American Express Series 

When RHIANNON GIDDENS first graced the Bandshell stage in 2008 fronting the razor-sharp string band Carolina Chocolate Drops, there was a feeling in the air that this was just the beginning. As per The New York Times: “She can summon the power of a field holler, Celtic quavers, girlish innocence, bluesy sensuality, gospel exaltation or the pain of slavery. . . For all her technical control, her voice is a perpetually soulful marvel.”

And lo and behold, after the Chocolate Drops won the GRAMMY for Best Traditional Folk Album with their 2010 debut Genuine Negro Jig, she stepped gracefully into the spotlight and embarked on a torrent of collaborations and other projects, working with artists ranging from Jon Lindsay to Elvis Costello. This past February she released her debut solo album, Tomorrow is My Turn, to widespread critical acclaim. Produced by T. Bone Burnett, the record is equal parts retrospective of vernacular musical styles and manifesto from the perspective of American women.

The evening begins with GRAMMY-winning singer-songwriter JOE HENRY, who has a long history of working with Rhiannon and even produced Genuine Negro Jig. He has the air of an ancient storyteller, “coupling gloom with streaming daylight and gilding his saddest observations with joy and awe.” (NPR) Henry is supported here by an exceptional group of musicians that includes Marc Ribot (guitar), Jay Bellerose (drums), Ross Gallagher (bass), David Mansfield (mandolin/stings), and his son Levon Henry (reeds).

Venue Information:

The BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Festival is one of New York City's longest running, free, outdoor performing arts festivals and is held every summer at the Prospect Park Bandshell. View seating arrangements here.

All Performances Rain or Shine. In the event of dangerous weather we will be communicating updates on our website, Facebook, and Twitter.

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