Legendary Doc Watson in Concert! - Southern Wisconsin Bluegrass

Thanks for wanting the Fireball Mail – Promoting Bluegrass Music, and Saving Trees.
The Board has been discussing how to use your membership dues for increasing the Bluegrass and music activities that
we love to host and that define what our organization represents.
As a non-profit organization we are dedicated to putting our resources toward activities for the membership. After all, the
board is composed of members. Printing and sending hardcopies of the Fireball Mail to our members is a large financial expense to us and we would like to reduce this cost where possible so that we can apply the money to hosting more events
where our members can listen to bluegrass, socialize and have a great time!
Not only would we be able to host more events, but you could get the Fireball Mail faster and we would also be reducing
paper waste.
All you have to do is send us your e-mail address. In this way, we can send you the Fireball Mail just as always, but it would
come to your home computer. You will still receive all of the great articles, photos and listings of bluegrass-related events.
This would be faster and via your computer, you could print it off at your leisure. What is more ‘back to your roots’ than
protecting the land, natural resources and helping the country?
This is a request of our members, not a demand, but the hardcopies of Fireball Mail are pretty costly. In December of ’06
it cost approximately half of each member’s annual dues to send out the Fireball Mail, and that was before postage went
up. We feel that reducing this expense will allow us to have more activities for you, our members. In fact, organization of
Fall/Winter member event is already in the works!
We are asking you to send your e-mail addresses to the website at [email protected]. Write “E-MAIL NEWSLETTER” in
the subject line, so we know what this is pertaining to.
Your help on this would be greatly appreciated, and we look forward to hearing from you!
Southern Wisconsin Bluegrass Music Association, Inc. Newsletter
July/August 07
Enjoy Bl u e g r a s s W e e k l y !
Every Tuesday: Lonesome Rogues, 8-10:30pm Wonder’s Pub, 1980 Atwood Ave., Madison
Every Thursday: Cork ‘n Bottle StringBand, 6-8pm, UW Madison Memorial Union
Every 2nd Tuesday: If We Only Knew, 7pm-9pm, Freeport Elks Club, 608 Stephenson St. , Freeport, IL
Every 2nd Thursday: New Pioneers, 7pm-9pm, Cafe Carpe, 18 S. Water St., Fort Atkinson, WI
Every 3rd Sunday: Sparetime Bluegrass Band, 4-7pm, Hody Bar, 1914 Aurora St., Middleton, WI
Every Sunday: The Weary Traveler, 2-4pm, 3201 Williamson St., Madison, WI. Performance/jam hosted by Arvid
The Fireball Mail is a publication of the Southern Wisconsin Bluegrass Music Association, Inc. Visit our website at www.swbmai.org
Send change of address to:
Fireball Mail
3418 Elvehjem Road, McFarland, WI 53558
The
Legendary Doc Watson in Concert!
Review on page 15
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Fireball Mail is published bi-monthly:
January, March, May, July, September, and
November. Please send articles, calendar
information, photos and letter to the editor to:
Fireball Mail
3418 Elvehjem Road
McFarland, WI, 53558
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 608-838-4852
Deadline for submissions is the 10th of the
month preceding the month of publication.
Advertising –
Contact editor at 608-838-4852
or Email: [email protected]
for rates and information.
Southern Wisconsin Bluegrass Music Association, Inc.
The SWBMAI is a non-profit educational organization devoted to the preservation and
promotion of bluegrass music, and supported by the volunteer efforts of its members.
SWBMAI Mission Statement:
The SWBMAI mission as stated in the by-laws:
1) To promote bluegrass music and musicians
2) To bring together persons of all ages who enjoy singing, playing
and listening to bluegrass music
3) To hold regular bluegrass jam sessions
4) To publicize information about bluegrass concerts and festivals
5) To promote family weekend camping with bluegrass music
6) To help younger persons obtain instruments and instruction
in bluegrass music
7) To introduce bluegrass music to new listeners
SWBMAI Board of Directors
President – Karen Sonnenblick, [email protected]
Vice-President – Ellis Bauman, 608-257-2431, [email protected]
Secretary – Sharon Manion, [email protected]
Treasurer – Jon Peik, [email protected]
Membership – Catherine Rhyner, 608-835-8117
Newsletter – Mary Helmke, 608-838-4852, [email protected]
Webmaster – Brian Ray, [email protected]
Attendant Board MembersJim Knobloch, 608-798-3810, [email protected]
From Madam President.
Summertime is here and the bluegrass season is upon us
in full swing! Wisconsin and the entire Midwest are abuzz
with bluegrass music every weekend of the summer. From
our SWBMAI picnic on July 28th to weekend bluegrass
and gospel festivals across the state, there are almost too
many options for a bluegrass lover to choose from - and
that is a great thing! SWBMAI’s website is completely
up-to-date with descriptions and maps to all the events,
so don’t forget to check it out (and if we forgot anything,
don’t hesitate to let us know). It’s a great way for bluegrassers to stay informed of all the music happenings in
the area.
Mark your calendar! Don’t miss the second annual SWBMAI picnic at the Capital Brewery in Middleton – there will
be plenty of instruments, friends and pizza to enjoy. The
third annual Sugar Maple Festival will take place August
3-4 in our very own backyard and will be a collection of
traditional and old-timey musicians not to be missed. We
are also looking forward to helping out with the first annual
Gandy Dancer Festival on August 12th when trains will collide with bluegrass music at Central Park in Madison.
Keep your eyes peeled this summer for our brand new
logo as SWBMAI struts our new look at several of the
upcoming events. Many thanks to all of the talented artists
who submitted graphics in our logo competition. We had a
very difficult time choosing between all of the great entries,
and we appreciate your dedication in helping to promote
bluegrass music in our area.
I look forward to seeing you at the SWBMAI picnic.
Karen Sonnenblick
Ongoing VolunteersSandy Nowack
Carolyn Hegeler
Every Wednesday
Back to the Country,
9-noon with Bill Malone
Every Friday
Mud Acres Bluegrass Special,
9-noon with Chris Powers
2
Fireball Mail/July–August 07
Jim Robarts
Joe Davis
Bruce Nichols
Fireball Mail NewsletterEditor – Mary Helmke
Design – Rob Griffen
Note: The Board meets the first Wednesday of each month, at 6pm at the Bar Next Door,
232 E. Olin Ave., Madison, WI.
If you would like to attend, please contact a board member to be sure of the date, time
and location; they are subject to site availability and holiday dates.-mh
The Logo contest brought in 16 entries. After some discussion, logo # 16 was selected as the top entry with modification
of the font using the text from #11. Both entries were submitted by Paul Kienitz of Belleville, CONGRATULATIONS!
The Sugar Maple Festival sponsorship was discussed and the
board agreed that the $350.00 sponsorship would be to our
advantage. SWBMAI will donate that amount of money and
charge the Sugar Maple Festival for any advertising, mailings,
etc. that they request rather than offering in-kind donations.
The August 12th Gandy Dancer Festival was discussed next.
Ellis reported that the festival received the $2500 grant from
the Madison Arts Commission. We discussed how to promote
our association during this event. It was decided to offer a
jamming area, have our table set up with membership forms
and web site information, a handout on the history of bluegrass along with our merchandise that we hope to have in
place by this event to sell.
Speaking of merchandise, Brian reported that he had done
some investigation on using our new logo on shirts, hats, coffee mugs, etc. The board will make a final decision on what
to order and hopefully we will have this in time for the Gandy
Dancer Festival.
Editors Note . . .
Patty Graham
Margaret Kmiotek
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. The minutes
from the May 2 and May 12 meetings and the treasure’s report
were approved.
Sharon gave an update on the holiday party she is organizing.
She had contacted the Montrose Town Hall in Paoli and felt
this may be a great location for the event. Sharon suggested
that we promote this event as a member potluck party (non
members will need to join or pay to attend). This event will
be free to members with donations accepted. A band will be
hired in the evening with a caller to promote dancing.
Bill Malone
Every Tuesday
Pastures of Plenty,
9-noon with John Fabke
Regrets:Jon Peik and Catherine Rhyner
-the new Association logo is on the front cover - designed
by Paul Kienitz.-mh
Carmen Burnett
SWBMAI is a proud sponsor of
WORT 89.9FM
Present: Ellis Bauman, Mary Helmke, Brian Ray, Jim Knobloch, Karen Sonnenblick and Sharon Manion
The plans for the summer picnic were finalized. This will take
place at the Capital Brewery, Saturday, July 28th starting at 3
p.m. Jamming will be the big attraction and at dusk the brewery will be showing a movie.
Nancy Nikora
SWBMAI is a member of IBMA (International
Bluegrass Music Association) and GMCVB (Greater
Madison Convention & Visitors Bureau).
Southern Wisconsin Bluegrass Music Association, Inc.
Board Meeting Minutes (condensed)
June 6, 2007
I thank everyone who contacted me regarding the missing
information in the last issue of the Fireball Mail. The
problem has been addressed and we'll be working to
include all of the missing articles into upcoming issues.
Thanks for your understanding in this matter.
Sincerely,
Mary Helmke
The board had a lengthy discussion on the Fireball Mail. Mary
gave an update on what she is working on for this next issue.
Brian is working on a way to offer advertising on our web site.
A motion was made by Brian and seconded by Mary to make
Paul Kienitz a lifetime member for the years of service he put
into designing our newsletter. This was past unanimously by
the board.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
Fireball Mail/July–August 07
3
National String Instrument Repair Clinic
July 28 – August 1, 2007
Don’t miss this learning experience especially for players and teachers of stringed instruments!
Check the website for information and to download enrollment forms.
This year’s String Repair Clinics feature five days of hands-on experiences in string instrument repair. Work on your own
projects under the guidance of skilled repair specialists. Four tracks are available, so you may choose the track that best
fits your individual needs and skill level.
Basic/Beginning Repair, with Duane Wilcox
Intermediate/Advanced Repair, with Christopher Germain
Bow Repair, with Charles Pinckney
Fretted Instrument Repair, with Wil Bremer
UW-Madison credit and CEU options available.
If you have any questions contact 608/263-6670 or write to us at [email protected].
The Bluegrass Bulletin Board
This is the bulletin board for the SWBMAI members to use to exchange Bluegrass information. This is for you to use to let
people know that there are instruments on sale, bluegrass music instructors available for teaching, any services related to
Bluegrass Music. Send me the information you have including your name, telephone number and e-mail address if you want.
People will contact you directly with the information you send me: Mary Helmke, 608-838-7822, or [email protected] or
3418 Elvehjem Road, McFarland, WI. The editor has the right to alter or refuse posting. This will be a posting area only.
• Vinyl music collection for sale. Includes collector’s
items. Martin Hebbe 920-648-5860.
-In the last issue, Martin’s telephone number was incorrect. The above is correct – mh
• ObSession Recording Studios are in Spring Green,
WI. Now 24 tracks.
([email protected] or 608-588-2854)
• Volunteers needed for upcoming events:
The Sugar Maple Festival Aug. 3-4 in Madison, WI.
Contact www.fourlakes Music.org.
• BlueGrace seeks a bluegrass/country fiddle player
of any age and either gender. We are a Christian
ministry performing band. Please note that this is
not a money-making opportunity. All who play in
the band are volunteers - we do not draw any pay
as all proceeds are directed back into the band's
expenses, including studio time and the production
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Fireball Mail/July–August 07
of CDs. However, we do receive great exposure
and resume-building opportunities. We have been
featured with many national acts and have recently
opened for Randy Travis and for Josh Turner. We
have been invited to open for Diamond Rio this coming Fall. More information about BlueGrace can be
found on our website: www.BlueGraceGospel.com,
where you can listen to some of our music. Our CDs
(including the newly released "Sweet River" can also
be downloaded at iTunes. We meet for rehearsal every Tuesday evening in Brookfield, Wisconsin. Those
who would like to audition should listen to the audio
tracks on our website or on our CDs, then choose
and prepare any 3 of our songs. To arrange for an
audition, call Neal Letteney at (414) 651-1960 or send
an email to [email protected]. Include in the
subject line "BlueGrace Audition." Please provide
a bio of whatever length you choose, including your
thoughts on serving with a Christian ministry.
Interview...
Meet Brad Klabunde
Brad Klabunde took time out of his busy concert schedule
to answer some questions for me which I could share with
our readers. I think you will be interested in what he has to
say. I appreciate Brad’s time, not only in doing this e-mail interview with me, but in working so hard to further Bluegrass
music in this region.
How and when did you get interested in Bluegrass
music?
I got interested in 1975. I went to the old Glenmore Opera
House in Denmark and saw Lester Flatt. Marty Stuart was
in the band at that time. Lester was brought out in a wheel
chair. He was real weak and only sang about 6 songs all
night. I had a "cookie duster" moustache, so I could get into
the bar at 15 years old. (The Good Ole Days). I was playing drums in bars already, but the fiddle grabbed me. The
Opera House burned down in ‘78. There was music around.
Not a quarter of the bands are there now and maybe 4
festivals all year. I almost believe there's too much now,
and though it might be good acoustic music, it's really not
Bluegrass.
Organizing these events is pretty involved, how did
you learn to do this type of management?
I learned this type of management and how to put on
shows from the bands I was in. In any band leading to this, I
set up and took down sound, bought all the sound equipment, sent out PR, made contacts, sent out the contracts,
did the mailing lists, etc; until the last round of The Baylakes Bluegrass Band was done. I basically did everything
including playing the gig. When my wife lost her job cause
her company moved to Mexico, she took Accounting and
Marketing at LTC. I read her marketing book religiously. In
1997, my friend Tom Cleppe introduced me to Matt Rollins.
Matt is the most sought-after keyboard session player in
Nashville. He helped me so much. Just know, you cannot
please everyone all the time. But show people you believe
in what your doing, stay honest to BLUEGRASS music,
and give the people a good show at a fair price. My wife
eventually wrote a paper for her college course, "Marketing
Bluegrass Music in WI." Rhonda Vincent, Penni McDaniel,
and I helped her. She was the only student to get a 100%.
The main thing - you have to have bands that draw, hold
crowds, and make people sad because the show’s over.
You want to leave them seething for more. I now have such
a good relationship with the bands and agents, we rarely do
contracts anymore. It's all about respect and them trusting
you as a promoter to fill seats.
Have you always been in the Two Rivers area?
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Fireball Mail/July–August 07
I was ‘borned and raised’ in Two Rivers. In 1983 I moved to
LA and got in a rock band and worked at a lumber yard. We
played Gazarri's, The Cheetah Club, The Whisky A-Go-Go;
basically they were seedy dives. But in big cities, you pay to
play. That’s right; because the club owner feels he's taking a
chance on you; you would pay $300 for a 40 min slot. After
that, you worked for the door. That taught me how to hustle
to get people in seats. I was like a real-life Beverly Hillbilly
out there, so I moved back to Two Rivers in 1985. I worked
on the "fish tugs" for 6 years after that, and on and off at
factories (while they were still here). I married in ‘92 and I'll
celebrate my 15 year anniversary this year. Two Rivers is a
great place to live. I can leave a D-28 and a sound system
in the van with the keys in the ignition and still have no worries. A person from Milwaukee called Two Rivers the "middle
of nowhere" but I tell you, the fans here are the best and the
bands always want to come back.
Do you perform yourself? Do you play an instrument?
If so, what instrument?
I play fiddle, mandolin, guitar, and recently bought an upright bass. I've been in and out of bands since 1985. I now
play with Mike Telzrow under the name "The Sub-Atomic
Ramblers". In 1981 I went on the road with "Bobby Smith
and The Boys From Shiloh". Curtis Burch was playing dobro
at that time and I shared hotel rooms with him. It was an
education, to say the least. In 2002, I had the privilege of
fiddling 6 shows with the great Dave Evans.I'll never forget
playing in Jamestown, TN. It was a good old Southern
political rally. It was hot and humid. Dave is diabetic and
was sweating bullets. He looked at me and said, "Talk to
‘em Brad". I said, "With my Yankee accent, you want me to
MC?" he said, "Brad, these folk love you." It's the first time
in my life people wanted me to keep talkin'!! I also met Sierra Hull there, and she joined us onstage for 2 songs. The
real highlight of performing with Dave Evans was in 2002
when we played The Musicians Against Childhood Cancer
show in Columbus, Ohio. I never saw so many people from
off of a stage and I was scared out of mind. We followed
Mountain Heart (which is like WOW!!!) We opened with "Fire
On The Mountain" right into "One Loaf Of Bread". It was incredible! A high no drug can give you. Dave was a great guy
to meet and work for; he gave me break and truly believed
in me. I'll never forget him.
What are you looking forward to having happen in
regard to your shows?
What I would like to happen with the shows is to see more
local band people, jammers and more kids. What bothers
me is why you don't see local bands and novice pickers
pickers at these shows? It's an apprenticeship program
and so motivational. They show a promoter the musicians
really take what they are doing seriously. I always envisioned
those groups of people to be the first ordering tickets!!
People ask me or Janice all the time why they don't see
local band people. I tell them because I don't book them
- and they hold that against me. Like I stated earlier, you
have to have bands that make people want more. That’s
why festivals have a national act headliner; it's the draw that
will bring people.
People tell me when I ask why they don't bring there children (this is a good one to send the Liberals into a tizzy),
they respond, "We go out on the weekends to get away
from the kids!!" WOW!!!!
I would like to see the shows continue, with zero sponsorship help. It's tough, but extremely rewarding. I would also
like to stop hearing from people who "claim to love Bluegrass Music" that if they can't drink - it's no fun and they
don't want to go. The old "Mole Lake Mystique" I'm trying to
break is a tough one up north here. Here, Bluegrass music
has always been associated with a huge party. It just makes
me wonder, how many come for the music or the parking
lot? Trust me, I used to be a HUGE member of the later
group.
People might not like the way I do things or some things I
say, but, one person put it this way "Are you a Packers fan?
The Packers were making a play for Randy Moss. He killed
the Packers all the way to mooning fans in the end zone.
He was hated by Packer fans everywhere. If the Packers
did get Moss, would you now hate the Packers and never
support or watch them again?" You don't hate the game,
you hate the player. All I can do is give the people what they
want to hear and that’s high-quality Bluegrass music at a fair
price. Once you build the reputation, it takes care of itself.
-For information on upcoming shows: www.bluegrassbrad.
org or 920-794-7258
– Thank you Brad, mh
Thanks to Doug Hodge and Marilyn Carien
The Board has undergone a lot of changes in the past six
months.
Doug Hodge served for nearly a year and felt he could not
devote the time to the position of president. We appreciate
all of Doug’s hard work on the Heritage concert, preparing for the Jamboree and contributing some great ideas to
better the Association. Not to mention, he was the host for
the Dry Bean Jam on Mondays for several years. We look
forward to seeing Doug at a lot of the events this year.
Marilyn Carien has been a member and a board member
off and on for several years. Marilyn has some big changes
occurring in her life right now and was able to help with the
2007 Jamboree before stepping back. Marilyn organized
the Capital Brewery Picnic in 2006 and this year, we are
repeating the event on July 28. All of Marilyn’s hard work
and fine ideas have been appreciated and we look forward
to seeing her at events.
– We are grateful for the time and effort - mh
Thank You, Paul Kienitz
By Carolyn Hegeler
Paul Kienitz recently retired as the graphic designer of Fireball Mail. We owe him enormous gratitude for his beautiful
and creative work over the past four years.
As the newsletter editor for three years, I felt honored to
have Paul’s help. As a skilled designer, he gave the newsletter a fresh, appealing look and put it together in a highly
readable format. He made everyone’s contributions to the
newsletter look great.
Paul’s volunteer work for SWBMAI consumed many hours.
Most issues were 16 pages long, some were even longer,
and Paul got them all together and off to the printer in a
matter of days. He had a keen sense of what a good bluegrass newsletter should be, and he contributed more than
just graphic design ideas. And he was fun to work with.
I would say we cannot thank Paul enough for his terrific work
for SWBMAI over the past four years. But we should try.
Fireball Mail/July–August 07
7
Mid-Continent
Railway Museum &
Southern Wisconsin
Bluegrass Music
Association present
FOOD VENDORS
BLUEGRASS
JAM SESSION
KIDS’ PROGRAMS
TRAIN SHOW
TENT
FREE
TRAIN
RIDES
on the hour on the
WI & Southern R.R.
beginning at 10am
with Exhibits & Speakers:
Dave Zweifel
Jesse Auerbach
Steve Gilbert
Last train departs
at 4pm
Gandy dancers were
the workers who maintained
the tracks for the railroad.
BLUEGRASS FOR BADGER 2
ALAN MUNDE GAZETTE (Bluegrass)
NOB HILL BOYS (Bluegrass)
WATER STREET HOT SHOTS (Blues)
JOE FILISKO & ERIC NODEN (Blues)
LARRY PENN (Train songs)
ROUND THE BEND (Bluegrass)
JEFFERSON COUNTY (Bluegrass)
SUN. AUG. 12 - CENTRAL PARK
Free & Open to the Public - Rain or Shine
WISCONSIN
& SOUTHERN
RAILROAD
OF MADISON
Music on the main stage will begin at 11:00 a.m. with a
Gospel/Bluegrass set by Jefferson County and end with
the headliner, Alan Munde Gazette, 6:30-8:00 p.m. The
Nob Hill Boys and Round the Bend will also be featured
along with Larry Penn, a train song specialist, and two blues
bands, Filisko and Noden and the Water Street Hotshots.
Train rides will depart hourly.
“Gandy dancers” were the hard working section hands who
maintained track for the railroads using tools designed and
built by the Gandy Company. “We want to borrow from
their image to symbolize the hard work that is taking place
to restore one of Wisconsin’s railroad treasures, the Badger 2,” says Johanna Fabke. She is working with Carolyn
Hegeler and Bob Queen of Madison and Don Meyer of the
Railway Museum to organize the festival.
The Badger 2 is a railroad car built in 1912 for the Wisconsin Fish Commission, a forerunner of the DNR. It was in
service for more than 30 years transporting fry and fingerlings from state-owned hatcheries to waterways around
Wisconsin to help build up the game-fish population. Several state and federal agencies used fish cars, but Badger 2
is believed to be only one still in existence. Citing its unique
historic significance, the Jeffris Family Foundation of Janesville, Wisconsin has offered a grant of $475,000 to restore
the car to original condition.
The Gandy Dancer Festival is a key event in publicizing
Mid-Continent Railway Museum’s campaign to raise funds
to match the grant. “Except for the food and beverages, all
festival events will be free,” Johanna reports. “We are very
excited to offer first-rate Bluegrass music, train rides and
family entertainment as we generate support for this worthy
cause.”
Further information:
Johanna Fabke, 6398 Nordic Lane, McFarland, WI 53558
608.838.3112 or [email protected]
"Into the Fire" by Monroe Crossing
by Dan Servais
EmCee’d by Tom Martin-Erickson and Andy Moore
11am
to
8pm
The sounds of Bluegrass music and train whistles will commingle at the first annual Gandy Dancer Festival on Sunday,
August 12th in Madison’s Central Park. Sponsored jointly
by SWBMAI and the Mid-Continent Railway Museum,
this event will combine free train rides on the Wisconsin &
Southern Railroad with free music in a day-long festival at
the east side park.
CD Review:
MUSIC
LIVE
A benefit to restore Badger 2,
an historic railroad car
that transported fish
to Wisconsin waters.
First Annual Gandy Dancer Festival set for August 12, 2007
Madison, WI
(Ingersoll &
E. Wilson)
Info: www.midcontinent.org or 608-522-4444
‘Into the Fire’, Monroe Crossing’s second gospel CD is a
wonderful collection of the old and the new. This was my
first chance to listen to Monroe Crossing and I must admit
that the more I listened to it the more it “grew” on me. Recorded “live” with no over dubbing or slick production they
achieved the desired effect. I could not hear any foibles or
mistakes and they sounded like they were playing right in
front of me. While I pay more attention to the music rather
than the lyrics one song in particular, ‘One Life’, rather
grabbed me. Like their byline said “A message of tolerance
and a rocking chorus too”. Their tempo and harmony are
excellent and their mix of songs was a great representation
of their talent. If you like gospel, you’ll like this CD. An exciting band, I can’t wait to see them in person!
Join Us For Our Summer Bluegrass Picnic! July 28.
Whether you’re a picker, a grinner, a movie-lover or just love
picnicking in the warmer weather, the SWBMAI summer
picnic is fun for everyone! In fact, we had such a great time
last year we are making it an annual tradition! The folks at
Capital Brewery in Middleton are happy to host us again for
the Second Annual BYOF (Bring Your Own Food) Bluegrass
jam and picnic on July 28, 2007. The pickin’ and picnicking will begin at 3pm and last until the movie starts at dusk.
That’s right! As if an afternoon of bluegrass, friends and food
wasn’t enough, the brewery will cap off the evening with
a viewing of “Strange Brew” with Rick Moranis and Dave
Thomas once the sun sets. And this movie is free, too!
So mark Saturday, July 28th on your calendar for an afternoon and evening of great fun.
We can’t wait to see you there!!!
Capital Brewery & Beer Garden, 7734 Terrace Ave,
Middleton, WI 608-836-7100
Fireball Mail/July–August 07
9
Lots of jams July / August 2007
Every Monday
Dry Bean Saloon, 6:30-10:30pm, 5264 Verona Rd.,
Madison, WI Host: Dave Bachol
Newgrass Jam, 6-10pm, Bar Next Door, 222 E. Olin Ave.
Madison, WI – just off John Nolen Drive next to Jingles.
Host: Spencer Walts (Info: [email protected])
Last Monday
Fellowship Hall of United Methodist Church- Acoustic
Music Jam Session, 7-10 pm, 4405 Oakland Ave. S,
Minneapolis, MN Free, (Info: Roy, 612-822-1926 or www.
MinnesotaBluegrass.org)
Every Tuesday
Learner/Beginner Jam at the Coliseum Bar, 7-10pm, 232
E. Olin Ave. , Madison, WI. SWBMAI sponsored instruction
on first Tuesday, 7:30-9pm by Jon Peik, $5.00 donation for
instructor requested.
Other weeks is facilitated without charge. (Info: Mary 608838-4852)
3rd Tuesday
Hartland Music, 7-9 pm, 1125 James Dr., Harland WI. off
Hwy 83, just south of Hwy 16 (Info: [email protected])
Every Wednesday
Northland Ballroom, 8-11pm, HWY 49 (at CTY C) between
Rosholt & Iola, WI Hosts: Art & Stephanie Stevenson with
Dale Reichert (Info: 715-884-6996 or 715-677-3491)
Emily’s Restaurant, 8-11pm, Cedar Creek, WI. (Info: 262677-0138 or www.emilysrestaurant.com)
1st & 3rd Thursday
Ruby’s Road House, 6-9:30 pm, free, Hwys 40 & 53,
Bloomer, WI (Contact Larry Finseth, 715-926-5148)
2nd & 4th Thursday
Books ‘N Brew, 7-9pm, Milton, WI. Maureen (Info: 608868-3371)
1st & 3rd Friday
Open Jam with The StringRays, 9:45pm Harmony Bar, 9:30
pm, 2201 Atwood Ave. Madison, WI. Hosts: The Trails End
String Band (Info: 608-249-4333)
2nd Friday
Black Earth Bank, 1-4pm, (downstairs) Black Earth, WI.
Host: Ron Poast (Info: 608-767-2276)
Every Saturday
Culvers- Acoustic Music Jam Session, 1-4:30 pm , Coon
Rapids Blvd NW, Coon Rapids, MN. Free (Info: Barb 763784-7881 or www.MinnesotaBluegrass.org)
Escape Java Joint & Gallery, 8pm – midnight, 916
10
Fireball Mail/July–August 07
Festivals July / August 2007
Williamson St., Madison, WI (608-255-0997), Host:
Stephen Lee Rich
1st Saturday
Riley Tavern, 2pm, 8205 Klevenville-Riley Rd., Mt. Horeb,
WI Take CTH PD to CTH J between Mt. Horeb & Verona.
Host: Archie Lowman (Info: 608-845-9150)
Waukesha Church of Christ, 1-4 pm, 2816 Madison St.,
Waukesha, WI. Host: Pastor Greg (Info: 262-470-3644)
2nd Saturday
R.H. Landmark Saloon, 3pm, 138 S. Main St. Jefferson, WI.
Host: John Short (Info: 920-563-7441)
Spring Green General Store, 3-6 pm, 137 S. Albany St.,
Spring Green, WI. Host: Paul Bentzen (Info: 608-588-7070
or www.springgreengeneralstore.com)
1st Sunday
Orfordville American Legion, 12-6pm. Orfordville, WI On
Hwy 213 S, just south of Hwy 11. (6/3 was last jam until
Oct. 7) Host: Fritz Jaggi (Info: 608-897-4286)
July
7-8
Jammin’ in the Gardens Bluegrass Festival, Delavan, WI, Mary Knipper, 262-728-5585, 262-728-5095,
[email protected],
13-15 5th Annual Viroqua Bluegrass & Gospel Annual Festival, Viroqua, WI. David Peterson, 613 S. Rock, Viroqua, WI 54665, 608-637-3820, www.viroquabluegrass.com
14-15 2nd Annual Barron County Bluegrass Festival, Cameron, WI, Kathy Krug, 715-736-1194,
[email protected]
20-22 Badgerland Bluegrass Classic, Jefferson, WI, Linda Sanderson, 4856 N. Shoreland Ave, Whitefish Bay, WI, 53217, 414-961-0660, www.mabma.org
27-29 26th Annual Backbone Bluegrass Festival, Strawberry Point, IA, www.strawberrypt.com, 563-920-2120 or
563-933-4957
28-30 18th Annual Midsummer in the Northwood’s Bluegrass Festival, Manitowish Waters, WI Jerry Florian,
715-543-2166, [email protected]
August
2-4
Bluegrass Bash, Medford, WI, [email protected]
Life Spring Coffee Shop, 1-4pm, 7578 Hwy 51, Minocqua,
WI. Host: Rich Gadow (Info: 715-588-9498) (www.headforthedome.com
4-5
Lac Courte Oreilles (LCO) Casino Bluegrass Festival, Hayward, WI, www.lcocasino.com
3-5
Bluegrass Gospelfest, Amery, WI, K. Lee Elmer 715-948-2774
2nd Sunday
Hazelhurst (Yawkey) Town Hall, 1-5pm, Hwy 51, Hazelhurst,
WI. Host: Keith Justice (Info: 715-356-3793)
3-4
Sugar Maple Traditional Music Fest., Madison, WI, 608-227-8685, www.sugarmaplefest.org
Borders Books- Milwaukee Jam, 2-5pm, River Point
Shopping Center, Bayside, WI. Take I-43, exit Brown Deer
Rd. (Info: 414-961-0660)
3rd Sunday
Chestnut Avenue Center for the Arts, 1-4pm, 208 S.
Chestnut Ave., Marshfield, WI. Host: Roman Stauber and
Max Winkels (Info: 715-676-2305 or [email protected] or [email protected] )
4th Sunday
Park View Manor, 1:30-4pm, Rock St., Viroqua,WI (except
December) Host: David Peterson (Info: 608-637-3820)
Last Sunday
Tom’s Garage, 1-5pm, Appleton, WI) Host: The Acoustic
Buffalo. (Info: 920-882-2183 or www.toms-garage com)
No Jams from April 30 through Sept.
11-12 Shawano Folk Festival, Mielke Arts Ctr, Shawano, WI, http://shawanofestival.com/
12
Gandy Dancer Bluegrass For Badger 2, 11am-8pm, Central Park, Madison, WI www.midcontinent.org or
608-522-4444
12
4th Annual YesterFest, Portage, WI, Gil 608-742-5054, http://www.portagewi.com
17-18 10th Annual LarryFest, 24 Valley Rd and Fish Valley Rd, La Farge, WI www.kvama.org
17-18 8th Annual Northland Bluegrass Festival, Iola, WI, 715-884-6996
18
Little Bull Falls LogJam, Mosinee, WI, www.logjamfestival.org
23-26 The Lakes Bluegrass Festival, Pine River, MN, Tim Roggenkamp at Lakes Music, Inc, 218-568-7366,
[email protected] or www.lakesbluegrassfestival.org,
24-26 Mt. Morris Bluegrass Jam Camp, Mt. Morris Camp and Conference Center, Mt. Morris, WI
www.mtmjamcamp.com or Barry Lehman, 1435 Valley View Rd., Chaska, MN 55318
30Sept 2 NIBGA Tri-State Festival, Kendallville, IN www.bluegrassusa.net
September
8-9
East Troy Bluegrass Festival, East Try, WI
Fireball Mail/July–August 07
11
Member Band Schedules July / August 2007
Band Membership . . .
The SWBMAI band membership was introduced in 2001 in an effort to promote local bands. The annual
fee was changed to $60.00 in April 2007.
July
For this fee, you receive:
• Twice yearly, a list from the Greater Madison Convention &
Visitors Bureau, of future conventions in the Madison, WI area.
• Vast exposure and links to your websites on our website.
4
• In the Fireball Mail newsletter:
Your band listing and contact information in each issue.
Rotating featured band profile.
One subscription for your band.
Current SWBMAI Band Members
SpareTime Bluegrass, 11am-2pm, Hilldale Farmers Market, Madison, WI
6
SpareTime Bluegrass, 5:30-8pm, Madison Museum of Modern Art Rooftop Garden on State St. Madison, WI
7
SpareTime Bluegrass, 6-9pm, Tyranena Brewery, Lake Mills, WI
7
Straight Up Bluegrass, 11am-1pm, Oshkosh Farmer’s Market, Oshkosh, WI
8
‘Round The Bend, Straight Up Bluegrass, Jammin in the Gardens Bluegrass Festival, Delavan, WI
7
Jefferson County Bluegrass, At The Park, 6:30pm, Wetwhen, WI
8
Jefferson County Bluegrass, 6:30, Free concert in the park, Brodhead, WI
Above the Town – Jerry Loughney; 262-510-1128,
[email protected]
Sparetime Bluegrass Band – Bob Batyko;
608-575-9945, [email protected]
10 Jefferson County Bluegrass, 6:30-8pm, Concert in the Park, Janesville, WI
11 ‘Round The Bend, 6:30pm, Edgerton Arts Council Summer Concert Series, Edgerton, WI
Cream City Bluegrass – Andrew Struthers;
262-754-1397, [email protected]
Straight Up Bluegrass - Melissa Rospenda;
920-991-2766. www.straightupbluegrass.com
13 Front Porch Boys, Friday Night Live at the Steaming Cup, Waukesha, WI
Jefferson County Bluegrass Band – Doug Hodge;
608-201-2032, [email protected]
The Krause Family Band - Rick Krause; 608-827-6189
[email protected]
15 ‘Round The Bend, 6:30pm, Brodhead Summer Concert Series, Brodhead, WI
Liberty Bluegrass Band – James Brocksmith;
414-803-7477, www.libertybluegrass.com
The Front Porch Boys – J. Clark Speck; 262-408-2764,
www.frontporchboys.com
15 Straight Up Bluegrass, 12 noon, Bergstom Mahler Art Festival, Neena, WI
Monroe Crossing – Art Blackburn; 763-213-1349,
[email protected]
The Alzen Family – Bradley Alzen; 715-749-3977,
www.alzenfamily.com
'Round the Bend – Fred Newmann; 608-238-6863,
[email protected]
Sawdust Symphony – Michael G. Mueller;
www.sawdustsymphony.com
13-15 Monroe Crossing, DoNorth Bluegrass Jam Camp, Bemidji, MN
20- 23 ‘Round The Bend, Jefferson County Bluegrass, Liberty Bluegrass, Sawdust Symphony, SpareTime
Bluegrass, Front Porch Boys, Straight Up Bluegrass at Badgerland Bluegrass Classic, Jefferson, WI
27-29 Jefferson County Bluegrass, Backbone Bluegrass Festival, Strawberry Point, IA
28 Straight Up Bluegrass, 11am-1pm, Oshkosh Farmer’s Market, Oshkosh, WI
28 The Alzen Family, 3pm & 5pm, Polk County Fair, St. Croix Falls, WI
28-30 Liberty Bluegrass, Midsummer in the Northwoods Bluegrass Festival,
Member Band Announcements
SpareTime Bluegrass Band is proud to announce that
its album Bluegrass Matinee was awarded Best County/
Bluegrass Album of the Year at the Madison Area Music
Awards (MAMA) in its fourth annual awards ceremony held
at the Barrymore Theatre in Madison on May 12, 2007. The
MAMAs recognizes local music and musicians of all genres
at the same time raising money for the purchase of musical instruments for young people and promoting music in
the schools. SpareTime is happy to be recognized by the
MAMAs and be a part of their laudable efforts.
12
29 The Front Porch Boys, 16th Annual Ye Old Time Fiddlers’ Contest, Pioneer Village, WI
29 The Alzen Family, 7pm, Skonewood Christian Retreat Center, Luck, WI
Monroe Crossing is pleased to announce that they have
been selected by the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) to showcase at this year's IBMA World Of
Bluegrass in Nashville, TN, October 1-7, 2007.
And just when we thought we couldn't feel any better about
ourselves, we received word that Monroe Crossing will be
inducted into the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame in November.
August
– Congratulations Lisa Fuglie, Art Blackburn, Matt Thompson, Benji Flaming and Mark Anderson! - mh
3
Monroe Crossing, 7:pm, Stage Hands Theater, Spring Valley, WI
3-5 The Alzen Family, Lake Itasca Family Music Festival, Bemidji, MN
4-5 Monroe Crossing, Amery Bluegrass-GospelFest, Amery, WI
5
The Alzen Family, 6pm, Marcell Community Church, Marcell, MN
10 The Alzen Family, 3pm, Minnesota Bluegrass & OldTime Festival, Avon, MN
11 Straight Up Bluegrass, Humongous Fungus Festival, Crystal Falls, WI
12 ‘Round The Bend, Gandy Dancer Festival, Madison, WI
15 Straight Up Bluegrass, 11:30am-2pm, Ashwaubenon Concert Series, Ashwaubenon, WI
SpareTime released its newest CD, Stop Me If You’ve Heard
This in June. The album consists of live covers of County
and Rock tunes recorded at several venues in Southern
Wisconsin.
18 Straight Up Bluegrass, 6:30pm, Kimbery Concert Series, Kimberly, WI
– Congratulations Jim Robarts, Bob Batyko, Lorie Docken,
Scott Shank and Dale Ward- mh
September
Fireball Mail/July–August 07
24-26 Monroe Crossing, Mt. Morris Bluegrass Jam Camp, Wautoma, WI
29-30 Monroe Crossing, Minnesota State Fair, St. Paul, MN
1-2
Monroe Crossing, Barnes Family Bluegrass Festival, Aledo, IL
9
‘Round The Bend, East Troy Bluegrass Festival, East Troy, WI
Fireball Mail/July–August 07
13
Flatt and Scruggs Shows DVDs
Review from Jim Robarts
Flatt and Scruggs dissolved their partnership in 1969. After
that you could never see them at a live concert again. But
what if you could? What if you could see a representative
sample of their live work? Now you can.
Lester Flatt, Earl Scruggs and the Foggy Mountain Boys
had a weekly half-hour television show from 1954 to shortly
before the end of the group. The shows were sponsored
by Martha White, sponsor of their early morning radio show
at many of they segments of the Grand Ole Opry. Many
of the shows were live, without benefit of taping or filming.
But sometime in the late 50’s or early 60’s the shows were
taped (the group would film for shows once a month for
release later).
Until 1990 it was thought that the tapes no longer existed,
but since then, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum have found some 36 half-hour shows. Recently four of
the shows have been released on two DVDs by Shanachie
Entertainment as Classic Bluegrass from 1956 to 1962:
Best of the Flatt & Scruggs TV Show (Volumes 1 and 2).
These are entire TV shows, complete with the Martha White
live commercials. They are also complete with errors and
musical mistakes by the performers. Even though they
were taped, they were taped live, with no edits.
The first thing the shows illustrate is just how good the
group was. This is the classic line-up of Flatt, Scruggs,
Curly Sechler, Paul Warren, Josh Graves, and Jake Tullock.
This is the group that traveled thousands of miles, played
hundreds of shows, and was as tight a group as ever
played bluegrass.
This is a show package, with a little bit of something for
everyone. The shows feature the humor segment of “Uncle
Josh” Graves and “Cousin Jake” Tullock—a regular feature
of the show. There are sacred numbers, instrumentals, Flatt
and Scruggs standards and special guests. You also get to
From Karen Sonnenblick
see a bit of the way they moved in and out of the microphone, a stage dance that many who saw them live have
commented on.
One guest is Hylo Brown, a regional country/bluegrass
performer who worked extensively with Lester and Earl and
was included on many package shows. It’s interesting to
see the Foggy Mountain Boys work with a higher singer
than Flatt, and see how they adjusted.
The most famous guest on the DVD is Mother Maybelle
Carter, who plays “Wildwood Flower” on the guitar and
“Liberty” on the autoharp. The show was done just about
the time that Flatt & Scruggs put out their album of Carter
Family songs that also featured Mother Maybelle. Her appearance is an impressive nod by Lester and Earl to their
(and country music’s) roots.
Two things struck me while watching the shows—how good
Paul Warren was on fiddle, and how integral Curly Sechler
was to the Flatt and Scruggs vocal sound. Warren did very
little solo recording, Flatt frowned on his sidemen recording
on their own. Sadly, this has led to a dearth of recordings
by the “King of the Hoedown Fiddlers”. He comes across
on the DVDs as having great tone and timing.
Sechler, who was only an adequate mandolin player, proved
to be a wonderful tenor singer to Flatt’s lead. They formed
one of the classic vocal duets of bluegrass. Sechler was
one of the finest unsung performers in all bluegrass history.
At this time he and Earl are the only living members of this
classic line-up.
You can’t go back in time, there is some physics reason for
that—ask Rob O’Connell why. However, you can purchase
these DVDs and pretend you are sitting around an old black
and white television, watching Flatt and Scruggs in the early
evening.
Members of The Front Porch Boys include:
Clark Speck: guitar
JP Price: mandolin
14
Fireball Mail/July–August 07
Madison was honored with a visit from Doc Watson and David Holt at the Overture Center on May 19th. As if the presence of Doc wasn’t enough to rattle Madison, Doc playing
alongside David Holt (who is well-accomplished in several
traditional instruments) made for a stellar performance. David accompanied Doc throughout the entire first set, and his
clawhammer banjo-playing sweetly complimented classic
tunes such as Shady Grove, Whiskey Before Breakfast and
Deep River Blues.
Interspersed between songs were various stories relating to
Doc’s life and his love of his music. We learned about the
record player that Doc’s parents brought into his childhood
home, and how it inspired him to learn to play music. He
received his first harmonica from his father, and he spoke of
how he yearned to use the harmonica to produce an accordion-like sound rather than just playing single notes. He
then played Fisher’s Hornpipe on the harmonica accompanied by David Holt on the bones (playing the bones is similar
to playing the spoons, except, as one would expect, bones
are used). It was astonishing that so much sound came
from just two people. Doc then played Rain Crow Bill on
the harmonica while David accompanied him with slaps; he
used his hands to slap various parts of his body to
create rhythm, and it was very impressive. They closed out
the first set with a National Steel guitar and steel guitar duo,
and brought the taste of Appalachia into the Overture Center with a David Holt original: Slow Food, a song reminiscent
of the corn bread and collared greens cooked with love that
a musician longs for as he tours around the country.
Doc began the second set playing solo and was then accompanied by grandson Richard on the guitar. Doc lifted
the audience right of their seats as he yodeled his heart out
during ‘T for Texas’. He continually wowed the hall all night
with his tasteful guitar licks and deep, soulful voice. Watching Doc’s fingers move as quickly as they do was absolutely
breathtaking, especially considering that he is 84 years old!
David Holt came back on stage at the end of the second
set and kept playing until they closed the encore out with
Down Yonder.
The performance was top-notch. As always, Doc’s music
was heartfelt and full of emotion. He is always an inspiration
as a musician and as a person who has overcome many
hardships in life. To watch Doc play with such skill and love
for what he does makes us appreciate how powerful music
is in our own lives and happiness.
The Krause Family & Grandad's Favorites "On This Bright, Sunny Day"
Meet A New Member Band
The Front Porch Boys
The Front Porch Boys is an all acoustic band that plays the
real thing - genuine, traditional bluegrass music. In this day
and age of music made famous by movies, and country
cross-over artists, they take pride in authenticity. Audiences
will be immediately drawn in by the tight harmonies, fast,
swinging picking and southbound train rhythm that takes
you right to the heart and soul of bluegrass - the music
made famous by Bill Monroe, Ralph Stanley, Lester Flatt,
Earl Scruggs, Jimmy Martin, J.D. Crowe and Doyle Lawson
just to name a few.
Doc Watson and David Holt at the Overture Center
CD Review:
Tom Nowlin: banjo
Jim Gingery: bass
The group was formed in 2001 by Clark Speck, a luthier by
trade (and fine reputation) near Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Originally, Clark hails from Tennessee, which is apparent, when
you hear him speak in a soft drawl. The Front Porch Boys
have honed their skills over the years at numerous area
outdoor music festivals, indoor venues as well as private
events.
Clark Speck
414-581-1565
Email: [email protected].
www.frontporchboys.com
Listening to this CD the first time, it was obvious to me that
a whole lot of love went into its production. The dedication
in the liner notes to the memory of Rick’s mother, Marilyn
Chapman Krause, sets the musical tone. Rick & his two
unbelievably talented daughters, Katie & Ruthie, sing &
play their hearts out on this, their debut album. And what
a fine tribute to Grandma they produced! “On This Bright,
Sunny Day” contains eleven tracks with songs ranging from
traditional bluegrass & gospel (most including the title track
written by Rick), to the ethereal instrumental “Beyond The
Veil” (composed by Ruth) that could easily be the theme
song from a major motion picture.
The Krause Family Band’s CD release party at the Wil-Mar
Center in Madison was well attended. Absolutely exuberant on stage, Rick proudly played solid accompaniment
on guitar while his girls sang perfect harmony that literally
took your breath away. If you’re an Alison Krauss fan like
me, you’ll enjoy listening to Katie sing lead. The ensemble
(some of Grandad’s Favorites) that evening included the
fine musicianship of Jim Nikora on mandolin, Pete Olig on
bass, and Asher Streets on cello. With Ruthie’s precocious
fiddle playing (also reminiscent of Alison Krauss) and Rick’s
light-hearted interludes on harmonica, the evening ended
too soon with their audience wanting to hear more. With
release of this fine CD – capturing the excitement of a live
performance – Krause Family fans can now savor their wonderful sound anytime. Thanks for sharing the love!
Fireball Mail/July–August 07
15
Riley Tavern Jam – A Fine Tradition for 24 Years
From Karen Sonnenblick
Pulling out of the Copps parking lot on Fish Hatchery and
County Road PD, mandolin player Catherine Rhyner and I
set out to the monthly bluegrass jam at Riley’s tavern on the
western edge of Verona. Following the many stop-and-go
traffic lights in Madison, driving past the pastures and farms
on the way to Riley’s Tavern is scenic and refreshing. After
11 miles, we turn off of County Road J at a nearly a 360-degree bend in the road and park at Riley’s Tavern.
crabapple tree where they can listen to the tunes and watch
the fancy finger-work of the players. In an informal and comfortable setting, the musicians trade songs around the circle
about all the usual topics: trains, love, heartache, cheating, death and jail, The birds are chirping, people are hiking
their dogs along the bike path visible from the porch, and
the horse-size Riley dog repeatedly barks at us desperately
begging everyone to play fetch with him.
I am expecting to arrive at a dark, dingy, hole-in-the-wall bar
(like one of the beat-down Madison bars with their names
advertised on a Pabst sign and $1.99 pancake specials on
Packers game days). Instead, I am pleasantly surprised
when we pull up to a large white house with green trim that
could be easily mistaken for a rural farmhouse if not for a
sign reading “Riley’s Tavern”.
Bikers dressed in leather as well as other tavern attendees bring their beverages outside to hear the music. Fritz
informs me that in a few weeks time when the summer
heat becomes unbearable and the biker population at Riley
increases and lays claim to the side porch, folks will play in
a covered area across the lawn that looks like a car garage
without the walls.
It is quarter after two on a Saturday afternoon and as we
walk through the front door, the musicians are just beginning
to tune their instruments. Despite being an overcast day in
According to Bruce Nichols, banjo player, bluegrass aficionado and regular attendee of the jams, Riley has been
hosting bluegrass jams since 1983. In fact, Riley’s is one of
the longest running bluegrass jams in the region. Bruce
recalls the days when the musicians were fed a delicious
array of “game animal-type food – I remember having
rabbit and raccoon.” Archie Lowman, who has been
attending the jam for over 10 years and brings sound
equipment to the jam, likes being able to play anywhere
on the grounds and “appreciates how generous
Murphy and his lovely
wife are in dispensing
drinks for the players”.
Actually, everyone I
speak to raves about
how well-treated the
musicians are that come
to the jam. Patti Graham
has been attending,
bringing her dobro to
Riley’s for over eight
years. She enjoys that it is a family bar, and likes looking
at the pictures on the walls of the older players who got
it started.
early May, Catherine quickly encourages everyone to take
their instruments to the porch. Everyone heads outside,
and I think the non-bluegrassers in the bar let out a quiet
sigh of relief since it is also Kentucky Derby Day. Although
bluegrass music could not have been more appropriate for
horse betting in Kentucky, most would argue that commentary is an essential component of watching televised sports.
Eight folks comprise the initial jam circle on the porch. Fritz
and Donna Jaggi, who have been attending the Riley jam for
seven years, find a cozy wooden bench beneath a blooming
16
Fireball Mail/July–August 07
Not only is Riley’s tavern a great spot for enjoying the first
Saturday afternoon of every month, but they offer free
popcorn that is deliciously buttered and salted. The tavern
has a warm, welcoming feeling and the staff are friendly
and outgoing. The entire property looked spectacular in
early May as the trees were just beginning to bud amidst
the green grass of the soft rolling hills. I know that when I
head back to Riley’s in the summertime, I will be pleasantly
surprised once again.
Cork n' Bottle String Band: The Ken's Bar Story
Review by Jim Robarts
On June 2nd, the Orpheum Theatre Stage Door hosted the
second and third Madison screenings of “Cork n’ Bottle
String Band: The Ken’s Bar Story”. At its most basic, it’s the
story of a woefully inexperienced new “bluegrass band”, a
small neighborhood bar that never featured live music, and
the six years of weekly Wednesday gigs that ended in 2002.
At it’s more complex the film shows Cork n’ Bottle’s learnas-you-earn approach (in this case learn as you drink free
beer) creating a continuously building six year happening. It
also shows them entertaining while becoming accomplished
bluegrass musicians.
The filmmakers were Greg Dirks, original member and
mandolin player for the Cork n’ Bottle, and Jeremy Gotcher,
owner of a video business who never considered doing a
feature documentary. Greg had the musical footage and
Jeremy had the video expertise. With the help of Andy
Moore’s interns, they conducted interviews with Madison
musicians and patrons of Ken’s Bar. The live comedy inserts
were shot in just three hours with a small video camera.
They cut it, printed, and tweaked until the “almost” hour and
a half film was ready.
The film truly captures the Ken’s venue. This was a small,
narrow, neighborhood bar with a barely adequate stage
and, in the beginning, a nonexistent sound system. Ken’s
Bar was difficult to play in, especially when packed. The
sound emanating from the crowd could drown the band.
In warm months the band could have drown on its own
perspiration. The ever-present haze of smoke, if it had been
found in a factory, would have spurred OSHA or the EPA
into action. As it was, Cork n’ Bottle kept playing rain or
shine, sickness or health, long after other bands would have
quit.
If the band and the bar were two elements of the story, the
audience was the third. The band, in the beginning, was just
starting out in bluegrass music, so was the audience. They
learned together. They connected. In Ken’s there never
was an invisible barrier between audience and performer.
Oddly, bringing together these three elements led to a phenomenon that was greater than the sum of its parts—and a
phenomenon that left more than one more established local
bluegrass musician scratching his or her head wondering
just what the hell was happening at Ken’s Bar. What was
happening in that improbable musical space was simply fun
on either side of the footlights. And as the Beatles once
sang, “Fun is the one thing that money can’t buy”.
The film deftly captures, through concert footage, contemporary inserts, and interviews how much everyone enjoyed
him or herself. Both the Cork n’ Bottle and the audience
were writing the rules as they went and erasing those same
rules just as quickly. Cork n’ Bottle entertained while playing
music, and their slightly skewed sense of humor meshed
with the audience’s own.
Another aspect of the film is the symbiotic relationship between Ken, as owner of the Ken’s Bar, and the band. Every
band/bar owner relationship is supposed to be symbiotic.
The bar owner wants the band to bring in new customers
and lead to more profit. The band wants a venue where
they can (if you want to get too esoteric) practice and
perform their art. In the best of relationships the art leads
to profit, and vice versa. This was the best of relationships,
and that comes through in the film.
Cutting to the chase here and forgetting all the talk about
elements and art—this film is laugh-out-loud funny and
incredibly entertaining. Its lightly magic impact is almost as
unexplainable as the actual Ken’s six year experience.
Luckily, if you have not seen the film, it is on DVD. Go to the
Cork n’ Bottle website (bignew.com) or just see them at the
Memorial Union on some Thursday from 6-9 p.m. You can
buy it there and buy a slice of bluegrass history.
From Sharon Manion
18
Fireball Mail/July–August 07
Thank you for inquiring about advertising in our newsletter, The Fireball
Mail. Below is information about our advertising policy.
Fireball mail is published bi-monthly in January, March, May, July, September and November.
The advertising deadline for each issue is the 10th of the month preceding the month of publication. SWBMAI must receive full payment for
the ad by that deadline.
All ads must be submitted in camera-ready condition* and accompanied with t he name of the organization or business, full, name, address
and phone number of contact person and check (made payable to
SWBMAI). Send ad copy with payment to: Fireball Mail, 3418 Elvehjem
Road, McFarland, WI 53558. Send the electronic file to helmkem@
verizon.net and the payment to the McFarland Address. (*If the ad is
not camera-ready, we can provide graphic design service for you, at
the rate of $75.00 per hour.
Advertising file submissions:
a) Supported file types:
Prefer Hi-resolution pdf files to all other methods.
We can also accommodate:
Mac: Quark Xpress, Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, pdf, tiff,
eps, jpg,
PC: pdf, tiff, eps, jpg.
b) Resolution: hi-resolution would be 200-300 dpi at the ad’s actual size
(100%). Pay careful attention to photography (black & white only) and
maintain 300 dpi for maximum clarity.
c) Email ad file submission: Send complete ad layouts with all fonts and
images embedded as pdf, tiff, eps, or jpg files. Pay careful attention to
maintain resolution; screen resolution (72 dpi) is unacceptably low.
d) CD file submission (Mac format only): Include all necessary support
files (photography, artwork, fonts) with the layout file. For best results,
include a print of the contents on your disk.
SWBMAI members and other non-profit organizations are eligible for a
discount on all ads, as indicated below.
Sixth Page Vertical (2 3/16” x 4 5/8” ) $20.00 – Member or Non-profit
$15.00
Quarter Page Vertical (3 3/8” x 4 5/8”) $25.00 – Member or Non-profit
$20.00
Half Page Horizontal (7” x 4 5/8”) $35.00 – Member or Non-profit
$25.00
Full Page (7 ½” x 10”/ no bleed) $50.00 - Member or Non-profit $40.00
Potential advertisers may submit ads for publication on a space-available basis. Preference will be given to bluegrass-music-related ads.
The SWBMAI Board of Directors reserves the right to reject ads for any
reason, including, but not limited to, the following:
1)
Prohibitions in advertising that jeopardize the non-profit standard mail rate according to the laws and regulations of the U.S. Postal
Service,
2) Inappropriate content,
3) Availability of space,
4) Ads that conflict with the mission of SWBMAI.
For questions about this policy, for any other newsletter-related questions, or if you’d like to join SWBMAI to receive the lower ad rates,
please contact Mary Helmke at 608-838-4852 or email to helmkeml@
verizon.net.
SWBMAI Bluegrass Membership Form
Name:
Address:
Update on the 2007 Jamboree Quilt
Many of you may have (or perhaps not) wondered what
the status is of the bluegrass t-shirt quilt that I created with
the help of Hagar Nelson's shirt donation. The quilt was
donated to the International Bluegrass Music Museum, in
Owensboro, Kentucky.
On June 9th, I met with Gabrielle Grey, the director of the
museum, in Kewaunee, Wi. The Museum folks were in Wisconsin to film a story on Bill Jorgenson and were present
during the Bill Jorgenson Memorial Bluegrass Festival which
took place June 8 – 10.
The quilt will be auctioned off during the next 5 months and
will kick off during the ROMP Festival, which is sponsored
by the Museum and will end during IBMA fan fest.
Fireball Mail Advertising Policy and Guidelines.
City:
State:
The profits that are raised from this item will be split (40/60)
between the museum and our association with SWBMAI
receiving 60% of the money raised.
I will keep you up-to-date on this event or you may go to the
Museum's web site. Gabrielle said that information about
the auction will be posted on their web site in the near
future.
– The ROMP is June 21-23 in Owensboro, KY, site of the International Bluegrass Music Museum. Visit www.bluegrassmuseum.org to find out about Sharon and Hagar’s beautiful
quilt.-The IBMA Fan Fest will be Oct. 5-7, during the World
of Bluegrass in Nashville, TN. Visit www.ibma.org for more
information -mh
Zip: E-Mail:
Phone:
Bluegrass Instrument(s) played:
Band Affiliation:
Annual Dues - Individual $20.00 Family $28.00 Senior $12.00 Band $60.00 (Circle choice)
Make checks payable to SWBMAI
Mail to: SWBMAI Membership, P.O. Box 7761, Madison, WI 53707-7761
Or join online at www.swbmai.org. Now you can pay your membership online, too! Thank you!
Fireball Mail/July–August 07
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