31 July 07

Hey there!

Yes, it’s true, I’m here with a hello and an update for those of you who haven’t entirely given up on checking this website.

Life has been nutty with Uncle Earl. Our new album, “Waterloo, Tennessee”, is out now. We had an amazing time doing a rambling CD release tour in the late winter and early spring. There were so many great shows, wonderful experiences, and fun gatherings that occurred as part of that adventure with the g’Earls – and now we’re well into a busy summer of festivals.

There are (believe it or not) a few things cooking for me outside of Earl-world. At MerleFest in April I had a great time playing a short “Rayna & Friends” set on the cabin stage with John Paul Jones, Drew Heller, and Justin Perkins. (It’s available for download at Festivalink, if you’re curious.) In June I had the joy of performing with Susie Goehring at the Indiana Fiddler’s Gathering in Battle Ground, Indiana. I’ve been attending that festival since I was in the womb, and am always grateful for any excuse to hang out there with family and dear old friends. The line-up was wonderful – I was especially psyched that Foghorn was back again this year, and I was delighted to sit in with them on their set (with bonus clogging by Emma Leahy-Good).

I stopped by The Swannanoa Gathering’s Old-Time Week the other night to play a couple tunes to celebrate the release of an entire album of Marcus Martin’s music, called “When I Get My New House Done”. It’s a beautifully remastered collection of 1940’s Library of Congress field recordings, and all you fiddlers out there should buy it. I’ve been waiting for this puppy for years, and it sounds great!

As far as what’s coming up soon – I’m off to Clifftop this weekend, and then I’ll be teaching at Ashokan Fiddle & Dance Southern Week (Aug. 12-18). After that, Uncle Earl hits the road again for a while – keep an eye on our website for tour dates.

This fall, keep your eyes peeled for a documentary on John Cohen to be aired on the Smithsonian Network. I’ll be in there talking with and about John, as well as playing a few tunes with him. At the end of September I’m looking forward playing fiddle with the astonishing Rhythm in Shoes dance company for some shows in Dayton, Ohio. And check back here soon (I know, I always say that, but please do) for more news of upcoming projects and performances.

Take good care & I’ll see you down the road,