Murder Ballads October 26, 2010

Murder ballads and songs of despair lie at the foundation of American folk music – just as prominently as gospel and patriotic songs. We are unique as humans, in that we are fascinated by our own transience and fantasies about demise. Simply consider the enjoyment of Halloween, with children running around disguised as demons and ghosts. Abraham Lincoln contended that we all possess the “better angels of our nature” somewhere deep down. In contrast, murder ballads give voice to our fears, our innate violence, and to our terrible inclinations, while also capturing a period in history rife with these extremes. Join us in a night of celebrating this accidental tradition.

On October 26, specially selected bands will perform songs from pages of murder ballad history.

Performers:
Frank Fairfield
Simon Stokes
Boy Scout Jamboree (Spindrift acoustic)
Triple Chicken Foot
Vaud & The Villains
Amanda Jo Williams with Olentangy John and Horse Thieves supergroup
Driftwood Singers
Julia Holter
RT N’ The 44’s
Emily Lacy & Henry Wolfe