Chris Proctor in concert, Sunday, February 27

Fingerstyle guitar virtuoso and composer Chris Proctor will make his second appearance at Lapwai Lane Shredders Club on Sunday, February 27. His 30 year career as a touring performer finds him at the pinnacle of the international guitar community, as a guitar wizard's wizard. It is a rare treat to hear a guitar player so lyrical, yet so technically flawless.

Also appearing will be Reanaleia Behling, a marvelously talented improvisational vocalist!

Sunday, February 27
Potluck 5 p.m. (Bring a delicious covered dish and your favorite beverage. No desserts please.)
Showtime 7 p.m.
Artist donation: $15 Advance, $20 Door

To reserve seats, make check payable to Chris Proctor and mail to:
7245 Lapwai Lane
Darby, MT 59829

Directions/Questions: jay@jaytoups.com | 406 349-2943

Storyhill to appear December 12 at LLSC

Storyhill is a powerful singer-songwriting duo that brings infectious melodies, smart story songs and heartbreaking harmonies together in a perfect package. Chris Cunningham and John Hermanson began performing together as teenagers while living in Bozeman, Montana. That was over 20 years ago, and the rest is music history! Fresh from their first appearance on A Prairie Home Companion, Storyhill will make its first appearance at Lapwai Lane Shredders Club for a special holiday house concert.

Storyhill has recently released "Shade of the Trees" which hit the #1 spot on the Amazon folk charts. Come see this amazing duo and pick up your copy. They also make great Christmas gifts! (No, not Chris and Johnny, their recordings...:-)

"It is difficult to describe the feeling I get when listening to your music. Like feeling full; but in my heart, not my stomach. Thank you." - Claire, comment on Storyhill web site

Storyhill: A House Concert for the Holidays
Sunday, December 12
Potluck 5 p.m. (Bring a delicious covered dish and your favorite beverage. No desserts please.)
Showtime 7 p.m.
Artist donation: $20 Advance only (45 people)

To reserve seats, make check payable to Storyhill and mail to:
7245 Lapwai Lane
Darby, MT 59829

Directions/Questions: jay@jaytoups.com | 406 349-2943

More information about Storyhill | Listen to Storyhill's recent performance on A Prairie Home Companion

Paul Boruff in concert, Saturday, October 9

He's recorded and performed an incredible array music over his 35 year career as a professional musician: folk, swing, big band, jazz, old time, bluegrass, blues. He's never had a "real" job since mustering out of the US Navy, where he sang in the Navy Big Band.

Paul will make his 3rd appearance at Lapwai Lane Shredders Club on Saturday, October 9. Why so many appearances here? He is hugely talented and warm, his songs are honest, and every one rings true. Come hear a full evening of great songs and stories and a voice to remember.

http://www.paulboruff.com

Friday, October 9

Potluck: 6 p.m.

Showtime: 7:30 p.m.

Bring your favorite covered dish and a beverage. (No desserts please...they are handled...)

Friday August 27: Mitch Barrett, with Owen Reynolds, bassist

Mitch Barrett

Award-winning songwriter and performer Mitch Barrett, along with upright bassist Owen Reynolds, is on his way to headline the Yellowstone Music & Arts Festival. Catch him here on Friday, August 27th!

www.mitchbarrettmusic.com

Potluck: 6 p.m. Showtime 8 p.m.

Shows are $15 in advance, $20 door

More info

Summer House Concerts

Sunday July 11: Raina Rose Trio, with Anthony da Costa

Raina Rose Trio w/ Anthony da Costa

www.rainarose.com

www.anthonydacosta.com

Check out Raina online, she's dynamite, and so is Anthony da Costa!

Potluck: 6 p.m. Showtime 8 p.m.

Friday August 27: Mitch Barrett, with Owen Reynolds, bassist

Mitch Barrett

Award-winning songwriter and performer Mitch Barrett, along with upright bassist Owen Reynolds, is on his way to headline the Yellowstone Music & Arts Festival. Catch him here on Friday, August 27th!

www.mitchbarrettmusic.com

Potluck: 6 p.m. Showtime 8 p.m.

Shows are $15 in advance, $20 door

More info

Mike & Tari Conroy: Excellent show

Mike and Tari Conroy put on a beautiful show with a full evening of bluegrass songs and tunes on guitar, mandolin, and two different banjos. Listen and you'll agree, these guys are the real deal when it comes to traditional musicianship. Right here in the Bitterroot!

(Right click, open streaming audio links in new tab or window to stay on this page.)

Here's set 1

Here's set 2 in 2 parts:

Set 2 part 1 and part 2

Mike & Tari Conroy in concert, Friday, December 11

In a rare public concert performance, Mike & Tari Conroy from Conner, Montana, will be featured playing bluegrass music drawn from their nine recordings and a lifetime of traditional music making.

"Mike and Tari’s performance is clean and sincere with a simplicity that lets the listener get right to the core of the music."

-Bluegrass Now

"Anyone relishing charismatic vocal duets should find much to savor in the music of Mike & Tari Conroy"

-Bluegrass Unlimited

These two make a powerful sound, not light on musical depth, traditional roots or skill. Come see 'em and find out what bluegrass is all about, up front and personal. Dress casual for a good time!

Potluck: 5 p.m.
Showtime: 7 p.m.
Tickets: $15 Advance, $20 Door (if available)

Reservations & Directions to venue: Contact jay@jaytoups.com or 406-349-2943

To reserve seats in advance, make check payable to Mike (or Tari) Conroy and mail to:

Jay Toups
7245 Lapwai Lane
Darby, MT 59829

Richard Gilewitz to appear Sunday, November 15

Known as one of the strangest men in acoustic music today, Richard Gilewitz fascinates his audiences with fingerstyle gymnastics on his 6 and 12-string guitars while spinning yarns too unbelievable not to be true. His ability to make one guitar sound like an entire orchestra stems from 33 years of well-honed technique and 25 years of on the road worldwide touring, creating his own signature sound that has been captured on his CDs, DVDs, and songbooks. But it is his live shows that bring out the best in this author, composer, guitarist, humorist, AND storyteller who follows a distinct cadence that creates a glow that continually grows a little brighter with each tune.

Whether playing solo, conducting guitar seminars and school programs, or years of sharing the stage with folks such as The California Guitar Trio, John McCutcheon, John Renbourn, Mose Allison,the late John Fahey, Leo Kottke, Norman Blake, Indigo Girls, John Hammond, Rory Block, or Jane Siberry, Richard Gilewitz always creates a sparkle of mood mastery and wonderment.

Potluck: 5 p.m.
Showtime: 7 p.m.
Tickets: $15 Advance, $20 Door (if available)

Reservations & Directions to venue: Contact jay@jaytoups.com or 406-349-2943

To reserve seats in advance, make check payable to Richard Gilewitz and mail to:

Jay Toups
7245 Lapwai Lane
Darby, MT 59829

Cliff Eberhardt in concert, Sunday, October 25

CANCELLED: Prior evening's engagement fell through and Cliff won't be able to play our show, sorry!

"Eberhardt is better than ever, Steve McQueening his way into your heart at about ninety-eight miles an hour, kicking ass with fresh insight and new ways to lament old yearnings.”
—Philly Rock Guide

Cliff Eberhardt knew by age seven that he was going to be a singer and songwriter. Growing up in Berwyn, Pennsylvania, he and his brothers sang together and their parents played instruments. His dad introduced him to the guitar and he quickly taught himself to play. Fortunate enough to live close to the Main Point (one of the best folk clubs on the East Coast), he cut his teeth listening to the likes of James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, Bruce Springsteen, Howlin’ Wolf, Muddy Waters, Bonnie Raitt, and Mississippi John Hurt — receiving an early and impressive tutorial in acoustic music. At the same time, he was also listening to great pop songwriters like Cole Porter, the Gershwins, and Rodgers and Hart, which explain his penchant for great melodies and clever lyrical twists.

At fifteen, Cliff and his brother Geoff began touring as an acoustic duo, playing the Eastern club circuit until Cliff turned twenty-one and moved to Carbondale, Illinois. There he found space to develop his own voice within a vibrant and supportive music scene that included Shawn Colvin. After a couple of years there and a short stay in Colorado, Cliff moved to New York in 1978.

Because the clubs were great (the Bitter End, the Speakeasy, Kenny’s Castaway, Folk City) and the company amazing (John Gorka, Suzanne Vega, Lucy Kaplansky, Julie Gold, Steve Forbert, Christine Lavin, and Shawn Colvin), New York was an ideal musician’s boot camp. Though he put in long hours as a taxi driver, Cliff worked steadily on his music throughout the 80’s, doing solo gigs and studio work, and playing guitar on the road with Richie Havens, Melanie and others. Singing advertising jingles for products like Coke, Miller Beer and Chevrolet (“The Heartbeat of America” campaign) allowed him to devote more time to his songwriting.

In 1990 Cliff’s song “My Father’s Shoes,” appeared on Windham Hill’s Legacy collection, leading to a deal with the label. They released Cliff’s first album, The Long Road (1990), a work featuring a duet with Richie Havens. The critical response to this debut was outstanding (the Philadelphia Inquirer called the album a “repeatedly astounding collection”). He followed with two more records on Shanachie before releasing, 12 Songs of Good and Evil (1997) on Red House Records, which stemmed from a chance meeting with Red House founder Bob Feldman at John Gorka’s wedding. Since then, Cliff has released 4 albums on the label-Borders, School For Love,12 Songs of Good & Evil and his current one- The High Above & the Down Below, recorded in Minneapolis with noted jazz players Gordy Johnson, J. T. Bates and Rich Dworsky.

Long one of the most respected songwriters on the club scene, his peers often mine his catalog for themselves. Cliff’s song “Memphis” was included on Cry Cry Cry, an album of collaborative covers by the “folk supergroup” of the same name (comprised of Dar Williams, Lucy Kaplansky and Richard Shindell). Other performers who have recorded his songs include Richie Havens, Shawn Colvin, Russ Taff and Buffy Sainte Marie. A collection of his songs has recently been published in The Cliff Eberhardt Songbook (Cherry Lane Publishing).

Cliff is touring to promote the brand new release of 500 Miles: The Blue Rock Sessions. A deeply personal album, it follows his critically acclaimed The High Above and the Down Below, which was named the #5 album of the year in 2008 by USA Today.

For more info and music samples, visit Cliff's web site: http://www.cliffeberhardt.net

Potluck: 5 p.m.
Showtime: 7 p.m.
Tickets: $15 Advance, $20 Door (if available)

Reservations & Directions to venue: Contact jay@jaytoups.com or 406-349-2943

To reserve seats in advance, make check payable to Cliff Eberhardt and mail to:

Jay Toups
7245 Lapwai Lane
Darby, MT 59829

Cliff Eberhardt

Ben Bedford in concert, July 30

We're adding a last-minute show with Ben Bedford, who contacted me recently trying to fill an "off" night as he and his family make their way east for Ben to play more shows. I listened to some of his stuff and was instantly a fan. Come see this guy and hear the magic for yourself!

From Ben's web site:

A storyteller from the age of 3, Bedford began by dictating stories to his parents before he could hold a pen. He continued to write short stories into his early teens. He picked up the guitar at the age of 14 after watching a friend play on a camping trip. In high school Bedford explored many different genres of music, but his world exploded when he discovered his mom's Gordon Lightfoot collection and then began a foray into the world of folk and Americana that included artists such as Townes Van Zandt, Guy Clark, Richard Shindell, Tom Russell and Patty Griffin. The work of these artists resonated with Bedford and inspired him to try his hand at songwriting.

In 2000, Bedford entered the University of Illinois in Urbana with intentions of becoming a history professor. While he finished his degree, he was sidetracked by his love of music and writing. The history lectures and texts instilled in Bedford a fascination with gritty human truths and the plight of the common man/woman through the ages. Bedford has used that love of the past to imbue his characters with a sense of historical reality, yet maintain a heightened emotional and human quality.

Lincoln's Man was released to radio (U.S./Europe/Canada/Australia) January 29, 2008 on his own label, Hopeful Sky Records and reached number eight on the national Folk-DJ charts in February. The title track peaked at number three the same month. Bedford's second album, Land of the Shadows, was the number one album for January 2009 with three songs charting in the top ten, also making Bedford the number one artist.

Both albums are available for purchase at several locations on the web, including his website.

Link to Ben's site.

Annabelle Chvostek in concert Tuesday, June 23

Annabelle Chvostek

Annabelle returns for a second appearance on Tuesday, June 23 at LLSC. If you want to hear her first set (along with Justin Roth backing her up), check the streaming audio section of the sidebar.

"Ms. Chvostek won our hearts and minds... Her show was one of those magical, chemistry-connected sets, with a sense of discovery attached... Singing with pluck and precision, Ms. Chvostek exudes organic musicality, whether when digging into folky roots music or art-pop turf…"

Santa Barbara News-Press Nov 2008

If the name Annabelle Chvostek is familiar, or you've heard of The Wailin' Jennys, it could be from their numerous appearances on A Prairie Home Companion, or perhaps you saw them a few years back in Hamilton. From 2004 to 2006 Annabelle performed over 250 shows with the Wailin' Jennys, including major folk festivals in Canada, Australia, USA, UK. She's recently left the band to pursue a solo career. Come see how she's doing!

"Annabelle made the hair on the back of my neck stand up." - "stunning free form folk...", "she can do everything, and does."

- The Hour, Montreal

Potluck: 5 p.m.
Showtime: 7 p.m.
Tickets: $15 Advance, $20 Door (if available)

Reservations & Directions to venue: Contact jay@jaytoups.com or 406-349-2943

To reserve seats in advance, make check payable to Annabelle Chvostek and mail to:

Jay Toups
7245 Lapwai Lane
Darby, MT 59829

David Boone in concert May 30

Updated June 2: Streaming audio of David's performance
Set 1
Set 2

David at LLSC, September 2007, pics by Tom Robak

More information about David: www.davidboone.net

Potluck: 5 p.m.
Showtime: 7 p.m.
Tickets: $15 Advance, $20 Door (if available)

Reservations & Directions to venue: Contact jay@jaytoups.com or 406-349-2943

To reserve, make check payable to David Boone and mail to:

Jay Toups
7245 Lapwai Lane
Darby, MT 59829

Chris Proctor show a hit, listen to the audio stream

photo: Jay Toups

Fingerstyle guitar virtuoso Chris Proctor played to a full house and the crowd was way into it. People were craning their necks and standing up to see how he was creating all those beautiful sounds as Chris performed two sets of his original compositions and arrangements of traditional tunes, even a cover of "Nights in White Satin," switching between 6 and 12 strings and using advanced guitar techniques such as false harmonics, fingerpicking while using an E-Bow and bottleneck slide. As always, great music from a true superstar of fingerstyle guitar.

photo: Mark Porter

photo: Mark Porter

Wisconsin resident Mark Porter delayed his trip home by a week to come see Chris, even bringing his parents along. They enjoyed it too. Turns out that Mark's a fingerstyle player as well, and I look forward to hearing some of his stuff too.

I've seen Chris many times over the 28 years I've known him. He never fails to amaze and delight the audience, and this show was especially sweet in our own little Folk Taj Mahal. Inspired by the room and the big crowd, Chris gave a stellar performance and won a lot of new fans.

Please feel free to leave a comment about this show.

Here's set 1 and set 2 in streaming audio format.

Chris Proctor in concert, Friday, April 24

Updated April 23: 32 people have reserved. Just a few great seats left...

Chris Proctor
Internationally Renown 6 and 12-String Guitarist, Performer and Composer

Chris Proctor won the U.S. National Fingerstyle Guitar Championship back in 1982, and he hasn't looked back since. He's toured consistently and produced albums rooted in classic Americana, but delved also into folk, Celtic, jazz, pop and classical. He's one of the more revered figures on the acoustic guitar scene... Proctor's virtuoso fingerstyle technique and compositional abilities combine to render an original collection of pieces that very much lives up to its name. In the way Proctor explores melodies, and with his unique variety of tunings and spidery fingerings, he is a true pioneer of the contemporary fingerstyle form.

Ten CDs on Flying Fish, Windham Hill, Rounder and Sugarhouse Records, and his books, DVD's, videos, magazine articles, and endorsements all testify to Chris's standing as one of the elite fingerstyle composers, arrangers, and performers of the day.

"Proctor is...writing challenging compositions and playing them with such precision and clarity that they seem to sparkle... maintaining an evenness of tone and a cleanliness of fingering that will impress fellow guitarists even more than it does lay listeners."

- Washington Post

Suggested Donation: Advance $15, $20 Door

Potluck: 5 p.m.

Showtime: 7 p.m.

(Please bring a covered dish and your favorite beverage. No desserts please;-)

Advance reservations suggested. This show will sell out before show time.

Please make check payable to Chris Proctor and mail to:
Jay Toups
7245 Lapwai Lane
Darby, MT 59829

Questions/Directions? (Google Maps won't get you here, sorry.) Email

Learn more about Chris Proctor

Jenn Adams, great show

Jenn and Lawrence Duncan put on a very nice show, the crowd was into it, and the recordings turned out good too. Here's set 1 and set 2 of their performance, which also includes Jenn's cover of House of the Rising Sun with a subtle (off mic) cameo sit-in by accordionist Laura Hibbs.

Jenn Adams (with Lawrence Duncan) in concert Saturday, March 28

Jenn Adams with special guest, Lawrence Duncan, of Drum Brothers fame

Veteran singer-songwriter Jenn Adams has it all. A powerful, expressive voice, a songwriting language that is clearly her own and a sure-fire command of the stage. Over the last two decades, she's traveled the US performing in listening rooms, coffeehouses, theaters and some of our country's most notable festivals.

She's won top awards from Telluride, Lyons, Kerrville, Falcon Ridge festivals and was recently awarded "Grand Prize Winner" from the USA Songwriting Competition. Having returned to the Northwest music scene (and resettled in Missoula) with an extraordinary backlog of experience and craft, she is widely regarded as one of the most riveting performers on the acoustic circuit.

Lawrence's contribution to the Drum Brothers ensemble is anchored in 25 years of professional woodwind and vocal performance. He is comfortable in diverse musical idioms with saxophone, harp, flutes, and ethnic percussion. He's sure to bring a nice touch to Jenn's songs.

Suggested Donation: Advance $15, $20 Door

Potluck: 5 p.m. (Please bring a covered dish and your favorite beverage. No desserts please;-)
Showtime: 7 p.m.

Advance reservations are appreciated. Please make check payable to Jenn Adams and mail to:

Jay Toups
7245 Lapwai Lane
Darby, MT 59829

Saul Kaye returns

Saul Kaye rolled in just in time to take the stage due to snow and ice, but he didn't miss a beat! Here's audio of his performance: Set 1 and Set 2. There is some channel dropout in the streams, nothing wrong with your setup...

What up at LLSC

We've had some great performances lately. Storyhill was a hit. Gutpuppet was really cool; you had to be there to appreciate what these guys sound like live.

Saul Kaye and his girlfriend Ashley rolled in just in time due to snow and ice, but he didn't miss a beat. Here's audio of his performance: Set 1 and Set 2. There's some channel dropout, apparently a connection was loose. But hey close enough for folk music.

Coming up in concert later this month, Jenn Adams.

Jenn Adams has it all. A powerful, expressive voice, a songwriting language that is clearly her own and a sure-fire command of the stage. Over the last 20 years, she's traveled the US performing in listening rooms, coffeehouses, theaters and some of our country's most notable festivals. She has won top awards from Telluride, Lyons, Kerrville, Falcon Ridge and was recently awarded "Grand Prize Winner" from the USA Songwriting Competition. Having arrived on the Northeast music scene with an extraordinary backlog of experience and craft, she is widely regarded as one of the most riveting performers on the acoustic circuit.

Saul Kaye returns to LLSC, Thursday, February 26

www.saulkaye.com

Thursday, February 26, 2009
Potluck: 5 p.m.
Showtime: 7 p.m.

Join us and make welcome Saul Kaye, from San Francisco by way of South Africa. He's quite a talent, as you'll hear and see. He's headed down to the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah after this show.

"Crooning about in a blues-rock fashion that could get even the most sleepy coffeehouse jumping, Saul Kaye could easily be compared to fellow South African Dave Matthews. Yes his guitar playing is that good. .. his guitar work is steeped in originality. Vocally he accomplishes great harmonies while he sings true-to-form real stories that anyone can relate to."

Suggested Donation: Advance $15, $20 Door

Advance reservations are appreciated. Please make check payable to Saul Kaye and mail to:

Jay Toups
7245 Lapwai Lane
Darby, MT 59829

Gutpuppet: Rare Treat

Scot Ray wields two wooden hammers to make his guitar sound like a hammered dulcimer. Sweet.

Welcome Ravalli Republic visitors, and a special thanks to Stacy Lishok and Will Moss for covering the story of our little house concert venue in the woods. If you're interested in this sort of thing, we invite you to add your name to our mailing list, or just monitor this page, to find out who's going to be performing.

If you're interested in hosting house concerts, feel free to email me with any questions. I'd love to help you become a presenter.

Lapwai Lane Shredders Club might seem a strange name for a music venue, but it is the only name that aptly describes just getting here sometimes, like when there's lots of snow or ice on the road. Last night, 20 people who took a chance on this locally unknown act (with two fairly well-known musicians, Scot Ray and Bill Barrett) and braved our ice-laden road to get up here, Gutpuppet didn't disappoint.

For the folks who managed to get stuck on the road and caused a pile up of cars (several of which had to turn back and go home), you missed a truly fantastic performance. Here's audio of set 1 and here's set 2.

Gutpuppet with Darby's own Kirt Lloyd sitting in. I also got to play tabla on this tune, but it's not very noticeable in the streaming audio.

Gutpuppet to appear Saturday, January 31

Scot Ray and Bill Barrett
"Cross-cultural free folk genre bandits"

Gutpuppet is an LA-based acoustic duo, with Scot Ray on 6, 12, & 22 string slide guitars and slide banjo, along with the mind-bending chromatic harmonica playing of Bill Barrett.

Gutpuppet swings the sonic trapeze between Delta Blues, North Indian raga, Bluegrass, and Gypsy imbued transmutations. Watch the video or check out some glowing CDBaby Reviews here.

Come and check out what the press has called 'the most inventive and unusual sounding music on the market, mixing dazzling jazz improv' with musical influences from around the world and especially from the orient.'' - Benoit Felten, France; 'The best of many worlds...all blended superbly together.' - DMG, NY; "Another nail in the coffin of dead-end blues, the demonstration that, if we're lucky enough, heaven-made acoustic music enters our humble garden one way or another." - Touching Extremes, Italy; "Shitkick stuff, keening India mojo, balladic meditation." - Metaljazz, LA

Join us for an unforgettable evening of instrumental music. Come early and enjoy a great potluck dinner and chatting with Scot and Bill and your fellow Bitterrooters before the show.

Saturday, January 31
Potluck: 5 p.m. (please bring a covered dish and your favorite beverage)
Showtime: 7 p.m.
Suggested Donation: $15 Advance | $20 Door

Venue: Lapwai Lane Shredders Club
7245 Lapwai Lane
Darby, MT 59829

Advance reservations appreciated, and cheaper too. Please make check payable to Gutpuppet and mail to Jay at the address below:

7245 Lapwai Lane
Darby, MT 59829

Questions/Directions: Contact Jay at 349-2943 or email jay@jaytoups.com

2009 Concert Calendar

Gutpuppet (Saturday 01/31/09)

Gutpuppet is a spooky good LA-based duo featuring Bill Barret on Jazz (Chromatic) Harmonica, and 6, 12, & 22 String Slide Guitar by Scott Ray. Think "cross-cultural free folk genre bandits" and you'll get an idea what their instrumental music is all about. Or check them out on their MySpace page. This will be superb music for a quiet January evening in the (hopefully) snow-clad pines.

Saul Kaye (Thursday 02/26/09)

South African-born, San Francisco-based singer songwriter making his second appearance at Lapwai Lane Shredders Club, Saul Kaye is the real deal, a polished performer, exciting and fun to listen to. Saul's songs and live shows take the listener on a journey from the heart on to the dance floor. His vision is to create a world where it is more profitable to help heal the planet and each other than destroy it.

Jenn Adams (Saturday 03/28/09)

Folk music veteran singer songwriter Jenn Adams has it all. A powerful, expressive voice, a songwriting language that is clearly her own and a sure-fire command of the stage. Over the last 20 years, Jenn has extensively traveled the US performing in listening rooms, coffeehouses, theaters and some of our country's most notable festivals. Check her out!

Chris Proctor (Friday 4/24/09)

One of the great fingerstyle guitar players of our time, Chris Proctor is a former US National Fingerstyle Guitar Champ who has 8 CDs in print and a music career spanning three decades. He composes and plays brilliant instrumental music for 6 and 12 string guitar. It also helps that he looks a lot like Christopher Reeves...in his Superman years.

David Boone (Saturday 5/30/09)

Missoula-based singer songwriter makes his second appearance at Lapwai Lane Shredders Club. Soulful songs, an excellent voice and a sensitive musical touch make David Boone stand out as a performer. He might be a local, but he's well worth seeing live in our intimate little concert hall.


Suggested donation for all shows is $15 in advance, $20 at the door. We recommend reserving seats in advance because A: it's cheaper for you, and B: it helps us rural music impresarios plan these fun-filled events even better.

To reserve seats for any of the above shows (except Storyhill), make your check payable to the artist and mail to Jay Toups, 7245 Lapwai Lane, Darby, MT 59829.

Pre-show Potlucks start at 5 p.m. All shows start at 7 p.m. Bring a covered dish and your favorite beverage!

We look forward to seeing you at the show(s) - Jay Toups and Tamera Rackham

---

To learn more about any of these artists and hear their music, click their names to visit their sites. Then reserve your seats for some or all of these great upcoming performances!

Storyhill in Concert, December 7

"Quite possibly the best singing/songwriting duo working today."
- Jay Toups

Fast becoming modern touring legends as a tightly harmonizing duo of extremely talented songwriters, Storyhill (featuring Chris Cunningham and John Hermanson) will appear in concert Sunday, December 7 at Rockin' Horse Ranch, home of HalfabubbleOff Studios.

Bozeman (Chris) and Minneapolis (John) based Storyhill recently won the Indie Acoustic Project’s award for Best CD of 2007 in the acoustic ensemble category for their label debut Storyhill. Released in February of 2007, the album was produced by Grammy-winning producer and songwriter Dan Wilson and has garnered much national attention. Storyhill has gone on to win the prestigious 35th Annual Grassy Hill Kerrville New Folk Contest.

Storyhill in Concert
Sunday, December 7
Potluck: 5 p.m. (please bring a covered dish and your favorite beverage)
Showtime: 7 p.m.
Suggested Donation: $15 Advance | $20 Door

Venue: Halfabubbleoff Studios
181 Hart Bench
Darby, MT 59829

Advance reservations advised. Please make check payable to Storyhill and mail to Donna Pearson at the address below:

181 Hart Bench
Darby, MT 59829

Questions/Directions: Contact Donna at 821-2033 or email donna@mtnmortgage.net.

Thanks for supporting folk music in the Bitterroot. Please forward this message to anyone you think would enjoy this show.

Adventurous types can hear Chris Cunningham's solo appearance at LLSC in 2007. Check the Show Streams on the sidebar of this page.

Matching Ties in Concert, Friday, October 24

Matching Ties is Paul Stowe and Trevor Morriss. They're a dynamic, highly engaging duo from Germany, although Paul is American and Trevor is British. These guys put on a show to remember. They've worked together as a duo, a trio with a bassist, a quartet with a fiddler across Europe for over 20 years. I guess you could say they're "audience tested."

Come enjoy a full evening of Irish, British and related American folk, bluegrass and acoustic blues with Trevor Morriss from London, GB on mandolin, Irish bouzouki, guitar and vocals, and Paul Stowe on acoustic guitar and vocals.

If you would like to know more about Matching Ties, visit www.matchingties.com.

Matching Ties
Friday, October 24
Potluck: 5 p.m. (Please bring a covered dish and a favorite beverage)
Showtime: 7 p.m.
Suggested Donation: $15 Advance | $20 Door

Bob Sima: Concert Review

Check out the streaming audio of Bob Sima's show here for set 1 and here for set 2

Turns out that Bob's got some kinda talent, and our crowd of 20 loved his stuff. His soulful, "frontman-quality" voice, compelling songs, and dynamic guitar added up to a lovely, lively evening of great music and songs. And how cool is this: his last big gig was at the Kennedy Center just a week or so ago, and this was his first gig in the Bitterroot.

Bob Sima in Concert, August 12

"Bob Sima is a dynamic performer whose grace and power on the stage are as engaging as the songs he writes. His star is rising ever so fast, hire him now before you can't afford him."

- Michael Stiles

Bob Sima literally burst onto the singer-songwriter scene after taking a hiatus from his band Stereopool, a highly successful acoustic power trio from the Annapolis, MD area. Stereopool has made a name for themselves in the local and regional scene for their brand of energetic, evocative acoustic power folk music. They shared the stage with NRBQ, Eddie from Ohio, Ari Hest and many local legends and landed a UK distribution deal with Smart Choice Music (Kathleen Edwards, John Prine, Lyle Lovett) and were featured on the Smart Choice Sampler which landed them in Maverick Magazine.

November 2006, Bob released his first solo release entitled POUR IT ON. It was produced by David Weber in Bloomington, Indiana (Krista Detor, Carrie Newcomer) and was quickly named "CD OF THE YEAR" by the former Westside Café. Pour It On is an amazing collection of songs captured "in the moment" with a very live feel.

Bob's song "Amazed By You" has landed him in the top 1% of all time in the Acoustic Genre at GARAGEBAND.COM. He has also reached #2 ALL-Time in Male Vocals (Acoustic). His music has won awards from Songwriteruniverse.com, has been webcasted, podcasted and beamed through satellite radio waves.

Bob has played many of the top venues in the mid Atlantic including Rams Head OnStage, IOTA, World Cafe Live, Fletchers, Cellar Stage, Columbia Lakefront Concert Series, Dewey Beach Music Conference and the National Folk Alliance Festival and Conference, Falcon Ridge Folk Festival and the Susquehanna Music and Arts Festival. Bob is also a highly sought after house concert player and has played dozens of house concerts all across the country. Bob also hosts and books a singer songwriter in the round at the Austin Grill in Rockville, MD.

Bob Sima
Tuesday, August 12
Potluck: 5 p.m. (Please bring a covered dish and a favorite beverage)
Showtime: 7 p.m.
Suggested Donation: $15 Advance | $20 Door

Advance reservations: Make check payable to Bob Sima and mail to:
Jay Toups
7245 Lapwai Lane
Darby, MT 59829
jay@jaytoups.com
406 349-2943

Carl Tosten to appear July 12

Carl Tosten

Modern acoustic. Singer/songwriter. Contemporary folk. Carl Tosten is a musician whose style defies easy classification. With his strong and soulful voice and an eclectic & expressive guitar technique that includes percussion, tapping, multiple open tunings and capos, Tosten has been called an “acoustic one-man band.” Classical and jazzy overtones elevate his music to a level more sophisticated than simply “folk.” His live performances are filled with intense energy, stories, and songs that captivate and inspire his audiences.

Interview: Carl Tosten at the Montreal Guitar Show

"Tosten's superbly crafted lyrics share the spotlight with intricate and aggressive guitar arrangements, combining virtuosity with sensitivity and a social conscience." — Victory Review
“One of the most unique talents of the day.” Bill Gonder, Gibson Montana
“Acoustic one-man-band” Planet Media, Frankfurt Germany.
“An amazing guitarist and vocalist...“ Tuck & Patti

GUITAR MASTERS VOL. 1:This compilation CD includes a track by Carl Tosten and also features guitarists Allan Holdsworth, Jeff Beck, Steve Morse, John Scofield, Pete Anderson and others. Available now at Tower.com, Bestbuy.com and Amazon.com

Carl Tosten
Saturday, July 12
Potluck: 5 p.m. (Please bring a covered dish and a favorite beverage)
Showtime: 7 p.m.
Suggested Donation: $15 Advance | $20 Door

Advance reservations: Make check payable to Carl Tosten and mail to:
Jay Toups
7245 Lapwai Lane
Darby, MT 59829
jay@jaytoups.com
406 349-2943

Big Sky Coalition Benefit Concert in Darby, June 19

The Floating Glass Balls, a bluegrass band from Oregon, will play a benefit concert at the Darby Clubhouse in Darby on Thursday, June 19th. Doors open at 6 p.m., showtime is 7 p.m.

This event is by presented by Jay Toups, volunteer webmaster on behalf of the Big Sky Coalition, Environmentalists with Common Sense. Advance tickets can be purchased at Little Blue Joint in Darby and the Music Box in Hamilton.

Terry Holder to appear May 30

Terry Holder to appear Friday, May 30 at Halfabubbleoff Studios

Dorian Michael to appear April 27

Dorian Michael

"I have been a working (and working class) guitarist for about 40 years now. I’ve played plenty of blues and folk, jazz and rock and roll. I think of my acoustic solo music as "contemporary traditional"; original music that reflects my interest in a number of styles of music. These influences come through in my original material, but it is a contemporary music that grows from, rather than mimics, those influences. When I play someone else's music or a traditional piece I do my best to give the listener at least a few small surprises."

Sunday, April 27
Potluck: 5 p.m.
Showtime: 7 p.m.
Suggested Donation: $15 Advance | $20 Door

Advance reservations: Make check payable to Dorian Michael and mail to:
Jay Toups
7245 Lapwai Lane
Darby, MT 59829
jay@jaytoups.com
406 349-2943

Chris Ayer to appear March 28

Last night as it snowed up a storm outside Chris Ayer put on an excellent show for 45 people, and he was accompanied by Jim Pearson on keys and guitar on several songs. At 25 years old, Chris sings beautifully, writes interesting, smart songs and has a bright future in the singer-songwriter trade. Check him out!

Chris Ayer

Due to anticipated demand, this show is being held in a larger venue, Halfabubbleoff Studios. See below for more info.

Chris Ayer's clever lyrics and song structure are driving a powerful career path for this 25 year old singer/songwriter. Chris tours nationally and won the Grand Prize in the 2006 John Lennon Songwriting Competition Folk category for "Evaporate". In November 2006 the song was also recognized by VH-1, winning Song Of The Month in their Save The Music competition (Adult Contemporary Category). Chris was also Performing Songwriter Magazine's "Do It Yourself" pick for March 2007. His latest album, This Is The Place, was recorded in Nashville and produced by Jason Gantt (The Chieftains, Brooks & Dunn, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill). Chris's next studio album is set for release in spring 2008.

"Part street poet, part armchair philosopher, indie singer/songwriter Chris Ayer will leave you smiling whether you feel like smiling or not. You gotta love this guy... This Is The Place is a delightful discovery."

- BuddyHollywood.com, September 2007

"Ayer's effort has it all- tight arrangements, excellent musicality and imaginative lyrics. If you're looking for great music, this is the place indeed."

- Performing Songwriter Magazine, March 2007

Chris Ayer In Concert

Friday, March 28
Potluck Dinner/Reception 5 - 7 p.m.
Showtime: 7:00 p.m.

Location:
Halfabubbleoff Studios
181 Hart Bench
Darby, MT 59829

Donation is $15 advance, $20 day of show. Reservations are suggested.

To reserve your seat(s), please make checks payable to Chris Ayer, and mail to: Donna Pearson, 181 Hart Bench Road, Darby, MT 59829.

Questions about the show: call Jay at 349-2943 or jay@jaytoups.com

Saul Kaye's first LLSC show was good indeed

It turns out that Saul doesn't get to play too many house concerts, so he had a great opportunity to connect with our audience of devoted listeners and he did. They all loved his music. Good stuff!

Here are sets one and two of Saul Kaye's performance.

Saul Kaye to appear January 22

Just 2 seats left...www.saulkaye.com

Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Potluck: 5 p.m.
Showtime: 7 p.m.

Join us and make welcome Saul Kaye, from San Francisco by way of South Africa. He's quite a talent, as you'll hear and see. He's headed down to the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah after this show, just like last year when he appeared here. There's streaming audio of his performance, so give Saul a listen! Here's set 1, and here's set 2.

"Crooning about in a blues-rock fashion that could get even the most sleepy coffeehouse jumping, Saul Kaye could easily be compared to fellow South African Dave Matthews. Yes his guitar playing is that good. .. his guitar work is steeped in originality. Vocally he accomplishes great harmonies while he sings true-to-form real stories that anyone can relate to."

Suggested Donation: Advance $15, $20 Door

Advance reservations are appreciated. Please make check payable to Saul Kaye and mail to:

Jay Toups
7245 Lapwai Lane
Darby, MT 59829

Jay Buchanan and Jim Pearson, Dec. 1

Live in concert at the new Rockin' Horse Ranch

December 1, 2007, 7:00 P.M.
181 Hart Bench
Darby, MT 59829

Join Jim and Donna Pearson for an evening of out-of-this-world music from two accomplished musicians. And help warm up their new house and recording studio in the pines!

Jim Pearson

Jim Pearson is a versatile musician, singer & songwriter who is vastly experienced in numerous styles, including Blues, Rock, Country, and Jazz. He's toured all over the world with legendary live bands and major artists such as Edgar Winter, Isaac Hayes and Mark Isham. An accomplished studio artist with an extensive background in composing and arranging, "Jimi" has spent most of his life producing others and making them sound good, and now we will have the treat of seeing him perform several of his new original songs. Jim is not only an extremely gifted and creative guitar player, he is also well versed on the keyboard, to put it mildly, and his beautiful melodies have been known to bring bring tears to even the most stoic people.

Jay Buchanan

Somewhere between Dave Matthews and Darius Rucker (Hootie to you!) is South Cali singer/songwriter, Jay Buchanan, the namesake and leader of the recently disbanded national recording act, Buchanan. With his powerful, emotional, incredibly passionate & soulful performance, you will find yourself leaning forward in your seat and spellbound. JAY CAN BELT IT OUT LIKE NOBODY'S BUSINESS!!

More than a frontman when it comes to the delivery of the music, Jay also plays a variety of instruments on the band’s 2004 disc, All Understood (produced by veteran Don Gehman----John Mellencamp/REM/Tracy Chapman), and plays them well. He has also created some damn tasty arrangements that will be found ear-appealing to everyone from folkies, to jazzers, to progressive/jam rock fans. Click here to listen to samples from his solo acoustic disc.

His accomplishments include opening for Hootie & The Blowfish, playing a side stage at a John Mayer/Counting Crows concert, and the soundtrack "If you Leave" for the 2007 movie "Waitress" starring Cheryl Hines, Kerri Russell, Jeremy Sisto and Andy Griffith.

Support the Arts in the Bitterroot! Reserve your seats before they are sold out!

Donation is $15 advance, or $20 day of show. To reserve your seat(s), please make checks payable to Jay Buchanan, and mail to: Donna Pearson, 181 Hart Bench Road, Darby, MT 59829

Please feel free to forward this invitation to your music-loving friends.

For more information, call 821-2033.

Chris Cunningham in concert Sunday, October 28

Chris Cunningham

Red House recording artist Chris Cunningham will perform on Sunday, October 28. Known to many as half of the acoustic music duo Storyhill, Chris also has a busy solo career (independent from Storyhill and 2 Forms of ID with Justin Roth) which includes 5 solo CDs. This solo show by Chris will be a prelude to a future show (date TBD) with both members of Storyhill. Here's a link to Chris' page on MySpace. Potluck: 4:00 Showtime: 6:00 (Note: Times are 1 hour earlier than normal) Suggested donation is $15 advance, or $20 day of show. If you would like to reserve seats, please make a check payable to Chris Cunningham and mail it to: Jay Toups, 7245 Lapwai Lane, Darby, MT 59829

David Boone, Saturday, September 15

David Boone

As one of Missoula's most prolific and talented musicians, it's David's honesty, his transparency, that makes his work shine. In his latest, Hard Enough to Bend, it is more and more present in his voice as he sings about poverty, love, war and loss. He blends styles in Hard Enough to Bend showcasing his progression while maintaining his acoustic roots. Reminiscent of Ryan Adams on this album, he uses his signature lyrical prowess and adaptability to take a traditional folk-like feel and turn it into something modern and vibrant—distancing himself from the run-of-the-mill coffee shop singer-songwriter. David continues to amaze with his ability to stay open and raw while simultaneously challenging new sounds and styles—song after song, album after album.

- (Courtney Lowery - New West Missoula)

Potluck: 5 p.m.
Showtime: 7 p.m.
Tickets: $15 Advance, $20 Door (if available)
Reservations & Directions to venue: Contact jay@jaytoups.com or 406-349-2943

To reserve, make check payable to David Boone and mail to:

Jay Toups
7245 Lapwai Lane
Darby, MT 59829

Michael at LLSC: Coooooooooool

Michael Gulezian put on a dazzling show, despite having driven a thousand miles in the last 24 hours. Click to listen to his set. (70MB streaming audio)

If you saw the show and you agree it was wonderful, please leave a comment!

Annabelle and Justin rock the house

Justin Roth and Annabelle Chvostek braved the nearby forest fires and heavy smoke and ambled up our little dirt road in the forest about 4:30. After brief introductions, a look at the room and a sound check, they had dinner and mingled with people who came to see the show.

With people still arriving at 7:30 and running a half hour late we finally started the show. Annabelle opened and I was instantly reminded of why I produce house concerts out here in the middle of nowhere and cover the minor details like a good sound system, no distractions, and a full house sitting on the edge of their seats in anticipation.


When live music rises above the level of energy required to play it, you just have to be there. But rather than wrack my brain for nice things to say about these two gifted artists, how about you listen and see for yourself. Then please visit their sites and let them know you love their music too.

Nice music indeed. Thanks Justin and Annabelle!

Listen to Annabelle's set.
Listen to Justin's set.

(Large file stream not suitable for impatient dialup users.)

Annabelle Chvostek and Justin Roth

SOLD OUT!
Justin Roth and Annabelle Chvostek in concert, Saturday August 4th!

This is was your last-minute concert opportunity of the summer, guaranteed. These two acoustic music maestros will share the bill and bowl you over with their amazing talents, energy and presence.

Justin Roth

Justin Roth is a nationally touring singer/songwriter/acoustic guitarist who combines an artful blend of pop hooks laid on a bed of brilliantly inventive guitar technique for a unique mix of new acoustic folk. He has released four independent CDs, as well as being a core contributor to an instrumental solo guitar album produced for Target Stores entitled "Lifescapes - Solo Guitar," which has sold over 70,000 copies nationwide.

"Intricate guitar work, beautifully written lyrics." - San Francisco Art Magazine

"One of the best singer/songwriter/guitarists I've heard in ages...Justin Roth is a flat out talent. Roth rivals a young Willy Porter...His vocal delivery is smooth. His guitar playing is extraordinary." - The Journal Times, Racine, WI

Check out his videos on YouTube. Here's his website: http://www.justinroth.com/

Annabelle Chvostek

If the name Annabelle Chvostek is familiar, or you've heard of The Wailin' Jennys, it could be from their numerous appearances on A Prairie Home Companion, or perhaps you saw them recently in Hamilton. From 2004 to 2006 Annabelle performed over 250 shows with the Wailin' Jennys, including major folk festivals in Canada, Australia, USA, UK. She's recently left the band to pursue a solo career. Come see how she's doing!

"Annabelle made the hair on the back of my neck stand up." - "stunning free form folk...", "she can do everything, and does." - The Hour, Montreal

Potluck begins at 5 p.m., showtime is at 7 p.m. sharp. Admission is $15 advance, $20 at the door. You can get the advance price by letting me know via email or call 349-2943 to let us know you'll be coming. And please tell your music loving friends about this show!

See you at the show!

Paul Boruff appears June 16

Lapwai Lane Shredders Club presents Paul Boruff Saturday, June 16th

On his return to LLSC, Paul did a great show to a full house. A full evening of songs included cowboy tunes, jazz, blues, old time, big band and ballads.

Saturday, June 16
Potluck: 5 p.m.
Show: 7 p.m.

Tickets: $15 Advance, $20 Door

Advance purchase advised due to limited seating. Please make payable to Paul Boruff and mail check to 7245 Lapwai Lane, Darby, MT 59829

Please bring a covered dish and your favorite beverage for the potluck prior to the show! (Sorry, no desserts!)

For more information, visit www.jaytoups.com/music/house_concerts.html

Bill Mize and Beth Bramhall

Saturday, April 21: SOLD OUT!
Bill Mize with Beth Bramhall Brad Warren opening

The most amazing guitar player you've never heard of? It just might be Bill Mize. Bill is one of the most accomplished fingerstyle guitarists working today. A former national fingerstyle champion, in fact. Also appearing with Bill will be Beth Bramhall, a very talented accordionist.

Brad Warren is a professional helicopter pilot who lives in Hamilton, Montana. He's also a talented fingerstyle guitarist who has just released his debut CD, About The Journey.

Saturday, April 21
Potluck: 5 p.m.
Showtime: 7 p.m.
Tickets: $15 advance. $20 day of show.

To receive $15 tickets they must be purchased or at least reserved in advance. Make check payable to Bill Mize and mail to 7245 Lapwai Lane, Darby, MT 59829. Or simply call 349-2943 to reserve your spots. Seating is limited to 50.

Liz Carlisle and Russell Wolff

Happy New Year! Last night, Liz Carlisle and Russell Wolff treated 44 guests to a great evening of music, stories and humor from their life as touring musicians. Russell is also a producer, keyboard/guitar player, and a great singer songwriter. He also looks exactly like Bruce Willis, which is kind of mesmerizing in a funny sort of way.




This morning we got up and took a walk in the woods before breakfast.