Decisions in Newport

Choices can be a bitch…even when you can’t go wrong. With the historic Newport Folk Festival just a couple weeks out, now is the time that I have to start planning which of three stages I’ll be hitting up each hour of the day.

I will probably run around like maniac to try to see everyone, but here are my picks. They’re totally subject to change…

Friday, July 30^th

• One stage with Sarah Jarosz, Tim O’Brien and Steve Martin with the Steep Canyon Rangers. Safe.

Sat, July 31^st

• Sarah Jarosz – I’ll see her Friday night too, but I’m in love.
• A.A. Bondy – Bama connection wins, but will prob dabble in the others.
• Sam Bush
• Calexico – This is a hard one. I love Horse Feathers, but saw them a few months back and am Yim-curious.
• Doc Watson – I have to. He could go at anytime. BUT, get the clones ready. I wanna see it all. Dawes is splendid…and I love Andrew Bird.
• John Prine – Classic

Sun, Aug 1

• Cory Chisel & David Wax Museum (see next post) – big start, half & half
• Punch Bros & Sharon Jones – another half & half
• Avett Bros & Preservation Hall Band – mutha f. I don’t know.
• Richie Havens – hafta
• The Swell Season & Justin Townes Earle – half & half. I’m seeing Edward Sharpe next week. He’s pretty hard to resist. The clones will be released for this one too. So tough.
• Levon Helm – closing big