Caffe Lena’s Update for the Week of October 12th

Jon Pousette-Dart, the enduring acoustic rocker who emerged in the ’70s, famously sang “I hope that it’s only amnesia . . . ” A case of amnesia might come in handy these days, but we’ll set that thought aside for now. Jon is travelling to Saratoga to stream live for you next Sunday! He hasn’t been playing during the shutdown and he and his fans are eager to reconnect.

Many of us have spent more time outside during the last few months. Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park has been a popular place to feel free and normal and healthy. As is the case with so many nonprofits, their annual fundraiser got sidelined by Covid-19. Our Stream Team (Joe, Joel & Reese) have helped them move it online. A lot of work has gone into preparing a weekend-long online event that entails concerts on Lena’s stage, videos of the preserve, chats and a great silent auction. If you’ve rediscovered how much you need safe places to be outdoors, please support this event. They need our donations so they can be there for us.
–Sarah Craig (Caffe Lena’s Executive Director)

P.S. Caffe Lena figures prominently in this Daily Gazette story: “Live music remains at a yellow light in the Capital Region”

Monday, Oct 12 / 7 PM
Rick’s Picks Local Showcase
Greene Brothers & Heather Meaney

Don’t let these hams fool you! Scott & Arlin definitely know what to do with those instruments, having been raised by Smokey Greene, the North Country’s country music king. They’ll be sharing the stage with Saratoga singer-songwriter Heather Meaney, a fine lyricist and wonderful singer who is making her second appearance on our stage since we went online in March.

Tuesday, Oct 13 / 7 PM
Jazz at Caffe Lena
The Chuck Lamb Trio

This month Chuck is forgoing a guest accompanist and will dig deep into his own repertoire, accompanied by Jay Anderson on bass and Harvey Sorgen on drums. Chuck’s originals have become audience favorites for those who follow his monthly nights on the Caffe Lena stage. This will be special!

Thursday, Oct 15 / 7 PM
WILTON WILDLIFE PRESERVE & PARK PRESENTS WILD ABOUT BLUE
“Blues for the Karner Blues”
Kick-off with The Resonators

Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park is available year round for hikes, skiing, exploring, running, and maybe even glimpsing a rare Karner Blue butterfly. We don’t know if the butterflies like the blues, but we know you do! Tune in for live music by The Resonators and see how this nonprofit provides a refuge for more than butterflies. The TIP JAR supports the preserve. Visit the Silent Auction all weekend!

Friday, Oct 16 / 8 PM
Jeanne O’Connor Jazz Trio

Jeanne delves into the Great American Songbook with swing, subtlety, and superb musicality. Her clear, expressive alto moves elegantly from jazz to pop, Latin and R&B, taking each genre and making it her own. For this special live streamed performance, Jeanne will be joined by Peg Delaney on keyboard and Pete Toigo on bass. 

Saturday, Oct 17 / 8 PM
Scott Sharrard Band

Called “one of the best guitarists in the country” by Billboard, this guy has some special magic. It’s more than fretboard talent; it’s the way he performs from the heart and draws the listener in. He spent nearly a decade as lead guitarist and bandleader to the late Gregg Allman and now he’s the newest member of Little Feat. He’s releasing his 6th solo album this fall.

Sunday, Oct 18 / 4 PM
WILTON WILDLIFE PRESERVE & PARK PRESENTS WILD ABOUT BLUE
“Bluegrass for the Karner Blues”
Weekend Wrap-Up with Schroon River String Band

Down-home bluegrass with The Schroon River String Band finishes up this important annual restocking of the coffers at Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park. The TIP JAR supports the preserve. See what you won in the Silent Auction!

Sunday, Oct 18 / 7 PM
Pousette-Dart Duo

Classic acoustic rocker Jon Pousette-Dart was a 1970s radio mainstay, a favorite on the college circuit, and led one of the busiest bands in the US, touring with The Byrds, Billy Joel, The Eagles and Journey. His engaging melodies, catchy hooks and heartfelt ballads remain optimistic and accessible. He’s a confident and gracious performer with a well-earned diehard following, and new fans with each passing year.