Junque Gypsies: November 2013

Saturday, November 23, 2013

Saturday, November 16, 2013

JUNQUE GYPSIES AT STEEL WHEELS CONCERT AT 4^TH AND MAIN DOWNTOWN GRILLE, WRAY CO. NOV 9^TH.

Living in Northeast Colorado, there are definitely cultural challenges (or one would think there is not much to do in this part of “rurality”). This could not be further from the truth. Still newbies to the 4^th and Main concert scene, we soon found they were sold out for The Steel Wheels dinner/concert venue, we had the option of dinner at the restaurant upstairs and then seating for the concert and dessert. The atmosphere (in a former Oddfellows Lodge hall) is fun and inviting.. The upstairs restaurant has a variety of menu choices which made it difficult to choose only one. The food was outstanding and the service was spot on. That night I ordered beef tenderloin medallions prepared in a balsamic reduction. Others in company had roasted chicken breast, fish tacos and a Pasta Peppadew, which was outrageous (Stan, Barb’s husband, offered me a taste and I accepted).

The concert started a little bit late, but it was perfect timing. Seating only was lined up front and close to the stage. The place was sold out and packed. I was not prepared for the quality of music this group belted. “Based in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, this dynamic four-piece string band marries old-time musical traditions with their own innovative sound and lifestyle, generating a truly magnetic revival.”

While mingling during intermission and dessert (CHEESECAKE), it was interesting to find that people came from the Colorado front range and as far as McCook Ne.

JG Barb emailed me today and stated her household is still on a “Steel Wheels high”, listening to the CD’s they bought that night.

About the 4^th and Main Downtown Grille. http://www.4thandmaingrille.com/ EJ the genius and owner/ MC/host of restaurant and Listening Room on the lower level is a natural at what he does. When he is not researching and updating his ever evolving menu and managing the restaurant, he is also booking events and “house concerts”.

The night was one to remember and leaves me wanting more. For future Steel Wheels concerts, click on link. http://www.pollstar.com/resultsArtist.aspx?ID=188643

Taking note that on 6/13/14 they will be appearing in McCook, NE. at the Buffalo Commons Storytelling Festival.

Also, if one is wanting to make a long weekend, they will be appearing in Belle Plaine, Ks at the Bartlett Arboretum http://voices.yahoo.com/former-dixie-chick-robin-macy-revives-bartlett-1769329.html on 6/15/14. The historical Bartlett Arboretum was purchased from the family by former Dixie Chicks, Robin Macy, where she has tenderly and lovingly restored it with the help of the community. I think it would be a worthwhile trip to Belle Plaine next June to be a part of The Steel Wheels Concert experience. Rhonda