Nobody can question how much Craig Carrick loves music, especially after he hosted three concerts in his own home earlier this year for other local music lovers.
With large turnout and positive feedback from his first endeavors, Carrick decided to host another round of home concerts starting in November.
Originally inspired by visiting a home concert hosted by the Paint Creek Folk Lore Society, Carrick said he was immediately attracted to the more intimate setting and relaxed atmosphere the concerts provided for audiences.
‘I think’people like to meet other people, for one thing. It’s in a house so you feel pretty comfortable and ‘at home,? pardon the pun,? Carrick said. ‘It’s a mix of ages and people; some’kids even come. It’s not a club setting so its smoke free and’you hear every single nuance of the music and songs ? sometimes it gets a little rowdy on stage if the song calls for it, but, the audience is there to listen to the songs and visit during breaks, so the musical experience is unmatched ? you just don’t get to hear it this well in any other setting.?
The largest turnout Carrick had was approximately 60 people, which may not seem very large until you try to fit them all in one house along with a stage for the performers.
‘After a little remodeling of the space and installation of a sound system, I think things are actually going to be easier to get up and running.? A buddy of mine set me up with some great sound gear and we have a pretty good layout.? Now we just need the people to come and check out the shows,? said Carrick. ‘Lots of work’but well worth it.? We’ve met some of the most incredible people’from this area and beyond that’have become great friends and hope to meet new people all the time.’Plus we get to turn folks onto this music that we think is so exceptional.?
This round of concerts kicks of on Nov. 5 with the Kennedys, a folk-bluegrass duo from New York, and Annie and Rod Capps.
Pete and Maura Kennedy are celebrating the launch of the ninth album ‘Songs of the Open Road? with the Carrick house party. The couple hosts a weekly folk music show on Sirius satellite radio and the appropriately titled album marks another stop on the touring they have made a regular part of their musical careers. Carrick said he is most impressed by their songs and attitude toward their music.
‘Pete is one of those guitar players that guitar players watch every move he makes and go home saying ‘that’s not possible what that guy does,?? Carrick said. ‘I mean, he’s really that good and’cool to watch.’They take elements of’straight up folk music and inject high-energy bluegrass and serious rock and roll and blues and make this melting pot of styles that is unique and really catches everybody’s tastes.??
Carrick said the more local Capps are a favorite of his entire family. Coming from the Chelsea area, Carrick said the Capps have become friends with him and his family over time. ‘They are very down to earth people with a passion for great songs and great music.’Annie has this sort of Rock Star quality in her performance and Rod is once again, one of those guitar players that’sets the fretboard on fire.? Their songs’are intense’and hopeful and have a sincerity to them that displays’Annie’s’craft for songwriting,? he said.
The concert begins at 4 p.m. Coffee, soft drinks and snacks are provided, but visitors are expected to bring any other food. A $12 donation is requested to support the performing artists.
Space is limited and filling fast. Anyone interested in attending should RSVP by contacting Carrick at 248-394-0113.