For my inaugural post on my Blog it is only appropriate to to talk about Merlfest, taking place this weekend in Wilkesboro, NC.
I wish I was there, but alas not this year. For those who have never been. This is not just a Bluegrass festival. It truly explores the history future and depth of American music. For example one of the headliners this year is Elvis Costello. They also have the big names in the Genre. Alison Krauss, Sam Bush etc., all of which will put on great shows in there own right. However two things set Merlefest apart. First is the young up and coming artists that are the future of Americana. This year's crop includes, Crooked Still, Infamous Stringdusters, Uncle Earl, The Cherryholmes and The Worthless Son-in Laws. The second thing that makes Merlefest so great is Side stages and guest appearances that get these grest artisits jamming together. Other festivals like Telluride have a similar vibe, but the variety of stages and the midnight jam on Saturday provide more opportunities for such improvisation.
One other thing makes Merlefest so great, the incomparable Doc Watson
