I am a recent convert to a very certain breed of religion. No, no – fear not, friends – there shall be no spouting of rhetoric, waggling of fingers or worship of strange inanimate objects, but, it is, perhaps, an important from of spiritual honor to my ancestors. After a lifetime lived as both a Kentucky native and a famously stubborn naysayer, I, Erin Marie Joan Mary Danger Trouble Coomer Day, like Bluegrass music. I relinquish the fact that there is a higher power than me, and Lord, thy name is Banjo.
Or Mandolin. Or Fiddle.
I cannot articulate exactly when first I saw the light – I think, in this case, it rather acted more like a dimmer switch – but now that I have heard the call, I simply can never return to the heart of my wayward darkness. My former life is cast away. I think I’m taking this metaphor too far.
Point being, Kentucky is rich in music. And while there are still certain realms that my ears are not willing to honor (seriously – once washboards and ceramic jugs get involved, I’m ready to call it a night. Let’s not get crazy up in here), I take pride in the knowledge that the songs of our front porches have influenced music across the globe. And author Jason Howard happens to agree with me. Join him at Carmichael’s Bookstore as he presents his new book, A Few Honest Words: The Kentucky Roots of Popular Music, this coming Thursday, October 25th, at 7pm.
Featuring interviews with both household names and local talents, Jason Howard’s A Few Honest Words delves into the flavor of Kentucky culture and its presence in modern sound. With profiles of notable musicians – such as Naomi Judd, Joan Osborne and Dwight Yoakam – up-and-coming talents and folks from here at home, Howard uses these interviews to not only get a picture of our region’s influence in contemporary music, but to illustrate the importance of Bluegrass culture.
Shall I consider you my Bluegrass brethren? Let the roots grow deeper. Explore Kentucky’s landscape, traditions and – duh – signature sounds with Jason Howard. I’ll bring the bourbon if you bring the strings.
Carmichael’s Bookstore has two are locations: 1295 Bardstown Road and 2720 Frankfort Avenue. For more information, visit the event page or call the Frankfort Avenue Store at (502) 896-6950.
Image: Courtesy of Carmichael’s Bookstore website www.carmichaelsbookstore.com
