Some people made fun of the Lilith Fair shows put on by Sarah McLachlan, the idea being that the whole enterprise was some sort of unnecessary female music ghetto. I dunno. I think those people where just thinkin’ too hard. I mean, the show I went to had a pile of highlights including an incredible set by Lucious Jackson, the always ethereal Emmylou Harris, and the surprise appearance of Golden Palominos cohort Syd Straw (performing, among other things, a cover of the Stones “Some Girls,” with Harris on backing vocals).
Besides, had I not gone to that concert, I would never have learned of the American music gem named Buddy Miller. As part of Emmylou’s band Spyboy, Miller played a blistering and tasty guitar, nearly blowing the hot pants off those Bioré girls during their volcanic take on Daniel Lanois’ “The Maker.” Miller is also a great singer and songwriter. The same can be said for his wife Julie. Written In Chalk is full of country and roots music played the way it should be, or used to be, or something.
P.S. If my chatter isn’t enough to convince you, check out the roster of guest artists: Larry Campbell, Patty Griffin, Robert Plant, Emmylou Harris, Regina and Ann McCrary. Woo!
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