Music

Monroe Crossing

Midwest bluegrass all stars heading for the Mabel Tainter

Martha Galep |

 
5 musicians, 27 strings, and 3 hats.

Chippewa Valley bluegrass fans take note! The Midwest’s finest bluegrass band will soon take stage at the Mabel Tainter. This award-winning group will delight even the crustiest, hardcore fans of bluegrass, as their blend of traditional, original, and holiday tunes guarantees something for everyone. The band’s personnel includes: Art Blackburn, guitar, Lisa Fuglie, fiddle, Matt Thompson, mandolin, Benji Flaming, banjo, and Mark Anderson, bass. Call ‘em the bluegrass all-stars and get set to hear the best show in town. (After all, how many local or regional bands do the Orange Blossom Special complete with twin fiddles? Or cover Etta James in a way that makes every guy in the house fall in love all over again?) Always aware of their fans, the “Monroes” have established a nice nod to those who come out to see them: part of the second set always includes requests. (I am writing Old Daingerfield on a twenty right now.) Since they now tour as much as they are home, this is a not-to-be missed performance for local fans. “We love playing at Mabel’s and we can’t wait to see our Wisconsin fans again,” Art Blackburn said in a telephone interview. Since locals have proven the feeling is mutual, it is recommended you get your tickets early. This is the biggest bluegrass show of the year.

Monroe Crossing • December 12 • Mabel Tainter, 205 Main St., Menomonie • 7:30pm • $19 adults, $17 seniors/students • 235-0001 • www.mabeltainter.com