2015 SHOWS ON WAMU'S BLUEGRASS COUNTRY
Jan. 3-9/15: The Dynamic Duo
An overview of the music of Dale Ann Bradley and Steve Gulley, with selections from the New Coon Creek Girls, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, and Grasstowne, but concentrating on their vocal collaborations. Lots of originals too.
Jan. 10-16/15: Color Of the Blues
Bluegrass versions of George Jones songs; lonesome and then some. Includes George (with Melba Montgomery) singing Bill Monroe, George (with Dr. Ralph) singing George, a number of powerful duets, and several knockout solo vocals. Not for the faint of heart.
Jan. 17-23/15: "Turn up your radio; your neighbors might enjoy it too!"
A memorial tribute to Ray Davis (1935 -2014), legendary broadcaster on WBMD (38 years) and WAMU (28 years), concert presenter, and musicologist, with a small sampling of his many Wango recordings made in either his studio at Johnny’s Used Cars in Baltimore or his home in Falling Water, West Virginia. Selections include a few examples of his radio hosting as well as a brief 2008 interview with Ray, commemorating his 60th year of broadcasting. The program’s title is a Ray Davis quote.
NOTE: All releases on Wango Records, except as noted.
Jan. 24-30/15: What’s Goin’ On
Musical previews of NorCal events in January and February, with music from a number of West Coast notables, plus a few touring musicians coming to the area.
Jan. 31 - Feb. 6/15: Happy Birthday, Curly Ray!
Originally broadcast on Curly Ray Cline’s birthday, an overview of his recordings with the Lonesome Pine Fiddlers and Ralph Stanley & the Clinch Mt. Boys, plus two selections each from three of his solo releases.
Feb. 7-13/15: Across the Tracks
New releases from Canada and California, songs about other places and bluegrass itself, and a comparison of Mac Wiseman and Kathy Kallick doing (the same) songs they learned from their mothers.
Feb. 14-20/15: Across the Tracks
Fewer releases – but, perhaps, a wider variety – than is usual in these occasional surveys of new recordings, going all the way from the Gibson Brothers returning to their “brother duet” roots to Andy Statman’s genre-bending originals, with a stop in Italy for Red Wine’s thrilling combination of traditional and progressive styles. Plus: two new collections of vintage recordings, one featuring Red Allen & Frank Wakefield in 1963, the other Monroe Fields & the Sauceman Brothers in the 1950s.
Feb. 21-27: Across the Tracks
Additional spins from new releases featured last week, plus a generous helping of Bill Monroe — with both Doc Watson and his band that included Jack Cooke and Benny Williams — from a 1964 concert. And more!
All selections released in 2014-15.
Feb. 28 - March 6/15: Live On Arrival - with guest co-host Todd Gracyk
A collection of live recordings which have not been commercially released, as discovered by guest co-host Todd Gracyk, who once spent way too much time prowling the internet. Featured are six songs from "The Story Of Bluegrass" presented at Watermelon Park, Berryville, VA on July 6, 1969. Many of the first generation giants are included, along with a couple of modern performances, and one from the WAMU archives. Bill Monroe (among others) is on fire!
March 7-13/15: Spring Membership Campaign Special
Music from the two new releases offered as thank-you gifts as well as other (hopefully) inspirational songs. Thanks for your support at http://bluegrasscountry.org/support or 877-448-2242!
March 14-20/15: Matters Of the Heart
Originally broadcast on Valentine’s Day, this collection of heart songs includes recordings from 1953-2000 and encompasses a variety of bluegrass styles (including the Big Three) and themes.
March 21-27/15: Gearin’ Up (Early) For Grass Valley
Previews of the California Bluegrass Association’s 40th Annual Father’s Day Festival, with music from most of the Main Stage performers. The emphasis this year includes musicians from California and old time bands.
March 28 - April 3/15: Allegra’s Picks
Guest co-host Allegra Thompson brings youthful exuberence to an eclectic survey of her inspirations and favorites; it includes a bit of music by her parents, Eric & Suzy Thompson. BTW: no relation!
April 6-10/15: Happy Birthday, Bob Paisley!
First presented on the anniversary of his birth, the music of Bob Paisley with Ted Lundy in the ‘70s, and with Danny Paisley and the Southern Grass from 1981-2002. Note: bark left on!
April 13-17/15: What’s Goin’ On
Musical previews of a few upcoming events in Northern California. Many of the musicians are from NorCal, although, Claire Lynch, Si Kahn, and the Infamous Stringdusters also make appearances, and set themes include time, roads, and the Osbornes.
April 20-24/15: Trouble Round My Door
Guest co-host Todd Gracyk presents some of his favorites by Red Allen, originally released 1957-1969, and including live recordings, obscure 45s, radio shows, and a few classics. Red’s in the company of Frank Wakefield, the Osborne Brothers, Doyle Lawson, J.D. Crowe, David Grisman, Porter Church, Don Reno, Chubby Wise, Buzz Busby, Bill Emerson, Don Stover, Scotty Stoneman, the Yates Bothers, and other greats.
“Bluegrass Country” - program #581 (April 25 - May 1/15)
BLUEGRASS SIGNAL: Across the Tracks
A variety of new releases, including lots of old time, plenty of fiddlers, several duets, and a featurette on a Washington, DC-based band with 3 ex-Johnson Mt. Boys and 2 members of Appalachian Trail.
May 2-8/15: Still Across the Tracks
Continuing last week’s survey of new releases, with additional tracks from five of the bands heard last week, a set of bluegrass versions of rock & roll hits from the late ‘50s, and a few advance single releases.
May 9-15/15: Happy 40th Anniversary to PT
Your jovial producer/host celebrates of 40 years doing radio with a collection of live recordings which remain favorites and huge influences. The Stanley Brothers got me hooked, the Kathy Kallick Band sustains me, and they provide the bookends to this 40th anniversary show. Thanks for joining me! - PT
May 16-22/15: Banjo Pickin’ Boy
A conversation with and the music of banjo-meister Bill Evans, who shares some of his early influences, presents his live performances with the Bluegrass Intentions and Due West, and spins his studio duets with Tony Trischka and Bill Emerson.
May 23-29/15: What’s Goin’ On
Musical previews of events scheduled in Northern California. Two brand-new songs (Della Mae, Rhiannon Giddens), a set of duets (Bush & Duncan, Barwick & Siegfried, Littlest Birds), hot instrumentals (Scott Nygaard, Eric Thompson, Sonoran Dogs), and classic ‘grass (Windy Hill, Blue & Lonesome, Laurie Lewis).
May 30 - June 5/15: Goin' Back To Nashville
Originally broadcast on the date (in 1963) of the historical Vanderbilt concert by Flatt & Scruggs, the recording of that concert, plus additional live sessions from 1960 and 1966. Lester and Earl are in fine form, and Josh Graves (especially) and Paul Warren also shine. Goodness gracious, it’s good!
BLUEGRASS SIGNAL: The Lighter Side - May 9/15
Originally broadcast on the anniversary of Jimmy Martin's (5-9-56) recording of "Hot Parade Of Love," a program of light-hearted bluegrass songs. No wrist-slashers allowed on this one!
June 13-19/15: Across the Tracks
New releases - five duets, four from Mountain Fever, three classic songs, two of Jimmy Martin live in 1969, one rock & roll song, and, well, more.
June 20-26/15: Part Of the Story
An overview of the music of the Good Ol’ Persons from their four studio albums (1977-1989), as told by the band's co-founder, Kathy Kallick.
June 27 - July 3: Happy Anniversary (Remembrance Of Things To Come)
As we approach the 48th anniversary of bluegrass on WAMU — July 2nd is the big day! — selections from bluegrass LPs released in 1967, including the instrumental collections of Flatt & Scruggs with Doc Watson, Jimmy Martin, and Scotty Stoneman; new albums from some of the music's pioneers (Bill Monroe, Jim & Jesse, and the Osborne Brothers) and new LP compilations from others (Stanley Brothers, Reno & Smiley); plus a variety of other new (at the time) releases.
July 6-10: Vintage (1952-1962) Radio Shows
Turn Your radio on/And listen to the music in the air
Turn your radio on/And nevermore will you care.
July 11-17/15: Headed To Grass Valley
Musical previews of some of the performers at the California Bluegrass Association’s 2015 Father’s Day Bluegrass Festival at Grass Valley. Several of this year's bands also played the first festival in 1976.
July 18-24/15: Ramblin’ On My Mind, part 1
July 27-31/15: Ramblin’ On My Mind, part 2
Aug. 1-7/15: A Celebration Of the Bristol Sessions & Their Legacy, part 1
Originally broadcast on the July 25th anniversary of the 1927 Bristol Sessions, a selection from these recordings, plus a few of the countless modern interpretations of them — and Eddie Stubbs' narration of a recent investigation of these landmark recordings and their influence. Ernest V. Stoneman had previously recorded with Ralph Peer, and was the one who convinced him to bring Victor’s portable recording equipment to Bristol, so it’s fitting that he kicks off the first of two anniversary shows.
NOTE: also includes commentary written by Dr. Cindy Lovell and read by Eddie Stubbs from Orthophonic Joy: The 1927 Bristol Sessions Revisited (Sony Legacy/15)
Aug. 8-14/15: A Celebration Of the Bristol Sessions & Their Legacy, part 2
Originally broadcast on the Aug. 1st anniversary of the Carter Family’s first recordings, high water marks of the Bristol Sessions. Jimmie Rodgers’ first recordings happened a few days later, so this program presents the originals plus contemporary versions plus Eddie Stubbs’ narration from a recent album re-examining the Big Bang Of Country Music.
NOTE: also includes commentary written by Dr. Cindy Lovell and read by Eddie Stubbs from Orthophonic Joy: The 1927 Bristol Sessions Revisited (Sony Legacy/15)
Aug. 15-21/15: The First Country Hit
Originally broadcast on the anniversary of Fiddlin’ John Carson's 1923 recording of “Little Old Log Cabin in the Lane,” which is generally considered the first commercially-successful release of old time country music, an investigation of that song (with later versions by Bill Monroe and The Boxcars), along with a number of other bluegrass "cabin" songs.
Aug. 22-28/15: Fiddlin’ Around
Guest host Leah Wollenberg is a talented fiddler, and enthusiastic about many types of music. She spins a few of her faves, with an emphasis on the contemporary, as befits a 22-year-old. Music from 1928-2015.
Aug. 29 - Sept. 4/15: May You Never Be Alone
Guest host Allegra Thompson presents a collection of duets, blues, bittersweet, and otherwise powerful bluegrass and old time music. The show includes reflections of her fond memories of the 2015 Father’s Day Festival, as well as her current obsession with the Osborne Brothers.
Sept. 5-11/15: Happy Birthday, Rose!
Originally broadcast on the aniversary of her birth, an overview of the music of Rose Maddox, the Queen Of West Coast Country who also made her mark in bluegrass. Music from 1940-1994 with her brothers and the Vern Williams Band, as well as the legendary 1962 session with Don Reno, Red Smiley, Bill Monroe, Donna Stoneman, and others.
Sept. 12-18/15: Jacob Picks ‘Em & Plays ‘Em
Co-host: Jacob Groopman
Multi-instrumentalist and singer Jacob Groopman co-leads the cutting edge band, Front Country, and was a DJ in college. He’s been listening to lots of new music, and shares some of his finds — along with some earlier performers who’ve influenced the contemporary bands he enjoys.
Sept. 19-25/15: Previews of the Berkeley Old Time Music Convention
Co-host: Suzy Thompson
Now it its 12th year, the Berkeley Old Time Music Convention is an annual event presenting a wide variety of old time performers. BOTMC Director Suzy Thompson presents musical samples of some of this year’s participants, including soulful duets, a youthful songster, feel-good bounce, driving bands, and veteran treasures.
Sept. 26 - Oct. 2/15: Across the Tracks
A celebration of Rural Rhythm reissues of late ‘60s releases and a new compilation from California that accompanies … a bluegrass cookbook!
Oct. 3-9/15: All Aboard
A collection of train songs, including a surprising number from the Left Coast, plus a few favorites from more predictable bluegrass sources — as well as the Singing Brakeman.
Oct. 12-16/15: It’s Bluegrass Time!
A few songs celebrating music from the true vine. Guarantee: all songs (but one) have “bluegrass” in the title. And there's one repeated song — from 1961 and 2014 recordings.
Oct. 19-23/15: Fall Membership Campaign special
Songs with (I hope!) inspirational words, plus selections from the Fall Membership Campaign’s thank-you gifts. Your support is much appreciated!!
Oct. 26-30/15: What’s Goin’ On
Musical previews of upcoming SF Bay Area shows; includes two brand-new demos, a bit of old time, and a 6:40 song that ain’t no part of bluegrass.
Nov. 2-6/15: Following the Music
The Piedmont Melody Makers are a new North Carolina band featuring Alice Gerrard and Chris Brashear. The program includes vintage and recent recordings by both, plus a brand-new PMM demo.
Nov. 9-13/15: Across the Tracks
A variety of new releases: title tracks from Patuxent, Rebel, and Rounder, songs from the west and a tune from Canada, plus a bit of old time.
Nov. 16-20/15: Foxhounds - Track-By-Track
Co-host Kathy Kallick takes us track-by-track through more than half of “Foxhounds,” the latest album from the Kathy Kallick Band. The album is Kathy’s 20th, and the KKB’s 5th, and includes seven Kathy Kallick originals, from soulful bluegrass and driving old time to evocative folk and bittersweet rumination. The covers include songs and tunes learned from Bill Monroe, Mac Martin, Flatt & Scruggs, Coon Creek Girls, Camp Creek Boys … and Richard Thompson.
Nov. 23-27/15: Walkin’ the Dog
Inspired by last week’s title track, a collection of bluegrass dog songs, some which were written by Tom T. and/or Dixie Hall, some which originated in the pop world, some from old time traditions, and some from the Father Of Bluegrass (who was also a dog lover). In addition, there’s a 30-sec. “commercial” from Lynn Morris, and three selections that include the Dawg. Warning: also contains humans imitating canines.
Nov. 30 - Dec. 4/15: Banjoganza!
Musical previews of the annual California Bluegrass Extravaganza, with music by all the participants — including organizer and five-string life force, Bill Evans.
Dec. 7-11/15: Laurie Lewis & Tom Rozum - live!
Laurie and Tom, live in their home studio, play selections from a new tribute to Hazel Dickens and Alice Gerrard, along with two of Laurie’s originals and one of Tom’s. In addition, three tracks from "The Hazel & Alice Sessions” recording with a full band are included.
Dec. 14-18: Let ‘er Go, Boys! The Grand Ole Opry Turns 90
Originally broadcast on the GOO's 90th anniversary (11-28-15), a program of live recordings from the Opry and a few songs about the Opry.
Dec. 19-25: Christmas Is Near
Sounds of the season, most of which were released in the past year or so.
Dec. 26 - Jan. 1: Jacob’s Duos
A collection of duets, old and new, from the collection and perspective of multi-instrumentalist and co-leader of Front Country, co-host Jacob Groopman.
Jan. 3-9/15: The Dynamic Duo
An overview of the music of Dale Ann Bradley and Steve Gulley, with selections from the New Coon Creek Girls, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, and Grasstowne, but concentrating on their vocal collaborations. Lots of originals too.
Jan. 10-16/15: Color Of the Blues
Bluegrass versions of George Jones songs; lonesome and then some. Includes George (with Melba Montgomery) singing Bill Monroe, George (with Dr. Ralph) singing George, a number of powerful duets, and several knockout solo vocals. Not for the faint of heart.
Jan. 17-23/15: "Turn up your radio; your neighbors might enjoy it too!"
A memorial tribute to Ray Davis (1935 -2014), legendary broadcaster on WBMD (38 years) and WAMU (28 years), concert presenter, and musicologist, with a small sampling of his many Wango recordings made in either his studio at Johnny’s Used Cars in Baltimore or his home in Falling Water, West Virginia. Selections include a few examples of his radio hosting as well as a brief 2008 interview with Ray, commemorating his 60th year of broadcasting. The program’s title is a Ray Davis quote.
NOTE: All releases on Wango Records, except as noted.
Jan. 24-30/15: What’s Goin’ On
Musical previews of NorCal events in January and February, with music from a number of West Coast notables, plus a few touring musicians coming to the area.
Jan. 31 - Feb. 6/15: Happy Birthday, Curly Ray!
Originally broadcast on Curly Ray Cline’s birthday, an overview of his recordings with the Lonesome Pine Fiddlers and Ralph Stanley & the Clinch Mt. Boys, plus two selections each from three of his solo releases.
Feb. 7-13/15: Across the Tracks
New releases from Canada and California, songs about other places and bluegrass itself, and a comparison of Mac Wiseman and Kathy Kallick doing (the same) songs they learned from their mothers.
Feb. 14-20/15: Across the Tracks
Fewer releases – but, perhaps, a wider variety – than is usual in these occasional surveys of new recordings, going all the way from the Gibson Brothers returning to their “brother duet” roots to Andy Statman’s genre-bending originals, with a stop in Italy for Red Wine’s thrilling combination of traditional and progressive styles. Plus: two new collections of vintage recordings, one featuring Red Allen & Frank Wakefield in 1963, the other Monroe Fields & the Sauceman Brothers in the 1950s.
Feb. 21-27: Across the Tracks
Additional spins from new releases featured last week, plus a generous helping of Bill Monroe — with both Doc Watson and his band that included Jack Cooke and Benny Williams — from a 1964 concert. And more!
All selections released in 2014-15.
Feb. 28 - March 6/15: Live On Arrival - with guest co-host Todd Gracyk
A collection of live recordings which have not been commercially released, as discovered by guest co-host Todd Gracyk, who once spent way too much time prowling the internet. Featured are six songs from "The Story Of Bluegrass" presented at Watermelon Park, Berryville, VA on July 6, 1969. Many of the first generation giants are included, along with a couple of modern performances, and one from the WAMU archives. Bill Monroe (among others) is on fire!
March 7-13/15: Spring Membership Campaign Special
Music from the two new releases offered as thank-you gifts as well as other (hopefully) inspirational songs. Thanks for your support at http://bluegrasscountry.org/support or 877-448-2242!
March 14-20/15: Matters Of the Heart
Originally broadcast on Valentine’s Day, this collection of heart songs includes recordings from 1953-2000 and encompasses a variety of bluegrass styles (including the Big Three) and themes.
March 21-27/15: Gearin’ Up (Early) For Grass Valley
Previews of the California Bluegrass Association’s 40th Annual Father’s Day Festival, with music from most of the Main Stage performers. The emphasis this year includes musicians from California and old time bands.
March 28 - April 3/15: Allegra’s Picks
Guest co-host Allegra Thompson brings youthful exuberence to an eclectic survey of her inspirations and favorites; it includes a bit of music by her parents, Eric & Suzy Thompson. BTW: no relation!
April 6-10/15: Happy Birthday, Bob Paisley!
First presented on the anniversary of his birth, the music of Bob Paisley with Ted Lundy in the ‘70s, and with Danny Paisley and the Southern Grass from 1981-2002. Note: bark left on!
April 13-17/15: What’s Goin’ On
Musical previews of a few upcoming events in Northern California. Many of the musicians are from NorCal, although, Claire Lynch, Si Kahn, and the Infamous Stringdusters also make appearances, and set themes include time, roads, and the Osbornes.
April 20-24/15: Trouble Round My Door
Guest co-host Todd Gracyk presents some of his favorites by Red Allen, originally released 1957-1969, and including live recordings, obscure 45s, radio shows, and a few classics. Red’s in the company of Frank Wakefield, the Osborne Brothers, Doyle Lawson, J.D. Crowe, David Grisman, Porter Church, Don Reno, Chubby Wise, Buzz Busby, Bill Emerson, Don Stover, Scotty Stoneman, the Yates Bothers, and other greats.
“Bluegrass Country” - program #581 (April 25 - May 1/15)
BLUEGRASS SIGNAL: Across the Tracks
A variety of new releases, including lots of old time, plenty of fiddlers, several duets, and a featurette on a Washington, DC-based band with 3 ex-Johnson Mt. Boys and 2 members of Appalachian Trail.
May 2-8/15: Still Across the Tracks
Continuing last week’s survey of new releases, with additional tracks from five of the bands heard last week, a set of bluegrass versions of rock & roll hits from the late ‘50s, and a few advance single releases.
May 9-15/15: Happy 40th Anniversary to PT
Your jovial producer/host celebrates of 40 years doing radio with a collection of live recordings which remain favorites and huge influences. The Stanley Brothers got me hooked, the Kathy Kallick Band sustains me, and they provide the bookends to this 40th anniversary show. Thanks for joining me! - PT
May 16-22/15: Banjo Pickin’ Boy
A conversation with and the music of banjo-meister Bill Evans, who shares some of his early influences, presents his live performances with the Bluegrass Intentions and Due West, and spins his studio duets with Tony Trischka and Bill Emerson.
May 23-29/15: What’s Goin’ On
Musical previews of events scheduled in Northern California. Two brand-new songs (Della Mae, Rhiannon Giddens), a set of duets (Bush & Duncan, Barwick & Siegfried, Littlest Birds), hot instrumentals (Scott Nygaard, Eric Thompson, Sonoran Dogs), and classic ‘grass (Windy Hill, Blue & Lonesome, Laurie Lewis).
May 30 - June 5/15: Goin' Back To Nashville
Originally broadcast on the date (in 1963) of the historical Vanderbilt concert by Flatt & Scruggs, the recording of that concert, plus additional live sessions from 1960 and 1966. Lester and Earl are in fine form, and Josh Graves (especially) and Paul Warren also shine. Goodness gracious, it’s good!
BLUEGRASS SIGNAL: The Lighter Side - May 9/15
Originally broadcast on the anniversary of Jimmy Martin's (5-9-56) recording of "Hot Parade Of Love," a program of light-hearted bluegrass songs. No wrist-slashers allowed on this one!
June 13-19/15: Across the Tracks
New releases - five duets, four from Mountain Fever, three classic songs, two of Jimmy Martin live in 1969, one rock & roll song, and, well, more.
June 20-26/15: Part Of the Story
An overview of the music of the Good Ol’ Persons from their four studio albums (1977-1989), as told by the band's co-founder, Kathy Kallick.
June 27 - July 3: Happy Anniversary (Remembrance Of Things To Come)
As we approach the 48th anniversary of bluegrass on WAMU — July 2nd is the big day! — selections from bluegrass LPs released in 1967, including the instrumental collections of Flatt & Scruggs with Doc Watson, Jimmy Martin, and Scotty Stoneman; new albums from some of the music's pioneers (Bill Monroe, Jim & Jesse, and the Osborne Brothers) and new LP compilations from others (Stanley Brothers, Reno & Smiley); plus a variety of other new (at the time) releases.
July 6-10: Vintage (1952-1962) Radio Shows
Turn Your radio on/And listen to the music in the air
Turn your radio on/And nevermore will you care.
July 11-17/15: Headed To Grass Valley
Musical previews of some of the performers at the California Bluegrass Association’s 2015 Father’s Day Bluegrass Festival at Grass Valley. Several of this year's bands also played the first festival in 1976.
July 18-24/15: Ramblin’ On My Mind, part 1
July 27-31/15: Ramblin’ On My Mind, part 2
Aug. 1-7/15: A Celebration Of the Bristol Sessions & Their Legacy, part 1
Originally broadcast on the July 25th anniversary of the 1927 Bristol Sessions, a selection from these recordings, plus a few of the countless modern interpretations of them — and Eddie Stubbs' narration of a recent investigation of these landmark recordings and their influence. Ernest V. Stoneman had previously recorded with Ralph Peer, and was the one who convinced him to bring Victor’s portable recording equipment to Bristol, so it’s fitting that he kicks off the first of two anniversary shows.
NOTE: also includes commentary written by Dr. Cindy Lovell and read by Eddie Stubbs from Orthophonic Joy: The 1927 Bristol Sessions Revisited (Sony Legacy/15)
Aug. 8-14/15: A Celebration Of the Bristol Sessions & Their Legacy, part 2
Originally broadcast on the Aug. 1st anniversary of the Carter Family’s first recordings, high water marks of the Bristol Sessions. Jimmie Rodgers’ first recordings happened a few days later, so this program presents the originals plus contemporary versions plus Eddie Stubbs’ narration from a recent album re-examining the Big Bang Of Country Music.
NOTE: also includes commentary written by Dr. Cindy Lovell and read by Eddie Stubbs from Orthophonic Joy: The 1927 Bristol Sessions Revisited (Sony Legacy/15)
Aug. 15-21/15: The First Country Hit
Originally broadcast on the anniversary of Fiddlin’ John Carson's 1923 recording of “Little Old Log Cabin in the Lane,” which is generally considered the first commercially-successful release of old time country music, an investigation of that song (with later versions by Bill Monroe and The Boxcars), along with a number of other bluegrass "cabin" songs.
Aug. 22-28/15: Fiddlin’ Around
Guest host Leah Wollenberg is a talented fiddler, and enthusiastic about many types of music. She spins a few of her faves, with an emphasis on the contemporary, as befits a 22-year-old. Music from 1928-2015.
Aug. 29 - Sept. 4/15: May You Never Be Alone
Guest host Allegra Thompson presents a collection of duets, blues, bittersweet, and otherwise powerful bluegrass and old time music. The show includes reflections of her fond memories of the 2015 Father’s Day Festival, as well as her current obsession with the Osborne Brothers.
Sept. 5-11/15: Happy Birthday, Rose!
Originally broadcast on the aniversary of her birth, an overview of the music of Rose Maddox, the Queen Of West Coast Country who also made her mark in bluegrass. Music from 1940-1994 with her brothers and the Vern Williams Band, as well as the legendary 1962 session with Don Reno, Red Smiley, Bill Monroe, Donna Stoneman, and others.
Sept. 12-18/15: Jacob Picks ‘Em & Plays ‘Em
Co-host: Jacob Groopman
Multi-instrumentalist and singer Jacob Groopman co-leads the cutting edge band, Front Country, and was a DJ in college. He’s been listening to lots of new music, and shares some of his finds — along with some earlier performers who’ve influenced the contemporary bands he enjoys.
Sept. 19-25/15: Previews of the Berkeley Old Time Music Convention
Co-host: Suzy Thompson
Now it its 12th year, the Berkeley Old Time Music Convention is an annual event presenting a wide variety of old time performers. BOTMC Director Suzy Thompson presents musical samples of some of this year’s participants, including soulful duets, a youthful songster, feel-good bounce, driving bands, and veteran treasures.
Sept. 26 - Oct. 2/15: Across the Tracks
A celebration of Rural Rhythm reissues of late ‘60s releases and a new compilation from California that accompanies … a bluegrass cookbook!
Oct. 3-9/15: All Aboard
A collection of train songs, including a surprising number from the Left Coast, plus a few favorites from more predictable bluegrass sources — as well as the Singing Brakeman.
Oct. 12-16/15: It’s Bluegrass Time!
A few songs celebrating music from the true vine. Guarantee: all songs (but one) have “bluegrass” in the title. And there's one repeated song — from 1961 and 2014 recordings.
Oct. 19-23/15: Fall Membership Campaign special
Songs with (I hope!) inspirational words, plus selections from the Fall Membership Campaign’s thank-you gifts. Your support is much appreciated!!
Oct. 26-30/15: What’s Goin’ On
Musical previews of upcoming SF Bay Area shows; includes two brand-new demos, a bit of old time, and a 6:40 song that ain’t no part of bluegrass.
Nov. 2-6/15: Following the Music
The Piedmont Melody Makers are a new North Carolina band featuring Alice Gerrard and Chris Brashear. The program includes vintage and recent recordings by both, plus a brand-new PMM demo.
Nov. 9-13/15: Across the Tracks
A variety of new releases: title tracks from Patuxent, Rebel, and Rounder, songs from the west and a tune from Canada, plus a bit of old time.
Nov. 16-20/15: Foxhounds - Track-By-Track
Co-host Kathy Kallick takes us track-by-track through more than half of “Foxhounds,” the latest album from the Kathy Kallick Band. The album is Kathy’s 20th, and the KKB’s 5th, and includes seven Kathy Kallick originals, from soulful bluegrass and driving old time to evocative folk and bittersweet rumination. The covers include songs and tunes learned from Bill Monroe, Mac Martin, Flatt & Scruggs, Coon Creek Girls, Camp Creek Boys … and Richard Thompson.
Nov. 23-27/15: Walkin’ the Dog
Inspired by last week’s title track, a collection of bluegrass dog songs, some which were written by Tom T. and/or Dixie Hall, some which originated in the pop world, some from old time traditions, and some from the Father Of Bluegrass (who was also a dog lover). In addition, there’s a 30-sec. “commercial” from Lynn Morris, and three selections that include the Dawg. Warning: also contains humans imitating canines.
Nov. 30 - Dec. 4/15: Banjoganza!
Musical previews of the annual California Bluegrass Extravaganza, with music by all the participants — including organizer and five-string life force, Bill Evans.
Dec. 7-11/15: Laurie Lewis & Tom Rozum - live!
Laurie and Tom, live in their home studio, play selections from a new tribute to Hazel Dickens and Alice Gerrard, along with two of Laurie’s originals and one of Tom’s. In addition, three tracks from "The Hazel & Alice Sessions” recording with a full band are included.
Dec. 14-18: Let ‘er Go, Boys! The Grand Ole Opry Turns 90
Originally broadcast on the GOO's 90th anniversary (11-28-15), a program of live recordings from the Opry and a few songs about the Opry.
Dec. 19-25: Christmas Is Near
Sounds of the season, most of which were released in the past year or so.
Dec. 26 - Jan. 1: Jacob’s Duos
A collection of duets, old and new, from the collection and perspective of multi-instrumentalist and co-leader of Front Country, co-host Jacob Groopman.