Last week’s (May 18^th) Philly Folk Parade, hosted by Chris Kasper, was a flawless flow of music like a prefect parade procession.  The show began with the relentless, face-melting rock of The Doublewides – that band is musically impressive and extremely entertaining.  Then a switch to the back room for a fine solo set by Marc Silver.  And back to the front for Birdie Busch’s set which was a duo with Ross Bellenoit – sweet, sweet folk music and no complaints here.  Stage switch to Brittany Ann – I’m not familiar with her music but it sounded great – nice touch with the harp.  Then it was time for that night’s host: Chris Kasper, an amazingly talented singer/songwriter who was joined by an equally talented group of musicians for a truly outstanding set.  The final set in the back room went to Hey Nude Friend I’m Tired, an interesting collaboration between Michael Baker (The Spinning Leaves) and Todd Henkins (The Great Unknown).  Cowmuddy, a definite must-see artist, closed the show with a great folk rock set and good times were had by all.

This week’s (May 25^th) Philly Folk Parade show was extraordinary.  I’m almost positive that I’ve seen Wissahickon Chicken Shack at least once before but I’m afraid I wasn’t paying much attention then.  Anyway, I thoroughly enjoyed their music for their sound is a bit too diverse for me to even begin to classify but it’s great.  Up The Chain (only 2/5ths of the band: Reed Kendall and Philip D’Agostino) played a nice set in the back room.  Then back to the front of the room for Andrew Lipke with a string quartet.  Lipke is an excellent singer/songwriter and hearing his music performed with such beautiful string arrangements was spectacular.  The great music continued with a super set by The Matt Helm Scream – if you don’t know that band you ought to.  Jim Boggia followed with a wonderful solo set that made me realize I should see Boggia live more often.  To the back room again for Daniel of the Moonlight who played what sounded like traditional folk songs something quieting fitting for this parade.  I have nothing but respect for Hezekiah Jones (Raphael Cutrufello) because he truly is an exceptional singer/songwriter and I was so excited to see how the final set was going to play out.  Well, I don’t think I’ve ever seen that many Joneses on stage at once.  So, as the set went on it seemed like another Jones took to the stage and added to the harmonious wall of sound.  Wow, I couldn’t have thought of a better ending to The Philly Folk Parade May residency at The Fire – perfect!

A huge thank you goes out to The Philly Folk Parade for making Tuesdays in May such memorable, music filled nights – a music lover’s dream come true!