The Music, Mountains & Memories of Scott Mehaffey

 

Music, Mountains & Memories

Deep in the recesses of the mind we all have these special places, unforgettable people, and definitive moments that serve as mile markers along our highway of life. Occasionally, a spirit of reflection overtakes us, and we find ourselves back in time walking familiar paths; retracing these mile markers as best as we can remember in our mind. The details are always elusive, and even when we physically return to the historic sites of our own days gone by, the nostalgia we experience is tempered by the changes we see and feel in the here and now. I suppose that is why so many connect with the well known book title, as well as the sentiment behind it, penned by novelist, Thomas Wolfe, that goes, "You Can't Go Home Again." There is a seductive melancholy embedded in the adage that on the surface seems to testify to its inherent wisdom, but what if it's not entirely correct...what if you CAN go home again? Singer-songwriter, Scott Mehaffey, presents a compelling case for that very possibility in his reflective, sometimes autobiographical, new bluegrass release, "Music, Mountains and Memories."

Air Force C-17 Pilot

I caught up with Scott yesterday morning to discuss the release of this new project, and just catch up with my long time friend. Talking with Scott is like talking with a family member, or a friend from the foothills of upstate South Carolina. His down home accent quickly betrays his full status as a son of Appalachia, and it's so easy to forget that I'm sharing time with a man of many accomplishments and extraordinary experiences. Scott is a retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, and current Delta Airlines Airbus A-330 Pilot. He's been to every continent save Antarctica, flown missions over the North Pole, and conducted risky maneuvers and landings during wartime missions over and in Afghanistan and Iraq. These days, it's not unusual for me to get a text from him while he's having dinner in Belgium, at a stop over in New York, or even while touring a ukulele factory in Hawaii. If ever there was a person, at least on paper, who seemed very far from home, far from where he started, and just as unlikely to return, it would be Scott Mehaffey. 

Mountain Homeplace in NC

The liner notes tell a story of a man who seems far less traveled, and deeply rooted in the life of his upbringing. It tells the story of a man who learned his first three guitar chords from his father, while getting hopelessly hooked on the life stories revealed in the songs of his bluegrass hero, J.D. Crowe. It is in these types of stories where you find the heart of the songwriter. Each song has a story, and those stories not only find expression through the lyrics, but also through the very thoughtful and eloquent personal thoughts in the liner notes. Just like the lyrics, every word is carefully weighed and conveyed in such a way that seems to reach out beyond the here and now, and forward into the mind of readers unknown...even yet to come. It is volume one of a life memoir; a memoir that doesn't boast of the many accomplishments that decorate his careers as an Air Force Officer, wartime pilot, and world sky traveler, but of the simpler things of rural life, time passages, and of loves lost and found. It focuses on the makings of a man more so than on the things he made. 

The cover art sets the scene. Scott is seen holding his 1960s era Brazilian rosewood Martin guitar while standing in front of a 1937 Studebaker pickup that is no prop...it belonged to his grandfather, and has literally a lifetime of memories attached. It's as authentic as each of the 12 songs on the album. Songs like "Do the Mountains Miss Me," and "My Last Time," reveal the rolling mountains, fields and hills that always seem to be near to the songwriter's heart. Songs like "Georgia Maple," "Plowed Fields," and "I Wonder Where You Are," reveal the life experiences of a man not yet old, but advancing in years. These are not the thoughts of a young man, but of someone who has been around long enough to have experienced the gains and losses that are foundational to wisdom. 

"Music, Mountains and Memories" features some truly world class musicians such as Edgar Loudermilk, Russell Moore, Glenn Crain, Zack and Jeff Aurtry, Marc Pruett among others. Scott also receives some wonderful backup from his daughter, Shelby, on a couple of tracks to add just another layer of authenticity to this memoir. Reflecting on the "dream team" that helped produced this work, Scott seemed to value most the opportunity to work with friends...friends who not only possess incredible musicianship, but also shared his passion for getting every detail just right. 

Scott Mehaffey

In the end, "Music, Mountains and Memories" is a collection of experiences that reveal as much about the songwriter as they do the mountains and memories that fill the songs. Scott's Summerville home might be a good half days drive from those mountains, and further still are the distant lands that he flies to week in and out, but listening to these stories, and the passion behind every line, I can tell that in his heart he is truly never far from where he started. Perhaps Wolfe was wrong, and you can go home again after all. 

Available on CD Baby, Spotify, iTunes, Pandora, Apple Music, and Amazon

Scott Mehaffey on Apple Music

Amazon Music 

Treasured New Music from Doyle Dykes - Interview and Review by Keith Miller

Cover Art by Pierre Matisse

There, written in red, are the words of the King: "For where your treasure is, your heart will also be." It is wisdom that addresses how one can measure the priorities of a life. An amplified version of this verse defines treasure as one's, "...wishes, desires, and that on which one's life is centered." Well, guitarist, Doyle Dykes, leaves no doubt to where his treasure resides on his latest release, Treasures of the Spirit.  In it, Doyle takes the listener on an eighteen track journey where he generously, and masterfully, shares his heavenly gift from a treasury that seems to have no end.

Recently, I had the opportunity to talk with Doyle one on one about the project, and the life and treasures that inspired it. It was a real joy to have him share some of the details, from the stunning cover art to the world class creative partners, behind the project, and it's equally a joy for me to take this opportunity to share my impressions and some highlights from our enlightening conversation with each of you.

Framed and accented from beginning to end with his signature composition, White Rose For Heidi,  Treasures of the Spirit is quite simply, a masterpiece. Fittingly, the cover art is a custom original rendering of that very white rose painted by celebrated artist, Pierre Matisse, grandson of the renowned French master, Henri Matisse. The rich cover art, set against a Tiffany blue background, is striking, and serves as an appropriate foreshadowing of what awaits the listener.

Custom "White Rose" Olson

The soothing opening track is a fading, but soulful, snippet from White Rose For Heidi performed on his custom Olson guitar that bears a breathtaking white rose on the headstock. Like the Matisse cover art, the Olson is also a one of a kind work of art, but from one of the most revered master luthiers in the business, James Olson. The top choice of discerning players like James Taylor and Phil Keaggy, the waiting list for an Olson can be years, but this instrument was crafted with Doyle specifically in mind and promoted to the top of the waiting list just for him. That speaks volumes for Doyle as James Olson has little need for the endorsement of anyone these days.

After Doyle establishes a peaceful and reverent setting, he seamlessly transitions into a medley of Were You There and the triumphant Easter Song.  Performed on his Kirk Sand nylon stringed guitar, the latter emotes some of the finest classical tone as I've ever heard in a recording; performed flawlessly, Doyle delivers with a passion that cannot be denied. For me, it is a mountain top experience in terms of emotion, but the programming of the tracks have a way of maintaining the joy throughout the remainder of the album.

Eric Johnson with Doyle's Signature Guild
(Photo: doyledykes.com)

On Tracks three and four, Doyle returns to his Olson, and on the latter is joined by the legendary Eric Johnson on the original composition, Cuerdas de Luz. Translated, "strings of light," the collaboration is just that as it shines with the unmistakable, flawless tone from Eric Johnson's '54 Stratocaster. On a side note, the title of the album actually derives from Doyle's abiding friendship with Eric, as Eric personalized a copy of his acoustic album, EJ, that Doyle played on with the words, "To Doyle, You're such a treasured friend."  The profundity of the word "treasured" stayed with Doyle, and found its honored place in the album's title. Additionally, several of the album tracks were recorded at Eric's Saucer Sound and Studio Plush in Austin, TX.

Doyle with his Gretsch
White Falcon - Dec 2018

The fifth track is probably my next favorite moment on the album. For the soulful spiritual, Deep River, Doyle switches to his '55 re-issue, Gretsch White Falcon. Those unfamiliar with Doyle's mastery of different styles, and tones, might be tempted to think this piece is the work of another guest player, but it is signature Doyle through and through. Still, finding such an interchangeable ease and mastery with such strikingly different instruments as the Olson, Sand and Gretsch, is a marvel to most guitar players. On the selection of the tune, Doyle expressed his deep appreciation for the history of the song, and how its origin goes back to the profound faith of those who shouldered unimaginable burdens during their time...this appreciation is not lost on the listener.

From here, the album takes several nostalgic trips with new covers of previously recorded songs. Each done with a maturity in the arrangements that can come only with the years of having performed them in front of countless audiences around the globe. Among those re-visits is the complete performance of, White Rose For Heidi. There is touch of melancholy, or maybe better stated, sentimental joy about it that wasn't  present in the earlier recording. I could be wrong, but I sense the change perhaps reflects the passing of time, and the joyful, but perhaps a bit wistful, look at those days gone by. The song and the story that inspired it has blessed, and continues to bless, so many. It has gone full circle with Doyle in several ways, and I think takes on a sense of love and gratitude not unlike that of an old friend. 

Among the gems in the middle, so to speak, is the hymn, I Bowed on My Knees, and Cried Holy, Nearer My God To Thee, and Blessed Assurance. Each of these are what I referred to as heaven centered hymns as they point to another time, and place of peace, perfection and awe. Doyle acknowledged the observation, and said that it was possibly a subliminal factor in his choice of songs. He then went on to explain how some losses and life events have had a way of finding expression in his art. For me, this speaks of his joy that is independent of his circumstances...a common theme for anyone with a testimony to God's faithfulness, and that is something that Doyle knows so well.

Tommy Emmanuel
(Photo: Live Sessions:
People, Places and Pickin')

As the album starts to approach a landing, Doyle shares a remarkable moment with the Australian wonder, Tommy Emmanuel, on What a Friend We Have in Jesus. Doyle is playing his Taylor on this one, and Tommy just does what he does so well finding accent after accent to add to Doyle's cascading harmonics and piano-like chording movements. A little studio chatter is included to let the listener share a little in the intimate experience.

The final full track on the album is a gorgeous arrangement of the Antonin Dvorak inspired, Going Home. It was performed on Doyle's Godin Signature Model guitar, and to me at least, serves to firmly establish the heaven minded theme that I feel throughout the album...a reminder that this world is not our home. That is actually a good thing to ponder as we store up our treasure during this life. The earthly treasures we amass here will return to earth, but the treasures of the spirit...those we take with with us. It reminds me of a line from the Grandpa Jones medley that I've heard Doyle sing many times: "When you leave this earth for a better home some day; the only thing you'll take is what you gave away." Thanks Doyle for sharing your treasure with us...You are a treasure.

Follow the link to order your copy today: Treasures of the Spirit

Still Fires - New Release Burns Bright for Dustin Ashenfelder

It was such a surprise to see snow on the mountainside so late in April. My son, Nathan, and I just rounded the big eastward curve driving through Asheville when it came into view high up on the shady side of the mountain. Through the trees there was a fresh white dusting giving way to the late morning sun that was reflecting as a glistening light along the ridge. In contrast, just a thousand or two feet below all along the Swannanoa Valley up to the entrance of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the redbuds and dogwoods were in their full Spring flowering glory.

Cover Art By Perri Runion

We were heading to Heartwood Studios to sit in on a recording and mastering session for the last track on Dustin Ashenfelder's new album, "Still Fires." The song on the schedule was Dustin's cover of Bryan Sutton's ode to his annual homecoming trip back to his mountain roots, "Hills For The Head." It was such an apropos song for the setting.  The album is set for its formal release on June 30th, but I procured an early copy, and have spent a full week getting acquainted with the songs, the stories, and even the musician names in the liner notes. 

Tonight, I sat down with Dustin at the increasingly popular Cuppa Manna in the town square heart of Summerville, SC, to discuss the album, and gather some personal insights from the man behind the music.

Dustin at Cuppa Manna with Richard Harmon and Kevin Bevins

Our conversation started with a brief walk back in time. Dustin came from a musical background starting piano lessons with his grandmother, who is a classical pianist, at the age of three. He studied for several years, but grew restless with the hopes of leapfrogging over Handel to get to Elton John. It wasn't to be, so he naturally gravitated to guitar soon after. Over the years, musical doors opened for Dustin. In high school, he played in a band called "The Other Side," but the biggest opportunities came through church. His involvement with his church in Asheville, afforded him the opportunity to sit in with some well known talent from time to time. Once he was able to have some music time with Steven Curtis Chapman of Christian contemporary music fame, and he had the chance to do some songwriting with country star, Lee Brice, once at a church camp long before Lee Brice could be found in the CD aisle at Wal-Mart. Additionally, Dustin received formal music training via a Berklee School of Music distant learning program with singer/songwriter, Livingston Taylor. There are so many of these types of experiences and moments along the way for Dustin, that in retrospect, one could easily see how the steps have been ordered for the road he's chosen. 

Looking over the liner notes, one could be forgiven if they mistakenly thought they were holding a new release from Alison Krauss and Union Station.  To start with, it is produced by world renowned guitarist, and Chet Atkins protege, Richard Smith. But a glance at the contributing artist reads like a who's who among bluegrass artist. Present are Ron Block, and Barry Bales, perhaps better known as two-thirds of the real "Soggy Bottom Boys" from the movie "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" These two comprise two-fiths of "Union Station," who are the permanent back up players for 27-time Grammy winner, Alison Krauss...yes, 27.  Justin Moses, and Grammy nominated Sierra Hull also make the list along with back up vocals from Julie Adams.

I asked Dustin what it was like to hear these instruments playing along with his vocals, and he said it was a bit like hearing about a project completed by someone else. It almost seemed to me that the full impact of what this project means has yet to hit him. 

I'd love to do a track by track run down of the album, but I think I will categorize them into two groups, originals and covers, for the sake of brevity. The first song is a power punch cover of a song by Jim Cole and Bruce Carroll, entitled "Wayward Son." It's the perfect start as it just jumps right in setting the distinctly bluegrass tone for the album. Then come the originals. Songwriter, Scott Mehaffey, of Summerville contributed five of these gems for the album with a couple of co-writes with Dustin. I really don't know which is my favorite, but I'm leaning toward the title track, "Still Fires," for now. It starts with a striking fiddle intro, and goes into a story of how the mountains used to glow with lights from moonshiner's fires into the night. In my opinion, Dustin's cadence and delivery is reminiscent of a young Garth Brooks. All of Scott Mehaffey's song shine just as brightly. Track two, "Coming Home Again" brought to mind Dustin's own musical journey through classical, pop, fingerstyle guitar, and finally a homecoming to his own connections to the music of the mountains. Of the covers, next to "Wayward Son," I'd say I'm drawn to his interpretation of the traditional song, "House Carpenter." It's a seafaring tale, that probably finds easy connection to Dustin's time spent by the ocean in Georgetown, SC. If you're digging this one, just wait until Barry Bales comes in on the bass! The song just drives, and Dustin delivers it with all the appropriate passion.

The last song on the album brings me back to my opening paragraph. "Hills For The Head" just puts the proper cap on it.  Dustin provides the only accompaniment on his Caleb Smith guitar, and the lyrics provide a synopsis of the nine tracks that came before... "an ocean for my soul, a crown for my bed, a home for the heart, I need these hills for the head."

"Still Fires" is officially released on June 30, 2018, and it's one that becomes more of a favorite every time I listen through it. You can find it in all the regular digital outlets, iTunes, Amazon, and on CD Baby. Hardcopy CDs can be pre-ordered through Dustin's official website at http://www.dustinashenfelder.com/store/

A Light Inside the Lowcountry - Matthew Crissman Shines

Not long ago I was going through my morning ritual: coffee, and a leisurely scroll through the daily postings in my social media feed. While scrolling down the page it occurred to me that there seemed to be fewer lighthearted postings than in times past. Pictures of food, videos of cats, smiling selfies at sunset all, or at least increasingly, seemed to be replaced by bitter memes and political rants with accompanying arguments in the comments section. A gathering place for friends and family seemed to be turning into a place for airing public discontent. As I scrolled, I'd read something disturbing, and then instinctively reach for the keyboard wanting to respond to the negativity only to grudgingly heed an inner thought warning me that, at any moment, I too could become part of the problem. As my frustration grew, suddenly a posting shown out like a light. It was posted by Summerville singer-songwriter, Matthew Crissman, it read simply, "you're beautiful you're loved you're worth it...#keepgoing." 

It wasn't the first time I'd seen such a posting from him marked by words of love and encouragement. Sometimes a post will simply say, "Thankful for another day," or  "Have a Blessed Day. #makeitcount." In fact, I'd seen enough of these posts to conclude that these shared thoughts weren't just born of a random upbeat mood, but rather the result of an intentional campaign, undeterred by the weather, so to speak, to offer a blessing into a medium that has become so increasingly cynical, if not outright hostile at times.

I met Matthew probably sometime in the Fall of 2016 at Cuppa Manna Cafe in Summerville, SC. He was very quiet natured and polite. He would sit outside warming up, and then come in when it was his time to perform. His voice, like his lyrics, struck me as unique and sincere. He performs original music that seems to communicate the same kind of hope and encouragement seen in the postings that I spoke of earlier. 

"Love is what inspires me the most, and I hope that by giving it freely, and without expectation, that I change the world even if it's only a little bit."

Matthew Crissman - Singer-Songwriter

Originally from Lexington, NC, Matthew attended high school in Spartanburg, SC, and only recently moved to Summerville in August of 2016. He described this period of time as troubled. Missing his Mom, and hanging with the wrong crowd had Matthew on what can best be described as the wrong path. He said that he did a search for an open mic that brought him to Thursday nights at Coastal Coffee Roasters in Summerville, and soon after to Cuppa Manna on Tuesday nights. He explained that the effect on him from participating in these open mic nights has been profound. He said that the inspiration and encouragement he's received from everyone he's met from the local music community has led to nothing short of a changed life.

One needs to look no further for proof of that change than to his music page on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MatthewCrissmanMusic Since creating the page, Matthew has grown his audience of followers to over 700, and steadily growing each month. 

Social media followers of Matthew Crissman Music will receive a steady diet of sincere artistry, and encouragement. When I asked Matthew about his positive message he explained that "Being positive, at least for me has always been a struggle. It's something I've trained myself to do over time." He further explained, "Growing up, I was picked on a lot. I want people to know that no matter their circumstance, a little bit of positivity goes a long way." What I gathered from this was that Matthew knows what others need because he's been there, and he tries to be for others what he wishes they had been for him. When I offered that  observation to him, he confirmed by simply saying, "exactly."

Matthew's latest single, "A Light Inside You," has gained a lot of traction in the local area. It's been featured on a local radio station 98X, and has just been released in video form, and can be found on Spotify, Apple Music and iTunes.  You can see the video at the following link: A Light Inside - Matthew Crissman

Matthew lists many influences ranging from the Beatles to Smashing Pumpkins, but said that, "Love is what inspires me the most, and I hope that by giving it freely, and without expectation, that I  change the world even if it's only a little bit." Spoken like a true artist with a light inside to share.

Celebrating Miss Mary - An Interview with, "The Music Lady"

I recently looked up the origin of the word "celebrity," and found it was derived from the late Middle English (in the sense 'solemn ceremony'): from Old French celebrite, or Latin celebritas, which means 'frequented or honored'. I think the term has come to mean well known more so than honored in the traditional sense these days, but still it has become the chief status desired by artists from every discipline in our time. Well, this morning I met with a celebrity in the traditional sense...well known by a few, but honored by all who have come to know her.  

Mary Kunsman is known to the Lowcountry as, "The Music Lady," but over the years I've been blessed to call her friend. I perform a recurring service for her as part of my day job at her home in Goose Creek, SC, and this morning after I finished my work, I asked her if I could stay a little while and talk with her about her life, and lifelong love of music. Well, when Mary talks to you about music, you're going to get a love story, and a few notes sung out here and there. Her passions are woven together, and music is her means of expression.

Mary Kunsman

This morning. Mary was already dressed for work. Only 9:00am, and already she had her hair and makeup done. She looked as if she was ready to attend church. At nearly 90 years old, Mary still makes her rounds as a regular volunteer at Trident Medical, Summerville Community, and Roper St. Francis Hospitals, and today was no exception.

We sat down at the dining room table, and gathered there were clippings from the Post & Courier, local papers, letters from appreciative folks at the hospitals, pictures, and special keepsakes. I couldn't help but notice her picture in an article right beside another picture of Darius Rucker. We laughed as I noticed she had the larger picture on the page! We talked of her younger days. Mary said her earliest influence was Shirley Temple. They were nearly the same age. She told me about trying out for the Mickey Mouse Club, and she spoke of her parents who were both involved with local church choirs. They would bring home their sheet music, and Mary learned to sight read from watching them practice. She learned to play piano, and enrolled in college as a music major. 

At this point, we had arrived at one of Mary's favorite topics...how she met her husband, Gene. If you've ever talked with Mary for long, you will hear her make a reference lovingly to "my Gene," as she still calls him. She told me how they met over a game of ping pong at her friend's church, and how Gene had told her that he was about to leave for the war in the Pacific in WWII. She said she was at first a reluctant pen pal of sorts since she didn't really know him well, but that he had already made up his mind about her after a game of ping pong it would seem. Early on, she told him about her love of music, and that she would always be a part of a choir...and, she always has been to this day, she added, though making the stairs in the loft is a much more challenging task these days.

Mary and Gene had eight children, seven girls and one boy. They are all musical to some degree, and she taught most every one of them a little something on the piano to take with them. Her references to Gene now are always joy mingled with a touch of sadness since his passing, but she said that she had 57 years with him, and counted each of them a gift to be treasured. With each love song that Mary shares, it is easy to see, and feel, the 57 years of inspiration that brings a special kind of authenticity to every note.

From here, we discussed her volunteer work. She started singing for patients in Gainesville, FL, some years back at a place called Al'z Place. She laughed and said though it sounded like the name of a bar, it was actually a place for advanced stage Alzheimer's patients. She said that she would would go around the room, take each one by their hands and sing songs with them. They may not have remembered who they were, but for a moment during the day, they remembered a song and it made them smile. After moving to Goose Creek, Mary has continued this work, and has touched so many lives in this simple, yet moving, way.

Performance at the Cuppa Manna in Summerville, SC

We talked about the special musical moments of Mary's life, and she recounted each with such profound gratitude. There was not a hint of boasting, but rather joy, as she recalled how she had sang with a choir accompanying Sandi Patti at Carnegie Hall. During the same visit, she had the opportunity to sing out her solo tribute to New York in that very same hall.  She spoke of her 4 Alaskan Cruises with the Gaither Vocal Band, and her daughters, and the time she was asked to dance with Mark Lowry (songwriter for the Christmas classic, "Mary Did You Know?"). She then handed me a small hand written card from the renowned George Beverly Shea. He had received her autobiography, "Loves Remembered," and was moved to write her a very special note of thanks.

If reaping what you've sown is the way of things, then it is most fitting that Mary's focus during our time was on the many blessings of her life...love, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and music, beautiful, meaningful music. All of the blessings we are called and strive to be for others seem to find their way back...many in our time, some in the time to come, but they do not go forward without effect.

As we talked, the time flew nearly as quickly as the years she recalled, and it was time for both of us to get back to our duties for the day. As I left, I thought on how we each have the choice of how we use our time, our gifts, our calling.  We can seek celebrity or we can celebrate others...We can seek blessings, or we can be a blessing. Mary's decision on both counts is clear, and it inspires me.

Coffee With Kirby Jane - Journey from Open Mic to the Big Time

There's just something about a savory cuppa coffee and guitar music that resonates with this guy. It's Saturday morning, and what has become something of a ritual for me is fully underway down at the Cuppa Manna Cafe in downtown Summerville. So many musical moments, smiles and friendly conversations have taken place here over the last six years...and coffee--lots and lots of coffee. 

Today, however, is something even more; a homecoming of sorts. Nathan just finished up his set, and I'm two songs in when familiar faces from the not so distant past come through the door. Jennifer and Bud Easler, followed by their daughter, Kirby Jane, make their entrance, and find the familiar comfy chairs near the stage. I smile and nod while playing one of my latest arrangements for them. After the song, I ask Kirby, "where's your guitar!?" She said it was in the car, and Bud instinctively knows that I mean to hear her play it, as he shifts to roadie mode retrieving it for her.

Who is Kirby Jane? Well, one could be from Summerville and be forgiven the question only if they've just moved in over the past year.  Kirby has been making the scene in Nashville during that time, but it doesn't seem so long ago that she was a rising open mic star every Tuesday night in this very cafe. Back in 2011, she came at my invitation after I saw her on YouTube playing back stage for guitar phenom, Tommy Emmanuel. I was immediately impressed, as was Tommy, upon seeing the video, but what I did not yet know was that Kirby had only been playing the guitar for under two years at the time of that filming.

Kirby at the Cuppa Manna

But, returning to the moment at hand, I take the opportunity to turn the stage over to Kirby. She has the look of a performer. Sunglasses, and knee high black boots telegraph that she knows a little something about style, and the audience seems to duly take note. She plugs into the house system, and gives the guitar a quick check for tuning and tone before going into an original arrangement of Randy Newman's "Lonely at the Top." Her touch is unique. The guitar player in me takes notice that she's not using nails to pluck the strings, but her natural fingertips. After that, my eyes are drawn to her triangular cut turquoise ring that rides effortlessly just above the top of her sunburst Gretsch guitar. 

Between songs, we reminisce about how our time together came to be. I ask about how she came to the guitar. I knew most of the details already, but didn't fully know the timeline. She talks about her background in classical piano that started at age 10, and confesses that early on, guitar didn't really appeal to her. Her impression of it derived from big haired 80's shredder bands that seemed nine parts show to one part actual music. But, somewhere around 2009, all that began to change. Between a new introduction to guitar from Christian contemporary bands like Switchfoot to exposure to the nimble guitar work of John Mayer, Kirby's perspective began to change. She picked up an Ovation guitar, and followed a friend's advice to check out Tommy Emmanuel. Tommy was unlike anything she'd ever seen, and she became somewhat obsessed with studying the details of his technique and stage persona. Within two years, she scored a one on one audience with the maestro, himself. His enthusiasm for her was evident from the beginning, and a friendship/mentorship was born.

That brings us back to where we met. Since then, I've had the pleasure of seeing Kirby grow her skill set from impressive to inspiring. Open mic night provided a proving ground where Kirby polished her already fearless stage persona. She credits this time for giving her the stage experience that would serve her well for the opportunities to come.

Photo Courtesy of Jennifer Easler

Her first foray into the Nashville scene was as an attendee to the Chet Atkins Appreciation Society Convention. Kirby quickly garnered the attention of Nashville guitar veterans like Merle Travis's son, Thom Bresh, and Grammy winning arranger, guitar player, John Knowles. John and Kirby became fast friends, and John continues to be a mentor to this day. Kirby earned the attention of Fred and Dinah Gretsch of the legendary Gretsch Guitar company, and has been doing archival, and performing artist work for the Gretsch's since.  Her first time in the national spotlight was on the David Letterman Show with her famous talking pup, Grabel, followed by a special feature alongside her hero, Tommy Emmanuel, at the Newberry Opera House. 

Not long after high school/junior college graduation...that's right, Kirby graduated high school with a diploma and two associates degrees, Kirby set her sights on Nashville. John Knowles became a sort of godfather for her helping her settle into the, brutal for most, world of the music city. 

Kirby with Seidina Reed, Tommy Emmanuel and Brent Mason
Photo Courtesy of Jennifer Easler

Since then, Kirby has been climbing the proverbial ladder often times more than one rung at a time. She has achieved a pretty impressive freshman set of accomplishments to date. She's been featured in several impressive lineups including an all star tribute to Jerry Reed, as well as a main stage feature at the Chet Atkins Appreciation Society Convention. She's shared the stage with the likes of Tommy Emmanuel, John Knowles and Grammy winning/Two time CMA Musician of the Year, Brent Mason. She's joined the ranks of Nashville's top guitarists by being a featured writer for Premier Guitar Magazine, and she was featured on Nashville Gruhn Guitars, and Viva! NashVegas, live radio broadcasts. She continues to be an archivists for the Gretsch Guitar company and has just accepted an internship at the Country Music Hall of Fame doing archival work beginning on August 1st.  

When I asked Kirby about future goals, she simply said she wanted to continue making it as a musician in a town full of folks aspiring to do the same. She said she was less interested in fame than in the continued esteem of those that she admires the most. And, she has earned that in abundance.

Who knows what the future holds, but I think it can comfortably be said that Kirby Jane has already made her mark. A mark for which our local music community can be proud. What's better is that she has done so with humility and gratitude. As I pack up my guitar, I can't help but smile and think of the dreams that find soil in places such as the Cuppa Manna, and I'm thankful...thankful for dreams, good coffee, and my friend, Miss Kirby Jane.

To learn more, visit: http://kirbyjane.net/mediapage

Open Mic Renaissance, and the Birth of a Music Community

It wasn't so long ago that Summerville Town Square was fairly empty on Tuesday nights...empty on most nights, truth be told. But you wouldn't know it now. It's not an unusual sight to see a group of musicians gathered in front of the coffee shop, or even the law office after hours further down the street. Tonight, it's Rick Harmon and Dustin Ashenfelder with their voices and guitars ringing out from the sidewalk across to the park. Kevin Bevins on the mandolin, and John Martin joining in with his fiddle all playing a Bill Monroe or Johnny Cash tune for a couple of bystanders, and anyone fortunate to be passing by at the moment. Inside at the corner, the sign in sheet is already filled up at the Cuppa Manna Cafe. On the list is Cat Strickland, who isn't busy with one of her gigs around town tonight. There is "Miss Mary" Kunsman, a nearly 90 year old hospital volunteer who is locally famous for her a cappella performances around town...and that time she sang at Carnegie Hall...and danced with Mark Lowry, oh, and wrote that book. Okay, I'm gonna have to write an article on just her. John Scott, AKA Johnny Famous, pops in to offer a few effortless old school blues chops, and Fleming Moore stops by to play a couple of originals that are getting a lot of play on internet radio. Likewise, a couple of other local musicians with promising careers, Matthew Crissman and Josh Jarman, offer some of their own radio featured originals. At the bottom of the list is a young man with a set of bagpipes warming up to play a Celtic reel...a lot of familiar faces, and always a surprise or two.

Six years ago it was a different scene altogether. Back around early May of 2011, I stopped into the Single Smile Cafe for a cup of tea. I sat down, and looked around the place. I thought, "I would love to be able to just come out to a place like this, plug in my guitar and amp, and just play softly for the folks who come through the door." I had been missing that kind of thing since my Air Force assignment to D.C. back in '06-'07. I lived in Old Town Alexandria, VA, and went two or three nights a week to a place on King Street there called Tiffany Tavern. They had an open mic, and I quickly grew to see the other musicians as friends. I'd play a couple of songs, and listen to the others perform. Sometimes, someone from the group would get a gig at a different venue, and invite a couple of other musicians to sit in. It was warm, supportive, creative...it was community.

As I looked around the Single Smile, I thought, "This is it; this is Summerville's Tiffany Tavern." I approached the owner, Dawn Keltz, and pitched the idea. She liked it and asked me when I wanted to start. I said, "How 'bout tonight?" She said. "Oh, it's Saturday; we don't have many customers on Saturday evening." To which I replied, "All the more reason to get it started." She agreed, and I called my friend, Don Cady, and asked him what he was doing. He said, "You know me; I'm just tired and retired!" I asked him if he was up to play, and he said, "You know I'm always up for that." That evening we met, set up in front of the window, and played some tunes for each other and had a nice time. Afterward, I asked Dawn, "How does Tuesday night sound for a recurring open mic event?" I explained that most gigging professionals have weekend gigs, but a Tuesday is kind of a down day for a lot of performers. They should be free to participate. She agreed, and Tuesday night open mic was born.

Greg Neff performs a selection from his Best of the 60's & 70s

The event quickly took off. Within a month, we started to build a core group of regulars. Don Cady was always there. A young phenomenal guitar player named Kirby Easler started coming. There was a hint of destiny about her. Tristina Miller, new to town from Arkansas signed in one night, and set up a Friday night regular gig at the place. Terry Dean Harder, and his larger than life presence, showed up one night crooning out some Elvis tunes that just lit up the crowd. About this time, a shy fellow came in one night with his guitar. He was a little reluctant at first, but he got up and did a couple of oldies, and just had that "it" quality for connecting with the audience. As he continued to come, he became more relaxed, and the natural in him just would not be denied. I knew what I had to do, and I asked Greg Neff one night after his performance if he wouldn't mind becoming the host for the open mic. He agreed, and open mic night began to soar. John Scott, John Martin, Philip Coulon, Fleming Moore all started to frequent the open mic. The Summerville Journal Scene did two separate articles on the growing event, and soon it became even too large for the Single Smile. Down the street, Coastal Coffee Roasters started their own open mic on Thursday, and a lot of the same faces, and a few new ones started to support the additional night of music community.

Josh Jarman with my Taylor 514

The Single Smile changed hands from Chuck and Dawn Keltz to Mike and Janice Taylor, and the cafe got a new name, The Cuppa Manna, but throughout all the changes, the open mic never missed a beat. Some in the audience have been faithful supporters since the beginning. David and Donna Badgley, and Tommy and Frances Patrick have their own seats as surely as a Wednesday night Baptist has his own pew, but newer comers have come to find their own place too. 

Pre Maton guitar, Kirby Easler. She's now
making a name for herself in Nashville!

The Summerville music scene is vibrant. It can be found represented well at places like the Summerville Farmer's Market, The Celtic Knot, Palmetto Flats, all over Summerville, Charleston and beyond...even Nashville. I only share my little part simply because I was there to see it grow, not because I made it happen by any stretch. The local music scene is the product of everyone who has taken part, and continues to take part, in it. 

I started this blog to be able to promote and further the cause of this piece of community. I hope it will be to the music scene like the Miracle Grow I apply to my azaleas, or at least a good watering. I'm proud to have a part in, and be a part of, this community. In keeping with my azaleas analogy, I look forward to featuring the most vibrant flowers in the garden.