Morehead Old Time Music Festival Recap

Tintype by Sarah Wood 

 This past weekend I attended my very first "Old Time" festival at Morehead Ky. This festival is so great. Even though it's my first and only of it's kind, I must say it will probably always be my favorite. Such a warm and inviting group of people. 

 On Saturday I entered the singing and banjo competitions. I didn't place in the singing but by complete surprise I was a finalist in the banjo competition along with Anna Roberts-Gevalt and John Haywood.   I finished third behind those two talented folks and it was just fine with me. I was very honored to even be included in the finals. 

 

Me, John Haywood and Anna Roberts-Gevalt
John was making sure we knew who was boss of the banjo. 

 All in all it was a wonderful time and I am very glad I was able to go. I met a lot of new friends and I can't wait for next year. 

Touring and Recording Trips

Andy Irvine and I 

 Well, the last couple weeks have been pretty intense. Lots of playing and documenting going on!

 First off was a great trip to North Carolina to see Andy Irvine. Andy, if you didn't know was in a little band called Planxty that single handedly changed Irish music forever back in the early 70s. It was a real pleasure to meet and interview him for a Kitchen Song that will be released later on. I went to both shows in Winston-Salem and Charlotte. It was an incredible experience that I will remember for ever.

Andy Irvine

While on the trip I also purchased a new Recording King guitar and harmonica. 

Then it was back home for a few days and then on the road for a library program in Columbia TN and then a small tour back home. 

 Spent some time at Strangebird Recording with my good friend Travis and then I went to Columbia KY to play at Milligan's, my friends new pub. Had a great time there. 

Playing at Milligan's in Columbia KY 

 

Talking with my good friend Ethan Watkins. We go back a ways.

 Then I headed to Hazard KY to play at the Treehouse Coffee and Bakery. Afterwards I headed out with my friend John Haywood for George Gibson's place. After crossing a creek in the dark with our instruments we made it to the cabin. I recorded John and George as well as a new friend, Brett Ratliff. It was a fantastic  time. These songs are going to be used for my new field recording project. 

John Haywood

 Then it was back home for a visit to the Owen County Historical Society for their River Days event. 

On the road with The Tillers

The Tillers in Mancelona Michigan

 This past weekend, I had the pleasure of traveling up to Michigan, the mitten state for a run of shows with The Tillers. I was wearing the documentarian hat filming for a future little feature on the band and what it's like to travel and be on the road.

 Our first stop was Mancelona Michigan to an awesome little country, one room school house literally in the middle of nowhere. Great folks came out and supported a very intimate show. Afterwards we lit a bonfire and jammed well into the night.

Then back south to Marshall for a packed house at the Dark Horse Brewery.

 Next up was South Haven Michigan for an early show at the Foundry Hall. Before the show I headed out to into the downtown area for some busking. I HIGHLY recommend the South Haven
busking scene.

 Then a late night trip to Daytrotter in Rock Island Illinois.

It was such a good time and I can't wait to get back out on the road with The Tillers in the future. Great friends and great times.

 During the trip I was also able to perform a bit as well playing in between sets and opening once.

-Jake

Dark Horse Brewery, Marshall Michigan 

Foundry Hall, South Haven Michigan 

Sayler Park Sustains Festival

 I am really excited to be included in the line up for the Sayler Park Sustains Festival! So much great music, but also some awesome sustainable living workshops etc. I hope to see you there!

 For more information check them out on facebook here 

Heading North

Well, my documentarian work continues this weekend as I head out with The Tillers on a short trip to Michigan.

 In the meantime, check out these videos I shot with them!

 The Tillers : Weary Soul 
 Mike Oberst : Fishers Hornpipe 

Whispering Beard 2014

 I am very excited to announce that I will be playing at the Whispering Beard Folk Festival this year! Cannot wait. Such a great line up this year! Check it out here.

Cincinnati

May 9th and 10th I had the pleasure of joining two great bands in Cincinnati for very memorable shows. First up was Arnolds' Bar and Grill, with Buffalo Wabs and the Price Hill Hustle. Then over to the Crows Nest with The Tillers. Such a great time. Cincinnati is one of the coolest places to place music. Great crowds and a great love for music.