Monday, October 10, 2011

The Day Was "In-Tents" ...

The 6th annual American Music Celebration at Freshfields Village Green had a big surprise.

Gary Erwin (a.k.a. Shrimp City Slim) has played and promoted The Blues in this area for many, many years.

At Kiawah he works with the people who monitor the Tourist Tax and, fortunately, they took a liking to blues and root music years ago, and help fund his musical activities down there.

"We included a large tent in the budget this year because, if it rained, the whole event would be cancelled. Our residents, businesses and visitors all would be hurt by inclement weather," said Bill and Marilyn Blizard, co-chairmen of the Accommodations Tax Committee.

"The brand new tent is 40 feet by 90 feet and cost about $2,600. We think it's a smart investment," Bill Blizard continued.

As if to underline that statement, hard rain cells passed through the area about three times Sunday.But, the show went on.

The line up of talent included Eddie C. Campbell, backed by the North Carolina trio The King Bees.

He was followed by Buddy Whittington and the Randy McAllister Band.

McAllister is the drummer but also plays harp and added a Cajun washboard and spoons to this outing.


There is no alternate site available and, luckily, the Kiawah area events have not been interrupted before. The low clouds and winds made a great statement about the wisdom of the two tents.

A smaller one covers and protects the performers and their equipment.


The finale for a music-filled afternoon was Biscuit Miller & The Mix.

Dave Miller (red shirt) grew up in Chicago and now lives in Indianapolis.

He formed the band in 2000 and continues to serve up a soulful, blues-funk stew.

This day there was no rain on his parade.

Here is how the crowd looked in 2009.


(Click on the photos for details.) The dates have already been set for next year. Mark October 7,2012 on your calendar. As Gary says "Rain or shine." Thanks for stopping and listening.

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Wednesday, February 09, 2011

Blues In The Night......


























The IOP Recreation Center has really drawn a crowd the last two days.

A popular venue for years, the 21st Annual Lowcountry Blues Bash, offered great acts here Saturday and Sunday.


Biscuit Miller & The Mix
had nothing to kick about.

Saturday started with Frankie's Blues Mission - indoors and heated - as an opener to Wanda Johnson & Shrimp City Slim.

People were standing in the aisles because every seat was filled.

Saturday wrapped it up in grand style with Planet D Nonet.

It was obvious when the band set up that there were nine players (6 in the horn section) and they announced they all were from planet DETROIT.

A "boy" singer stood at the microphone and crooned, so I shot pictures in true 40's style - black and white.

It just seemed appropriate.

More later...

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