HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH - Rapid River Magazine

40 Pages·2011·14.41 MB·English

The Asheville Ballet introduces
audiences to the wonders of
dance for another season. page 16
The Asheville Lyric Opera will
feature five main stage events for
its 13th season. page 17
HART presents
the comedy Hay
Fever, along with
a full year of
sweeping plays
and musicals.
page 28
Elizabeth Foley
pursues her
passion for art
and chocolate
as manager and
part owner of the NC Stage presents
Chocolate Fetish.
Hedwig and
page 23
tHe angry incH
Plus:
Starring Michael
Diana Wortham at Pack Place page 3 Susan West is the visionary
Sheldon, AKA Cookie
Grovewood Gallery page 18 behind blue’s gallery, located
16 Patton Fine Art Gallery page 19 in a historic cottage in the LaRue. page 6
Blackbird Frame & Art page 21 heart of Biltmore Village.
Asheville Symphony Orchestra page 36 page 24
complete listing on page 5
 August 2011 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 12
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color
R A P I D   R I V E R   A R T S
stage preview
Diana Wortham Theatre
011/01 MainStage SeaSon
T
he Diana
by John Ellis
Wortham
Theatre at Pack
Place Mainstage 2012) music is indica-
Series presents a tive of its members’ first
wide range of top touring loves: gypsy, swing and
artists in music, theater, klezmer music.
dance, comedy, and other The 2011/2012
performing arts in an Mainstage Theatre Series
intimate, 500-seat hall. features four compel-
The 2011/2012 Aquila Theatre Company – The ling performances. L.A.
Mainstage Series season Importance of Being Earnest. Theatre Works presents
opens on September 24, The Rivalry (November
2011 with the Upright Citizens Brigade 16 & 17, 2011), Norman Corwin’s riveting
– they’ll bring down the house and perhaps depiction of the Lincoln Douglas debates.
the whole city with their outrageous sketch Enjoy an unforgettable night of litera-
comedy. This performance is part of the ture and performance with Public Radio
“Laugh Out Loud” Series, new to Diana International’s Selected Shorts (January
Wortham Theatre this year. 28, 2012) featuring founder and host Isaiah
The LOL Series includes Shakespeare Sheffer. Aquila Theatre Company will stage
on Trial (October 27, 2011), an unwitting two performances. The Importance of Being
Bill Shakespeare must defend his writing Earnest (February 3, 2012), Oscar Wilde’s
to a court of some of his most memorable wildly funny portrayal of the British upper
characters. The Adam Growe Comedy & class. The following night the renowned
Quiz Showe (November 12, 2011) features company breathes fresh life into Shake-
Adam Growe, host of Discovery Channel speare’s Macbeth (February 4, 2012).
Canada’s hit show Cash Cab. With the right The 2011/2012 Mainstage Celtic Series
answers, audience members can win money presents four unforgettable bands in the
silver
right out of Adam’s pocket. Scots-Irish tradition. Irish-American super
group Solas (February 10, 2012) is ranked
among the “most exciting bands anywhere
in the world” by Irish Echo. &
With its bass driven grooves and inven-
gold
tive arrangements, Lúnasa (March 24, 2012)
was recently featured on Natalie Merchant’s
landmark project, Leave Your Sleep. With
lush orchestration, Téada (May 11, 2012)
revels in the vibrant, traditional music of
The Upright Citizens Brigade touring improv Ireland. Marvel at the sound of three world-
comedy group. class musicians when The Teetotallers fea-
The 2011/2012 Mainstage Dance Series turing John Doyle, Martin Hayes and Kevin
presents world-renowned hip-hop dance Crawford (May 24, 2012) perform.
company Rennie Harris Puremovement The 2011/2012 Mainstage Special At-
(February 23 & 24, 2012), and Diavolo tractions Series showcases five performances
Dance Theater (March 13 & 14, 2012) that cross multiple genres. Doc Watson &
whose spectacular gymnasts, dancers, actors David Holt (October 15, 2011) share their
and surrealistic props create a sense of dar- love of bluegrass, traditional American
ing and risk-taking. Keigwin + Company music and stories. ‘Tis the season for A
(March 30 & 31, 2012) will showcase a Swannanoa Solstice (December 18, 2011),
knockout fusion of pop culture and high art. featuring Al Petteway, Amy White and
The 2011/2012 Mainstage Music Series Robin Bullock who are joined by a wealth
presents Julie Fowlis (November 11, 2011), of storytellers, dancers and special guest
an intriguing performer whose crystalline musicians.
vocals and Scottish Gaelic roots have earned Pianist Christopher O’Riley (March
her the title of BBC Radio 2’s Folk Singer of 3, 2012) is not to be missed. Irish-born and
the Year (2008). Dubbed “Musical Family of now-Asheville resident Danny Ellis holds
America” by presidential decree, audiences spellbound with his powerful work
The DePue Brothers Band (January 19, 800 Voices (March 9, 2012). The following
2012) gives new meaning to the term pro- night Danny Ellis and his band perform An
Oxidized silver
gressive bluegrass. Catch incredible singer- Irishman in America (March 10, 2012).
and 18k gold
songwriters Susan Werner & David Wilcox The 2011/2012 Mainstage Young Audi- www.jewelsthatdance.com
(January 21, 2012) as they easily slide from ences Series is open to school groups, home-
jazz to folk and pop. Sagapool’s (March 22, (cid:22)(cid:19)(cid:0)(cid:40)(cid:65)(cid:89)(cid:87)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:0)(cid:51)(cid:84)(cid:14)(cid:0)(cid:115)(cid:0)(cid:33)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:69)(cid:86)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:12)(cid:0)(cid:46)(cid:35)(cid:0)(cid:115)(cid:0)(cid:24)(cid:18)(cid:24)(cid:13)(cid:18)(cid:21)(cid:20)(cid:13)(cid:21)(cid:16)(cid:24)(cid:24)(cid:0)(cid:115)(cid:0)(cid:40)(cid:79)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:26)(cid:0)(cid:45)(cid:79)(cid:78)(cid:13)(cid:51)(cid:65)(cid:84)(cid:0)(cid:17)(cid:16)(cid:26)(cid:19)(cid:16)(cid:13)(cid:22)
‘Diana Wortham’ continued on page 4
Vol. 14, No. 12 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — August 2011 
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color
R A P I D   R I V E R   A R T S
noteworthy
Meet the Artist Tour with Hoss Haley
H
oss Haley’s rary feel and personality
artwork is all of the city today.
November 4-13, 2011 over Asheville The Meet the Artist
this summer Tour with Hoss Haley,
TickeTs: $5
— an impres- begins on the stage un-
www.aicff.org
sive granite and bronze der the pergola in front
fountain in Pack Square, of the County Court-
a shiny stainless steel per- house and City Hall at
A treAsure trove of 70 gola over the stage with 5:30 p.m. on Monday,
films from 25 countries, the County Courthouse August 8, rain or shine.
and City Hall as a back- After the tour
full of adventure, surprises, belly
drop, a magazine cover Fountain created by Hoss Haley. Posana Café invites you
laughs and stories that are sure to in July and an exhibit at to walk across the street
make kids think and see the world Blue Spiral 1 Gallery through September. and enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres created
Grab this rare opportunity to meet the to satisfy your palette on a summer evening.
in a brand new way.
man behind these public and private works Continue to ask questions and relax with a
of art on Monday, August 8 when Hoss beverage from the cash bar.
Haley conducts a Meet the Artist Tour of
Above: tally Ho! Mobile. Left: Q and A. Below (L-r): into the
Woods and Under the Sea, Legends come Alive his two works of art in Pack Square Park, in
if
Asheville. Both pieces interpret the land- YoU The tour with Hoss and reception
scape surrounding the city. In the case of the go at Posana Café are $25 per person.
fountain, over five different ones have vied $15 for members of the Friends
for attention in Pack Square since the park of Pack Square Park. Space is limited
was created over a century ago. Haley knew so make your reservation today by calling
he wanted something different from all of [phone] by August 7. Everyone must
Locations: Ashevillle Pizza & Brewing, Posana cafe, and Tryon Theater them — something reflecting a contempo- have a ticket to attend this event.
For details visit www.aicff.org or call [phone]
‘Diana Wortham’ continued from page 3
INTERNATIONAL
schoolers, and families. This year’s series
DAY OF PEACE includes: Yellow Brick Road (October 13
&14, 2011); Seussical the Musical (October
Dedicated to 18, 2011); Shakespeare On Trial (October
26 & 27, 2011); The Rivalry – The Lincoln
Peace Lovers Everywhere
Douglas Debates (November 16 & 17,
2011); Madeline and the Bad Hat (Novem-
Wednesday,
ber 21 & 22, 2011); Billy Jonas (December
September 21 19, 2011); Macbeth (February 6, 2012);
Rennie Harris Puremovement (February
24, 2012); Diavolo (March 13, 2012); and
4:30 to 7:30 PM Charlotte’s Web (March 19 & 20, 2012).
A Special Performance to Benefit The
Diana Wortham Theatre – Possibilities: An
Pack Square
Evening with Linda Lavin & Friends – takes
Downtown Asheville place April 28, 2012. The 8:30 p.m. perfor-
mance is preceded by a special 7:30 p.m. VIP
FREE MuSIC reception.
Tickets for all performances available
Open to All after August 18. Purchase three or more
shows and take 10% off all regularly priced
Great Folks
tickets; purchase five or more shows and
Speaking take 15% all regularly priced tickets; and
purchase seven or more shows and take 20%
Great Words
off all regularly priced tickets.
Youth Happenings
Pinwheels for Peace
if
YoU Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack
go Place. Tickets on sale August 18 for
all events. For a season brochure
Come Declare PEACE in Asheville! Rachael [phone] or more informaiton please call the box
Kasha [phone]
office at [phone] or visit www.
internationaldayofpeaceasheville.wordpress.com [email protected]
dwtheatre.com.
 August 2011 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 12
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color
R A P I D   R I V E R   A R T S
Joseph Rathbone Recommends
RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE Hello! This month I went to see by JosEph RathbonE
Harry Potter and the Deathly
Established in 1997 • Volume Fourteen, Number Twelve Hallows Part Two, and I give it agE 12
five stars. If you are even a small fan of
August 2011 3 Harry Potter you will absolutely love movies I compare it to
Performance
this movie. the book, and I must
www.rapidrivermagazine.com Diana Wortham Theatre ..........  I have read all of the Harry Potter say that Harry Potter
The Asheville Ballet.............. 16 books so every time I watch one of the and the Deathly Hal-
Publisher/Editor: Dennis Ray
Asheville Lyric Opera ............ 17 lows Part Two compared very well with
Managing Editor: Beth Gossett Asheville Symphony ............. 6 its corresponding book. Of course, the
Marketing: Dennis Ray movie did differ in a few ways though,
4
Staff Photographer: Dennis Ray but what movie doesn’t?
Noteworthy
Layout & Design: Simone Bouyer This movie contained lots of action,
Meet the Artist: Hoss Haley........  a good bit of humor, and a few sad-
Poetry Editor: Ted Olson
Wine & Food Festival ............ 7 dening moments. This movie is quite
Proofreader: Mary Wilson
amazing and does an excellent job of
Accounting: Sharon Cole 6
stage Preview summing up all the movies. I highly rec-
Distribution: Dennis Ray ommend this film for anyone 11 and up.
Interview with Charlie Flynn-McIver..6 I would also like to thank the Carmike
COnTRIBUTInG WRITERS: HART presents Hay Fever........ 8 10 theater in Asheville for giving me a
Emma Watson and Daniel Radcliffe in Harry Potter
Judy Ausley, Sid Border, nC Stage Season Schedule ....... 8 and the Deathly Hallows Part Two. reviewer’s pass to see this movie.
James Cassara, Michael Cole,
8
Amy Downs, Ann Dunn, Columns
Ayana Dusenberry, John Ellis,
James Cassara - Music ........... 8
Beth Gossett, Steven R. Hageman, 011-01
Max Hammonds, MD, Phil Hawkins, Eddie LeShure - Jazz............ 10 Gallery Guide
Rick Hill, John Horrocks, Joe Zinich - Beer .............. 6
Phil Juliano, Chip Kaufmann, Ted Olson - Poetry ............ 9 Folk Art Center .............. pg. 11
Michelle Keenan, Eddie LeShure, Peter Loewer - Thoreau’s Garden. 0 Performing Arts Guide Grovewood Gallery ........... pg. 18
Amanda Leslie, Peter Loewer, Bill Walz - Artful Living ........ 1
16 Patton Fine Art Gallery ..... pg. 19
Kay S. Miller, April nance, Max Hammonds, MD - Health ..  Diana Wortham Theatre ........ pg. 
Ted Olson, Joseph Rathbone, Judy Ausley - Southern Comfort..  nC Stage .................... pg. 6 blue Goldsmiths ...............pg. 
Dennis Ray, Jane Sims, Greg Vineyard - Fine Art ........ 9 Blackbird Frame & Art ........ pg. 1
The Asheville Ballet ............pg. 16
Clara Sofia, David Craig Starkey, Constance Williams Gallery .... pg. 9
9 Asheville Lyric Opera ......... pg. 17
Ashley Vandewart, Greg Vineyard,
Music
Bill Walz, Joe Zinich. Haywood Arts Repertory Theatre .pg. 8
Albatross Party ................... 9 Stella Adler Studio of Acting .... pg.  Were You Left out?
InFO Angela Easterling ................ 10
Asheville Symphony Orchestra . pg. 6 Join us for part  in September. Call (828) 646-
Rapid River Arts & Culture Magazine is a Firecracker Jazz Band............. 10 0071, or e-mail [email protected] for
monthly publication. Address correspondence Classicopia ....................pg. 6
11 details. Affordable ads are still available!
to [email protected] or write to:
Fine Art
Rapid River Arts & Culture Magazine
85 n. Main St. Wood Day at the Folk Art Center .. 11
Canton, nC 28716 Olga Dorenko .................. 1
Phone: [phone] Grovewood Gallery .............. 18
www.rapidrivermagazine.com
16 Patton Fine Art Gallery ........ 19
All materials contained herein are owned and Blackbird Frame & Art ........... 1
copyrighted by Rapid River Arts & Culture
Magazine and the individual contributors 12
unless otherwise stated. Opinions expressed Movie Reviews
in this magazine do not necessarily reflect
the opinions of Rapid River Arts & Culture 23
Magazine or the advertisers found herein. Asheville shops
© Rapid River Arts & Culture Magazine,
Elizabeth Foley ................. 
August 2011 Vol. 14 no. 12
blue Goldsmiths................. 
25
Local Favorites
On the Cover: Happy Hill Restaurant ........... 
The glam-rock musical Bandidos in West Asheville........ 
Hedwig and the Angry Inch
opens Wednesday, August
24 at NC Stage. Hedwig 34
stars Michael Sheldon, What to Do guide™
AKA Cookie LaRue. page 6
Best in Show by Phil Juliano ..... 
Photo by Sebastian Collett
Callie & Cats by Amy Downs .... 
Corgi Tales by Phil Hawkins .... 
Dragin by Michael Cole ........ 
distributed at more than 90 locations throughout eight counties in WnC and South Carolina.
first copy is free – each additional copy $1.0
Vol. 14, No. 12 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — August 2011 
R A P I D   R I V E R   A R T S   &   C U L T U R E   M A G A Z I N E
stage preview
Part 2 of a 3-Part Discussion
hedWig and the angRY intERviEwEd by dEnnis Ray ticular play, there are all sorts of concerns,
ConveRSationS With commercially and financially. On some
inCh RoCk aSheviLLe
shows we’re required to use a certain
Charlie amount of union actors and stage managers
by amanda lEsliE and that can raise the cost up quite a bit.
T Do we do a smaller show? Does that bring
he glam-rock musical Hed- Flynn-McIver
in as many audiences as a larger show?
wig and the Angry Inch opens
How much is it going to cost to build that
Wednesday, August 24 at NC
set, how much will shop rental be? Where
Stage in downtown Asheville.
will we rehearse it? Etc.
This cult hit, about the transgendered C We have tried to make a lot of those
singer Hedwig, is by John Cameron harlie Flynn-McIver is the Artistic
things second nature, using the same builder
Mitchell, with music and lyrics by Director of the North Carolina
for multiple shows, we have a dedicated re-
Stephen Trask. It was later turned Stage Company in Asheville. In our
hearsal and class space we pay for year round
into a film starring Mitchell. July issue, Flynn-McIver shared the
out at the Riverside Business Park. Those
history of NC Stage Company and
kinds of things make it so we don’t have to
a few of his early experiences.
find things like that as we start to develop a
Rapid River Magazine: Before you were
production. But, it adds to the overhead of
able to support yourself wholly in the the-
the organization. It’s a big balancing act that
atre, what kind of jobs did you have?
there isn’t a magic formula for. At least that
Charlie flynn-Mciver: Oh man. Well, the Charlie Flynn-McIver in the comedy “What the I’ve discovered.
Butler Saw.” Ron Bashford directed a stellar
main day job I had in NY was data entry for
cast: Casey Morris, Rebecca Morris, Graham RRM: Where do you see live theatre in the
Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. That
Smith, Matt Burke, and Vivian Smith.
Asheville area in five years?
was a great day job because they were all
theatre people and let you go on auditions producing for me. Not until we’re a little CfM: That’s a good question. When we
and jobs and welcomed you back with open bigger. So I’d like to direct a little more and were first starting NC Stage, when it was
arms. Plus, it was such a great cause. But be able to leave the theatre a little more. just Angie and me meeting in our Brook-
I’ve done all sorts of things. Mainly I did But really, I’m only in about one show a lyn apartment with a full pot of coffee or
Photo by Sebastian Collett temp work in offices around Manhattan. year. Last year I was in 2 but that was not three and talking about how we should go
In between some of the catchi- But I’ve also done teaching work, educa- the norm. about this thing, there was an article in the
tional theatre performances for schools. paper about the boergoning theatre scene in
est songs you’ll ever hear, Hedwig
The weirdest job I had was for a private RRM: How is a play formed in your mind Asheville including, I think, 3 professional
tells her life story, from her start as a
investigator in NY. I did a lot of surveillance before rehearsals start, and what kind of theatres. 5 years later, there was only one
young boy named Hansel in com-
work for him. I’m not at liberty to discuss criteria become important when you select a left. So there will be some attrition in the
munist East Berlin, to her botched
it in detail…just kidding…it was really play to stage? theatre world but then others will pop up.
sex-change operation and marriage to
mundane stuff. A client would hire the PI As it always does.
a U.S. serviceman, to her discovery CfM: We try to choose plays that we like.
trying to prove something in court and the We have at least two new theatre spaces
of her musical gifts in a Texas trailer Seems kind of goofy to say that, but that’s
PI would send me out to scope out the situ- with as many theatre companies opening
park. She also reveals publicly, for the pretty true. And plays we like tend to be
ation. One time I had to put on a suit, drive in the past 12 months and I think there’s
first time, her scandalous relationship plays that are entertaining but have some
out to NJ, get on a bus, and travel to Wall another one in West Asheville that’s opened
with mega-rock star Tommy Gnosis, substance. We also like plays that have
Street. All the time, writing down informa- up. Theatre is the passion of a lot of people
the love of her life. harder themes but are also accessible. Our
tion about the bus route. who feel it’s important to tell a compelling
Hedwig and the Angry Inch stars goal at NC Stage is to figure out what the
One time I had to sit in a car for 3 days story in this manner.
Michael Sheldon, better known to intent of the playwright is and produce that
and write down how many bottles and of Now, whether or not there is enough
Asheville audiences as drag legend on stage. We don’t try to put our stamp on
what color, were turned in to a recycling demand in the public for buying tickets
Cookie LaRue. He has worked with it or our own political views on it, like do-
center in the Bronx. to such events is another story. There is
Betterdays Productions, Asheville ing Shakespeare set in the White House or
a movement in theatre to find your tribe.
Vaudeville, and more drag shows in RRM: You direct, produce, act and write. something like that.
Scott Walters talks a lot about this on his
the Southeast than you can shake We are attracted to a story that tells
What is your first love and why not just act
blog mentioned earlier. It’s different than
a can of Aqua Net at! He currently what we think is a truth about the human
or just direct or...?
finding the market niche you can sell to.
lives in Philadelphia with his partner experience. That’s not as limiting as it might
Robert, so Hedwig is a rare chance for CfM: To be clear, I don’t really write. I’ve seem. It includes tragedies, dramas and It’s more about finding the people that
Asheville audiences to see him. helped on a few things but not done the comedies. In fact, the truth of the human share your values and for whom you per-
Hedwig is joined by her band original writing. I think the thing I have condition the playwright taps into is what form mainly.
the Angry Inch, made up of some of the most experience with and am like a makes the play particularly tragic, dramatic, It feels like theatre is moving more
Asheville’s hardest-working musi- fish in water is, is acting. I really love pro- or funny. toward this idea. But I think a lot of people
cians: Aaron Price, Caleb Beissert and ducing though. We’re not attracted to dogmatic or who do theatre feel that this is not them.
Matthew Kinne. Not to be over dramatic, but it really pedantic plays and we don’t like plays that They feel that everyone should love what
takes it out of me to act. The hours of run- they do and flock to their performances. I
wrap everything up at the end in a nice little
if YoU go: Tickets are $17 - $29, ning the theatre, raising money, managing think theatre folks should figure out who
package. We prefer plays that raise more
based on the day of the week, a staff, planning for future productions, they’re having this theatrical conversation
questions than answers because we think
with a Pay-What-You-Can Night dealing with cash flow and budgets, attend- with and continue that discussion and then
that’s the way life really is. Much more grey
Wednesday, August 24. Performances
ing meetings, planning fundraisers, AND maybe the individual tribes can branch out
are Wednesdays - Fridays at 7:30 than black and white.
rehearsing 36 hours a week and doing 6 and experience other theatre companies.
p.m.; Saturdays at 7 and 10:30 p.m.;
shows a week…did I mention that I have 2 RRM: Do you have any commercial concern And a word about the word profes-
Sundays at 2 p.m. Call NC Stage at
kids?…it’s just too much sometimes. when you start to prepare a play? How does sional. That word gets bandied about rather
[phone] or visit www.ncstage.
There was a stretch last year where I this affect the development stage of the play? loosely. And it means different things to
org. NC Stage is located at 15 Stage
didn’t have a day off from work for about different people.
Lane, Asheville NC 28801. CfM: Sure. Aside from the question of
9 months. And there’s no getting out of
whether anyone will come to see a par- ‘Charlie Flynn-McIver’ continued on page 28
6 August 2011 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 12
Vol. 14, No. 12 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — August 2011 7
R A P I D   R I V E R   A R T S   &   C U L T U R E
spinning As I mentioned last issue our theme this time around is: “Keep it local.”
We are so fortunate to have an abundance of fine musicians in the area,
and Rapid River Magazine is committed to supporting them. Given the
discs
variety of styles covered, I am going to forego my usual rating system
and simply share a bit about each album. Visit the artist’s website to
CD Reviews sample or purchase a few tunes, and if you like what you hear, be sure
to support the many local independent record stores that carry the CDs.
by James Cassara
“Keeping it local” should be more than just a bumper sticker!
Vince Junior moving and reserved. And while Van Bus- – typically holding
the last tear kirk’s voice is somewhat limited in range, court as bassist for
he smartly works within such restrictions, the Reverend Billy
VinceJunior.com
relying instead on his skill for engaging C. Wirtz – and has
That Vince
hooks and pleasing melody. In many ways played with as many
Junior manages to
this disc exemplifies the Asheville musi- regional bands as
juggle fatherhood,
cal community at its best. Van Buskirk has anyone. Walters is
a career as a fourth
always been a behind the scenes part of that the consummate
grade teacher, and
community, eager to lend a helping hand to utility man; these days he balances playing
his musical outings is remarkable enough,
others. Darkroom provides many of them keyboards with guitar great Les Dudek while
but that he is able to make records – how-
with an opportunity to give in return. They, plying his own guitar skills with an assort-
ever infrequent – as satisfying as this one
and Van Buskirk himself, have done so with ment of world/folk and jazz ensembles.
is even more so. The last tear is a generous
class and distinction. In the past year Walters has released a
collection of sixteen songs (fifteen of which
pair of fine discs, each distinct unto them-
are originals) exploring such basic themes as
Jamie Laval selves and each giving ample evidence of
family, romance, and the seemingly mun-
his talents and stylistic leanings. Invisible
Murmurs and
dane challenges of everyday life.
is deeply steeped in his love of 60s classic
Drones
The overall tone is jaunty and upbeat,
rock/blues:“Sense of Time” sounds for all
threaded with a recurrent theme extolling JamieLaval.com
the world like a lost tune from the Blues
wise acceptance of the absurdities that inevi- While I confess Magoos (including some delicious psyche-
tably come our way. “Cincinnati ‘79” is the that my affection for delic era flourishes) while the wounded
obvious exception: it’s a mournful rumina- Celtic music is at heartbreak of “Belong” would have fit in
tion on the tragic stampede at a concert by best minimal, there is an undeniable beauty nicely on either of Dennis Wilson’s solo
The Who that left eleven young fans dead, to master violinist Laval’s playing that ren- albums. With a few exceptions Walters plays
an event that the artist witnessed first hand. ders such prejudices meaningless. Having the entire affair, giving Invisible a consis-
On hand to assist Vince Junior (whose worked extensively as a recording musician, tency that belies its genre hopping revelry.
own blues-infused resonator guitar work all the while racking up an impressive num- Speak of Love leans a bit more towards
is stellar) are a number of Asheville’s finest ber of awards and citations, Laval is the very Walters’ affection for Gypsy Jazz – best
musicians, many of whom share the sacred definition of a consummate musician. But heard in “Europe Approaching (parts one
calling of teaching and each of whom dem- what really elevates his music to a higher and two)”, but it’s no less intoxicating in
onstrate just how sonically blessed our fair plane is the sincerity and exuberance he its reach and grasp. Both discs are sonic de-
city is. The end result is a smart collection brings to the table. lights, replete with charming Beach Boy-like
of songs that should appeal to the grown ups Having engaged in many a passionate harmonies and the sort of studio concoct-
among us. Just don’t be too surprised if you concert with Laval, I can attest that the man ing that would make Jeff Tweedy blush. I
find the kids dancing along! lives and breathes music; he’s in constant am simply amazed at Walters’ talents, and
motion, looking for new and improved ways equally stumped as to how he’s managed to
Charlie Van to express his art. That makes Murmurs and remain so woefully neglected.
Buskirk Drones more than just a “pleasant” listen – a Without the slightest bit of thought I
darkroom description that I suspect might make Laval can mention dozens of musicians whose
cringe – but one that demands your atten- talents are dwarfed by his but no doubt out
A longtime fix-
tion and rewards such with continual depth sell him a hundred to one. I know life isn’t
ture on the Asheville
and rediscovery. fair but we can all do our part to balance the
scene as both musical
Each subsequent listen has revealed, scales by purchasing a Dan Walters CD or
supporter and host,
even to my Celtic-challenged ears, new two. You won’t be sorry.
Van Buskirk has finally made good on his
sounds, intonations, and subtle shifts in
promise to record his own music. Assisted
tenor that might yet help me see why Laval Albatross Party
by local ubiquitous producer/ace of all trades
is so in love with the generational tradi-
Chris Rosser, Van Buskirk has recorded Glass
tions of Scotland and Ireland. So while I’m
a gathering of songs that speak directly to not yet ready to sell my home and move to AlbatrossParty.com
matters of the heart.
Brittany I will gladly admit that Murmurs From the open-
The album is an unapologetic love song
and Drones has made me realize there’s ing helter skelter
to both his late wife Barbara and his beloved
much more to Celtic music than bagpipes guitar/piano drive of
daughter Sara, and while such personal
and kilts. “Fall” to the clos-
statements can often veer into mawkishness,
ing dreamscape of
Van Buskirk is too savvy a writer to allow
Dan Walters “Rocketship,” this sophomore album is a
things to teeter off the edge.
stunning revelation of just how ripe the
The title track and the jaunty piano Invisible/Speak of Love
musical talent in our fair town is. Here’s a
driven “Firepower” are perhaps the strongest DanWaltersMusic.net
band that comes out of seemingly nowhere,
cuts, but kudos too for his bold take on the While he may be a longtime resident of has been together for a relatively short time
perennial “Over the Rainbow,” a beautifully central Florida, Walters’ connection to our and played only a handful of gigs, and yet
sung duet with his daughter that is both area runs deep. He’s a Bele Chere fixture
‘CD’s’ continued on next page
8 August 2011 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 12
R A P I D   R I V E R   A R T S   &   C U L T U R E   M A G A Z I N E
what’s happening
Albatross Party: Making Their Musical Mark
by JamEs CassaRa
once of the nicest perks about covering the local music scene playing out. Brent and I had JUST started
dating, and I happened to mention that I
are the people i meet and the serendipitous ways in which
played keys and sang a little.
associations are made.
It took a long time for Andy and
Eddie to come around, but over beers
A one night we got to screwing around and
n email I received a few weeks Tiziana and her husband/band mate
made up a little rap song. Eddie said may-
back from singer/pianist Tiziana Brent Baldwin are huge fans of the
be we could play seriously some time, so
Severse of the supremely talented medium and are themselves dabbling
we found a drummer and Albatross Party
band Albatross Party is one such in the field. Now, anyone who knows
was born.
example. She inquired about this faithful music writer is well
getting some coverage for a few upcom- aware of my love of sequential art JC: As my review indicates, I am won-
ing shows, a request which, despite my and keen interest in the panorama of derfully impressed by the album. It sure
thinking I knew nothing about the band, comic books, graphic novels, and all doesn’t sound like a first effort. How
I was more than happy to grant. things related. Connections number Albatross Party much recording experience did you guys
Meeting over coffee (how *very* two! We also share a mutual affec- have?
Asheville!) I was immediately struck by tion for The Decemberists (“Colin Meloy is then hearing from the artist herself? Ok, so tS: Albatross Party released its first self
her boundless energy, creative intensity, the man,” I let slip out like some star struck here it goes. titled album in August 2009. But Brent
and gregarious nature. In the course of twenty-something) and a shared opinion of
James Cassara: Talk about the band. How and Andy have been making music to-
our conversation I realized I had seen their newest album (“a bit too accessible but
gether for over 10 years. Plus, Andy owns
did Albatross Party come together? Were
the band as an opener for The Cheek- still very good.”)
and operates Giraffe Studio, a recording
you initially attracted by musical interests,
sters. “You guys were great!” I told her So while I make no claim that only
studio in Hendersonville. He recorded
friendships, or some combination thereof?
with complete sincerity. At the time I in Asheville could these conversations
both of our albums, so I think his experi-
had intended to track them down but take place, it does seem there’s something tiziana Severse: Albatross Party began in
ence as a professional audio engineer re-
somehow, in the rush of listening to the uniquely wonderful about a town small the summer of 2005, when The Shuffle
ally contributes a LOT to the professional
headliners and running into plenty of old enough for people to gravitate within Board City Allstars fell apart. That band
sound of our final results.
friends, I missed the boat. the same circles while attracting creative was Andy Bishop, Brent Baldwin (my then
So here we are chatting away like individuals who might normally make their boyfriend, now husband) Eddie Knighton JC: You’re still at a stage where the band
old friends when somehow the subject way to Greenwich Village or Berkeley. and Ted Salvatore. Ted quit the band, leav-
of graphic novels comes up. It seems What better way to celebrate such a balance ing it sans drummer, which meant no more ‘Albatross Party’ continued on page 11
The Cheeksters That’s the real beauty of this band: always *this* close to breaking through but
‘CD’s’ continued from page 8
The Golden The Cheeksters certainly don’t shy away never quite grabbing hold of that elusive
I’ll stack Glass against any of the multiple of Birds from their influences but neither are they brass ring. Four decades later he returns with
restrained by them. They gleefully bring in Anti Gravity, an effort that makes it seem as if
discs that come across my desk each month. Encompassing
their own distinct touches, best exemplified those intervening years didn’t even exist.
Despite its six song brevity (or just as their dual influ-
by drummer Brent Little’s fascination with Certainly his writing has grown and
likely because of it) Glass packs an amazing ences of Brit pop
sonic tinkering and Shannon’s occasional the concerns of this stage in his life are far
wallop, like a prize fighter who knows when and Memphis Soul,
but exceedingly welcome turns at singing different from the heady days of past. But
to feint and when to let loose with his best principal Cheeksters
lead, all the while having one hell of a good his blue-eyed soul voice and song craft are as
shoot. The album overflows with taste- Mark and Sharon Casson return with their
time that any spinning The Golden Birds sturdy as ever, making this brisk, eight song
ful touches, bright nuances that give every finest disc yet. While Mark’s songwriting has
cannot help but soak up. This eleven song, disc an unexpected pleasure. Pousette-Darts’
indication of a band that is only scratching long shown a knack for catchy hooks and
thirty five minute party continues to ce- somewhat timid vocal style can be a bit off
the surface of their potential. Witness the sturdy yet fluid melody, with The Golden
ment The Cheeksters’ reputation as one of putting, but there’s no questioning his skills
middle eight thump of Andy Bishop’s bass Birds his songwriting takes a huge step for-
Asheville’s greatest musical gifts. as a writer and arranger. With stellar guest
in “Fall” or the searing violin break of the ward. And not just in craft, which has always
Darrel Scott joining Dart’s talented band the
stunning “Sea Shanty”. Such moments are been there, but in the scope and maturity of
Jon sound is clear, slick (at times overly so) and
judiciously placed, beautifully played, and the material.
Pousette-Dart thoroughly professional.
wildly effective. I’ve given Glass six or seven Mixed in with the familiar buoyancy
The title track is a welcome bit of up-
plays in just a few days – a rarity given the and irrepressible “yeah, yeah, yeah” (I mean, Anti Gravity
beat fun while the piano laden “Me and the
amount of music I receive – and it gets bet- that is what makes this band so much fun!) Little Big Deal Rain” is an iridescent bit of bliss. The heavi-
ter with every listen. of such tunes as “Why Don’t You?” and “A Records est moment belongs to “Who Am I”, a som-
There are a small number of caveats: Couple of Years Ago” are the social concerns
I’d love to see lyricist Tiziana Severse write of The Kinks like “Mr. Witchall” and the First, I ac- ber reflection on the ravages of Alzheimer’s
fewer phrases and more extended sentences, exquisite “Brand New Way” both of which knowledge that disease that only someone directly affected
but that’s likely nothing more than a mat- deal with the generation gap in differing but Pousette-Dart isn’t from Asheville, but since by this scourge could have written.
ter of my own tastes. I’ve long considered equally persuasive fashion. Other high- this album came out three months ago I am Anti Gravity is hardly a “comeback state-
Wayne Robbins and the Hellsayers as the lights are the killer guitar licks of “Thrill of a bit overdue in reviewing it. Now, on to ment” but it does show that, though he is
most consistently intriguing band in Ashe- a Lifetime”, in which Mark embraces his my comments! As founder of the country approaching 60, the artist has plenty more to
ville, but, based on this release, those gents inner Marc Bolan, and “How Do You Feel”, influenced soft rock band that bore his name, say He also still has a ridiculously full head of
have some serious competition. And we which nicely riffs The Doobie Brothers but one that toured with such heavyweights as hair, reason enough to be envious even if he
who love music are the big winners. doesn’t sound a bit derivative. The Byrds, Little Feat, and Bonnie Raitt, Jon was not such a talented player. ***1/2
Pousette-Dart lived on the edges of stardom,
Vol. 14, No. 12 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — August 2011 9
R A P I D   R I V E R   A R T S   &   C U L T U R E   M A G A Z I N E
music
The Very Talented and Beguiling
sometimes in an illusory way.
Angela Easterling As with her previous release, the
record was produced by lauded singer-
songwriter Will Kimbrough, currently
W
hen no less an iconic figure serving as Emmylou Harris’ lead guitar-
than Byrds founder and Rock by JamEs CassaRa ist and known for his work with folks
and Roll Hall of Famer Roger like Rodney Crowell, Todd Snider and
McGuinn dubs you one of the Angeles after college, hoping to further her Jimmy Buffett. Also helping out in the
“bright shining stars on the ho- musical ambitions. She quickly learned the studio are bassist Byron House (from
rizon,” the pressure to live up to such lofty Catch-22 of working in a music industry- Robert Plant’s Band of Joy) and noted
expectations must be tremendous. heavy scene. “I had to work a day job to pay multi-instrumentalist Fats Kaplin.
McGuinn has gone on to add, “Her my bills, but I spent so much time working, A pair of South Carolina songbirds,
gift is so special [it] brought me back to the I couldn’t play music and totally lost track,” Starling McLean (longtime harmony
time the Byrds recorded Sweetheart of the she says. “To get yourself out there, you singer for Emmylou Harris) and folk-pop
Rodeo – tradition meets youthful exuber- have to tour, so why am I paying this high artist Hannah Miller are also on hand.
ance.” That’s some high praise indeed, but rent if I’m never going to be here anyway?” While the diversity of musicianship is
for Greenville, SC native Amy Easterling So Angela Easterling went back to different this go around, Beguiler keeps in
it’s a call to arms, a challenge to recommit to the South, and in an almost providential Angela Easterling Photo © 2011 Coke Whitworth line with the themes of her other efforts.
being the very best musician she can. Hers manner, found everything she needed in “I wouldn’t call myself a political
has been a path best described as unconven- her own backyard, including a permanent that draws you in with gentle and well songwriter, but I’m a curious person, and if
tional, rife with the type of good fortune and band and a constant stream of inspiration crafted songs. The lyrics might address po- I listen to an album in which all songs are
timing that doesn’t mean a thing if the talent all around her. litical and social issues head on, but they do about one topic I get bored. I want to sing
isn’t there. Fortunately for all of us it is. The result is a new album, nominally so without the slightest hint of proselytizing. about things that are important to me,” she
Born and raised in Greenville, SC, named after the band she formed upon her Likewise the arrangements, while says, “But I don’t want to sound preachy or
where she was exposed to a healthy dose return to Spartanburg. The trio, which fea- easily absorbed, are deceptively complex. trite. So I try to do this by telling a story that
of music from the Carter Family, Loretta tures Easterling, guitarist Brandon Turner It’s an approach which serves her well.
Lynn, and others, Easterling moved to Los and drummer Jeff Hook, are keen on music To “beguile” means to charm or enchant, ‘Angela Easterling’ continued on page 11
WnC Jazz profiles: JE Widenhouse and the Firecracker Jazz Band
by EddiE lEshuRE
here’s the saga of WnC’s firecracker Jazz Band…related by
founder Je (pronounced “Jay”) Widenhouse:
hall that could get a dance band.
I I want to do my part with The
’m from Concord, North Carolina. I and asked if they’d like to have music in Firecracker Jazz Band to grow a
played trumpet in the marching band their restaurant. Immediately, many local dance culture and see it thrive!”
in high school. Both there and in col- musicians came to our performances to sup- ~ JE Widenhouse
lege I studied jazz with Bill Hanna, port the project.
who still plays piano and trombone Our reputation has grown and ever “The audience has given
in Charlotte. I studied for two years at since I’ve been leading the band, with a lot (the new) Firecracker Jazz Band
Appalachian State, but dropped out in of help from our trombonist Earl Sachais. a positive and welcome re-
1987 to start touring with a rock group We’ve had many personnel changes over the sponse. There’s always a chance
with a horn section. I’ve been doing the years so there’s a growing list of Firecracker that when new members (in this
performing music thing ever since. Alumni. To do a Traditional Band right, you case four, to be exact) come into
The Firecracker Jazz Band idea need seven players. We’ve always had six live a group, they’re sometimes not
started in the summer of 2003 when Bill and brought in a reed player to record when well received by the fans. This
Smith, now with The Truth and Salvage we wanted to publish a CD. We’re planning is not the case with FJB. They
Firecracker Jazz Band Photo by Seth Jacobson
Company, came over to visit me. He on recording our fourth CD soon. come to dance and dance they
thought we could put together a tradi- We sent out our second CD “Fire- do - they love the new songs
tional jazz band with Reese Gray and Joe cracker Jazz Band Explodes” all over the “While traveling with the Squirrel Nut and the new singers. The dancers react to
Edel. He and Joe had played around town country to traditional jazz festivals and the Zippers on our 2007-2009 victory lap tours, the strong rhythm and the high energy by
with a local group called Scrappy Hamil- “Americana Radio” mailing list. I got an im- I managed to get the Firecracker opening getting out on the dance floor and danc-
ton. Reese had performed with me in the mediate response from the Seaside Oregon slots in a half dozen East Coast venues. ing their butts off.”
Squirrel Nut Zippers. Traditional Jazz Festival, plus the Sacra- We’ve played at Bele Chere, LEAF, Mont- ~ Drummer Russ Wilson
Our first shows were at Tressa’s mento Jazz Festival, then we played at other ford Music and Arts Festival, White Squirrel
www.firecrackerjazz.com
downtown and grew out of a “Tradi- traditional jazz festivals in California. We’ve Festival in Brevard, French Broad River
tional Jazz Night”. It was there where I also performed in Nelsonville, Ohio with Festival and more. After seven years, we’ve
said to Bill, “I’d like to call our project Dan Hicks and his Hot Licks, and Willie accumulated quite a rap sheet.
“The Firecracker Jazz Band”. Everyone Nelson.” I’m motivated to keep the band together Share eddie LeShure’s
was challenged to come up with a better “JE always plays with a raw, exciting by my own ambition to perform wherever I passion for jazz with
Jazz Unlimited on Main
name. No one did, so we stuck with it. sound and reminds me of Lester Bowie or can get a booking, and by my belief that peo-
fM each Wednesday
Shortly thereafter, Joe approached Chris Steven Bernstein...creating something new ple should experience live music. Tradition-
7-10 p.m., at 10. or
Jones, who’d opened a New Orleans while drawing from the tradition.” al Jazz grew alongside a dance culture in the
Main-fM.org.
themed restaurant called “Thibadeaux ~ Bassist Zach Page early 20th century in New Orleans, New
Jones” with his wife Ashley Thibadeaux, York, Chicago, LA, Texas and anywhere a
10 August 2011 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 12