Each week (give or take one or two here and there) I share three things I like – It could be a book, a movie, a podcast, an album, a photo, an article, a restaurant, a food item, a beverage, or anything else I simply enjoy and think you might too. You can find a whole pile of things, especially books, I like and recommend HERE.
1) At Baker’s Keyboard Lounge by the Oscar Peterson Trio
There are no new recordings from Oscar Peterson, but there are new releases. This one dropped a little earlier this year, and it is wonderful, showing the full range of Peterson’s styles and talents. It is classic Jazz in the best way. And for those who are unfamiliar with jazz or would like to get into it a little bit more, Peterson;s music is a wonderful starting point. It is not avante garde or experimental. He communicates a melody in the midst of his improvisations so the songs are easier to latch on to. The trio (piano, bass, drums) provides a steady, clear groove to follow and enjoy. Their music is deceptive in its simplicity, and it is delightful.
2) Songwriter’s Nights at Rock Castle
This one is for the Nashville area residents and is one of those events you only find in the Nashville area. Once a month during the summer Rock Castle, an 18th century historic home on a peninsula in Old Hickory Lake, hosts a songwriter’s night. For four hours in the evening musicians ply their craft in 45 minute sets while attendees relax in lawn chairs or on blankets. The grounds are beautiful and there is a permanent stage set up to adequately feature the musicians. Food trucks are brought in, and many people bring in picnics. They often have an area set where kids can play without disturbing the listeners. It’s basically all the good stuff about a music festival without any of the obnoxious stuff. And it is only $10/person. My family has been attending a couple times per summer for the last several years and love it. If you are in Nashville or passing through, check it out.
3) The Boundary Waters
I have loved the Boundary Waters since I was a teenager and first experienced it. Today the area is on my mind especially because of the wildfires ravaging the area. (Of course, in the course of history, the Boundary Waters have experienced innumerable wild fires from lightning and camp fires and I suppose that is part of its ecological cycle and health. But right now it’s awful.) This 1.1 million acre natural area borders Minnesota and Canada. It is a web of lakes and forests and is reserved only for canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and camping. The North Woods are unlike anywhere else in the United States in their serenity, isolation, water features, wildlife, amazing fishing, and true wilderness feel. It is one of the few places you can disappear into and see no people for days on end. From mid June through early fall there isn’t a more beautiful place.
