M. Ward & Mike Watt & Nels Cline + August 1, 2009

A trio of songwriting innovators on one noteworthy evening line-up.

On the heels of the success of indie-pop outfit She & Him, singer/songwriter M. Ward recently released his sixth solo effort, Hold Time, to much enthusiasm. NPR describes Hold Time as, “a gorgeously produced mix of finger-picked guitars, upright bass, and shuffling rhythms all tied together by his achy voice.”

Currently the lead guitarist of rock band Wilco, Nels Cline is a guitarist and composer best known for his improvisational work and his use of effects pedals and looping devices. Cline has also performed and recorded on several occasions with his Central Park SummerStage partner, punk rock luminary Mike Watt. Cline and Watt have collaborated in The Crew of the Flying Saucer, The Black Gang and in the jazz/punk/improv band Banyan with ex-Jane's Addiction drummer Stephen Perkins. Watt is often cited as a key figure in the development of American alternative rock. In 2008, he received the Bass Player Magazine lifetime achievement award presented by Flea, whose band The Red Hot Chili Peppers, dedicated their hugely successful album Blood Sugar Sex Magik to Watt.

Official Website: http://www.summerstage.org