Friday, February 20, 2009

One more fest on the spring lineup




Memorial Day Weekend May 22 and 23, Acoustic Cafe. This is a very small fest in northern Alabama, with some newgrass and bluegrass greats, including the great Dread Clampitt. We all basically camp in Steve, the promoter's, yard. It's a steep mountainside and he has ample acreage. He says: "the largest gathering of earthy tie-died people in Alabama. The music is what brings people to the mountain; the sense of village that we have created is what keeps people coming back. Among this colorful crowd of VW buses and dread locks is a real feeling of love. The children are polite, camp sites are clean, & we even sort the recyclables out of our trash. I continue to invite this crowd to my home because they know how to act and they leave the place as pretty as they find it. I dare say there is not a better crowd anywhere."

One band plays on stage at a time, which I love because everyone experiences the sme thing at the same time, and I don't have to make any decisions! Oh so relaxing. This is a very kid-friendly event. Very sweet spot, lots of cool rock ledges. You can only have tents up there, RVs have to park down the mountain. Steve makes an exception for VW busses.

We heard Dread Clampitt acoustic in Steve's natural ampitheatre, where the rocks seem to convey the music. The music was intricate and soulful, and the audience was silently awed. I will never forget it, one of the absolute highlights of my life as a music lover.

Steve has porta potties, a hose to wash down with, one food vendor, and free coffee - !! - on his porch. Best to come fully prepared with all your supplies and your smile. We met some of the most wonderful folks there last year and Steve himself is a gem and so generous to offer up his land for music magic.

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