Well, it is official: The Alaska String Band, also known at the Zahasky Family Band, is on its way down under. Sponsored by the New South Folk Agency at http://www.newsouthfolk.com.au/on_tour_3.html, the Z's will spend 10 weeks in Australia after first touring in New Zealand for 7 weeks.

They leave home this week but before they cross ocean(s) they have a few gigs in Arizona and California. At that link you will see their listed venues, beginning in early March.

They are booked for 30 gigs in those ten weeks in Australia so I'm hoping that a number of Mudcatters will go to see and hear them in spots closest to you. Full of energy, filled to the brim with talent, these multi-instrumentalists and singers- Melissa's low harmony reminds me of a cello or viola- are simply excellent. They perform a wide variety of music, ranging from folk and bluegrass to jazzy boogie woogie in addition to some original songs. Do go see them.

This band is not only polished and GOOD, their shows are also authentically Alaskan. Behind them on a screen as they perform are scenes of Alaskan wildlife and terrain, photos that friends of theirs gave them or that were taken by themselves. You will see whales, sea lions and seals, bears, goats, eagles and ravens, glaciers, lakes and boats up close and personal, as well as historical photos of Juneau, Alaska's gold mines and gold mining days. Everyone upon leaving a show of the Zahasky's will know a lot more about Alaska's history and gorgeous scenery and it may even ignite a dream. As Paul Z said the other night: "Watching our show makes me want to live there!"