#1 March 29th, 2002 Rod MacDonald
Tim: Our first house concert, and Beth was, shall we say, apprehensive. Perhaps my first sign that the usually calm Beth was just a little exhuberent was when she wanted to set up the living room the day before the show, filling the space with every chair available. Oh, I suppose we could have stood in the kitchen for our meals, but I assured her that we really could wait until a couple hours before people were due to arrive to set up the performance space. I guess I was a little nervous too, because I had set up a recorder so that we could capture the show for Rod, and then I forgot to turn on the microphone.

What I remember best about this show was that Rod has been a performing songwriter for a long time--I had seen him in Boston in the late '80's, and so he had an endless stream of stories from the road, some involving a case of mistaken identity with a much more famous folk singer from the '60's. His song, "I'm Not Bob Dylan" had us practically rolling on the floor.

#2 May 31st, 2002 Raymond Yates
Tim:What a huge voice! When he sings, you just have to hold onto your chair, because he can knock you over. Ray had been through the area before, playing at the Lotus Dickey festival in Paoli, and then at Penny Lane Coffeehouse. When Ray played Penny Lane, he stayed at the cabin and made a HUGE killer pot of vegetarian spaghetti sauce that took about a month to consume. This time around, Ray didn't have time to cook, because they were bouncing back and forth between Ohio and Indiana, catching gigs that didn't quite line up the way you'd want them to. It wasn't in the plans, but I sat in with Ray's show, adding a little mandolin here and there. Even without knowing the songs, I could "read ahead" on where they were going, and I think it sounded nice. We got to catch Ray a week later in Paoli, and returned a music stand that was left behind.

#3 July 19th, 2002 Alan Rhody
Tim: Beth talked about Alan on numerous occasions, and when we started putting together the house concerts, we hoped Alan would be into it. You see, he's a Nashville songwriter--I mean, he's recorded songs that are recorded by famous people and even made into hits. He's had multiple famous people record the same song--how cool is that? Well, I had all sorts of odd impressions about how a big time Nashville songwriter might be a little too sophisticated to want to hang out in our little cabin on the edge of Evansville. Well, I was more than pleasantly surprised to discover a warm and kind man who enjoyed shooting the breeze for hours over coffee about recording and publishing music. And, like Rod Macdonald, he's been in the business for decades, and has some wonderful stories about being in the business--which requires a double dose of humor and irony. Alan not only brought CDs for sale, but he also brought along hand-painted shirts that he creates. Not a bad life...

#4 August 17th, 2002 Teddy Goldstein
Tim: It's 3:00pm the day of the show and the telephone rings. "Hi, this is Teddy Goldstein, and I have some bad news..." Teddy had lost the clutch on his car just this side of Louisville, KY. Being a "take charge in a crisis" sort of guy, I asked him where he was and determined that if I left right then, I could get to wherever his car was being towed to, and get back to Evansville in time to do a show. It was a lot easier driving to Louisville than calling a couple dozen people and telling them that the show was cancelled--besides, he was going to need the money for that new clutch.

Teddy's show is hard to describe. Songs that could sound pathetic from another person took on dark and fatefully humorous twists in his hands. Besides being a exceptional guitarist, he blew a harp better than anyone I have ever heard while pulling a tight rhythm out of the guitar. At the beginning of the night, I was a little worried that people wouldn't know how to take a wit honed on the Manhattan pavement, but by the end of the night, everyone's face hurt from smiling so much.

So, it worked out pretty well. Beth and I had a gig Sunday evening near Louisville, and we were able to drop Teddy off at the Pep Boys where his Subaru was patiently waiting for replacements. Teddy made his gig, we made ours, and though the weekend seemed much too short, it was a terrific time.

#5 Saturday, September 14th, 2002 Small Potatoes

Tim: Tears of joy, tears of laughter, tears of love. These two performers, with just a handful of songs were able to draw from their best to draw us into their world and their hearts. I looked around the room and realized that everyone else was caught up in the magic, just like me. I realize that this is why we host these house concerts, so that we can share the magic with our friends. When you take a perfomance that deserves to be on a stage that faces at least a few thousand seats, and put it into a 16'x 16' room, there is nothing to keep that magic from touching you.

I'll let you in on a secret. Jacquie and I have histories that intersect. We were both "rennies", people who worked at Rennaissance faires. We were able to connect at least a couple people we knew in common, and had we tried, I am sure that there are dozens more. Jackie and Beth shared a connection with the Girl Scouts thing. And Rich, geez, I'm in awe of his guitar playing. That guy can make a tin can sound like it was made by the master.

If you didn't get a chance to buy their CDs, they do sell them through the website. It's going to be hard to top this show, but I've come to realize that every show is different, every one great in its own way--just like people.

#6 Saturday, October 12th, 2002 Lui Collins

It continues to amaze me how every performer and every performance is different, and a pleasure to experience. Lui's easy and relaxed manner draws you into a comfort zone so quickly that time seems to take a breather. Often, performers will encourage audience participation after they've established a rapport with the audience. Lui needs a little under five minutes to establish that rapport. She starts with a song to warm up the strings on her Taylor, then switches to a borrowed guitar (thanks, Beth) for a sing-along. Then she picks up a banjo. The good kind--soulful, sonorous, old-time mountain music. A pattern is established that will last most of the night.

Suddenly we're in the middle of something different--it's a poem, about trust, about belief, about jumping into the unknown abyss, making a leap of faith, being seduced by words, and surviving the result. Wow. More music, this one a little different, then another sing-along. Slowly, people realize that they've heard this voice somewhere before, a part of a radio show, a children's song, perhaps performed by another person, but with that same gorgeous voice.

Finally the night ends, and though we didn't notice, time did continue to pass. Everyone else is gone except Randy, Beth and I, and Lui. Lui asks Randy to pull out a guitar, and she and she takes her turn listening while we play for her, and share some Randy and Beth originals. We're all tired, but we manage to cap the night with music shared. It's another memory to keep.

#7 Saturday, November 30th, 2002 Mad Agnes

There is something about a music trio that really fills a cabin... we had a house-full for this show, in attendance and in the day that followed. There was always someone to talk to and something to talk about while they were here. It seems that everyone had some common ground with everyone else in one way or another. I got a brief lesson from Mark on alternate tunings, including a demonstration of some really cool Michael Hedges stuff. Oh, and we got the scoop on their name. Margo and Adrienne were two-thirds of an all-girl tio called "Mad Woman in the Attic" and when they reformed with Mark as the third member, they wanted to keep a relationship with the old name and so they decided to name the woman in the attic Agnes. Anyway, that's how I heard it.

The running joke during the next day's departure was whether or not Tim was still going to have just as many instruments when they left. I assured them that I had no concerns, since they were also packed with so many guitars and such, that they would have to leave something behind if they were to try to add to the pile. I especially liked that custom guitar made of cherry that Adrienne was toting. It sounded sweet as it looked!

#8 Saturday, January 18, 2003, Andrew Kerr

I'll admit it, I have a difficult time thinking that I might garner some good investment advice from a folk singer--especially one who entertained the idea of becomming a rap star. Then again, anyone who can banter on the subject of portfolio diversification while changing his broken e string is not easily dismissed! Andrew shared some great stories, especially his efforts at joining the cast of the television series "Survivor". We all sat back in our chairs and laughed along with his foibles and tales that he picked up along the way from the east coast to the west, and then to his current home in Chicago. Andrew delights in a wry twist of NY sarcasm where folk stardom equates to rock stardom--and for an evening, we did our part as the current cast of screaming groupies.

We love you Special K!!!

#9 Saturday, February 1, 2003, Rachel Cross

I don't know how to describe Rachel. She is the sort of performer that you don't want to take your eyes off of, even for a moment, because you might miss that sidewards glance, or a flip of the shoulder that gives a lyric new layers of meaning. Wonderful guitarwork, a voice like silk tapestry, each song is delivered from the heart and carried with a smile. The rhythms form a groove that make you want to dance. And that smile makes you hope the evening doesn't end too soon. Rachel Cross is an enchanging performer!

The best thing about hosting house concerts is that we get to spend a little time with the performers we host, before and after the show. Sometimes it's brief, a late dinner, coffee in the morning and back on the road--but even in a short time, we form some fine friendships. And Jonna does, too. She really "took" to Rachel, and sat through most of her show--even listening to the songs in french and hebrew--quite a feat for a young girl. But I think it's a barometer of sorts, Rachel has a quality in her stage presence that is very appealing to young people, and though this performance was not for kids, one kid thought it was pretty cool.

And Rachel, we found the card and promises...they were wonderful!

#10 Saturday, March 1, 2003, Randy Pease "Sometimes the Moon" Release

This evening was one heck of a party! Randy filled the house, we were actually over capacity, and fortunately I had just bought some new chairs so we managed to fit everyone. It was great to hear Randy as a solo performer in the intimate setting of the cabin. The energy was high and the kitchen was absolutely buzzing between sets. The local newspaper ran a review of Randy's CD, so we had a few new audience members in the crowd. I'll admit that the atmosphere felt a little more like a party than usual--maybe it was the shrimp coctail?

Okay, if you don't already know this, Randy started dragging me out to his gigs a few years ago, to play as a sideman. I was a really dreadful musican at the time, being new to mandolin. Twenty years of guitar didn't help me at all. Eventually we started exploring different directions in music, encompassing swing, celtic and bluegrass, and formed a band with Jesse Graber and Rick Unger, called Burnt Prairie. This was all great fun, but it sure did make it hard to catch a "Randy Pease" gig. With Rick and Jesse's departure from Evansville, we're all moving onto new things. Right now, Randy, Beth, myself, and Dan Craig are playing celtic music, but I suspect we'll be exploring some other styles soon.

Thank you, Randy, for a couple of great sets, and the continuing opportunity to share music and gigs.

#11 Saturday, March 15, 2003, Cindy Mangsen and Steve Gillette

When Penny Lane first opened, our friend Chris Jones had talked about his friends Cindy and Steve whom he was sure would come to Evansville and play a show if he asked. We weren't quite ready to present music yet, and then Chris moved to Chicago and we lost touch. It wasn't long after we started the house concert series that Steve and Cindy got in touch with us. They work their way to the west coast and back, every year during the coldest months of the New England winter. Now there's a way to make Vermont winters more bearable!

What a terrific night! It amazes me when I'm in my livingroom and suddenly realize that the person playing the well-known folksong was actually the one who penned it--heck, I thought Darcy Farrow was one of those traditional songs that people have been playing for ages! I was thrilled to finally year Cindy and Steve's music after the three year build-up of anticipation. They gave a wonderful performance. Dang, I'm ready for them to come back. Next year, maybe?

#12 Saturday, April 5, 2003, Andrew McKnight

Andrew is the sort of guy that you feel is an old friend right after you've met him. Engaging and sparkling, he is always honing his craft and looking for new stories. We played lost of music together, and he even tried out a couple of new songs on us. We're already looking forward to Andrew's next visit to the area, and eagerly anticipating that next recording, as well.

#13 Saturday, April 26, 2003, Martine Locke

I had my hands full getting ready for this show! With Beth in Mexico and Jonna in charge of the guitar cookie production line, things took just a little longer than I expected. So our earliest guests pitched right in and within about 10 minutes, we had everything ready to go. Martine gave a terrific performance, even with the particularly boisterous crowd of the evening. We were celebrating a birthday and had a full house for the show, which set the tone for the evening.

Martine's performance was fantastic. She's got a great energy and drive, and her stories about where the songs come from are very special. We look forward to hearing more from Martine.

#14 Saturday, May 10, 2003, Dana Robinson
Wow, we had a blast with Dana and Sue. It was a great show, and besides writing some wonderful songs, Dana plays some mean fiddle. It turns out that he took some lessons from one of my all time favorite fiddlers, Judy Hyman. You probably don't know who Judy is, but you've most likely heard movie soundtracks composed by her dad, Dick Hyman. He put the music together for Moonstruck and Sweet and Lowdown. But I digress... anyway, we had a chance to play some tunes around the breakfast table and I was sorry to see them leave. We'd probably still be playing tunes if they didn't have to go. I'm glad that after some near misses, we finally had a chance to bring Dana to Evansville.

#15 Saturday, June 21, 2003, L.J. Booth
L.J. has become one of our favorite guitarits and songwriters. Every song on his lastest CD is compelling and thoughtful. It's hard to get enough of his music. We had a full house for this show, and as we expected, it was really terrific. The stories behind where the songs come from are especially magical, like the touching revelation about "Rising Star", bringing you into the song in a much more personal way. And for me, getting to hear "Boogy Man" was as true delight. I sure look forward to another L.J. Booth show!

#16 Saturday, July 19, 2003, Greg Jacobs
We tried to bring Greg Jacobs to the cabin last summer, at the recommendation of our friend Randy Pease. Greg shares a record label with Randy, and they had played together many times in Oklahoma. Greg is a storyteller with a particular knack for history, and especially the history of Oklahoma. Greg entertained us all with his stories, and we had the good fortune to hear a little bit of Randy Pease as well, who st in during the show and joineed Greg on a few tunes.

#17 Saturday, August 2, 2003, Paul Sprawl
We "discovered" Paul at Folk Alliance. He was playing in the foyer when the elevator door opened. Bare feet, sitting on his guitar case, playing some amazing licks and holding a crowd. It was amusing, really, to think that these people had been waiting 20 minutes for an available elevator, and then when one came, the chose instead to keep listening to the music.

Paul plays hard with his guitars. He thumps them, taps and plunks them, draws out percussive rhythms while weaving melodic runs that are rather astounding. On stage, he's all about the music. And when offstage, his intense openness is disarming. We stayed up late that night, and had a blast hanging out with Paul. It's hard to part with good company, I was sorry to see him head down the road.

#18 Friday, August 22, 2003, Cindy Kalmenson
Cindy is another Folk Alliance discovery. Her performance is so incredibly dynamic, you wonder where the energy comes from. All of her songs were about relationships, in one way or another, but each one was fresh, and took an entirely different light. Okay, she did rap on us guys a little, but that's okay. There were some beautiful songs in there. Cindy is a great entertainer. I'd see her again and again.

#19 Saturday, September 13, 2003, Jubilant Bridge
Willie Jaeger and Carol Van Alstine form this tuo of tight-harmonied performers from Colorado. With dulcimer, guitar, and clear, strong voices, they bring an energy to their music that is pure and original. I was astounded by Willie's dulcimer playing--it was way beyond what I ever expected could be done with a lap dulcimer. We had a blast staying up until very late in the evening, having some great fun and exploring the great shopping emporium, Archie McPhee's.

#20 Thursday, September 25, 2003, Greg Greenway
When I lived in Boston more than 10 years ago, Greg Greenway was one of the voices that defined the Boston new folk scene. Since that time, Greg has developed a dynamic and powerful voice that hits every emotion. His performance was just incredible. Greg is fine company as well. We traded a bit of education--Greg gave me some vocal coaching and I gave him a crash course on Photoshop and tone reproduction. A fair trade, I think.

#21 Thursday, October 3, 2003, Bill Staines
Talk about your living legends! Bill Staines has been writing and performing folk music for more than 30 years, and he's seen it all, starting with his early introduction as the MC at Club 39 in Cambridge, MA--the venue where many of the legends of the 60's folk revival scene would play, and other classic haunts like Cafe Lena. I've been a fan of Bill's music for a long time, having learned a few of his songs after I had been playing guitar for just a few years. I peppered him with questions about the folk scene of his younger years, and Bill was amicable to sit up late in the evening filling my ear. What a treat! And the show was simply phenomenal. I was able to hear all of my favorite songs before the night was finished.

#22 Sunday, November 9, 2003, Simon Mayer and Hilary James
This was the hardest show to bring to the cabin, simply because of the logistics involved with arranging a tour of the USA when the performers are coming from abroad. I anticipated that we would hear some great music, but I didn't realize just how funny they can be! Simon's wit is dry and brilliant. Hilary matches him with perfect timing. Together they put on a show that literally has your attention from the first note. I'll remember this one for a long time.

#23 Saturday, November 22, 2003, Nancy Cook
One of the best things about hosting house concerts is that you get to make new friends. Nancy is such great company, we only wished that we all could have hung out a little longer. Having lived in Colorado, we were able to share with Beth some of the familiar turf, like the Little Bear in Evergreen, a great music venue and biker bar. We also heard some great stories about the synchronicity of life and travels, and through those stories learned about an individual who is doing great things in distant places by simply following what she believes in.

#24 Saturday, December 13, 2003, Small Potatoes
What a pleasure it is to host this great duo for the second time. Rich and Jacquie are such an incredible duo that I'd drive a hundred miles or more to see them perform again. We had another terrific night, a full house, and everyone had a chance to taste my "back home" recipe for salt potatoes. They had some great new songs to share, especially a hilarious ditty about the Knott family, which I'm looking forward to hearing on their next recording--it's a hoot!

#25 Saturday, January 17, 2004, Cindy Kallet
When I hear Cindy Kallet sing, I smell the salt air of the New England coast, and see the quilt of autumn colors drawn across rolling mountains, and taste the sweetest and freshest maple syrup that I can imagine. It takes me back to the times when I wandered the coast from Cape Cod to Camden. Cindy's songs paint pictures of New England with a voice that resonates with something deep inside. From mythic to humorous, her songs bring you closer to the human spirit.

I wrote those words to introduce Cindy, and I like them so much, I think I'll keep them around for a while. We had a wonderful time getting to know her, and getting the back story on tunes like "The Skunk Don't Care". It's such a pleasure to spend a few hours with the artists we meet, we only wish we had more time to visit. Ah, the life of a traveling musician often leaves little time for rest.

#26 Saturday, February 14, 2004, Troubadours of Divine Bliss
At first, I didn't know what to think of this blissful duo. They had this website with wild graphics remniscent of what you might find strolling through the parking lot at a Grateful Dead concert. A description of the duo sounded like they could be an oddly inspired religious order. I was baffled, so I contacted them and well, we just had to bring them to Evansville. Voted "New Orleans Best New Folk Band" by Offbeat magazine, they're zany and original, their musical style knows no limits.

The Troubadours were an absolute joy to listen to and watch. They're funny and witty, their timing is exceptional, whether it be a riff or a one-liner. It's hard to believe that so much music comes from just these two women. I sure hoe we can have them back sometime, because I'm ready for some more of that musical bliss!

#27 Saturday, March 6, 2004, Matthew Fox
Matt and I started talking about mandolins and house concerts a couple years ago, about the time his first CD, "Pilgrim" hit the shelves. What I didn't know at the time is that Matt is a wild guitar player with strong jazz and country blues influences. While his CD covered more traditional territory, his performance included some mean slide guitar and some really terrific originals.The other thing I found out is that Matt is a genuinely nice guy, considerate and unassuming, and a pleasure to converse with. I'm looking forward to a chance to spend a bit more time, and maybe we can squeeze in a slide guitar lesson or two!

#28 Saturday, April 3, 2004, The Cantrells
This was the show that almost wasn't. While I was cruising the backroads between St. Louis and Evansville on my new v-twin, Al was leaving messages on the answering machine that would have made me nervous had I heard them in sequence. But my message machine plays in reverse order, so the first message from Al started with "It looks like we'll be able to make it tonight after all." It thrned out that Emily was fighting a bout of laryngitis, and it cleared up just enough by mid-day to make the performance.

Al and Emily Cantrell cast a magical spell with their airy, joyful acoustic songs. Emily uses her voice as an instrument on soaring vocals like a country Joni Mitchell, while Al plays off her Martin guitar with spirited fiddling and a dazzling mandolin technique--his music weaves through her words as if the two were locked in an intuitive dance.It sure was something to listen to this talented duo.

#29 Saturday, May 1, 2004 Alan Rhody
Alan has been releasing solo collections since 1981, with his latest release titled "Journey". He's a terrific performer, a successful songwriter and talented painter who creates some really great T-shirts and artwork that he sometimes sells along with CDs after the shows. Alan's an exceptional stage performer, in that he makes it all look easy. He has many stories and experiences to share, and his songs are well crafted. And living in Nashville for so many years, he knows the business from the inside out, and knows how to keep from getting trapped in the middle of it.

#30 Saturday June 12, 2004 Tim Grimm
This show really should have given equal billing to Tim's talented wife, Jan Lucas. We really enjoyed the banter, camradre, and counter-point of these two well matched companions. Both veterans of the L.A. television and film industry, They're equally self-confident as creative individuals in front of a crowd. The show was very engaging, and it was the first time I got to take in a performance from the back of the room, having just had my foot worked on a few days earlier. Listening to Tim talk about the inspirations for his songs was a treat, and talking about visiting author and essayist Wendell Berry at his home was a rare treat.

#31 Saturday, July 10, 2004 Wild Carrot
Last summer I had a free day and pointed the pick-up toward Iroquois Park in Louisville for a day's worth of mountain-biking and music at Kentucky Music Weekend. While waiting for Bill Staines and Jean Ritchie to take the stage, I sat back to enjoy a picnic basket of brie and cabernet while taking in the opening acts. That's where I discovered Wild Carrot. Pamela Temple and Spencer Funk make up this duo from Cincinnati, and they're both highly talented performers blending jazz vocals with superb fingerstyle guitar.

We really had a blast hosting Pamela and Spencer. I found out that I am not alone in my music instrument obsession, as it turns out Spencer is just as much under the spell of "musical instrument acquisition syndrome" as I am. Why do I keep meeting these people that I want to take guitar lessons from, and they live hours away?

#32 August 28, 2004 Grey Larsen
Ever since moving to Indiana, I've been hearing about this guy hamed Grey Larsen. Until recently, this is the extent of what I knew. He plays Irish flute, he lives in Bloomington, and he's a really nice guy. Since then I've learned that Grey is considered one of the world's leading masters of Irish flute, that he has recorded with world renouned musicians and plays a variety of styles and a number of instruments. He has more than a dozen recordings featuring his music, a couple of books on playing whistle, and he teaches music workshops across the country and across the ocean. Enough already, you're coming, right?

Jen Cass
As things go in life, it's usually good to be flexible. Jen shared some news with us--she's expecting a new Cass-ette in the spring, and we're thrilled for her! But Jen isn't feeling up to the rigors required to tour right now, so we agreed to put this show off until another trip through the area. Congratulations, Jen!

#33 September 25, 2004, Greg Greenway
We are absolutely thrilled the Greg is coming back! As one of the leading performers on the national folk circuit, Greg brings a level of polish to his performance that is rarely acheived. His songs are moving and thought-provoking, and many have shown their appreciation for Greg's writing by performing their own versions of his work. It's always a pleasure to be able to share Greg's performance with my friends here in Evansville.

#34 October 9, 2004, Paul Sprawl
We first ran into Paul at the National Folk Alliance conference two years ago, where he was performing to an enthralled audience in the elevator lobby. His highly percussive style is captivating, and his performance crosses the expanse from humorous to mesmerizing. Paul is a sort of American gypsy, taking to the road for long stretches, and packing in more performances than a presidential candidate during an election run. Last year, he demonstrated his skill in making music with almost anything, even a broken, out-of-tune banjo-mandolin that was hanging on the wall! This past year Paul has been touring and recording with the phenomenal harmonica player, Howard Levy.

#35 October 30, 2004 Orrin Star
Orrin Star is a nationally recognized folk & bluegrass performer and teacher based in the Washington, DC area. Winner of the 1976 National Flatpicking Championship (the largest bluegrass guitar contest in the country), he plays guitar, banjo, mandolin, sings, and performs solo, duo and with his band Orrin Star & the Sultans of String.

His repertoire spans old-time, western swing, celtic and original songwriting in addition to more mainstream bluegrass and folk material. An accomplished storyteller and entertainer (he worked as a stand-up comic for five years in the Boston area) he has appeared on A Prairie Home Companion and has three  recordings on Flying Fish Records. He is the author of a popular guitar instruction book ("Hot Licks for Bluegrass Guitar", Oak Publications) and a columnist for Flatpicking Guitar magazine.

#36 November 6, 2004 John Flynn
John came to us on strong recommendation from our friend Vern Crawford at Cousin Andy's Coffeehouse. Vern knows the folk scene better than most, as he is an annual fixture at the Kerrville Folk Festival in Texas, a multi-week mecca for folk fans, performers and presenters.

John is one of the most gifted songwriters I've had the pleasure to meet, and an engaging conversationalist. It's clear that John's faith guides his creative work and the result is really incredible. It's surprising that through most of his music career John has stuck close to home. Here is a quote from John's website:

Ticket Magazine places John Flynn "at the near end of a long line of American poets, thinkers and folk artists, stretching from Henry David Thoreau, Ralph Waldo Emerson and Walt Whitman, all the way up to Kris Kristofferson". And Kristofferson himself praises John’s songwriting: "The truth is in the details; the gifts are an ear for accurate dialogue, an eye for powerful imagery and anything funny, and a heart open to surprises and the possibilities of moving the emotions." As a young father Flynn left a Nashville staff writing gig and began writing songs for his kids and for his life. These songs yielded CDs that are informed by the trademark humanity and humor that Flynn sees as the essential tools for parenthood and living. Recently the 46 year-old Delaware resident has turned his attention, and his songwriting, to the world his four children will one day inherit.

#37 November 20, 2004 Andrew McKnight
This was Andrew McKnight's third performance in Evansville. He was the first feature performer to play Penny Lane Coffeehouse during the first year of business, and then returned to play a Concert at the Cabin. As an environmentalist with a keen eye for details in the places he visits, Andrew writes songs that touch people from every walk of life. While staying at the cabin last year, he took a meandering drive through southern Illinois and found the inspiration for a song, "Hard Times in the Heartland", which was then sketched and recorded for the first time around our kitchen table. We were thrilled to bring Andrew back to Evansville and to share his music once again.

#38 December 4, 2004 Johnsmith
John Smith--it's a common name for an uncommon man. As one of 10 children growing up in a small midwest town (Dewitt, Iowa), he developed a strong sense of self-awareness, balanced with an equally strong sense of community-awareness. Needless to say, his music is personal and honest, which comes across in his heartwarming performances. John has been touring for more than 20 years, Has played the largest folk stages on the circuit, and his 4 releases of original music have received unanimous accolades from the major folk music publications.

Getting to know John was a real pleasure. His performance is very personal and filled with great stories about his family and experiences. After several trips to Ireland, he has some great tales about that experience as well. It seems that the best performers are great storytellers, and the stories all come from different places. It's what they share that make the show, through their songs and stories.

#39 January 8, 2005 Small Potatoes
They can be described in one word. Spellbinding. Still, one word is not enough to say everything that needs to be said about this talented duo. Rich Prezioso and Jacquie Manning develop a huge following wherever they go, and we're fortunate to bring them here to the cabin for what is becoming an annual event. With great songwriting, a collection of instruments, and tight harmonies, they will guide you through the landscape of folk, blues, jazz, celtic and country music with wit and humor. Some of Rich and Jacquie's songs have become truly inspiring favorites of mine. 1,000 Candles, 1,000 Cranes is Rich's touching story about long held hatred melting into acceptance, and Waltz of the Wallflowers is Jacquie's delightful story of awkward romance of two introverts at a party, told by both perspectives at the same time. Rich's "I Will Pass This Way Again" should become a folk classic. And last year they did a wonderfully witty unrecorded number that was along the lines of "the farmer's daughter" story meets Abbot and Costello. I can't wait to hear that one again!

#40 March 5th, 2005 Teddy Goldstein
Before Teddy played here at the cabin the first time, I was nervous. Here's a slick streetwise east coast urbanite with attitude entertaining a roomful of midwesterners in the conservative heartland. I didn't know what to expect. It turns out that my fears were misplaced, because Teddy just killed us all with his wry humor and sly delivery. As I've often said to people, "here's this guy from "The City" singing a song that coming from anyone else you'd think were so sappy that they'd make you ill, but he delivers them with such sarcasm that you can't help but laugh when you see yourself in those lyrics." Everybody's face literally ached at the end of the night--from smiling too hard. I should also note that Teddy's an excellent guitarist and he's an awesome mouth harp player as well. I don't think I've ever heard anyone do both so well, at the same time.

#41 April 2, 2005 Erik Balkey
Erik and I were discussing something on an internet email list, and not knowing I booked performances, he offered to send me one of his CDs. I checked out some music online, and asked if he would send me a PR kit as well, in case he ever made it to the midwest. Well, one thing led to another, and this show is the result.

I have to say I love his sound. It's thoughtful and understated, with an intimacy that quietly draws you in. I was first struck by his song "God's Poet Now", which was written for Dave Carter, a well-known performing songwriter who died suddenly and unexpectedly in the prime of his life and his career. It's one of those songs that, once you hear it, you can't seem to get it out of your head.

Erik has had much recent success and recognition as a relative newcomer to the stage. His first Cd was recorded in 2001, and this was followed by a 7 song EP he recorded as a benefit project for the Dave Carter Memorial Fund. His newest release, "While the Paint Dries", was released in 2004.

#42 May 7th, 2005 Annie Capps
Here's how I judge a CD. I put it in the player while on an all-day drive, and if I just keep listening to it long after the entire disc has played through, it's a good one. Annie's CD is so fun and easy to listen to that we just had to ask her to come down from Ann Arbor, MI to Evansville to perform for you at the cabin. I love the way her lyrics make you realize that she's just an average person who's not afraid to state the truth about what she's thinking in the context of a good lyric. She performs with her multi-instrumentalist husband Rod, who shares my love for funky old instruments.

I'm not sure how we started, but somehow Annie, Rod and I started busting each other's chops from the moment they were introduced to the audience--we had an immediate comfort and friendship. During their encore, Rod asked the audience if they wanted to hear banjo or mandolin (Rod's a multi-instrumentalist) and someone said "both", and suggested I join in. I'm reluctant to do that, because these shows are more about presenting than performing for me, but I really enjoyed picking up Rod's dobro mandolin and sharing a solo with them.

#43 June 18th, 2005 Dana and Sue Robinson
I just love these folks. Since they were here last, Sue traded a difficult to remember last name for a wedding ring, and I couldn't be happier for them--they're really a great duo. In conversation, Dana seems like the country gentleman farmer, someone who likes to keep things simple and honest. But his songwriting reveals a much more perceptive and complex individual lies just beneath the surface. Building a bridge between original songs and a strong influence of traditional appalachian music, Dana and Sue delivered a wonderful set of stories set to the music of guitar, old time banjo and fiddle.

Later, after everyone else had gone, Dana and I were talking about old tunes and ended up playing a duet on one of the first songs I learned to play on guitar--Mr. Bojangles. I suppose every folksinger who grew up in the 60's and 70's knows that one, and it is still one of my all time favorite campfire songs.

#44 July 16th, 2005 Edie Carey
Teddy Goldstein first told us about Edie Carey, whom he performed with as part of a tour called "Live from New York" that also included Andrew Kerr and Anne Heaton. It was a great recommendation, because once I heard Edie's CD I knew she's be a great cap to our season of shows before taking a summer break.

Edie's from Boston, fertile ground for any folkie, but it wasn't until she moved to NYC to attend Barnard College that she discovered the world of acoustic music, listening to the likes of Ani DiFranco and others on stage at the Postcrypt coffeehouse. You can hear the energy of that influence in Edie's music, but her songs are all her own, intelligent and direct, with a groove that makes you want to move. Here's more about Edie Carey...

#45 Friday, August 12th, 2005 Teddy Goldstein
Teddy's show last March was so popular that it sold out in just 15 hours, so we had to bring him back to give everyone a chance to see him again! Teddy's quick wit and sarcastic sense of humor will leave you hanging on every word. He improvises and interjects observations in the course of presenting his songs, and you never know what to expect. I could ramble on about how terrific a performer Teddy is, but it's obvious that people here in Evansville already know that. He's an exceptional guitarist and songwriter, but his delivery will be what impresses you most. Here's more about Teddy Goldstein...

We're taking a break in September because Tim has a full schedule of Irish music festivals and renaissance faire's to attend.

#46 Saturday, October 8th, 2005 Dorian Michael
Dorian is an amazing fingerstyle guitarist, along the lings of Micheal Hedges and Leo Koetke. He's been touring and traveling for years, mostly out west, and this will be his first trip to Evansville. I spent some time talking on the phone to Dorian and it's very clear that he's a great storyteller with a pocket of anecdotes as deep as the day is long. He introduced himself to me as a "fellow cabin dweller" and we were off to a great start. We're all in for a treat with this show, and I'm sure you'll be glad you joined us for this one. Here's more about Dorian Michael...

#47 Saturday, November 12th, 2005 Bernice Lewis
I'm really excited to bring Bernice Lewis to Evansville for a concert here at the cabin. She's a deeply insightful and spiritual observer of life, and has a way of touching the truth through her words that is nothing less than remarkable. She's a polished and seasoned performer from the Boston folk scene, who can have you laughing in one moment and gathering tears in the next. You won't want to miss her beautiful voice and keen songwriting. Here's more about Bernice Lewis...

#48 Saturday, December 3, 2005 John Flynn
I am thrilled to bring John Flynn back for a second show. When he joined us last year, it was one of the most memorable nights of all of the shows presented here. I didn't know much about John, he was strongly recommended to me by my friend Vern Crawford at Cousin Andy's Coffeehouse. And if you haven't figured it out yet, Vern knows who is the best of the best and I always trust his recommendations. Anyway, I hadn't even heard John's music yet, so I didn't know what to expect. I was stunned. His songs paint pictures that you can live in, getting to know the characters and circumstances, and he tells a story that both intrigues and inspires. John is one of those people that I could talk to for hours over coffee and still feel like too little time was spent. In fact, we did, and I was sorry he had to leave. Please come and join us in welcoming John Flynn's return to Evansville. Here's more about John Flynn...

#49 Saturday, January 21 2006 Troubadours of Divine Bliss
The "troubs" came back for an encore performance that was as spontaneous and charming as their first show a couple years ago. Tim sat in as a guest Troubadour on mandolin, donning hat and wit for just a few songs. The house was packed, as expected, and the show was wonderful! Here's more about the Troubs...

#50 Saturday March 4, 2006 The Cantrells
THE CANTRELLS have been bringing their unique style of acoustic music to a growing number of fans across the country since before their marriage in 1985. Their music has been featured on National Public Radio's "Mountain Stage" and "Riders Radio Theater" as well as numerous other local, regional and national radio programs. They were chosen by Robert Redford to appear playing old-time fiddle tunes in his hit movie A River Runs Through It.

Whether performing live on the radio, on film, in the intimate setting of a coffeehouse or on stage before a thousand-strong festival audience, The Cantrells invariably deliver an exciting show that will warm your heart.
Including songs from all three of their recordings (the variety there alone allows for plenty of surprises), they add selections from their repertoire of over 400 bluegrass, western, western swing, Irish fiddle tunes, original contradance tunes, jazz standards, and even an occasional Broadway "hit.". Here's more about The Cantrell's...

#51 Saturday, March 25th, 2006 Kevin Danzig
Kevin Danzig has been playing instruments nearly his entire life and professionally since the age of 18. The traveling troubadour, who has performed in a wide range of venues throughout North America, is accompanied by his acoustic guitar and a harmonica; he plays a tambourine with his foot.

At age 11, Kevin was recording for K-TEL Records, (Mike Curb Productions), as one of the jubilant voices of "50 Children's Favorites", (as seen on TV). It was in 1978, however, that he got his first big...rejection, when Chuck Barris, (host of the Gong Show), told him, "Kid, you're too good for this show!"

It is life experiences like these and the many years of traveling the back roads of America, playing clubs, concert halls, college campuses, coffee shops, outdoor arenas, and house concerts, that have led to Kevin's unique style of songwriting.
Originality is his hallmark, and while many of the protagonists of his songs are not entirely mainstream, (a ledge jumper, an armed-robber single mom, etc.), Kevin's lyrics are invariably intelligent and the instrumental arrangements are in perfect sync and skillfully executed.

Over the last 10 years, Kevin has recorded five full length CD's of original
material, (Four solo and one with Cat Woolley). His original song, The Great Mississippi, has been claimed by Cape Girardeau, MO as its town anthem. Kevin delivered a live performance during the town's 4th of July Liberty Fest celebration.

Among fellow singer/songwriters Kevin's performed alongside or opened for are: John Mayer, Shawn Mullins, Ellis Paul, Martin Sexton, Edwin McCain, Fred Eaglesmith, Leo Kottke, John Hammond, Anne Hills, Chuck Pyle, Trout Fishing in America, Chuck Brodsky, Spencer Bohren, The Allison Brown Quartet, The Judith Edelman Band, Still on the Hill, Kate Campbell, The Radiators, among many others. . Here's more about Kevin Danzig...

#52 Saturday, April 15th, 2006 Jubilant Bridge
A dulcimer wizard and a pure-voiced poet are the heart and soul of Jubilant Bridge. Pure harmonies and a sense of fun are the hallmarks of every Jubilant Bridge performance. Although they come from a rich aural tradition, they surprise audiences with counter melodies, changing time signatures, and well-chosen dissonance. The instruments go beyond simple accompaniment; the arrangements and the songs themselves are meshed.

Mountain dulcimer wizard and vocalist Willie Jaeger takes what is often thought of as a “simple” folk instrument and discovers its complexity. He has also been a finalist in the national mountain dulcimer championship at Winfield, Kansas. An engaging singer, he also plays hammered dulcimer and guitar, and composes instrumentals and the occasional song.

Vocalist and guitarist Carol Van Alstine provides Jubilant Bridge with most of its distinctive original songs. Her voice has been described as striking and ethereal Her musical experiences range from performing at the bottom of the Grand Canyon to singing soprano in Renaissance choirs.. Here's more about Jubilant Bridge...

#53 Saturday, May 13th, 2006 Jay Mankita
Jay Mankita is a masterful acoustic guitarist and singer/songwriter, whose styles range from blues, bluegrass, and ballads, through ragtime, swing, and samba, and from old standards to quirky originals. His songs guide us on an authentic journey through the human condition, with honesty and compassion, and a healthy dose of humorous insight. Jay's concerts are intimate and hopeful, always thought provoking, irreverently funny, and musically refreshing.

Jay has been playing guitar, composing, and performing his original songs for 25 years. During this time, he's also been an actor, photographer, environmental activist, swing dancer, children's performer, playwright, and occasional world traveler. He is currently studying the music, language, and culture of Brazil, and is planning to tour the country next year in a bio-diesel van.

Jay says songwriting is the interface between what he's learned of the world, and the mysteries of the spirit. It's a balancing act, and he likens it to having one foot marching for social justice, and one foot dancing in heaven, all the while trying to keep from putting either one of those feet in his mouth! Even so, songwriting is the best way he has found to help teach himself how to live, although he admits he's a terrible student. Here's more about Jay Mankita...

#54 Saturday June 3, 2006 The Laws
John and Michelle Law are an absolutely wonderful couple of people who love life, love good food, and love each other. We had talked for years about bringing this Canadian duo to the cabin, and finally had the opportunity. I'm sure glad we did! John's an awesome guitarist who was playing in a band at a party when Michelle spotted him and started to write the love story that would take them on a musical adventure that is still being written. Here's more about The Laws...

#55 Saturday, July 15th, 2006 Jen Cass
If there are people who are bound for success at whatever they put their heart and mind to, then Jen Kass is driving their bus. She writes and performs truly remarkable songs, was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records for solving the Rubik's Cube while she was still a pre-teen, and before reaching the age of 30 had already begun and retired from a career as a defense attorney. I only mention these things because it's just a small indication of how she measures "a worthwhile song" by her own standards. If you have a chance, please go see Jen Cass for yourself! Here's more about Jen Cass...

#56 Saturday, August 12th, 2006 Wild Carrot
Pamela and Spencer never fail to remind me that I've made some great friends over these several years of hosting house concerts. They share wonderful music as a duo, and afterward we share wonderful conversations that probably keep us up later than we need to be, but never without regrets. With a mix of instruments, and a blend of musical styles from traditional to contemporary, Wild Carrot has something to suit everyone's taste. They're based in Cincinnati, so if you check their website, you can see where thy'll be playing in the area. Here's more about Wild Carrot...

#57 Saturday, October 14th Alan Rhody
Alan is one of those songwriters whom I might never have heard of if it wasn't for the start of this house concert series. He was one of our first performers, and has since become a local favorite with his honest and wry delivery of some really remarkable songwriting. Alan tells stories that need to be heard. Many others who have recorded his songs agree with that sentiment, including Del McCoury, Tanya Tucker, Ricky Van Shelton, Michael Martin Murphy, George Jones, and The Oak Ridge Boys.

Every time Alan plays here at the cabin, I wonder why we waited so long to have him back. The shows are wonderful, and he's developed quite a few fans here in Evansville. Alan's also a painter, and along with his several CD releases, he sometimes sells original hand-painted t-shirts at his shows. They're very cool, but I need one in my size!! More about Alan...

#58 Saturday, November 4th, 2006 Paul Sprawl
Once again, Paul Sprawl created one of the most memorable nights I've ever experienced, but I think this time, Evansville did just the same for him. I've got to tell this story...

Paul, his performance artist wife, and band of amazing musician friends from Nashville were coming to the cabin in a bus. This is not your VW sort of bus, but something that can only be described as a stubby Greyhound sort of thing. There was no way it would get down the driveway to the cabin. So they drove past, turned the corner, and saw a convenient place to make a 3 point turn. The only problem is that at 5:30 on an Indiana Novemer evening, it's dark outside, and the creek running alongside the road was not readily apparent until the back wheels of the bus dropped off the edge.

The bus blocked traffic in both directions. Guests will start arriving in two hours and I've got spaghetti sauce simmering on the stove. I turned down the heat on the sauce, and drove to the scene of the situation. There was no way my Dodge Dakota was going to pull a bus out of a ditch. It looked like a hopeless and expensive situation, and to top it off, a police cruiser arrived on the scene.

But this Evansville. Things work differently here. The turn-around spot happened to be where my neighbor, Danny Mark, houses a massive dump truck. The police officer just happens to be a fine jazz bassist. By 6:30, the bus was parked at Danny's place, the gear was unloaded and moved to the cabin, a jazz bassist was joining the band for the evening, and we were sitting down to a great Italian feast. By the time the guests arrived, you would never know that this was a show that nearly didn't happen. I'm sure that Paul is telling stories about the amazing people in Evansville, Indiana. More about Paul...

#59 Saturday, December 16th, 2006 Small Potatoes
I feel really lucky to have met Rich and Jacquie back in 2003. They've become good friends and remain my absolute favorite musical duo. They're the one group that I try to bring back every year, and every single time it's for a packed audience. They'll be back in 2007, and I can't wait!! More about Small Potatoes...

#60 Saturday, January 13th, 2007 Billie Joyce
Wow. It's always exciting to discover a new artist and bring them here to Evansville, and that's how we're starting out the new year. Billie was raised in rural Saskatchewan, started touring with her own country rock band at the age of 17, worked as a guard at a maximum security prison, and eventually moved to Nashville to again pursue her songwriting and music career. Billie tours internationally, writes from the heart, and confronts the darker side of humanity with grace and power. More about Billie...

#61 Friday, February 9th, 2007 Dana and Sue Robinson
I'm thrilled to have Dana and Sue back at the cabin. They've been here a couple of times before, and it's always a treat. Dana's original songs reveal wit and intelligence personably presented in a bisque of traditional folk music and seasoned with a generous helping of Appalachia. Sue's been adding her own blend of old time banjo and voice to the mixture, and the two present wonderful arrangements of some old tunes and songs. It's always a great treat to share them with you. More about Dana and Sue...

#62 Saturday, March 3rd, 2007 Annie and Rod Capps
We had such a great time the first time Annie and Rod came to the cabin, I jst had to bring them back. Annie writes these great songs that you want to listen to again and again. Rod skillfully textures her songs with instruments and vocals, and combined with Annie's wry and introspective revelations, they'll keep you entertained to the last note. More about Annie and Rod...

#63 Saturday, April 7th, 2007 Diana Jones
In the December 10th edition of the Chicago Tribune, Chrissie Dickinson made Diana Jones her #1 pick of her Top Ten country artists, on a list that includes Willie Nelson, Alan Jackson, Kenny Rogers, Ronnie Milsap, Vince Gill, and Marty Stuart. Here's what she said...

"Like Alison Krauss, Gillian Welch and Iris DeMent, Jones is a singular voice who chooses art over easy commerce. At 41, the singer-songwriter emerged from a period of retrenchment to release this striking acoustic song-cycle, a minor masterwork of depth and grace. Riding an old-timey vibe that never sounds fussy, and singing in a voice subtly shaded by the high lonesome sound, Jones is an Americana gem. Whether she's limning the despair of a dance-hall girl on "Pretty Girl" or the aching dislocation of a Native American child on "Pony," Jones brings a Haggard-esque sensitivity to these self-penned songs." More about Diana...

Saturday, May 12th, 2007 Jill Jack - This show has been rescheduled!
Hailing from Detroit where she's cut her musical teeth on the bar scene, Jill Jack has developed a strong following and a long list of credits as an opening act for some big name stars. I fell in love with her voice, and her CD is still playing in the truck as I drive to work and back home again. Here's a quote from Billboard Magazine-- "Jill Jack has all the makings of a major talent. She's got the stage presence, the voice, the ability to interpret songs passionately ... there's a lot of soul in what she does". I'm really excited to bring Jill to Evansville. More about Jill...

#64 Saturday, June 16th, 2007 Hunter Moore
I heard about Hunter Moore about five years ago, and thought to myself, "wow, this guy is good, we should see if he wants to play in Evansville". Then, as with so many things that get left unfinished if you don't pick them up right away, I never followed through. As fortune would have it, Hunter contacted me and I seized the opportunity to set a date when we could bring this fine songwriter to the cabin. I am sure you'll really enjoy this show! Here's more about Hunter...

We're taking a little time off this summer, to do some traveling and catch some great music festivals. We'll start back up in September!

#65 Saturday, September 8th, 2007 Jill Jack
Hailing from Detroit where she's cut her musical teeth on the bar scene, Jill Jack has developed a strong following and a long list of credits as an opening act for some big name stars. I fell in love with her voice, and her CD is still playing in the truck as I drive to work and back home again. Here's a quote from Billboard Magazine-- "Jill Jack has all the makings of a major talent. She's got the stage presence, the voice, the ability to interpret songs passionately ... there's a lot of soul in what she does". I'm really excited to bring Jill to Evansville. Here's more about Jill...

#66 Friday, October 5th, 2007 Chris Proctor
Every once in a while, we get lucky, like when Simon Mayor had to be in Nashville for a radio show, and just happened to be free the Saturday night before that. And the result of that luck is that we get to have a performer play for us at the cabin who is simply too good for such a small venue. "Too good" definitely describes Chris Proctor, who is known among fingerstyle guitarists as a master of the craft. Chris has 10 CDs under his name, a Taylor guitar with his name on it, several books that teach his music, Homespun instructional DVDs, and probably much more that I'm forgetting at the moment. Chris is the consumate teacher, writing for many of the guitar magazines and teaching workshops wherever he travels. In Evansville, he'll be teaching a workshop at The Guitar Lab on Thursday, October 4th at 7pm. If you're a student of the guitar, don't miss this great chance to learn from a master! Then, come to the cabin on Friday and catch a great Chris Proctor performance! Here's more about Chris...

#67 Saturday, November 17th, 2007 Buddy Mondlock
Buddy has one of those names that has come up so many times in music circles that I feel like I'm supposed to know him. And once I started looking into his bio, I was really surprised! Let me share just one paragraph, and you'll see what I mean...

When Buddy made his first trip to Texas Guy Clark heard him singing one of his songs under a tree at the Kerrville Folk Festival and liked it. So Guy went back to Nashville, opened the door and said, “listen to this kid, he’s good!” A publishing deal and a U-Haul headed south soon followed. People were starting to pay attention. In 1987 he was a New Folk Award Winner at Kerrville and he released his first album called “On the Line.”  David Wilcox recorded “The Kid” on his first record for A&M. Buddy did some writing with this other new kid in town named Garth Brooks (they had the same manager). Janis Ian heard him singing at the Bluebird Cafe and asked him if he’d like to write with her. Their song “Amsterdam” got recorded by Joan Baez. Nanci Griffith asked Buddy to sing on a show she was taping for Irish television. She ended up liking that song so much that she recorded “Comin’ Down In the Rain” on her Grammy Award winning collection “Other Voices, Other Rooms.” Garth became a star and “Every Now and Then” ended up on his album “The Chase.”

With a bio like that, you can imagine my surprise when Buddy's booking agent contacted me. I thought we'd be too small a venue to even consider, but I guess our reputation as a venue with a great audience is playing in our favor once again. Thanks, everybody!! Here's more about Buddy...

#68 Saturday, December 15th, 2007 Small Potatoes
I don't think I'll ever get tired of raving about my absolute favorite performers on the national folk music scene. They'll have you rolling with laughter in one song and trying to hold back tears in the next--okay, maybe they'll slip a little toe-tapper in-between, but you get the idea. Their songs have humor and heart, irony and compassion, sarcasm, intelligence, wit, and all in the right places. This is their fifth time playing at the cabin, and every show in the past has been sold out, sometimes before I've even had a chance to announce it. If you've never seen Rich Prezioso and Jacquie Manning perform before, you really won't want to miss this one! Here's more about Small Potatoes...