Most people started Friday morning trying to figure out how to keep cool. They were willing, no, eager, forthe forecast cold front and its associated thunder storms to come just so they could cool off some. Fortunately, the first branch of the White River runs beside the fairgrounds providing relief for adults and dogs as well as a convenient play area for children.
Acoustic Blue
Acoustic Blue has made several personnel changes while setting its sights spreading its range beyond New England, seeking a wider national audience. Last year the band showcased at IBMA, attracting much favorable attention. They bring a strong repertoire of songs drawn from the bluegrass and country repertoire as well as ones written from within the band. Excellent singing and a tight band song auger well for their achieving their ambitions. Cory Zink's baritone vocals are particularly notable, as is his song writing. Keep your eye out for this band.
T. Shaun Batho
Cory Zink
Larry Neu
Ray Evans
Smokey Greene - Guest Artist
Beartracks
Beartracks is a regional eclectic band from Plattsburgh, NY which offers enjoyable music chosen from a variety of genres. The active presence of Julie Hogan on bass and her brother Tom Venne on guitar is tuneful and enjoyable. With the illness of Junior Barber, they've Kevin Maul, who does a more than creditable job, on Dobro. Jesse Brock stood in on mandolin, contributing his energy and not insubstantial skill.
Julie Hogan
Tom Venne
Kevin Maul
Jesse Brock
Interesting & Diverse Vendors
Audie Blaylock & Redline
Audie Blaylock brought his fine voice, Jimmy Martin schooled excellent rhythm guitar, and always well disciplined band with him for two great sets. He entertained, as did the fine individuals in his band. Always an enjoyable crowd pleaser with his tunefulness and energy.
Russ Carson
Jesse Brock
Patrick McAvinue
Reed Jones
J.D. Crowe & the New South
The great J.D. Crowe is retiring from the road at the end of this year. His contributions through the last 56 years are nearly immeasurable. His work in bringing country and rock music into bluegrass as well as in reviving the classic sounds of Monroe and Flatt & Scruggs with the Bluegrass Album Band are only the beginning. He's still much admired for the quality of his banjo picking, particularly the impeccable backup he plays. J.D. will be missed; we wish him a happy and long retirement. I'm sure, however, that he won't just disappear from the scene. I'd guess we see a good deal of him in reunion and all-star events. Just guessin' though. A look at the banjo players who gathered to watch this performance is only indicative of the respect and love he has earned.
Bruce & Kelly Stockwell (Hot Mustard)
Russ Carson
The Claw
Matt DeSpain
Ricky Wasson
Dwight McCall
Kyle Perkins
J.D. Crowe & the New South
J.D. Crowe & Candi Sawyer
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