HURDY GURDY FOLK MUSIC CLUB NEWS
I’m not sure who said it first, but the person who first wrote “a good time was had by all” probably knew about Tanglefoot and that they would give an outstanding performance at the Hurdy Gurdy Folk Music Club in Paramus, NJ.
When the group arrived for the load-in and sampled our 100 seat room, they decided that going “unplugged” would take advantage of the natural acoustics in the room and provide for a unique experience. The group did not lose an ounce of the energy that they are known for and everyone – audience and band members alike – thoroughly enjoyed the concert!
As noted in a previous column, this past Saturday’s show marked the first appearance of Tanglefoot at the Hurdy Gurdy and in Bergen County. Followers of the Canadian band also visited the Hurdy Gurdy for the first time, and we hope we will be seeing them again.
For those of us in the States, where Canadian history might not be our forte, Tanglefoot gave us a glimpse of the rich heritage of their home. The song “Agnes on the Cowcatcher” might seem like something out of the imagination of a novelist, but the song about Lady Agnes, wife of the first Canadian Prime Minster John A. MacDonald, was a true story and an entertaining tale. Throughout the evening the various members of the group shared stories and anecdotes of Canadian life and history, and shared their music with exquisite harmonies and virtuoso instrumentals.
The merchandise table appeared to be doing brisk business, and hopefully Tanglefoot will be returning again soon!
If you missed them at the Hurdy Gurdy, or if you want to hear more, they will be appearing at Sanctuary Concerts in Chatam, NJ on April 28 – with a special appearance from original Tanglefoot bandmate Rob Ritchie, who left the group in 2002 to embark on his own solo career.
I promise that your address will not be shared with anyone. You will not receive e-mails from the ex-wife of Nigeria generals who are looking to transfer money into your bankaccount, no advertisment for physical enhancement devices, and no stock tips!! You will receive e-mail reminders and advance news of concerts and events sponsored by the Hurdy Gurdy.
* * * *Our next concert at the Hurdy Gurdy marks the return of two of our favorite performers – Steve Gillette & Cindy Mangsen! The concert will take place on Saturday February 3 at 8pm. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, tickets to this show for the “special someone” in your life will get more mileage then a box of chocolates or a dozen roses! The music will certainly stay with you longer!!
Another exciting announcement concerning an upcoming Hurdy Gurdy event. If you’ve checked our schedule, you know that we will kick off the St. Patrick’s Day season with a concert featuring Aoife Clancy on Saturday March 3 – and just added to the lineup – McDermott’s Handy.
The duo perform traditional Irish music on harp, flute, and other trad instruments. They have performed at various venues in New Jersey and we look forward to having them appear for the first time at the Hurdy Gurdy!
Aoife Clancy has performed at the Hurdy Gurdy in the past – when she was the vocalist for Cherish the Ladies. This concert will mark her first solo performance at the Hurdy Gurdy. The daughter of the late Bobby Clancy from the Clancy Brothers, Aoife has a stunning voice and a style all her own. She blends traditional and contemporary song into her performance and has a warm and entertaining presence. This should be a magical evening!Mark your calendar – Saturday March 3, 2007 – Aoife Clancy with special guests McDermott’s Handy!
A couple of quick radio programming notes –
Sunday January 21 – TRADITIONS on WFDU-FM (3pm – 6pm ET). My special in-studio guests will be The Second Fiddles, a dynamic local string band, and singer-songwriter Rich Deans.
Don’t forget – you can listen in live on the internet – www.wfdu.fm