Three nights, Three concerts

Jim Here...

This weekend was a perfect storm of musical convergences. An annual Pittsburgh event, and a visit from singer/songwriter friend from back in the day made for a great weekend of music.

The Three Rivers Arts Festival always features a long and varied list of performers, and there is usually at least one or two acts that we try to check out. Friday evening's main act on the Point State Park stage was Kris Kristofferson. Although many may know him for his acting, he originally found his fame as a songwriter and performer in the late 60s and early 70s. He has written some pretty big hits, including "Me and Bobby McGee", "Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down", and "Help Me Make It Through the Night," as well as many more made famous by other performers.

Now 74, he is one of those artists that I thought I should see before I miss the chance. I had expected him to be with a full band, but it was just him, his guitar and a harmonica. His vocals aren't what they used to be, but his lyrics and performance were genuine, despite the imperfections. It was a very intimate and casual performance, as he made several jokes about his singing, playing, and getting older. I'm not that familiar with a lot of his material, but listening to his lyrics, I was struck by the honesty of his songs. I was glad we made the trip downtown.

On Saturday, we hopped in the car and drove to Allison Park to attend a Jason Harrod house concert. The house concert is just what the name implies - a performer comes to your house, plays and sings, and you get as many people as you can to show up and pay to see the performer. We actually hosted a Jason Harrod concert a few years ago at our old house, and this was the first time he's been back to the Pittsburgh area.

Jason is a singer/songwriter originally from North Carolina, and now based in Brooklyn, traveling to various venues all of the country. Once part of a successful duo, he has been a solo act since 1996 and has won several bluegrass/folk competitions, including the Chris Austin Songwriting competition.

Jason played for about two hours, playing new and old songs, and taking requests. A faithful following of about 20 fans filled the living and dining room at the host's home. If you ever get a chance to attend a house concert, I strongly suggest you go. It's wonderful way to see live music. Speaking of music, check out Jason's at http://www.jasonharrod.com/.

We wrapped up the weekend back at Point State Park for Patty Griffin. She is probably one of the best singer's that you may never have heard of. She's never had a breakthrough mainstream hit, but she has written a ton of great songs, and I could listen to her sing all day. Her new album is heavily flavored with straight-up gospel and blues, and I enjoyed hearing the new stuff. She was backed with a great band, and as usual, was in fine voice.

Ipods are great, but there is nothing like seeing live music. It gets into your heart and head in a way that ear buds will never do. Sometimes an overblown concert spectacle is fun, but seeing artists perform their songs live, with just a guitar and their voice, is one of the purest ways to enjoy a show.