Saturday really picks up speed at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass with an incredible amount of artists packed in to one short day. It’s going to be really tough to choose between a lot of these oldies, but goodies. Here are our picks to make it a teensy bit easier.
Songwriter Circle with Tom Morello, Dar Williams, Steve Earle & Allison Moorer, Rooster Stage, 3:45pm: We’ll be interested just to see what these four can come up with in a songwriter circle. With the level of talent present and accounted for, we’re guessing it won’t fall short of amazing.
Okkervil River, Towers Of Gold Stage, 1:35pm: This Austin-based indie band seems to pop up everywhere, but we’re certainly not complaining. Check them out for some much-needed indie relief.
Steve Martin with the Steep Canyon Rangers, Banjo Stage, 2:40pm: So apparently SNL funny-man Steve Martin also rocks a banjo, and we hear his stage performance is pretty amazing. He’s doing the tour circuit for his first album, and we’ll be there to support him in his country efforts.
Steve Earle & The Bluegrass Dukes, Banjo Stage, 6:45pm: A country poet in his own right, Steve Earle is known as much for his personal life (and drama) as much as his music. Be warned that he may unleash some of his staunch political views, but his music is worth the rants. If you miss him here, make sure to peep him at the Songwriter Circle.
Boz Scaggs & the Blue Velvet Band, Rooster Stage, 2:30pm:Bay Area born-and-bred, this super-hero group of sorts features James Cotton, Austin de Lone, Nick Lowe, Buddy Miller, Derek O’Brien, Wes Starr, Jimmie Vaughan and Jack Walroth. And if that’s not enough for you, rumor is, this will be a tribute to blues legend Jimmy Reed. Get here.
Robert Earl Keen, Rooster Stage, 6:45pm: One lucky street in Texas once housed this folk singer/songwriter legend along with his next-door neighbor, Mr. Lyle Lovett. There must have been something special blowing in that Texan wind. Robert Earl Keen is a must-see if you even remotely enjoy folk music.