1) Ellie Buckland, Isa Burke, and Mali Obomsawin. Yeah, I learned about those gals this past Sunday and what I learned was “HOLY WOW!”. I had heard about Ellie and Isa’s duo and seen a couple youtube videos through the Passim connection, but seeing the trio this past weekend blew me away. Their harmonies, their musicianship, and their songs (and cover choices – kudos on the “You’re the Reason” choice gals) are all stellar. I cannot wait to see more from these gals in the coming months and I am sure I’ll be writing a whole bunch of other nice things about them.

2) Ryan Adams has still got it. The new self-titled record is streaming and man…its something. A good mix of the rock n roll sound ala the Cardinals live shows (the crunch of that electric guitar) and somber, ponderous songwriting that delves deep in the songwriter’s personal psyche. Amazing to catch him at Newport this summer and then hear this. It has recharged my super fandom for the songwriter.

3) Next year I will be going to Campfire Festival in PA. I have had an overwhelming feeling of regret and depression seeing Michael Panico’s Instagram account, especially since I had a ticket but couldn’t make it work. So many great acts, so many great friends playing (Christopher Paul Stelling, Dan Blakeslee, Daphne Lee Martin, Julie Rhodes, Hannah Fair, Joe Fletcher, Lake Street Dive…the list keeps going!). This will be my NFF for August. Keep the music love going.