NEWPORT FOLK FESTIVAL!!!

Over the years I've heard wonderful things about the Newport Folk Festival, and obviously I grew up listening to so many jazz greats perform at Newport Jazz, but this year I find myself a New England resident, so the excitement is finally localized.  2010's festival will take place the weekend of July 30-August 1, having moved to a 3-day format.  Friday night will feature Steve Martin & the Steep Canyon Rangers, Tim O'Brien, and Sarah Jarosz performing a more intimate show at the International Tennis Hall of Fame before the real festival kicks off Saturday at Fort Adams.  Saturday's line-up boasts performances by My Morning Jacket's Jim James, Calexico, Blitzen Trapper, Andrew Bird, personal favorite AA Bonday, as well as songwriting genius John Prine, and bluegrass royalty Doc Watson & David Holt, and Sam Bush, plus many more.  Sunday gets serious with Edward Sharp & the Magnetic Zeros, The Avett Brothers, The Felice Brothers, Richie Havens, The Swell Season, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Justin Townes Earl, Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings, and the Punch Brothers with Chris Thile.  The festival will close with a special performance by Levon Helm that they are calling Levon Helm Band's Ramble on the Road featuring Special Guests.  That alone is enough to make me pee in my pants a little.  For more artists and ticket info visit the Newport Folk Fest site.  Should be an amazing weekend, and a classy step away from the chaotic summer festival circuit.  Hope to see you Sunday...