and more. They all contribute vocally and have a laid back attitude but their sound pulses energy.



Make no mistake – they're serious about music.



Individually throughout their careers, they have played with or opened for Doc Watson, Chet Atkins, Kenny Rogers, Loretta Lynn, George Shuffler, Marty Raybon, Alison Kraus, Mark O’Connor, Doug Jernigan, Wayne Henderson, Roy Huskey Jr. and Tony Rice, to name a few.



ToneBlazers is based in the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina and will perform throughout the Southeast.





http://toneblazers.com/


http://www.whitehorseblackmountain.com/

Fri 1/22 Shane Pruitt Band at Pisgah

Friday Jan 22

The Shane Pruitt Band

at Pisgah Brewery

8pm

The Shane Pruitt Band is rooted in the blues, but has elements of gospel and old soul music. The upfront Hammond B3 organ of Jim Peterman soars, harkening back to the sounds of the 70s. His musical pedigree includes being one of the original members of the Steve Miller Band and his keyboard work exmemplifies the blues rock vibes of the the 60s 70s and 80s.


The organ and keyboard work is matched seamlessly by Shane Pruittes. soulful guitar work. Shane Pruitt (guitar/vocals)has been playing the southeast for 15 years, despite his young age of 31. He has played in numerous bands and has opened shows for or played with artists such as Johnny Winter, Junior Brown, Coco Montoya, Porter, Batiste and Stoltz and many others. Shane's guitar style evokes the intensity of Buddy Guy, Albert Collins, Freddie King and Duane Allman.He also generates the energy and spirit of a famous southern guitar player by the name of Toy Caldwell, from the original Marshall Tucker Band.



The organ and guitar are solidly backed up by Bill Fletcher's work on the drums.Bill has spent many years playing in the southeast with various blues and soul bands, including Cocktail Frank and with blues singer Robin Rogers.


All 3 band members contribute vocals.

The Shane Pruitt Band has over 100 years of playing experience between the three members and that comes through in each and every note. Since its emergence on the regional music scene, the Shane Pruitt Band has opened for numerous National Acts including Johnny Winter, headlined several local festivals, and has received a lot of support from local media outlets.


Their appearance at the Lake Eden Arts Festival last spring was well-received and they're looking forward to seeing lots of their LEAF festival friends at the White Horse gig.



http://shanepruittband.com/
www.myspace.com/shanepruitt
http://www.pisgahbrewing.com/

Fri 1/22 Kevin Scanlon at Straightaway Cafe

Friday Jan 22
Kevin Scanlon
at Straightaway Cafe
7pm

Kevin began his journey into song-writing in his early teens, and has been a prolific lyricist ever since. The first instrument Kevin played seriously was the guitar, and has since developed a refreshingly traditional finger-picking style that is suited to the songs he writes and performs. Whether it's an original piece or the works of Elizabeth Cotten to Townes Van Zandt, Kevin is able to perform a very authentic sound, especially when his harmonica is hanging from his harness.

In the mid 90's, Kevin's taste in music started to shift to historical cultural music. . Walking into a local pub during an open Irish jam would change him as a musician. This music has a simple honesty in both the subject matter and music arrangement, which is what ended up the foundation for Kevin Scanlon as a musician. It opened up a world of new music study, including old European folk music, Irish sea shanties, old country and bluegrass.

Logically, his next instrument of interest was the banjo. He developed competent technique in both claw-hammer(old time)and 3 finger(bluegrass) styles.

Now Kevin had the tools in his bag to perform century old folk music as well as popular modern music. Add a very unique vocal timbre and lyrics written for the common man about the real world around us, and we have a well rounded, straight forward artist who's message needs to be heard. In the past years, Kevin has toured all over the eastern seaboard playing with a diverse group of artists, as well as solo performing. He has performed with a professional vocal ensemble, a few bluegrass groups, folk projects, rock and roll, and projects in Irish music from traditional to modern Irish punk.

Currently residing in rural North Carolina, his art having been tempered by his life experience, Kevin has come into his own. His very original sound is defined and polished. Now all that remains is to spread his message to the public.

www.myspace.com/klscanlon

http://www.straightawaycafe.com/

Sat 1/16 Jones for Revival at Town Pump

Saturday Jan 16

Jones for Revival

at Town Pump Tavern

8:30pm

Jones For Revival formed in 2004. Ever since the beginning the band's goal has been to re-introduce the improvisational aspect of music into groovy, upbeat tunes that audiences of all ages could enjoy. Throughout the journey the band has strengthened their ability to project a positive vibe to their listeners and has gained a following of loyal fans who share the same musical understanding and appreciation as they do.

Jones has worked with many quality acts such as Keller Williams, Buckethead, Tea Leaf Green, BoomBox, The Zen Tricksters, The Bridge, Ekoostik Hookah, and Blue Oyster Cult. The band also has their own annual music festival - JONESFEST - held at Ohio's famous Nelson Ledges Quarry Park

"Jones for Revival is a free- flowing jam band, more jazz than rock. It improvises at every gig, re-imagining song segments on the stage at each show."Guy D'Astolfo- Youngstown Vindicator -(12/27/09)


http://www.myspace.com/jones4revival
www.myspace.com/townpumptavernllc

Sat 1/16 Tim Marsh at Straightaway Cafe

Saturday Jan 16

Tim Marsh
at Straightaway Cafe
6pm

Tim Marsh of the bands Chalwa, Wiseapple, and Get Lost will perform from 6pm til 9pm at the new Straightaway Cafe. Straightaway Cafe is located less than 6 miles south of downtown Black Mountain on Highway 9.

Tim Marsh grew up outside Trenton, NJ where he began playing guitar and singing around the age of 14. With interests in both acoustic and electric music, Marsh began writing his own music while simultaneously learning to play from his own influences. Marsh began performing in high school with his lifelong friend and music cohort Darrell Muller, now of Old School Freight Train fame. The two formed an acoustic duo known as Azure Calm before plugging in to form the rock band Little Gimmick. The acoustic Azure Calm eventually evolved into the psychedelic rock band Grass Dance with the addition of drummer Michael Keating. This band made the jump from New Jersey to Boone, North Carolina. After graduating from Appalachian State University in 2000 with a BS in psychology, Marsh traveled for a while before returning to Boone to revive Wiseapple, an earlier bluegrass project. This band along with the funk and soul band Get Lost remain Marsh's foremost projects.

http://www.timmarshmusic.com/

http://www.straightawaycafe.com/

Sat 1/16 Holy Ghost Tent Revival at White Horse

Saturday Jan 16

Holy Ghost Tent Revival

with Now You See Them

at White Horse Black Mountain

8pm

Characterized as "explosively intoxicating," Greensboro, NC's Holy Ghost Tent Revival cannot be pigeonholed into any popular genre. Melding brass with banjo, guitar, bass, drums, and keys this six-piece ensemble boasts an eclectic mash of instruments and styles -- a musical alchemy all their own.

The overall air of their creation breathes a sense of celebration and salvation; of a raucous party where everyone's welcome and where even the most stoic will find their toes tapping and a smile breaking free. It's as if, in the same spirit as the blues greats that traveled the highways of the American psyche before them, theirs is not music to lament life's hardships but rather to celebrate in life itself; with all its hodgepodge of pleasure and pain. It is this transcendent energy that continuously propels Holy Ghost Tent Revival to play the heart and soul of a North Carolina-born, genre-defying new groove.

With a penchant for crafting thoughtfully playful lyrics and graced with exceptional musical skills, there are seemingly no boundaries for this group as they travel the country spreading the magic of their heart-throbbing, foot-stomping, good-time music.

Also performing will be NOW YOU SEE THEM.

Now You See Them is a three piece acoustic folk, indie band all originally from western Pennsylvania. It wasn’t until the three of them were living in New York City that they met each other. Time passed and fate intervened and they decided to travel the world together.

Often described as a breath-of-fresh-air, NYST conveys an upbeat and beautiful sound…live, they supply an endless amount of fun and energy that transfers to everyone around…diving further into their music reveals slow burning lyrics that take shape, evolve, and become more personal with every listen. Sporting unique instrumentation while delivering beautiful harmonies, they’ve quickly turned their fan base from a few errant bar stragglers to perpetually packed houses.


http://www.holyghosttentrevival.com/
http://www.reverbnation.com/nowyouseethem
http://www.whitehorseblackmountain.com/

Fri 1/15 Possum Jenkins & Dave Desmelik at Pisgah Brewing

Friday January 15

Possum Jenkins

and Dave Desmelik

at Pisgah Brewing

8pm

Call it alt. country. Call it Southern rock. Call it Americana. Call it shake-yo-ass blues-fried boogie with flashes of raucous cow punk. Call it a honky-tonk Chinese fire drill. Any one of those musical descriptors could hit the mark during a Possum Jenkins show and be dead on. Since coming together during their final year at Boone, North Carolina's Appalachian State University in 2004, instrument-swapping Americana quartet Possum Jenkins has toiled and triumphed in bars, clubs and at festivals across their home state, as well as venturing into South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.



A sonic Southern recipe of simple but effective melodies married to boundless, off-the-rails energy find the tight-knit group zeroing in on a sound that seamlessly incorporates strains of the timeless mountain music of Appalachia, the compelling alt. country of East Nashville and Austin, a touch funky Memphis soul and a helping of unabashed Southern rock.



It's not hard to see why Possum Jenkins is just as comfortable sharing stages with outlaw legend Billy Joe Shaver as they are with blues rockers the North Mississippi Allstars. Fans of Shaver's raw, heartfelt country as well as those of the Allstars' brand of hill country boogie have both identified with the hard-driving and passionate Americana of Possum Jenkins that finds common ground in both traditions





Also appearing will be Dave Desmelik


Dave Desmelik has established himself as an accomplished and rising singer/songwriter whose music might best be described as Americana or Alt/Country. Drawing upon influences from country to bluegrass to blues to rock n' roll, Desmelik writes and performs a unique blend of songs.


Some Career Highlights and Awards


-"Onlooker" voted #11 favorite new regional release of 2009 by listeners of WNCW radio.


-2009 "Best Of" Mountain Xpress Readers Poll placed in three categories


- Folk, Country-Alt/Country, and regional musician Brevard, NC.


-"Onlooker" on the Roots Music Report Folk Airplay Chart for three weeks (Oct. 2009) reaching #17.


-"Onlooker" reached #5 for North Carolina Roots Radio Chart.










http://www.myspace.com/thepossumjenkinsband


http://www.davedesmelik.com/


www.pisgahbrewing.com/

Fri 1/15 Kat Williams at White Horse

Friday Jan 15

Kat Williams

at White Horse Black Mountain

8pm

In this day and age when pop princesses dominate the airwaves, Kat Williams fills a void that has been severely neglected for years. She satisfies a yearning that a great percentage of music lovers have been waiting to be fulfilled; a return to emotive Truth and Honesty in music rarely found today. As so many of the greatest performers in history, vocalists like Ella Fitzgerald, Dinah Washington, Nina Simone, Sarah Vaughn, Mavis Staples, and many others, are aging or have passed on, Kat has taken up the torch and is reaching a new generation that never got to experience these masters in person.

Ms. Williams, like many of the Greats, comes from a humble beginning. Born in Buffalo, NY in 1967 to a 14 year old mother she met only once, she became the 31st foster child in the home of Mary and L.C. Williams, who later adopted her. Beginning at age nine, she spent the rest of her childhood caring for her adoptive mother who was slowly dying of cancer. Shortly after her 17th birthday, both Mary and L.C. passed away and Kat found herself homeless on the streets of New York City. With a fiery passion for life, her exuberant personality, and her undying perserverance, she blossomed gracefully into a strong and independent woman.

In 1997, Kat moved to Asheville, NC and soon took the town by storm, becoming the most sought after singer in the region. She bared her soul to the crowd, inviting audiences in for a glimpse of a truly phenomenal woman and an authentic, from the heart, performer.

"I looked in the mirror and realized that I couldn't fight the feeling anymore and opened my heart to the music".
Years later...Kat‘s music ideology is “ I have no competition- I can only give you the best of me“. Filled with a passion for song, animated expressions, a spirited sense of humor and that remarkable laugh, Kat takes the stage and makes magic happen.
Kat has performed with solo pianists, big bands, and a full symphony orchestra.
Singer, actress, and songwriter, Kat is truly a triple threat. Though she is constantly in demand, she is loyal to her many fans, maintaining personal friendships with many of them. She is truly a remarkable woman and an electrifying and unforgettable performer.

www.myspace.com/katwilliamsinthehouse

www.whitehorseblackmountain.com/

Fri 1/15 Citizens Band Radio at Town Pump

Friday Jan 15

Citizen Bands Radio

at Town Pump Tavern

8:30pm

Citizens Band Radio has the look, feel and sound of an early 70s vintage country rock band, the energy of a herd of wild horses on stage, and is described as a honky-tonkin’, rock-a-rollin’, whiskey drinkin’, good timin’ band. Citizens Band Radio’s LIVE show is exciting, energetic, powerful and sure to make a true believer out of anyone who appreciates the country rock genre (and a bunch who don‘t).

From Woodglen, New Jersey, Citizens Band Radio are a proper country rock band, playing the sort of stuff that Gram Parsons invented with the International Submarine Band, and The Eagles made shit loads of wedge from. Obviously times have changed. Grunge morphed into alt. country, Townes is long gone, stringbands are on the rise again and Steve Earle’s off the gear.



So what’s a poor boy to do? In this case it’s kick back and enjoy these guys. We need Citizens Band Radio, we need country rockers with long hair, classic finger pickin’, songs that inspire idiot grinnin’, beer drinking and tokin’. - Leicester Bangs


http://cbrtruckstop.com/

http://www.myspace.com/citizensbandradio

www.myspace.com/townpumptavernllc

Sat 1/15 Duke Freeman at Straightaway Cafe

Fri Jan 15

Duke Freeman

at Straightaway Cafe

6pm

Try to define Duke Freeman and The Random. Just try. The sound brings a mix of psychedelic rock, punk, and blues; the sound bridges a mix of old folk, reggae, and Deep South blues; or maybe the sound engulfs a mix of classic rock, grunge, and soul. They tend to dominate one particular style live, and seeing them live is a game of chance that depends on the psyche of the band at very second they start playing, but whatever it is it’s sure to be delivered with an undeniably raw energy.

When Duke was ready, it was a quick, hard trip into the scene. He wasn’t a musician just messing around who decided to one day maybe try to get more out of his music. He wanted more in the present. He wanted it now and his drive for music was strong from the start. Comparatively, the sound is reminiscent of faster Black Keys material with old blues covers done punk style such as “Murderer’s Home Blues” and “Long Tall Shorty.” “Thanatos Blues” combines Black Sabbath with Led Zepplin.


http://www.myspace.com/dukefreeman
http://www.straightawaycafe.com/

Thu 1/14 Lance Mills at The Town Pump Tavern

Thursday Jan 14

Lance Mills

at The Town Pump Tavern

8:30pm

Truditional music is new music that sounds old. authentic, genuine, sincere and heartfelt. a fresh pour of coffee in your grandad's favorite cup, a well worn pair of jeans with a brand new patch on the knee, real songs that lend a little comfort.Lance Mills is Truditional Music and tonight he'll be playing songs from his recent release Worn Out Shoes.

Lance is a coveted writer and performer in North Carolina and has had his songs recorded by a who’s who of rising starts in Roots, Country and Bluegrass music including The Steep Canyon Rangers, Songs From the Road Band, The Biscuit Burners and Town Mountain just to name a few

www.myspace.com/lancemillstunes
www.myspace.com/townpumptavernllc

Mon 1/11 Brittany Reilly and Almost Acoustic at Town Pump

Monday January 11th and

Tuesday January 12th

Brittany Reilly and Almost Acoustic

at The Town Pump Tavern

8:30pm

" 'All these honky-tonks don't play real country music,' Reilly laments in the title track of her debut. Reilly and a genteel sextet play acoustic country tunes that sound so old-timey, they could be Soggy Bottom Boys leftovers. " - Cleveland Scene by DX Ferris

Brittany Reilly and her band deliver Classic Country, Honky Tonk Music and Bluegrass music like it's supposed to be played...with heart and soul. One listen to her song "Honky Tonk Home" and you'll know, Brittany is the real deal.

But Brittany and her band aren't afraid to push the limits either and can bring in a blues, rock or rockabilly groove when the situation arises.

Brittany Reilly made her first music performance was with her husband Brent Hopper in Sept. 2005 and built a strong following immediately with a heavy touring schedule. She has played more than 475 shows nationwide in more than 175 venues in 23 states in less than five years.

In her evolved project with the Almost Acoustic Band, she recorded her debut solo CD “Good Old Country Sound” which was released March 1st, 2008.

Members of her band, The Almost Acoustic Band, include:


Brittany Reilly - Guitar, Bass, Vocals
Brent Hopper - Guitar, Mandolin, Vocals
Billy Gilmore - Banjo, Mandolin, Fiddle, Dobro, Pedal Steel, Elec. Guitar, Vocals
Saravanan “Sav” Sankaran - Bass, Guitar, Banjo, Vocals






http://www.brittanyreilly.com/


www.myspace.com/brittanyreilly


www.myspace.com/townpumptavernllc

Sat 1/9 Akira Satake Band at White Horse

Saturday Jan 9

The Akira Satake Band

at White Horse Black Mtn

8pm

Driven by an elegant world beat pulse, this collaboration of Asheville-based musicians plays instrumental music ranging from original Satake compositions to Appalachian and Celtic dance music traditions. Akira Satake drives this group with his unique textural and melodic approach to playing the banjo.

He is joined by the young violinist Duncan Wickel, equally fluent as a classical soloist, celtic fiddler or improvising jazz artist. Cellist Julia Weatherford grounds the group with her innovative rhythmical technique, soulful melodies and harmonies.

He has performed and/or recorded with such artists as Shawn Colvin, Nancy Griffith, Jim Lauderdale, Hazel Dickens, Bela Fleck and Tony Trischka, and produced award-winning CDs for Tim O’Brien, Mamadou Diabate, Johnny Cunningham and flamenco guitarist Gerardo Nunez.

Akira Satake was born in Osaka, Japan, the artist has been living in the U.S. since 1983 and has won numerous awards here for both visual and music. In 2003 he relocated from Brooklyn, New York to Swannanoa, North Carolina.

www.akirasatake.com/music.asp
http://www.whitehorseblackmountain.com/

Fri 1/9 Silver Dagger Bluegrass at Town Pump

Friday Jan 9

Silver Dagger Bluegrass

at Town Pump Tavern

8:30pm

A recognized act in today's roots music scene, Silver Dagger brings together young and energetic talent from the country's leading music programs. Alumni of East Tennesee State's acclaimed bluegrass program, Grace Van't Hof and Ricky Cooper, Berklee alumnus, Ashleigh Caudill, and national touring veteran, Matt Purinton, work a stage like old hands. Weaving in and out of their solos and vocal harmonies, the group rivals seasoned artists many years their senior. Their different backgrounds and four home states influence their uniques instrumental styles. 2009 marks Silver Dagger's first complete touring season. The group's clever originals and covers of bluegrass favorites are sure to captivate any audience!

What people are saying about Silver Dagger:
"Silver Dagger is a dynamic acoustic band...and one of my favorites! They have great vocals that blend seamlessly with their controlled, powerful instrumental work. This fine group showcases a wealth of American and Bluegrass music...as well as expertly presenting the best of their own original songs. I look to these young folks to make important contributions to our music heritage for a long time!" -Marc Pruett (Kentucky Thunder, Balsam Range)

www.myspace.com/silverdaggerbluegrass

www.myspace.com/townpumptavernllc

Fri 1/8 Screech Owl Serenade at Straightaway Cafe

Screech Owl Serenade

at The Straightaway Cafe

Friday January 8

6pm til 9pm

No Cover Charge

"Screech Owl Serenade" performs a variety of Swing and Old School country music favorites and was well received in their previous appearance at the Straightaway Cafe. The band features Nic Coker on banjo and Laurie Fisher on fiddle.

Sat 1/2 Will Straughan at Straightaway Cafe

Saturday January 2nd

Will Straughan

at Straightaway Cafe

6pm

Will Straughan is a talented multi-instrumentalist and regionally popular sideman and session player. He's what is referred to as a "musicians musician", a player who makes everyone he plays with sound better.

While most folks know Will for his work with numerous other musicians, he is rapidly establishing himself as a talented singer, songwriter, and solo performer.

Along with Natalya Weinstein and John Cloyd Miller, Will performs regularly in the Americana band Red June, as well as with members of Jim and Jennie, the Pinetops, and the Greasy Beans in the band Garbage Bear.

In addition, he is currently touring and recording with regional favorites Eliza Lynn and Lance Mills. He has performed or collaborated with the Emma Gibbs Band, Lo-Fi Breakdown, Kellin Watson, and Aaron Price, among many others.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?v=info&id=1437923109
www.myspace.com/willstraughan
http://www.straightawaycafe.com/

Sat 1/2 Taylor Martin Band at Town Pump Tavern

Saturday January 2nd
Taylor Martin Band
at Town Pump Tavern
8:30 pm

If you've listened to WNCW, you've probably heard Taylor Martin....and you've probably said...wow...great songs, great band. I'd sure like to hear that guy live sometime.

Taylor is quickly developing a following based on the airplay of his new CD, ENGINE. He'll play playing songs from Engine as well as some newer material at the Town Pump. Performing with Taylor will be many of Asheville favorite musicians (who also happen to be big fans of Taylor Martin): Woody Wood, Ty Gilpin, Shane Conerty, Brian Jones, Ricky Cooper, and Lyndsay Pruett.

Taylor Martin was born September 2, 1980. Raised near Richmond, Virginia, he fell in love with music at a young age. His first professional performances came at age 17 when he would attend hootenannies (folksinger-get-togethers). It was through these experiences that Taylor began to hone his musical identity.

He moved to northern Utah where he began to fuse personal experience with the craft of professional songwriting. "The spirit of the West spoke to me and in that I began to dream.
Taylor recalls. "The combination of fact and fiction, dark and light, knowingness and fear all became very real to me." Songwriting became a near obsession for him, and at age 24 he recorded his first album at Avon Sound Recording in Paradise, Utah.

After a brief tour of the West, he decided to move back to the South where he felt he could better explore his own "roots" music.

It’s the overlapping of the western spirit with his southern heritage that has giving birth to the songwriting on his new album, Engine. His songs are described as cryptic yet genuine, uplifting at times, heartbreaking at others. It doesn’t take much of a listen before you realize that this music is drenched with passion and heartache. These are human emotions in a genuine musical form.

http://www.myspace.com/taylormartinsmusic
http://www.myspace.com/townpumptavernllc

Sat 1/2 Bob Margolin at White Horse Black Mountain

Saturday Jan 2nd

Bob Margolin

at White Horse Black Mountain

8pm

Bob Margolin is a Blues guitar player and vocalist, a recording artist who tours worldwide both leading his own band and The Bob Margolin All-Star Blues Jam. He won a Blues Music Award for Guitar in 2008, known as the W.C. Handy Award in 2005 when he won that year, and played guitar in Muddy Waters’ Band from 1973-’80.

His most recent album is The Bob Margolin All-Star Blues Jam for Telarc Records, which features many of today’s surviving Chicago Blues legends. Since the ‘90s, he has also recorded albums for the Powerhouse, Alligator, and Blind Pig labels. He writes a regular column for Blues Revue magazine and contributes to BluesWax.com online magazine.

Bob also has played on, produced or consulted on, and written liner notes for four reissues of Muddy Waters’ albums on the Sony/Legacy label. He appears on the Muddy Waters Classic Concerts DVD, playing in 1977 with Muddy and writing liner notes for the DVD.

In today’s Blues music scene, Bob Margolin is carrying on the tradition with a full schedule of festivals, concerts, and club appearances.

www.bobmargolin.com/
www.whitehorseblackmountain.com/

Fri 1/1 The Good Old Boyz at The Town Pump

FRIDAY JANUARY 1st

Start the New Year off right with

The Good Old Boyz

at The Town Pump

9pm

Outlaw country done right ... right here in the land of the sky ...

The Good Old Boyz are in da hood at the Town Pump on Sat Oct 3rd brining old school outlaw country and honky-tonk favorites. Fans of Waylon, Willie, Hank, Merle, Lefty, Cash, Gram, Townes, George Jones, and the like will be pleased to know that the music lives on in Asheville in the form of The Goold Old Boyz.

The band features

Woody Wood, guitar
Scott Sharpe, pedal steel
David Connor Jones, bass
and
Richard Foulk, drums

http://www.myspace.com/goodoldboyz

www.myspace.com/townpumptavernllc