So yesterday I celebrated my 57th year here on planet Earth.  Not in the usual way you think about a celebration because I had to work.  When you work retail, that’s just they way it goes sometime.   Two of my co-workers, John and Tilley brought in some treats and that made it a very nice way to start the day.

Mike and Laurie chillin’ on the lawn

Our good friends Mike and Laurie invited us to go to a brand new (first annual) festival in Thompson’s Station.  What a fun venue this is!  It is in the city park, bring your own chair and eat off the food trucks.  (hint: go early because most of them had sold out by the time we got there)  Local artisans set up tents to sell their stuff and lots of folks brought their dogs with them for the day. 

They had heard a musician that they really liked and wanted to share with us.   Mike Farris and the Roseland Rhythym Review was the final act of the festival  First up, “The Wood Brothers.”  For only three members, they made a ton of great music.  How good are they?  The are on Zac Brown’s label and he produced their latest CD due to be released on Tuesday.  I’m not sure how to describe their musical style…maybe Americana?  Whatever you want to call it, I call it great!  

The Wood Brothers in a relaxing venue

Fun filled, action packed and a solid groove that did not quit!

Yes sir, that is a B3

The keyboard player was incredible!  I admit that I am a sucker for a Hammond B3 with Leslie cabinets, I just don’t think any other instrument can reproduce that sound.  As y’all know, the instrument is just a small part of the equation, there is the musician and this guy was off the charts!  I wish I knew his name, in fact all of his group was rock solid.  This dude played it hard, and was fun to watch too.  This is a group you don’t want to miss.  Check out his tour dates on their web site and make it a point to see them later this year when they are back in town.  Mike is a former rocker that overdosed a few times and was at deaths door.  After his last time, he gave his life to Jesus Christ and now plays “gospel music” like you’ve probably never heard.  Even if this isn’t your preference, if you like funky music played by great musicians, you don’t want to miss this band!

We celebrated with Gigi’s cupcakes, good music and great friends.  It was an awesome way to spend my birthday after all!

Fuji X100 (not S model) 2500 ISO