Oh my goodness! I don't ever remember having such a completely perfect day of great music, good people, and fun. The concertina workshop this morning was fascinating. Some notes go in; others go out; some go in and out; and if you have only one hand/arm, we can adjust it.

Carole and Andrew's set was wonderful. A perfect mix of their own songs, others' contributions and nonsense - all with choruses. The audience ate them up. Gracie Allan lives!

Finn and Haddie were the best I have ever seen them. Guantanamo Bay was a favorite. But then there was the song about the Texas coast...another favorite.Barry fills the room with his booming voice; Neil supplies the guitar and a bit of banter.

The Press Room is still vibrating with shanties, forebitters and assorted goodies. I went 'round with the tip jar and had lovely chats with people who had stopped in for a bite to eat and just couldn't leave. The harmonies were amazing. And the absolute joy on everyone's faces as they shared in the music..a great time.

The concert was a treat. I have heard Mudhook (?) at various times at the Press Room with spontaneous outbursts of good music. Their concert was a pleasure. I hope to catch some more tomorrow. Incredibly talented musicians working together to produce beautiful harmonies. Each is a "lead singer" in his own right but with egos in their back pockets they work together to make the entire group sound great. They could have done the entire concert themselves and the audience would have been thrilled.It is too bad that their simply isn't time for encores.

John Roberts followed with an assortment of songs from his most recent CD, requests, and ones he just enjoys singing. As always, John is so relaxed and so in love with the music that he draws his audience in and makes them love it too. Carrying Nelson Home - there were tears in the eyes of grown men. Patrick Spencer, The Figurehead Carver, The Bateau Song (Cure),etc. Every chorus had a roomful of happy people joining in. John is a treasure and his performance was gold. It was the first time I have heard John do a concert without my being involved with feeding and bedding a houseful of people. Maybe that made it even more special. Anyway, I thoroughly enjoyed myself.
Jerry then followed with an assortment of his own songs and favorites. His Appalachian "Mermaid" version stands out. A different instrument for every song. I am falling asleep...
BUT I can't go to bed without thanking the Holloways for a warm welcome, beautiful food that never stopped coming, separate rooms for assorted musical tastes and a beautiful home. There home is one of those places where you feel instantly comfortable and welcome. The perfect end to a perfect day.

Tom and Linn must be thrilled at Day One of the festival. Crappy weather, cancelled venues and schedule changes did not keep away the enthusiastic crowd who joined in every chorus and generously filled the tip jar. You did good guys. More tomorrow.

SINS