High Water Festival Archives - immersed in cool music

High Water Festival 2018 Day Two-Photo Gallery and Recap

It has been a week, but I am still riding the high I experienced covering eleven bands at High Water Festival

Check out day two photos…

A week ago I was preparing to travel to Charleston in high anticipation of a wonderful weekend of stellar music, impressive food, camaraderie, and beautiful views. A week later, and I am still riding the high of the weekend

The weekend may be over, but the memories will last a life time. A gigantic thank you to High Water for putting together such an amazing weekend and also for including immersed in cool music as a part of the media team. It was a real bona fide privilege. I am so very humbled and thankful.

Sunday began earlier than Saturday because they added another band, performing at 12:30. I was thrilled because it was The High Divers. As I have said before, they put on a great show and with a new album, I looked forward to seeing them again. They clearly set the joyous vibe for the day!

The High Divers

T. Hardy Morris

The mullet is back y’all! T. Hardy Morris brought his uber cool to the stage and rocked us out.

Is it a good luck charm? It caught my eye…

I think she was pretty stoked to score a front row position…

Spotted in the crowd, the cutest embroidered jeans…she was totally en trend.

Valerie June

I was thrilled to have a chance to see Valerie June. She just exudes cool, creativity, and wisdom. Her music is different and worthy of your ears. Perhaps her sound is best described as an intersect between Appalachian, roots, country/folk. She sings of love, perseverance, life, and healing. Her show is a sight of colors, sounds, and hypnotic music.

Wandering around, I stumbled upon some fun shots.

The convenient rearranged backpack beer holder…

He was taking advantage of some space to toss a frisbee…it wasn’t long before the green grass was covered in blankets and people.

Peeked in on the oyster education gathering.

Looks like I was a bit on the late side, darn!

Creative food line waiting. Fun can be had anywhere, especially when you have a strong daddy.

Joshua Hedley

Okay, I’ll admit that I am not a huge country fan. I most certainly listen and appreciate the genre. But…I was so in awe of Joshua Hedley‘s cool suit, I kinda blanked out. He plays old school country which you don’t hear as much anymore. There’s talent galore, but to me the fashion sense of this band made me the happiest.

Yep, even the keyboard player had a belt sweet enough to envy a bit.

Tank and the Bangas

This band was the secret surprise of the day! They brought it, and the festival goers reveled in the glory of them! Dancing…singing…performing with a capital P, they laid it out. A photographer’s dream, I came home with some amazing shots, but the memory of this fierce band is planted firmly in my heart. It is not for everyone to cover Nirvana, but they did it and did it well!

Their energy and audience participation expectations brought everyone on their feet hands in the air and singing along!

Soakin’ up the afternoon music bliss.

M Ward

Soothing melodies and guitar centric, M Ward is easy on the ears. At High Water Fest, he played his beautiful Bigsby and each intermittent guitar riff proved to be exciting. With Keith Richards and Jack White as Bigsby players, he is in great company. M Ward has his own distinct style that doesn’t reflect theirs at all. Music on the laid back side, his set was perfect for chillin’ and sitting back with appreciation. The day was wearing on us all with so many early power house acts, we all needed a bit of a chillin’ sound break.

This pic is just dripping cool.

Shakey Graves

I am pretty old…I admit it. But I love the fact that I stumbled on Shakey Graves many, many years ago and I don’t even live in Texas. He put out a series of videos where he played his guitar and his suitcase drum/tambourine in an empty field and even a giant sewer pipe. Check it out, sometime. His career has moved like a fast-moving train ever since. He has paired up with some of the most amazing acts, and toured his heart out. So, to see him at another huge festival made my heart bust with joy. He knows how to write, sing, and play catchy, lyrical tunes with perfection. His show begins solo, like the start of his career, then he brings out the band. Never disappoints!

He loves to get the crowd into the music, and participate, they did!

Hamilton Leithauser

Hamilton Leithauser, the lead singer from the successful indie band, The Walkmen, graced the stage in a simple dark suit. No frills, but the music was on fire. His voice and songs had everyone amazed. He turned out to be one of the happy surprises of High Water Fest. With a successful solo career, he has been releasing new songs lately, perhaps hinting at another solo album. His show began a bit late and seemed to end way too soon. I look forward to seeing him again. He is a seasoned vocalist and performer…so very good.

Shovels and Rope

The hometown darlings of the festival, Shovels and Rope, took to the stage in matching pink velvet outfits. It was striking on stage and mimicked their bubbly personality and synergy as a couple and musical duo. They garnished the largest crowd of the festival, and the most enthusiastic. Their show was so upbeat and fun as they blend folk, rock and roll and country rock perfectly. It was something to behold.

Heading back to my sittin’ spot. I had fun with my blanket neighbors.

Wandering the crowd to catch Susto, I stumbled upon this lovely family.

Clearly he is a Susto fan with gobs of personality!

Susto

If you have never been to a Susto live show, you are clearly missing out. Dynamic music with psychedelic spaciousness and catchy indie hooks, Susto continues to bring down the house. With a hefty touring schedule they have made a name for themselves all around the world. Even better, they are a Charleston band and had no trouble setting the night on fire in the comfort of their backyard. They warmed up the crowds for the final act, Band of Horses, but more importantly they are clearly ready to headline themselves.

Band Of Horses

What is not to love about this iconic southern rock band? With a catalogue of songs dating back to 2006 and many number one hits, Band of Horses, continues to remain relevant and revered. From soothing sweet love songs to rocking anthems, they bring the crowd to any festival. But on this perfect spring night in North Charleston, they clearly commanded the stage with musical weight. The festival goers swooned to “Noone’s Gonna Love You” and sang-a-long and cheered to their latest hit “In A Drawer”. They even covered a Susto song, “Hard Drugs”. It was a lengthy set and all who stuck it out (not worrying about Monday morning) were totally present and clearly loved it. Me included! I didn’t want the night to end.

A beautiful day, a host of talent, and magnificent people helped to make this year’s High Water Festival a true winner! I didn’t want it to end and didn’t want to face the rainy Monday drive back to Atlanta. Charleston is a magical place and I was able to experience a magical weekend!

Goodnight all!

Cheers!

Be sure to mark your calendars!

High Water 2018 Day One-Let’s Fondly Reminisce a Stellar Day of Music

Through my photography and blog, I hope you can experience the amazing musicians, people, and setting of High Water Festival

While I was driving back to Atlanta from Charleston in torrential downpours, I was once again reminded of the charm of High Water Festival. There is truly something magical, mystical, and glorious about the festival’s ability to place itself in the perfect location and find the perfect weekend of the most pleasant spring weather. I don’t think it is luck….This festival has camaraderie, friendship, and joy in its very DNA. This year there were happy surprises with emerging bands and instead of heat and humidity we had brisk winds with chilly nights.

From the ease of parking, strolling to the entrance, and passing through the High Water gates, the worries of work, school, and life shrug off magically.

Were you there? Did you feel it?

If you weren’t able to come this year, I hope I can give you that sense of happiness through my photos and my descriptions….If you were there this year, let’s reminisce and soak the goodness into our heart & soul and make the feeling last a long time (round about 51 weeks?).

We entered the High Water gates, hurriedly placed our blanket down under the trees, and I changed photo lenses and ran off to the Edisto stage to see Weaves. As I have said before, they are a phenomenal band out of Toronto, and the lead singer has the ability to use her voice to warble and hit interesting notes with serious range. I refrain from saying her voice is almost baby-like, but it does take on la-la’s and sounds that manage to intersect the edge, then her voice moves beyond flawlessly.

She is expressive on stage, and her band mates are all talented musicians that truly hold their own.

Weaves

The set began with a small crowd, but with their commanding, infectious sound, the crowd grew quickly and everyone seemed totally into it. I have seen them multiple times, and they just get better and better! A perfect way to begin the weekend of music.

Nicole Atkins

Wanting to stay till the last note, I had to run lickety split to the Stono stage to catch Nicole Atkins. Because the Stono stage was farther from the entrance, it wasn’t as packed and I had an easy access to the photo pit. Nicole’s sultry soothing voice would perhaps be a more laid back set.

When she arrived on stage in a bold leopard jumpsuit and black and white wingtips, I knew we were in for music with personality. I love her lyrics of struggle and sheer survival from difficult times in her life. She writes what she knows. I hear a bit of Linda Ronstadt in her voice and her style. She can sing a good cry, and question everything with her voice. Talent and deep insight can be a very powerful combination.

Ian Felice

On my way to see Ian Felice, I stopped to marvel at an empty container ship navigate its way up the river. They are huge, and something to behold close up. Their horn will make you jump out of your shoes if you are nearby. Every once in a while, a ship’s horn would interject in a band’s tune. We would all take a quick look….

I was excited about hearing Ian Felice. I listened to him on repeat prior to the festival. I liked his laid back story telling, folk, rock and roll. I heard a bit of Bob Dylan, Conor Oberst, and maybe even a little Dawes in his solo music. He was originally with The Felice Brothers (four of them), and perhaps their brotherly project is a little more festive and upbeat, but similar in style. He just recently made music on his own.

Ian Felice’s set was thoughtful, relaxed, and the perfect way to sit on your blanket and just hang out and appreciate the music. I was happy I was up close and could see his well-worn guitar. I imagined hours and hours of play on that beloved instrument. I know as a music writer, a musician’s success comes through serious dedication, passion, and a sprinkling of good luck. His lyrics were expressive and wove the story, Ian Felice rarely moved and sang mostly with his eyes gently closed, as if he was a million miles away. One of his brothers accompanied him on bass and then moved to the drums.

Those who were fortunate enough to be up front were really listening and enjoying.

I think I’d like to hear him again in a small venue, where I can truly focus on his talent. He sure has it, and I hope it translated around the park on Saturday, because people were pouring in at this point.

It was difficult for me to move from photo pit to photo pit/stage to stage (no I am not complaining, it was a sweet privilege that I would never take for granted). I meandered around the crowd slipping between colorful blankets where laughter spilled past the edges or even the occasional cold beverage. I enjoyed the challenge of creative foot placement and I was able to get a sense of the party mood.

Everyone was elated and happy to be out and about on such a beautiful day. Bar and food lines were long, but everyone seemed friendly, sociable, and agreeable.

I spotted the resourceful people that spread out their blankets in the middle of the two stages on the hill, so they could just stand to hear the other stage performances.

VIP had it made. Best view, best seats, and few lines for drinks. Media was off limits this year. It was a real bummer for me because it was so much easier to get to the stage from their side.

Here’s a zoom to show what I mean…

Old 97’s

Old 97’s cranked it up and played with jam band mentality. They have been together for a while, so there was definitely a synergy and vibrancy about their set.

There were some swooners for sure….

I went backstage to give you a sense of the crowds gathered for their set. Wow!

While back there, I couldn’t help but snap this pic of Nicole Atkins. So fun that she let me take a pic before she joined Old 97’s on stage.

So fierce! You go girl!

After Old 97’s, I had a chance to chat around. I stumbled upon this beautiful couple. We chatted favorite music, favorite venues, and who they wanted to see. I found out he knew Susto’s lead singer from Florence, SC. What a small world, I lived some skinny minutes in Florence as well…

Shrimp Records Family Band

This is a music surprise of sorts, where the Shrimp Records family of musicians jam together. It was a cool scene.

After watching the fun they were having on stage, I decided it was time for an adult beverage…I had a skinny minute to indulge and I stood in line behind this crazy beautiful group. Aren’t they sumpin’?

So I actually had a tiny bit of time to sit and soak in the day. I just couldn’t stop taking photos. Life was happenin’ all around me and I wanted to capture the sweet moments.

Yep, there was a traveling pickle!

A beautiful baby discovering and playing with her shadow.

So very precious.

Reunions with friends.

St Paul and The Broken Bones

When you experience St Paul and The Broken Bones live…you will never want to miss their show. Yep, it is that good! Always creative, different, powerpacked, and a dancing, singing spectacle…St Paul andThe Broken Bones brings everything they have to provide the ultimate live experience. Talented in so many ways, they once again set the bar for performance surprise!

Did you witness the under the rug gatoring? This guy jams!

And who can resist enjoying his shoe choice?

And the crowd follows with crazy abandon…

The Wild Reeds

The Wild Reeds were the happy surprise to Saturday’s High Water. I spoke with so many that mentioned their performance and how it impacted and wowed them. The music, their energy, and talent all garnished many new fans. They went on when the sun was setting, the wind was whipping, and the temperatures were dropping. It proved to add to the electricity of their set. We all felt the power, girl power (+one guy) and it was sizzling!

Brandi Carlile

As I have said before, I think her latest release will be one of the top albums of the year. Brandi Carlile has struck a deep nerve with her heartfelt lyrics and sound. Now she has won over so many more with her electrifying live performance. Passionate about her craft, we couldn’t help but notice her ease at slipping between country, folk, rock, and Americana. It was magical and riveting. Despite the obvious life struggling that occurs in her song’s lyrics, she has catchy choruses that are unforgettable.

Wow, just wow!

At this point I was scrambling around to find a bite to eat and catch up with friends before the next set. There was so much to see and experience as I wandered around the park. Here are a few fun scenes.

Chillaxin’

Dear friends who have great taste in music.

A hat adorned with lovely acoutraments.

It was really cold when the sun went down and she was prepared! The rest of us bought Band of Horses hoodies! They had the most warmth, thank you Band of Horses!

Jeff Tweedy

What I love about Jeff Tweedy is his no nonsense approach to a music performance. He just walks out, picks up his guitar and begins playing. He creates stories in songs and you feel as if he might just be singing specifically to you around a campfire on a cold night. Did I mention his harmonica playing? He brings warmth and humor as well as the take it or leave it attitude. I’ll take it gladly and be there again and again. He has a quiet genius in his gift of sound and words. Without a backing band, he still held his own and as the sun drifted out of view, he guided us to listen willingly to his wit and his soft guitar picking.

We felt all the feels.

Jason Isbell

What else is there to say? Jason Isbell has won multiple awards, continues to sell out shows, and has the gift of creating important lyrics and putting it all to powerful music.

Jason Isbel & The 400 Unit were an excellent ending to a day of music perfection. The evening was cold but there was warmth in every last note. Many even linguered long after the end and didn’t want to leave.

He was sporting a new look with a new beard.

Jason Isbell and Amanda Shires

Goodnight y’all! Feel free to stop by anytime when you need a joy fix. Here’s my favorite parting shot! Power to the night! Peace out!

Stay tuned for the second day of High Water Festival… coming soon!

Flooding Your Ears With The Music of High Water 2018-Get to know the Sunday bands

After digging into 11 bands and their music, playing on Sunday, I began to fully appreciate the wide variety of styles and sounds
Listen…

There is so much to love about High Water Festival this year. Just when you think they can’t possibly top the line up from last year’s inaugural festival, I began digging into all of the bands and now appreciate the impressive variety of talent. Check them out! Full Spotify playlist added as well….

The High Divers (just added)

I first met The High Divers through a mutual Charleston music friend. They are one of the hardest working bands in the business, and come play in Atlanta on occasion. We try to catch them when we can. Luke Mitchell’s golden voice and the band’s obvious synergy make them a true crowd pleaser. Get to know their latest album release, Chicora, because it was brought to life from hard work, love, and serious dedication. Healing through a serious tour car crash, I for one am thankful they want to hit the stage again. Nothing stops this band from what they love! Get there early!

The High Divers-Making Me Want You

T. Hardy Morris

I have written before about this storied guitarist and member of Dead Confederates, T. Hardy Morris. He is a Georgia native and I learned about him from the release of his first solo album back in 2013. I loved the idea that he collaborated with Georgia historic sites and made a series of very cool videos performing his songs at those sites. I recall he wanted to help raise awareness for the many neglected sites and because it was simply a creative move, which proves to be a part of his fabric. T Hardy Morris somehow seeks the intersection of country, garage rock and grunge and makes it happen. So as of today, he announced a new record and released new music…here you go!

T. Hardy Morris-Be

Valerie June

Valerie June is a singer/songwriter that I had to dive into and learn about for this post. Her voice is strikingly poignant, but her creativity of melding multiple genres makes her quite unique. There is a bit of Americana, Appalachian, folk, blues, and soul in her songs. A Memphis native, she has a knack for taking classic sounds from the past and weaving something new and important from them. I am truly curious and can’t wait to experience her live.

Valerie June-Two Hearts

Joshua Hedley

Joshua Hedley has been performing in Nashville for quite awhile and has made a name for himself. Old style country music is his genre and he plays it well. So it is fitting that his song would be, “Mr Jukebox,” because he has essentially played all the songs people wanted to hear. Now with his debut album, he has his own music to share.

Joshua Hedley-Mr Jukebox

Tank and The Bangas

Have you heard the buzz about Tank and The Bangas? If not, they won the NPR tiny desk contest. NPR selects the best, most creative, and freshest sound out of thousands (it might be more) of entries. This band was last year’s recipient. I have covered many other bands that were wildly qualified but didn’t make the cut. So, I am totally intrigued to see this amazing group live and see what fascinated the NPR team. I have listened and I totally get it, but based on their creative videos and live performances, I am chomping at the bit to see and experience in person and find what the hype is all about.

Tank and The Bangas-Oh Heart

M. Ward

M. Ward‘s music was a joy to dig into….If you follow me and the music I share, then you know that lyrics make me swoon. Then, if the music compliments and enhances the words, I am forever a fan. Well, M. Ward has a knack for this perfect balance. New to me, but clearly successful with albums dating back to 1999, M. Ward will be one I will have my eyes and ears on. Here’s a really good one and one of his newest.

M Ward-Girl From Conejo Valley

Shakey Graves

Okay, full disclosure…Shakey Graves had almost everything to do with the beginning of my music blogging life. I was totally obsessed by his very first videos he filmed in a sewer drain somewhere in Texas. He was accompanied by his all in one suitcase percussion instrument and he belted out his voice with thoughtful story-like lyrics. I am a long time fan and have enjoyed watching his building trajectory of fame. With a new song and a new sound, I am a captured audience and anticipate his performance. Just so you know….almost every gig he has in this year is SOLD OUT. You just can’t miss this. Here is his new sound (album out in May)…but be sure to seek out his roots music too.

Shakey Graves-Mansion Door

Hamilton Leithhauser

Former band member and lead singer from The Walkmen, Hamilton Leithhauser recorded seven studio albums and created quite a name for himself. He began a solo project in 2014, but in 2016 collaborated with Vampire Weekend’s Rostam. Their album was given widespread critical acclaim. Recently collaborating with Angel Olsen, he has stretched the bar and creates music that defies description. He can reflect a bit of old school, and then combine it beautifully with a modern twist that makes it feel fresh and new. Each of his songs is highly entertaing and sway worthy.

Hamilton Leithhauser-In A Blackout

Shovels and Rope

We can thank Shovels and Rope for creating and powering up High Water Festival. They brought all of their favorite music friends together in North Charleston and we all get to benefit. Year two of High Water Festival is a continued succes, and with new music from Shovels and Rope late in 2017, I feel as if there might be more on the horizon for this crazy talented duo as well. Hometown favorites and a sassy bit of Americana honky tonk, what is not to love? Come see them and thank them for this awesome Festival!

Shovels and Rope-Great America

Susto

Susto is an all around great band that everyone seems to connect with and know they will have a jam good time. Alternative in genre and Charleston natives, they have made quite a name for themselves from touring non-stop, powerful song writing, and popping performances. Their songs are anthemic and sing-a-long worthy. If you don’t already know them, you will be dancing and singing by their second song. They are a band where you just can’t hold back because their sound is simply infectious.

Susto-Jah Werx

Band Of Horses

Band of Horses is an iconic band that carefully curated their sound and made folk-like indie rock to perfection. With beautiful music streching back to 2005 and hits as recently as 2016, they have achieved a solid place in alternative/indie rock music’s history. It seems there is nothing stopping their creative spirit. There is a serious hint of new music because they have been recording in Charleston with the incredibly talented Wolfgang Zimmerman. No official word yet, but I would expect news very soon. Their catalogue of songs they will share on Sunday will be vast and the perfect way to end an incredible festival, new songs or not….

Band of Horses-Casual Party

Both Saturday and Sunday’s music.Enjoy!

Flooding your ears with the music of High Water 2018 -Get Pumped!

Incredible music, curated food, and thirst quenching libations, what could be better? High Water Festival may be heaven on earth.

Check it out…

It is early in the week. What are you doing this weekend? Oh c’mon, you know you think about it as you slave away your Monday on the grind. The weekend is a sacred time and this weekend is High Water Festival in North Charleston, SC. The tickets sold out in an amazing fashion, but there are a few here, there, and somewhere.

The coast of South Carolina is the most hospitable travel spot in the world, with bluebird skies, warm gentle breezes, and southern hospitality. Now, add to all of that…incredible music, curated food, and thirst quenching libations, what could be better? This is my heaven on earth. I hope you’ll hang out with me. This blog post is for those that have the coveted tickets and need a quick overview, those that wish they could be there, and yep those that just want to experience something a little different and learn about great music.

The crazy spring time storms blew through the south this past weekend and brought with them whispers of winter. I have been obsessed with the future weather patterns hoping that April 22-23 (High Water Festival) will prove to be the beautiful weekend we all experienced last year. So far, so good.

Saturday looks sunny and delightful and Sunday may be a bit cloudy….but I don’t see wild storms or frigid temps! This is very good news according to AccuWeather. Let’s hope it sticks!

So let’s jump into the music we will enjoy in that wonderful weather….The lineup is full of treasured voices and bands while lightly peppered with new and need to explore sounds.

High Water

Here is a quick overview of the bands playing on Saturday. I am also adding a playlist for you at the end. Check it out!

Weaves

Weaves is a talented band with the stage presence to crank up the crowd and begin the festival with power and panache. This will be my (ah-hem) 3rd time to see them play, and every time they blow me away. Each musician has a wowing ability to play flawlessly with sparkle and serious standout skills, and leading the music are the memorable vocals of Jasmyn Burke. The Toronto band possesses a rare ability to entertain with talent, wittiness, and spirit. Don’t snooze and lose on Saturday. Get there early to set up and experience the joyous power of Weaves.

Weaves-Walkaway

Nicole Atkins

Singer songwriter Nicole Atkins has a golden voice and a gift for song, but after sinking into depression and drinking way too much, she found herself a little numb and distant from it all. With her last album, “Goodnight Rhonda Lee” she discusses finding herself again through the internal struggle and capturing her difficult experience in song. Rhonda Lee is her alter ego (the heavy drinker) and with this album she says…goodbye. Her retro-soul-infused style found in her most recent music is the most heartfelt of any of her projects. Sometimes those giant mountains to climb can be purposeful and life changing. Listening, I am pretty sure Nicole Atkins has reached deep into her soul and found what she can share with her fans.You should be one. Her difficult journey is our lucky gain.

Nicole Atkins-Listen Up

“You gotta make mistakes to know, you gotta make mistakes to grow…”

Ian Felice

Folk music with awareness and validity is what you will hear from this artist. Out of Catskills NY, Ian Felice is a singer/songwriter, poet, and artist, who possesses the power to fill your ears with satisfying lyrics meant for chewing and savouring. He modernizes Bob Dylan’s “these times they are a-changin” technique and achieves a similar worldly impact, It will be wonderous to see if he can step out of a quiet venue (where his words can be appreciated all the more) to a loud raucous outdoor arena. I am hoping his sound and unique style powerfully impacts the listeners to a thoughtful appreciative hush. I know I will be there, hanging on every lyric.

Ian Felice-In The Kingdom Of Dreams

Old 97’s

Best served live and loud, this band has a nice history and reputation for alt-country-pop. The pedal steel in their song, “All Who Wander” from their album Graveyard Whistling emphasizes their deepening country roots. This talented foursome, hailing from Dallas, have been making music since …you guessed it, 1997 and they still keep it fresh and warmly soothing.

Old 97’s -All Who Wander

Shrimp Records Family Band

From the High Water website…

“Shrimp Records is a musical collective and sometimes record label celebrating some of Charleston’s most celebrated local talent. Their set will feature members of Shovels & Rope, Indianola, Punks & Snakes, Mechanical River, Bill Carson, and Slow Runner. The band’s live show will feature songs from all these projects and a number of musical surprises. Sets from the band don’t happen often, and locals show up en masse when they do, it’s not to be missed at High Water.”

I love surprises, don’t you?

St Paul and The Broken Bones

St Paul and the Broken Bones from Birmingham Alabama have perfected the exuberant combo of R&B, soul, and rock and roll. Each song commands a smoothness that is sway worthy and sing-a-long happy. This is the set to dance along with your sweetie and squeeze ’em with all your heart…especially after the big power dance twirl. You will be forever changed by the crazy vocal ability of the lead, Paul Janeway and the talent of the seven additional instrumentalists and background support. I also expect to learn a new dance move or two cause they will shimmy, shake, and slide while they play ….they are that good.

St. Paul & the Broken Bones – Flow with It (You Got Me Feeling Like)

The Wild Reeds

Sometimes a band can strike a chord that reverberates and seems to connect to hearts all around. The Los Angeles based band, The Wild Reeds, have the strength of achieving this with their song, “Everything Looks Better In Hindsight”. But, it doesn’t stop there. Each song they write has a poignant story which is strikingly and almost hauntingly familiar to your own narrative. With beautiful harmonies and heartfelt solos, they will be something to behold. Can’t wait!

The Wild Reeds-Everything Looks Better In Hindsight

Brandi Carlile

Brandi Carlile grew up outside of Seattle Washington in a sleepy little area where her creative mind and her own voice led her on a path to where she resides now. She is a much beloved Americana/folk/country songstress with strong lyrical content. Her latest album, By The Way, I Forgive You has been doused with accolades beyond the usual album review and I am expecting it to be one of the top albums of the year. If that isn’t enough to make you hang out to hear her sing, then it should be her amazing vocal tone and her ability to sing a song and casually weave it into an orchestral arrangement. There is power behind that and worthy of your ears.

Brandi Carlile-The Joke

Jeff Tweedy

Jeff Tweedy is a singer/songwriter, musician, and record producer best known as the singer and guitarist of the band Wilco. His solo album, Together At Last was released last year. With 30 years of rock and roll experience, it seems fitting that Tweedy would now venture out on his own. After seeing him perform at Pickathon in Oregon before his new album was announced, I remember marveling at his stage presence while he sang beautifully intimate songs. Yes he chatted in between each song, overjoyed he had a late night crowd, but I knew, in that moment he was destined to have a successful solo career.

Jeff Tweedy-I Am Trying To Break Your Heart

Jason Isbell And The 400 Unit

What can I say that hasn’t already been said about Jason Isbell? He is a prolific songwriter, amazing guitarist, and winner of multiple grammy awards. I saw him many years ago when he first left the Drive-By Truckers and went out on his own. On a couple of occasions, I witnessed him chug a quart of Jack Daniels during his one hour set. Despite the obvious vice, he still brought the house down and pleased the crowd immensely, me included! I recognized he had demons to slay. Were those demons the root of his creativity? Naw, he proved to clean up his act and shortly afterward released a succession of incredible hits. This complicated artist has worked his way into my heart, and I am thrilled to see him perform once again. I think it might be my fourth or fifth time! Isbell has so much to share and he always lays it on the line.

Jason Isbell And The 400 Unit-Hope The High Road

Here is your High Water Playlist, a 35 minute easy listen to give you a quick Saturday overview and get you pumped for the weekend! ( I will add Sunday’s tunes after my Sunday music overview post)

Charles Bradley dies at 68

May you rest in peace, Charles, and sing your way to your special spot in heaven.

High Water Festival Flashback-Day Two in Photos

High Water Festival in Charleston SC joining the ranks of successful music festivals. So much to love!

Pinch me, I might just be dreaming….

These words explain exactly how I felt for day two of High Water Festival. The weather, the venue on the Cooper River, the food, the drink choices, and THE MUSIC, THE MUSIC, THE MUSIC.

When I thought the first day couldn’t be topped, day two unfolded with promise and bubbling excitement. Exploring was the agenda for day one, day two had heavy worn paths of experience, so it became more laid back and natural. I successfully navigated time in between sets to spend with dear friends and to meet new people. Day two unfolded perfectly, despite the chance of storms coming through by days end.

The quiet ache of my feet and legs, proved to be almost energizing and invigorating. It reminded me of the running and music joy I experienced. I knew I would work through it rather quickly. The line-up for day two was insane, and I knew I had to be on my toes!

Day two was a day that I didn’t want to miss any detail, so it began with the entrance and this adorable gal working the Spectrum check-in. Kooshy job? Perhaps, but I hope she was relieved often so she could experience more than just the throngs of people entering the venue.

Also at the entrance, I was greeted by a hopeful couple. The Festival was sold out months ago and any affordable tickets were scarce. I hope they made it in, but honestly next year you are all going to have to jump on board before you get left behind. It is so risky, to not have tickets. Full disclosure, I have been in their shoes many times doing just this with a tad more begging and pleading. Sometimes it works….sometimes it doesn’t.

Breezing through the entrance, We found our camp spot and rushed to the stage to see The Suffers. We were greeted with a giant splash of Sass. This band began with an important crowd pleasing vibe, reminding all, don’t miss the first acts of the day!

The Suffers

Sporting a swishy satin skirt, white cowboy boots, and highlighter yellow nail polish, we were greeted with a serious musical attitude of confidence, authority, and energy.

Even those that didn’t know her music, listened attentively and answered her questions with assuredness. “Yes, she can cook for us….we’ll make some room!”

She rewarded us handsomely with her vocal brilliance and the band’s burst of dancing sound. Nothing sleepy about this set! We were all moving to the groove.

Looking around, I really hoped this guy was wearing a whole heap of suntan lotion. He was actually dressed appropriately because the humidity and heat was setting in.

One of the only complaints from day one, were the long bar lines. As I passed a drink station, I noticed the important changes made for day two. They had more people behind the bar, and made specific lines for beer versus cocktails. It made a gigantic difference.

Way to go guys!

Kinks worked out, it was time for more music.

Up next was Indianola. I was introduced to this band at Wildwood Revival at Cloverleaf Farm, just outside of Athens, GA. I knew it was going to be a good show!

Indianola

Always feel happy to catch a good photo of the always elusive drummer.

Early in the day, the kids took advantage of this spinning cup. As the day progressed, adults gave it a whirl. The pictures of them didn’t prove to be as cute. You will just have to imagine their googly eyes, slack jaws, and the rare upright stance as they exited the tiny seat. It was definitely worth the chuckle, only not the photo!