Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 – Shelton, WA

SATURDAY:

One of the annual seminal cultural events in Shelton has become Bluegrass From the Forest organized and produced by Greg Linder. Greg resides in Union and attended school locally as a young man. His bluegrass band, Runaway Train, has become a beacon attracting nationally and internationally acclaimed bluegrass bands from across the nation to what is geographically but a dip in the road, but is now a notable destination on the bluegrass map as it serves as a cornerstone kicking off the bluegrass touring season with the warming months.

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (237/264) – Shelton, WA

Shelton City Commissioner Dawn Pannell kicks off the Special short performance w/master of ceremonies Fred Coates & Jim Miernyk (Showcase Stage manager). Fred proved to be an affable genteel Bluegrass enthusiast who made the audience feel comfortable while introducing the respective bands. Greg Linder is the laid back inspirational co-producer whose vision was the genesis of Bluegrass in the Forest…an annual festival which put a geographical dip in the road (Shelton) on the Bluegrass map, drawing national headliner musicians from across the nation as the seminal opening event in the annual Bluegrass touring season. A sponsorship (along with an advertising banner on the auditorium wall) can be purchased for the bargain price of $500/$250.

Less inspiring was Dave Miser, Shelton High’s meddlesome auditorium engineer and stage manager, who (once again) instigated an ill conceived challenge to the taping of events by local media–unaware permission by one of the producers (the musician of the 2) had been arranged. Though an asset for musical groups utilizing the facilities, Dave habitually casts a pall on the ambiance from a news gathering perspective, interjecting himself on multiple occasions in the delicate relationship between the media and the producers while revealing a profoundly shallow understanding of the legal boundaries involving copyright, fair use, expectations of privacy by minors in a public space, 1st Amendment issues, etc. for a school employee responsible for mentoring ambitious young stage technicians.

On this occasion, Dave gulled Duane Wilson into believing some sort of transgression was in progress despite the multitude of audience members filming the performances on their handheld video camcorders. Duane, the less musically adroit/savy of the 2 co-producers hadn’t been apprised by Greg arranged taping would be sanctioned unless a performance group objected. Although these arrangements were purely between the media involved and the producers, Dave Miser succeeded in, once again, creating an awkward moment by injecting himself where he had little/no legitimate business. Greg Linder was asked to confirm permission had been given after he finished his set on the stage, which he did. Still, Miser left a bad aftertaste after watching him and Duane Wilson pour over the multitude of contracts the various groups had entered into with the producers as they desperately searched for a clause to justify their creating a stink. Ultimately they seized on one lone boiler plate paragraph contained in the Kathy Kalick Band contract but never provided a copy as requested.

Greg cautioned a preview of the coverage to the ‘afflicted’ group might well be in order. Duane expressed a greater interest in listening to the live performance than discussing the matter further. Miser gave no hint of a preference for the music over misplaced contentiousness. A complaint regarding this pattern of misconduct was lodged with the Shelton School District Superintendent, Wayne Massie. Mr. Miser,. as a school employee, is responsible for protecting the facilities, not copyright or misapprehensions of where the boundaries lie for 1st Amendment activities in private/leased events at the high school after hours. Despite this lack of ‘standing’, Miser has repeatedly attempted to inject his views into the mix at these community sponsored events. Whether his net effect is more positive than negative may depend on who is asked.

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Wayward Vessel setup.

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (239/264) – Shelton, WA

Wayward Vessel (pt 1/2) is a charming group of only 3 months that not only sounds good, but were easy on the eyes in their youthful but innovative splendor. They generously provided a pre-release CD of their BEFORE THE GREY album, consisting of much of their own material written by Julie Schmidt, which sounded fantastic with its cello inspired sultry bass player (Belinda Underwood) and composer-singer-musician (Julie Schmidt). The two women harmonized well together while the group engaged in syncopated pacing achieving full measure from each musical phrase.

This innovative band from Portland plays acoustic music born from the traditions formed by early bluegrass pioneers like Bill Monroe and Ralph Stanley, making it their own by adding influences of pop, jazz, and inspiration. Winners of last year’s Bluegrass From the Forest (2011) festival band contest, they accepted an invitation to appear in 2012. Band members: Ken Chappie on guitar, Julie Schmidt on fiddle, Josiah Payne on mandolin, and Belinda Underwood on bass.

This band is a real treat for those looking for an original blend of the traditional and the contemporary…fresh, sensitively phrased, and exciting.

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (240/264) – Shelton, WA

Wayward Vessel (pt 2/2)

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (241/264) – Shelton, WA

Winner of 2012 Band Scramble setup

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2012 band scramble winner – 2 songs: Don’t Cry Darling; Going Down To Cripple Creek

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (243/264) – Shelton, WA

The Howdy Boys (pt. 1/2) call Seattle home; they’re the real deal in grass roots entertainment, paying attention to every detail in presenting a polished performance. From “Reno & Smiley” to original personal songs about the roads they traveled getting where they are, the story they tell is of America’s music. Seasoned veterans all, this group makes it come alive with finesse. Members: Rob Buckley on guitar, Doug Bright on fiddle (and publisher of a music review periodical: The Heritage Music Review – a monthly guide to early rock, blues, folk, and traditional jazz for the Seattle area – heritagemusicreviewDOTcom), Jason Stewart on banjo, and Jeff Broihier on bass.

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The Howdy Boys (pt. 2/2)

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (245/264) – Shelton, WA

Seattle based North Country & 2012 Banjo Contest winner, Stephen Burwell – Members: KENT POWELL – Kent is a true veteran to the Northwest bluegrass scene and brings his experience to North Country. He has been a member in some of the most popular and established Northwest bands, such as Crossfire and Runaway Train, in which he has been a member since 2005. Kent holds down the drive and groove of the band with his rock solid bass playing and can sing any part needed. His powerful voice and harmony singing add an incredible dynamic to the band. Kent makes his home in Tacoma, Washington.

NICK DUMAS – Nick is one of the most popular musicians among the Northwest bluegrass scene and probably one of the best mandolin and fiddle players you will find on the west coast. Growing up in Brier, Washington, Nick was heavily influenced by his grandfather, who is a great dobro player, and mother, who is a talented singer and songwriter. After a few years with his family band The Three Generations, Nick went on and helped form Northern Departure, a high powered and very talented Northwest bluegrass band. With a voice that keeps getting better, Nick has a wide range with his lead vocals and can sing the harmony parts as good as anyone you can find. His powerful mandolin chop and dynamics help establish the energy of the band. Some of Nicks influences include Adam Steffey, Sierra Hull, Dan Tyminski, Shawn Lane, Jim VanCleve, Andy Leftwich, Michael Cleveland, The Boxcars, The Chapmans, Rhonda Vincent, Dailey & Vincent, and MANY more!

WILL MCSEVENEY- Its hard to be considered bluegrass without the presence of Scruggs Style 5-string banjo, and fortunately for us, Will delivers just that to North Country… And then some! Currently making his home in Kirkland Wa., Will is fast becoming one of the most prominant banjo players, young or old, in the Northwest bluegrass scene today. Will’s powerful command of the instrument, and awareness of timing and taste have made him a valuable asset in our future endeavours. Drawing influence from such key figures as Terry Baucom, Ron Stewart, Jim Mills, and las but not least, the great Earl scruggs, it is plain to see that Will plays banjo in pursuit of one purpose…. DRIVE! Not to mention his solidity on rythym guitar! While well rooted in tradition, Will also has an equitable appreciation for the modern bluegrass scene. With modern day idols like The Boxcars, Lonesome River Band, Newfound Road, and Balsam Range, Will can deliver a tastefully fresh spin on tradition.

NORM OLSEN – From South Bend, Washington, Norm is a killer guitar player who gets great tone out of his lead breaks and plays mean, dynamic rythym. Born and raised in South Bend, Norm works with his father managing their family oyster farm, Olsen and Son Oyster co. inc., and enjoys hunting, fishing and playing music as his hobbies. Norm lays down outrageous lead solos that emulate some of flatpicking guitar’s finest influences, such as Doc Watson, Bryan Sutton, and Tony Rice, while incorporating fast, jaw dropping licks that will make you shake your head. It is also scary to think that he is just as good on the banjo as he is on guitar. Some of Norm’s other influences include Cody Kilby, Flatt and Scruggs, Randy Travis, Dan Tyminski, Don Stone, Ron Stewart, Jim Mills, Sonny Osborne, Jens Kruger, The Boxcars, and Many more to name.

STEPHEN BURWELL – From the small city of Maple Valley, Stephen brings you a rich tone and drive with his fiddling. He is known throughout the Northwest for his improvisation and execution of complexity in his music. Playing for around nine years, he has created his own sound and technique, learning from Texas, bluegrass, and progressive bluegrass style musicians. He is always striving to improve his technique and raise the standard for fiddling. Stephen was invited to perform on stage with Rhonda Vincent & The Rage and Kenny & Amanda Smith on more than one occasion. In 2011, Dale Adkins engineered a demo CD for Stephen that included his fellow band member, Nick Dumas, the illustrious Kenny Smith, and other musicians. Stephen’s main inspirations are Chris Thile, Stuart Duncan, Aubrey Haynie, Andy Leftwich, Jim VanCleve, Sam Bush, LRB, Alison Krauss & US, Coldplay, Mutemath, and so many more. Besides fiddling, he enjoys playing the mandolin and a little guitar. Stephen has now taken up recording engineering and production, and has co-engineered and produced his first album with his great friend, James Meyers.

Barbara Collins, a local talented veteran fiddler and violin instructor from Olympia, was unable to come due to illness. She was missed.

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (246/264) – Shelton, WA

The Kathy Kallick Band (pt. 1/2) based out of California was a welcome headliner. Each member of the band was a master performing musician in their own right. The band’s contract if not their music, however, reflected their urban roots. Close listening to their interpretation of the art form reveals careful attention to timing and a syncopated driving beat.

Kathy Kallick has a long history of West Coast traditional bluegrass band leadership since co-founding the internationally acclaimed group, Good Ol’ Persons in 1975. Her continued evolution as one of the style’s extraordinary composers and vocalists, having released 15 albums including over 100 of her own songs, has thrilled audiences from coast to coast. Kathy has won a Grammy and 2 IBMA Awards for her part in True Life Blues: The Songs Of Bill Monroe. She’s appeared on 3 high profile Rounder collections of bluegrass songs by women, as well as collections of songs about baseball, trains, spiritual matters, family, broken hearts, Christmas, and mothers–the bittersweet memories of hard living; written & recorded award winning music for children and families; toured throughout North America, Europe, and Japan.

Annie Staninec (fiddle) has played gigs for half of her 22 years beginning with Donner Mountain, Lost Coast, and the old time band, All Wrecked Up. She guested with Daryl Anger’s Republic of Strings, played with David Grisman’s Gypsy Caravan, won the 2008 & 2009 Fiddle Player of the Year awards from the Northern California Bluegrass Society, as well as the 2006 Outstanding Young Musician award at Dggangofest Northwest.
Her collaboration with the KKB showcases her fiery soloing (as in Scotty Stoneman meets Benny Martin), and gives her the chance to express lyrical, sensitive backup and charming singing. She could be seen jamming in the Shelton High School parking lot turned campground.

Greg Booth (dobro, banjo) still lives in Anchorage, where for many years he’s played pedal steel guitar in country groups…as well as banjo (which he first learned from Bill Emerson) and, more recently, dobro in legendary Alaskan bluegrass bands like Fault Line and Rank Strangers. Winner of the RockyGrass dobro competition in 2006 (after playing the instrument for only a year), regular participant in WinterGrass’ Resomania Workshop, and star of YouTube, “Greg’s innovative expressive dobro playing is even more remarkable” says guitarist Joe Karson, “when you consider that en employs no ‘licks’.”

Tom Bekeny (mandolin) has been playing and singing with Kathy since 1996. He is among the most adventurous mandolinists in music, creating thrilling solos as well as solid backup by using influences ranging from his thorough grounding in blues to his Mastry of JesseMcReynolds’ “split string” technique. Tom is a veterran of Laurie Lewis, Grant Street, and Done Gone. He has been the fiddler in High Country, the west coast’s premier traditional bluegrass band, for nearly 20 years. Tom also plays in a jazz trio and recently released a mandolin instruction DVD.

Paul Knight (bass) has been playing with Peter Rowan in various configurations for over 15 years. His driving acoustic bass has been part of recordings and live performances with a wide range of musicians including Jim Lauderdale, Laurie Lewis, and Crooked Jades. Paul is host to his own music series, Paul Knight & Friends, in his hometown of Pt. Reyes Station, CA. Several projects and bands have emerged from these shows including The Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band.

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (247/264) – Shelton, WA

The Kathy Kallick Band (pt. 2/2)

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (248/264) – Shelton, WA

2012 Band contest winner setup (Stray Dogs from Seattle)

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (249/264) – Shelton, WA

2012 Band Contest Winner: Stray Dogs from Seattle plays Cherokee Shuffle
The Stray Dogs Bluegrass Band performs contemporary bluegrass, classic country and acoustic roots music for fans in western Washington state admits to being influenced by Crooked Still.
John Schubert – Guitar and Vocals
Stephen Burwell (fiddle)
Willie Seveney (banjo)
Jeff Westerinen – Mandolin, Fiddle and Vocals
Andrea Westerinen – Bass

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (250/264) – Shelton, WA

Runaway Train (1/2), host band for the festival is a 4 piece group based in the South Puget Sound. It originally formed over 10 years ago, evolving into the energetic quartet it has become today.

Luke Dewhirst (banjo) is the newest, youngest member of the group–adding fresh interpretations of the traditional and new. Greg has been fantastically successful in attracting such talent to perform for the community. The group sings some gospel a capella with aplomb. Clearly this is a band that enjoys playing together.

Characteristically strong leads, tight vocal harmonies and solid instrumental work are the band’s calling card for festivals, concerts, and private venues throughout the region. Though utilizing a compelling traditional driving beat, they are not timid about stretching the limits of the style.
Nowlan Elwell – mandolin
Greg Linder – guitar
Luke Dewhirst – banjo
Kent Powell – bass

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (251/264) – Shelton, WA

Runaway Train (2/2)

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (252/264) – Shelton, WA

Twin Fiddlers, Annie Staninec & Stephen Burwell wow the audience with exquisitely sensitive coordinated harmony as they make their instruments sing.

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (253/264) – Shelton, WA

The Bluegrass Regulators (1/3) come from NW Oregon and Gig Harbor, WA. In 2009, these young musicians got together, started playing…and something clicked.

Fueled by a mutual passion for good music, they formed The Bluegrass Regulators and debuted in Shelton, WA at the 2009 Bluegrass From the Forest festival. They’ve since made a reputation as one of the most innovative and talented groups in the Pacific Northwest. Their willingness to push the conventional boundaries of the genre has produced a pure unique blend entirely their own, yet rooted in the fountainhead of tradition. Members include:
Luke Dewhirst – nationally acclaimed award winning banjo player
Martin Stevens – mandolin & fiddle
Jake Dewhirst – guitar
Molly Adkins – guitar
Josh Adkins – bass

This young band writes much of its own material, keeping the wellspring of this dynamic uniquely American performing art form strong and relevant to their contemporaries. Attend one of their concerts and watch music history in the making.

Listen carefully to Luke coaxing his instrument to sing softly, delicately–blending in with the voices of its human counterparts, then erupting into full throated crescendos.

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (254/264) – Shelton, WA

The Bluegrass Regulators (2/3)

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (255/264) – Shelton, WA

The Bluegrass Regulators (3/3)

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Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen (1/3) is a powerhouse of talent renown across the country for its stellar musicianship and powerful delivery of cutting edge solid bluegrass–both traditional and progressive in the finest sense of quality music. Vocal harmonization is sterling with Mr. Solivan’s discipline paying clear dividends. Every member shines.

Frank Solivan (mandolin) grew up in Alaska where he became a master of the mandolin and fiddle. His early voice lessons may have paved the way to his becoming a superb lead vocalist. In addition to his generosity toward aspiring mandolin players, he is known for his mentoring of children and their music…an inspiration to many. Frank played with the US Navy Bluegrass Band (Country Current) and then formed his own band. ‘Dirty Kitchen’ alludes to his being a master chef. Besides having mastered his instruments, the music is purely and genuinely a heart felt affair. He now resides in Virginia.

Mike Munford (banjo) is one of the hidden treasures of this 5-string instrument. After growing up in the bluegrass hotbed of D.C. & Baltimore, he mastered his own style of playing when not emulating some of the giants in the banjo world, Best described as hard driving melodic with powerful timing and tone, his jaw dropping technique leaves no doubt there’s a surprise around each corner.

Danny Booth (bass) grew up in the mountains near Anchorage, AK raised by a dedicated musical family, performing publicly at 12. The lessons he learned watching his father, Greg, play the pedal steel guitar, dobro, and banjo were not lost on him. Influenced by Mark Shatz, Edgar Meyer, Todd Phillips, et ux, he developed a solid sense of timing, feel, and fluid technique. As a strong accomplished vocalist, his voice adds immeasurably to the band’s sound.

Chris Luquette (guitar) recently joined the band. At 21, he is one of the most hardcore musicians in the Seattle area today, playing several other genres of music in addition to bluegrass, he is also in the band, Northern Departure, which performed in Shelton as a hired band after winning the band contest the previous year. Now he has come full circle…coming back to the town with Frank Solivan. When he starts picking that guitar, you can’t help but notice an amazing mix of finess, tone, and powerful music emanating from it.

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (257/264) – Shelton, WA

Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen (2/3)

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (258/264) – Shelton, WA

Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen (3/3)

SUNDAY:

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (259/264) – Shelton, WA

Runaway Train (1/2), host band for the festival is a 4 piece group based in the South Puget Sound. It originally formed over 10 years ago, evolving into the energetic quartet it has become today.

Luke Dewhirst (banjo) is the newest, youngest member of the group–adding fresh interpretations of the traditional and new. Greg has been fantastically successful in attracting such talent to perform for the community. The group sings some gospel a capella with aplomb. Clearly this is a band that enjoys playing together.

Characteristically strong leads, tight vocal harmonies and solid instrumental work are the band’s calling card for festivals, concerts, and private venues throughout the region. Though utilizing a compelling traditional driving beat, they are not timid about stretching the limits of the style.
Nowlan Elwell – mandolin
Greg Linder – guitar
Luke Dewhirst – banjo
Kent Powell – bass

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (260/264) – Shelton, WA

Runaway Train (2/2)

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (261/264) – Shelton, WA

Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen sound check

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (262/264) – Shelton, WA

Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen (1/2) is a powerhouse of talent renown across the country for its stellar musicianship and powerful delivery of cutting edge solid bluegrass–both traditional and progressive in the finest sense of quality music. Vocal harmonization is sterling with Mr. Solivan’s discipline paying clear dividends. Every member shines.

Frank Solivan (mandolin) grew up in Alaska where he became a master of the mandolin and fiddle. His early voice lessons may have paved the way to his becoming a superb lead vocalist. In addition to his generosity toward aspiring mandolin players, he is known for his mentoring of children and their music…an inspiration to many. Frank played with the US Navy Bluegrass Band (Country Current) and then formed his own band. ‘Dirty Kitchen’ alludes to his being a master chef. Besides having mastered his instruments, the music is purely and genuinely a heart felt affair. He now resides in Virginia.

Mike Munford (banjo) is one of the hidden treasures of this 5-string instrument. After growing up in the bluegrass hotbed of D.C. & Baltimore, he mastered his own style of playing when not emulating some of the giants in the banjo world, Best described as hard driving melodic with powerful timing and tone, his jaw dropping technique leaves no doubt there’s a surprise around each corner.

Danny Booth (bass) grew up in the mountains near Anchorage, AK raised by a dedicated musical family, performing publicly at 12. The lessons he learned watching his father, Greg, play the pedal steel guitar, dobro, and banjo were not lost on him. Influenced by Mark Shatz, Edgar Meyer, Todd Phillips, et ux, he developed a solid sense of timing, feel, and fluid technique. As a strong accomplished vocalist, his voice adds immeasurably to the band’s sound.

Chris Luquette (guitar) recently joined the band. At 21, he is one of the most hardcore musicians in the Seattle area today, playing several other genres of music in addition to bluegrass, he is also in the band, Northern Departure, which performed in Shelton as a hired band after winning the band contest the previous year. Now he has come full circle…coming back to the town with Frank Solivan. When he starts picking that guitar, you can’t help but notice an amazing mix of finess, tone, and powerful music emanating from it.

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (263/264) – Shelton, WA

Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen (2/2)

Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (Grand Finale) – Shelton, WA

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