Cafe Carpe

ALICE HOWE w/ Freebo
2022-10-28 20:30 - 22:30 (America/Chicago)
To hear ALICE HOWE sing is to be enraptured by the natural, unaffected beauty of her voice. There’s no artifice, no histrionics — just honest, authentic, emotionally resonant singing in the tradition of the roots music that shaped her.
On Circumstance, her second and latest album, the Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter guitarist displays her vocal prowess and introspective writing in abundance, mining both her heart and her musical tastes for a deep, personal journey across an Americana soundscape dotted with blues, folk, country, soul and rock. Recorded in two sessions at the legendary Fame Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, where Etta James and Wilson Pickett once shook the walls, the record channels their spirits with 11 stirring tracks that pull no punches diving into the vagaries of the heart and her own personal journey. As an old soul inside a 30-something millennial, Alice puts her stamp on Americana’s venerable strands with 10 standout originals evoking both the classic singer-songwriters and the seminal music that once filled airwaves, roadhouses and juke joints.
Alice will be accompanied by FREEBO. Freebo is a genuine folk, rock and blues icon who, after over 40 years of recording and touring with many of the great artists of our time (Bonnie Raitt 10 years, CSN, Maria Muldaur, John Mayall, Ringo Starr, Dr. John, Neil Young, & many more) is regarded as one of the most gifted singer-songwriters of today. A multi-award winner and finalist in numerous songwriting contests, Freebo was also recognized as the ‘Best Folk Artist 2007’ by the Los Angeles Music Awards. In addition, he has appeared on Saturday Night Live, The Muppet Show, The Midnight Special, and in concert with the legendary Spinal Tap.

PATSY O'BRIEN
2022-10-27 19:30 - 21:30
Hailing from Cork in the south of Ireland, award-winning songwriter and much sought-after guitarist PATSY O’BRIEN is renowned for his ability to meld songwriting and guitar styles seamlessly. It’s a trait that caught the attention of NPR who featured his arrangement of The Star Of The County Down (see below) on their All Songs Considered program.

“Falls in the void between Van Morrison, Robbie Robertson and Jethro Tull’s Ian Anderson” -New Haven Advocate
“Smart, stylish…an outstanding singer guitarist.” -New York Irish Voice
“Wow wow WOW…. literally one of the best shows I’ve ever seen…engaging, wonderful songwriting, knock-your-socks-off guitar playing” – Concert review from Coaldale CO

Patsy has traversed the globe, guitar in hand, accompanying, creating and recording with some of the giants of Irish music. His travels hosting guitar and songwriting workshops and performing have led him to formulate his ideas into lessons and one-on-sessions based on his years of experience answering the questions and queries of an ever-growing band of music-lovers.
and the link to end all links (video/audio/website all inclusive)…
https://hyperfollow.com/patsyobrien

KAIA FOWLER
2022-10-22 20:00 - 22:00
Glad we were able to reschedule- Kaia could not make her September gig. Please call 920-563-9391 to reserve seats, and to indicate whether you are likely to eat at the Carpe that night.
NOTA BENE: By artist request, audience members will be required to wear masks while in the listening room. This change is due to the recent increase in local COVID-19 cases. Thanks for doing your part to show this virus the door! Let’s keep each other as healthy as possible!
KAIA FOWLER creates music that speaks to the soul. Kaia’s passion, presence, warmth, and authenticity all invite listeners to open their hearts and transcend the everyday through song. A versatile guitarist with mastery of fingerstyle and strumming techniques, Kaia is best known for her beautiful voice, often described as having a soothing or healing quality.
Her latest album, One Breath, placed on the Folk Alliance International Top 50 Albums of the Month Chart for July 2022, receiving radio play from coast to coast in the U.S. and in Canada. The album, with mixing by Grammy award-winning engineer Charlie Pilzer, features songs of hope and healing. Special guest tracks on One Breathinclude “Take Shelter in Love” with harmony vocals and bouzouki arranged and performed by Joe Jencks; “Obon, Dance of Light” with Peter Phippen arranging and performing bamboo flutes and fender bass; and “Ridin’ Along” with Tricia Alexander on blues harmonica.
For Kaia, who also practices Reiki energy therapy, and serves as a life and wellbeing coach, music creation fits into a larger healing arts ministry. She extends her musical performances beyond stage and studio into communities where she promotes greater wellbeing and a sense of togetherness and Unity. Listeners describe Kaia’s voice and songs as inspiring comfort, courage, and connection. This calling to serve recently led her to open Kaia Fowler Arts & Wellbeing in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin. Learn more at kaiafowler.com/wellbeing.
Media quotes:
“Fabulous voice and song…” — Lilli Kuzma, host of Folk Festival on WDCB Public Radio, Chicago, Ill., referring to “Ridin’ Along” from One Breath (2022)
“Kaia Fowler is a tremendous lyricist. Her lyrics paint pictures and her musical notes add the color.” — The Americana Gazette (2010)
“It was a pleasure to host Kaia as a guest on Another Green World at WORT in Madison. It’s apparent — from her impressive guitar-work, beautiful voice, and intentional, evocative lyrics — that she is the real deal when it comes to both singing and songwriting. Our conversation was lively, and she speaks about her music with authenticity and grace. Plus, she’s so da*n sweet! We’d have her back anytime.” — Katie Hutchinson & Farmer Shaun, WORT FM 89.9, Madison, Wis. (2019)

KAREN JOHNSON
2022-10-21 20:00 - 22:00
Please call 920-563-9391 to reserve seats and indicate whether you will be dining here.
KAREN JOHNSON grew up in West Allis, WI, surrounded by music. Her favorite spot was riding along in her dad’s old pick-up truck while listening to old country tunes. At a young age, Karen learned to play the Tamburitza and sing harmony as a member of the American Croatian Silver Strings Tamburitzans. Now playing the guitar, she has been performing at various venues since 1998, but nothing compares to the amazing listening room at the Cafe’ Carpe. Karen sings songs of her favorite artists including Joan Baez, Nanci Griffith, Alison Krauss, and Suzy Bogguss, to name a few.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dclx2nwDJNY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z6pYX8uK25o
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1z6AN79G3TE

SHERMAN LYONS book signing
2022-10-20 19:00 - 20:00
From Sherman:

About the book… It is a unique collection of poetry, written to uplift, motivate and inspire… Who ever reads this book. This book I dedicated to my Son who lost has battle with addiction, just over one year ago. The last conversation we shared was of him telling me to stop waiting and finish the book. Well… The Student became the Teacher… I finished The Book!.

About the Author: Spent most of my life in Illinois. I have now been a Fort Atkinson Wisconsin resident for 20 plus years. I love the small town living and the brotherly/sisterly love shown to neighbors as well as strangers. I am a single father, I work for and champion individuals with disabilities. I write poetry, songs and now books. I have performed as a rap artist, owned and operated a local talent music production company, I have been involved with programs that centered on mentoring young adults, I have coached pee wee league football and I’ve done some motivational speaking engagements. This Book was written from my spiritual energy and the words put together in the way I received them. I Self Published this Book, to honor the integrity and rawness of each message. “UNTAMED” Make no mistake, these are messages that will relate to some aspect of Your life, from one day to the next. Or should I say, Every Day That Ends In “Y”… “LET’S GET MOTIVATED”!!!

Sherman Lyons

LONESOME BILL CAMPLIN
2022-10-15 20:00 - 22:00
Please call 920-563-9391 to reserve seats and to indicate whether you are likely to eat here.
Lonesome Bill writhes again….
From the archives

BEATLES SINGALONG- FUNDRAISER-important info to note
2022-10-07 19:00 - 20:30
The Carpe will be open this Friday evening from 6 to 9, but WILL NOT BE SERVING FOOD.
Kitty has tested positive for COVID, and the Welch/Camplins will be isolating upstairs away from the madding crowd.
This will be a fun evening of various local musicians leading a singalong to their favorite Beatles songs.
Donations will be used to support the Democratic Party of Jefferson County .

PETER MULVEY
2022-10-01 20:00 - 22:00
PETER MULVEY will do a rare solo show to launch October off properly.

SONG CIRCLE w/ TRICIA ALEXANDER
2022-09-29 18:30 - 20:30
Round robin song circle led by TRICIA ALEXANDER– (performer, poet, healer, “with a voice, music and lyrics that resonate the heart”) done informally, not from the stage, no microphones. This is a lovely gathering of singers, songwriters, musicians and music appreciators, poets, and storytellers held somewhat regularly on the last Thursday of each month (unless interrupted by a pandemic).
Traditional Round Robin protocol applies – everyone is part of the circle and has an opportunity to: play, pass or request a song from someone in particular or from anyone in the circle.
Everyone is welcome to attend. $5 cover for musicians and audience. Come early and have a bite to eat- therein lies our sustenance.

BILL MILLER
2022-09-25 19:00 - 21:00
Please call 920-563-9391 to reserve seats and to indicate whether you will dine here that night.
BILL MILLER

For over 30 years, Bill Miller’s music has amplified the whispers of Native peoples’ hearts, while bridging cultures around the world with his signature sound: thunder (the voice), wind (the Native American flute), water (the guitar), and soul (the story).
For this show Bill will concentrate on woodland flute and some of the rituals associated with it.
At the end of the night, he and Bill Camplin will do a couple of songs together.

KAIA FOWLER- postponed
2022-09-24 20:00 - 22:00
Kaia does not feel well, and has asked to postpone the concert to a future date to be determined.

KAIA FOWLER creates music that speaks to the soul. Kaia’s passion, presence, warmth, and authenticity all invite listeners to open their hearts and transcend the everyday through song. A versatile guitarist with mastery of fingerstyle and strumming techniques, Kaia is best known for her beautiful voice, often described as having a soothing or healing quality.
Her latest album, One Breath, placed on the Folk Alliance International Top 50 Albums of the Month Chart for July 2022, receiving radio play from coast to coast in the U.S. and in Canada. The album, with mixing by Grammy award-winning engineer Charlie Pilzer, features songs of hope and healing. Special guest tracks on One Breath include “Take Shelter in Love” with harmony vocals and bouzouki arranged and performed by Joe Jencks; “Obon, Dance of Light” with Peter Phippen arranging and performing bamboo flutes and fender bass; and “Ridin’ Along” with Tricia Alexander on blues harmonica.
For Kaia, who also practices Reiki energy therapy, and serves as a life and wellbeing coach, music creation fits into a larger healing arts ministry. She extends her musical performances beyond stage and studio into communities where she promotes greater wellbeing and a sense of togetherness and Unity. Listeners describe Kaia’s voice and songs as inspiring comfort, courage, and connection. This calling to serve recently led her to open Kaia Fowler Arts & Wellbeing in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin. Learn more at kaiafowler.com/wellbeing.
Media quotes:
“Fabulous voice and song…” — Lilli Kuzma, host of Folk Festival on WDCB Public Radio, Chicago, Ill., referring to “Ridin’ Along” from One Breath (2022)
“Kaia Fowler is a tremendous lyricist. Her lyrics paint pictures and her musical notes add the color.” — The Americana Gazette (2010)
“It was a pleasure to host Kaia as a guest on Another Green World at WORT in Madison. It’s apparent — from her impressive guitar-work, beautiful voice, and intentional, evocative lyrics — that she is the real deal when it comes to both singing and songwriting. Our conversation was lively, and she speaks about her music with authenticity and grace. Plus, she’s so da*n sweet! We’d have her back anytime.” — Katie Hutchinson & Farmer Shaun, WORT FM 89.9, Madison, Wis. (2019)

SETH BROWN
2022-09-23 20:00 - 22:00
Mask wearing is encouraged in the our intimate listening room. COVID protocols may change through time so check back closer to showtime. Ticket link is at the bottom of the page.
Genuine, fun, and entertaining are a few of the ways SETH BROWN’s friends, family, followers, and fans describe him and his show. He draws his listeners in to the universal language of music, a deeply written tune, an upbeat ready-to-dance type, or an authentic story from the road less travelled. His raw inviting flair, leaves audiences all over the US wanting to hear more.
Growing up in a musical family surrounded by the Eagle Cap wilderness of rural eastern Oregon, Seth Brown is the youngest son to parents of nineteen children. Spending the majority of his life with six strings in his hands, he’s been honing his musical skills and entertaining crowds from early childhood. Now undeniably professional, Seth’s a vagabond hearted, entertaining, singer-songwriter, and all around excellent storyteller!
His long awaited, dreamed-of-from-childhood, full length, full band album, ‘Campfire Currency’ released spring of 2021! The invigorating songs on his twelve track debut were written during a pivotal journey that kicked off late 2018. Seth and his wife Desiree, travelled the US and Canada all of 2019, setting sail to find themselves and deep dive into all they were created to be.
Reseting from the traditional lifestyle, living present and simple, Seth found himself writing again after a couple year hiatus. Heartfelt authentic songs came to life in places like majestic Big Bend National Park, during sunny mornings on the banks of the Flathead River in Montana, peaceful afternoons on the Rogue River in Southern Oregon, deep within the red rocks of Sedona, and many other traversed paths along the way. Four dozen impeccable original songs (and counting) have emerged, his songs consistently resonate personally and with his fans!
Touring Oregon in 2020, Arizona in 2021, currently on a multi-state 2022 Campfire Currency Tour, Seth Brown is just warming up in the world of sharing great music with great people!
Seth’s musical storytelling is an expedition through many genres. It’s roots music, it takes you somewhere. Seth builds strong melodies with his own twist and unique musical instinct, coupled with superb heartfelt lyrics! At a Seth Brown show there’s laughter, singing, dancing, and an occasional tear shed. His original singer-songwriter vagabond style, sound, and storytelling appeals to folk, rock and roll, country, and Americana fans alike!

ORDINARY ELEPHANT
2022-09-22 19:30 - 21:30
Please call 920-563-9391 to reserve seats and to indicate whether or not you will eat hear that night.
International Folk Music Awards 2017 Artist of the Year ORDINARY ELEPHANT captivates audiences with their emotionally powerful and vulnerable songs, letting the listener know that they are not alone in this world. The collaboration of husband and wife Pete and Crystal Damore, their connection, and their influences (such as Gillian Welch, Guy Clark, Anais Mitchell) all meet on stage. “Two become one, in song…hand-in-glove harmonies surprise the listener with focused intensity and musical mastery,” says Mary Gauthier. The Associated Press is calling their latest album, Honest, “one of the best Americana albums of the year.”

KATIE DAHL
2022-09-17 20:30 - 22:30
Please call 920-563-9391 to reserve seats and to indicate whether you will dine here that night.
KATIE DAHL is a songwriter and playwright whose work is as expansive as Lake Michigan and as deeply rooted as its rocky coastal bluffs. A small-town celebrity on the Wisconsin peninsula where her family has lived for 175 years, she is now a radio-charting folk artist who tours around the world. Clear-eyed and tough-minded, fresh and funny, Katie “delivers razor-sharp lyrics with a hearty, soulful voice” (American Songwriter).
Katie’s four albums of original songs showcase her creamy alto and trademark wit, as well as her unflinching authenticity. Her recent work finds her exploring more vulnerable territory than ever before, from anxiety to body image to the challenges of growing up queer in an evangelical church. Richly steeped in the American songwriting tradition, Katie navigates the muddy waters between the personal, public, and political with tenderness and dexterity.
Katie is currently working with renowned producer Julie Wolf on a new album slated for release in early 2023. Her previous album, Wildwood, was produced by JT Nero (Birds of Chicago) and features Allison Russell; that record’s “Worry My Friend” hit #6 on the folk radio charts in 2019. Her song “Crowns” spent a month at #1 on the charts in 2015.
Katie is also a playwright; her latest musical The Fisherman’s Daughters (2021) tells the story of two sisters in 1908 who fight the state of Wisconsin’s efforts to take their rural homestead via eminent domain to make a state park. Victory Farm (2012; co-written with James Valcq and Emilie Coulson) is a fictionalized account of the real-life German POWs who came to Wisconsin to pick cherries during World War II. Both plays were made into live cast recordings.
Razor-sharp lyrics with a hearty, soulful voice.”
— American Songwriter

“Katie Dahl’s songs aren’t just melodies and words, they’re journeys that are firmly grounded in a sense of place—beautiful, real landscapes that help you feel places that you may have never been before. That’s the very best kind of songwriting.”
— Dar Williams

CHIP DUNCAN- book release party plus
2022-09-16 19:30 - 21:30
Please call 920-563-9391 to reserve seats and to let us know if you will dine here that night. Masks recommended in the intimate space of our back room.
Our friend CHIP has a new book, EWASO VILLAGE:
The Maasai people of East Africa comprise one of the most intriguing and resourceful cultures on Earth. For more than a thousand years, the Maasai and their Samburu neighbors have survived and thrived as pastoralists on the savannah near Mt. Kenya and the Maasai Mara borderlands of Kenya and Tanzania. Photojournalist Chip exuberantly combines prose, poetry, and beautiful photographs to celebrate the stories, songs, rituals, and dreams of people who live in Ewaso Village, one of his favorite places to visit. See reviews below.**
Chip will also be showing 2 of his films:
One of the shorts is a 30 minute docu called THE SOUND MAN that won numerous festivals. It’s a heart-breaking portrayal of a Kenyan sound engineer who’s been an eye-witness to numerous crises in East Africa. Abdul Ramadan worked extensively with journalist Mo Amin and continues to work today with Salim. Chris Spheeris did the music for The Sound Man.

The other film is a 12 minute short called PIZZA & PRANA. It’s about a doctor who has ALS and has had great success using yoga therapy. That film features original score/cues from Chris Spheeris and from Willy Porter.
All proceeds from this event will go to the Loisaba Community Conservation Foundation.

ABOUT CHIP DUNCAN

A lifelong Midwesterner and native of western Iowa, Chip Duncan has produced more than fifty non-fiction films for international broadcast and distribution. His work as a photographer and filmmaker has taken him to ice fields, war zones, slums, shipyards, museums, palaces, vineyards, beaches, deserts, rainforests, savannahs, and farmlands. He counts Peru, Ethiopia, Afghanistan, and rural Kenya among his favorite places. Duncan’s previous books include the short story collection Half A Reason To Die (Select Books, NYC, 2017), photographic collections Inspiring Change (Thunder House Press, Milwaukee, 2019) and Enough To Go Around (Select Books, NYC, 2009). Duncan also speaks publicly on the impact of climate change as part of The Three Tenors of Climate Change. Ewaso Village is Duncan’s first book of poetry, and the first in a trilogy featuring indigenous cultures from around the world.

**
“Few writers are gifted with Duncan’s ability to weave heartfelt memoir, history, culture, and poetry into such a seamless whole, beautifully balancing his roles of narrator, observer, and participant. Ewaso Village is a must-read for anyone dedicated to eye-opening, transformational stories and insightful verse.” —John Sibley Williams, author of As One Fire Consumes Another

“Ewaso Village shows Duncan’s versatility as one of the great international storytellers of our time. The Maasai people of Laikipia County have trusted Duncan with their stories, songs, and mythology while providing access few have been granted. Ewaso Village is essential reading for any traveler making the journey to East Africa.” —Trupti Shah, Documentary Filmmaker, Journalist – Nairobi, Kenya
“As a child in Ewaso Village, I witnessed and was inspired by the work of Chip Duncan. I love his stamina and his kindness, and I’ve been privileged to have him as my mentor in photography. My small village is now known and admired globally because of Duncan’s great work.” —Letoluai Komiki Ambrose, Conservationist & Photographer – Ewaso Village, Kenya
“Ewaso Village is luxurious storytelling for all of the literary senses: stunning photography, vulnerable prose and vivid poems. The collection is eloquent and frank, braiding culture and commentary, justice and joy, imagery and intimate impact. The collection of these pieces traveled me, not as a vapid tourist, but as a human.” —Dasha Kelly Hamilton, Wisconsin Poet Laureate | Rubinger Fellow
“Enriched with hauntingly beautiful photographs and poetic stories, Ewaso Village provides a richly detailed portrait of a nomadic society known for their centuries-old rituals and dazzling ornamentation – but a culture mostly hidden from outsiders. But in this thoroughly engaging book, Duncan captures the heart and soul of the Maasai – an African tribal people grappling with the challenges of political strife and climate change.” —Kevin McCarey, National Geographic filmmaker and author

WILLY PORTER w/ CARMEN NICKERSON- SOLD OUT
2022-09-10 20:30 - 23:00
Excited we are for the return of Willy with Carmen. Buy tickets below bio.
Masks recommended in the small space of our listening room.
Please read the e-mail confirming your ticket purchase carefully. It has important information regarding the show and how this transaction may read on your credit card statement.

WILLY PORTER and Carmen Nickerson are a duo that embody the best of what live music has to offer: heart, grit, and the kind of raw musicianship that transforms listeners into long-time fans. Willy Porter’s seering finger-picking guitar style deftly blends with Carmen Nickerson’s lush vocals to create an unforgettable sound that resonates long after the last chord fades.

PETE JONSSON/ BILL CAMPLIN song swap
2022-09-09 20:00 - 22:00
Pete and Bill have been friends and mutual admirers for years, and thought to finally share a show together.
PETE JONSSON‘s musical career began with formal lessons on piano, and forced lessons on the trumpet during his grade school years. His rebellion ended when Santa brought an ukelele with a plastic Arthur Godfrey chord changer and a book of Steven Foster songs. At the age of twelve he made the leap to six strings– the family Gibson guitar, and began his musical journey during those years when folk music and the Kingston Trio was the pied piper and youth were cliff bound lemmings. Shortly thereafter he descended into the blues and worse–songwriting.
During his adult years he became interested in the live music of his childhood, that is pop tunes from the early 20th century played by his father(guitar), grandfather (mandolin), and uncle (tenor banjo). These were songs like Five Foot Two, Harvest Moon, Whispering, and Bye Bye Blues. For thirty plus years he was a member of the famous trio called Live Bait whose signs can be seen to this day in the resort areas in northern Illinois and Wisconsin. Pete was a member of the Stage Leftovers, the house band that played regularly on the second and fourth on the square of downtown Woodstock, IL. Now he is the guitarist with Cheryl and the Down Home Boys. Pete is a flatpicker, fingerpicker, slide guitarist, a strummer and also has the audacity to attempt solo performances, and has escaped, thus far, the wrath of audiences and serious injury.
BILL CAMPLIN is the co-owner of the Cafe Carpe, with musical chops going back to being one of the stars of his high school choir, with his teacher being Margaret Hawkins, who went on to be the Choral Director of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra.

NEW PIONEERS- cancelled
2022-09-08 19:00 - 21:00
The New Pioneers have cancelled due to a painful knee of the players. Darn, and we wish for a quick recovery.

JACK WILLIAMS
2022-09-03 19:30 - 21:30
Please call 920-563-9391 to reserve seats and indicate whether you will be dining here. Masks recommended in our small listening space.
JACK WILLIAMS – it will be a pleasure to have him share his talents again.
Brand New CD- A Tickle in My Soul
Music legends Peter Yarrow (Peter, Paul, & Mary) and Tom Paxton lauded Williams as ‘the best guitar player I’ve ever heard’ and ‘one of my (Paxton) all-time favorite pickers.’ It is no cliché to say that his music defies genre labeling, as his style has evolved from a lifetime of musical involvement ranging from beatnik trumpeter and folk revivalist banjo player to country, rock and R & B electric and steel-guitar player and chamber music composer.
Williams spends the majority of his time touring the US, playing major music festivals and venues, which have included The Newport Folk Festival and Chicago’s Folkstage, hosted by Rich Warren of NPR’s nationally syndicated show, ‘The Midnight Special.’
Of him, Warren says, “his artistry… is nothing short of amazing. Dazzling picking, expressive voice, unique and interesting songs. He is a showman in the best sense of the word and just wowed our audience. I think they would have followed him anywhere.” From a recent performance at a popular Birmingham concert venue, Moonlight on the Mountain, proprietor Keith Harrelson said, “Jack is a fearless singer, inventive storyteller, forceful-yet-delicate guitarist, and holds near-legendary status as a modern-times troubadour…. precisely what kept him relevant to at least three generations of loyal fans.”
Though sometimes thought of as a ‘singer-songwriter’, audiences should not expect a night of quiet introspective ballads. Williams is known for his entertaining and high energy performances. He often concludes his shows with a unique finale, a medley of songs and stories that span the varied styles and voices of his musical past, keeping audiences enthralled from start to finish.
“An adept acoustic guitarist and extremely capable in the vocal and songwriting departments…. Difficult to categorize, Williamsblends folk, country, jazz, and blues in a somewhat gentler Ry Cooder manner…. It would be hard to value one album over the other; both are of high caliber… Possessing a clear tenor,Williams showcases his fluid fingerpicking style on both discs… both albums are treats for the listener. Jack Williams comprehends the potency of understatement and inhabits a world that may be less realistic but certainly kinder.” Pieter Hofmann, DIRTY LINEN
“…an American Treasure” – Mickey Newbury
“…one of the strongest guitar players in contemporary folk.” – Sing Out!
If there is anyone not familiar with Jack’s incredible songwriting and prodigious performance skills, my sympathies to you. A Jack Williams show is a slam-dunk win-win-win for all. One of the most enlightened and entertaining performers I’ve ever encountered. – Dave Humpreys, Two Way Street Coffeehouse in Downers Grove IL
“…like a South Carolina version of an acoustic Bruce Springsteen with Jerry Garcia on acoustic lead guitar.”
Mike Agranoff – Folk Project and Minstrel Coffeehouse, Morristown NJ
“Jack Williams is one of the most eclectic singer songwriters going. You can hear both the white and black musical traditions in his writing. You can hear country, you can hear blues, you can hear jazz. He’s a poet who knows how to write simply. And he’s a remarkable, magical performer, with graceful good humor, and a hot guitar style.”
– Phil Shapiro, host, WVBR’s “Bound for Glory”
*****Please call to reserve.

KRAUSE FAMILY- cancelled- see afternoon show
2022-08-27 20:00 - 22:00
Sorry- this evening show has been cancelled. However, you can enjoy the band playing here from 3-5 as part of the Chamber’s RHYTHM REMIX event.
Please call 920-563-9391 to reserve seats and to indicate whether you are likely to dine here. Check back to this page or call regarding COVID protocols which may be in place at that time. Masks generally recommended in the intimate space of our listening room.
KRAUSE FAMILY BAND

You are in for a treat with this great family band.
Original music and cover tunes ranging from Bob Wills to the Reverend Al Green sung in close family harmony- talent in abundance.

RHYTHM REMIX- KRAUSE FAMILY BAND
2022-08-27 15:00 - 17:00
THE KRAUSE FAMILY BAND will appear here as part of Fort’s RHYTHM REMIX, a day of music, food, and entertainment along the Rock River. This family-friendly, free event will feature five venues with regional musical talent scheduled at each throughout the day. Pick up your event “passport” and enjoy a day of music, dining, shopping and prizes during this end-of-summer celebration!
You are in for a treat with this great family band- father Rick Krause, daughters Katie & Ruthie, accompanied by Scott Wright on piano.
Original music and cover tunes ranging from Bob Wills to the Reverend Al Green to the Mills Brothers to Tom Waits sung in close family harmony- talent in abundance.

RHYTHM REMIX- JOHN GAY
2022-08-27 11:00 - 13:00
John will appear here as part of Fort’s RHYTHM REMIX, a day of music, food, and entertainment along the Rock River. This family-friendly, free event will feature fives venues with regional musical talent scheduled at each throughout the day. Pick up your event “passport” and enjoy a day of music, dining, shopping and prizes during this end-of-summer celebration!
Influenced by Jason Isbell, the Lumineers, Chris Stapleton, and Zach Williams, John muses of loss and redemption with tenderness and grit in his solo acoustic set.

MORE GUITAR with DENNY RAUEN/ BILL CAMPLIN/PETER ROLLER
2022-08-26 20:00 - 22:00
Milwaukee luthier DENNY RAUEN celebrates 40 years of adventures in lutherie in a series of shows with fellow musicians he has met through his work at venues he loves. This time has chosen the Carpe, and asked BILL CAMPLIN (remember Bill?) and PETER ROLLER to celebrate with him, each doing 35 minutes.
DENNY will be performing a handful of original tunes from his upcoming album release, 6/8 TIME.
PETER ROLLER is a performer of many Roots guitar styles, a kid from suburban NJ who wound up as the main accompanist for one of the last of the early Southern bluesmen. As a working musician, he is currently performing in settings that range from acoustic and electric blues to French chanson to Soul-Jazz organ trio to Jamaican rock steady to bluegrass and country rock. He is also a teacher, composer, ethnomusicologist and author of the only book documenting U.S. amateur garage bands in generations from the late 50s through the 90s.
BILL CAMPLIN is a regular performer here (duh), has earned the respect of Danny (and others) who have seen his live performances, and is, according to reviewer Kevin Lynch, “the proverbial best singer nobody’s ever heard of, even though he’s known in folk music circles as the guy with the sweet pipes and the droll wit who runs Café Carpe, one of the nation’s best small venues for touring singer-songwriters.”
Should be an interesting and fun evening.
Please call 920-563-9391 to reserve seats and to indicate whether you are likely to eat here that night.

SONG CIRCLE w/ TRICIA ALEXANDER
2022-08-25 18:30 - 20:30
Masks recommended in the intimate space of our back room.
Round robin song circle led by TRICIA ALEXANDER– (performer, poet, healer, “with a voice, music and lyrics that resonate the heart”) done informally, not from the stage, no microphones. This is a lovely gathering of singers, songwriters, musicians and music appreciators, poets, and storytellers held somewhat regularly on the last Thursday of each month (unless interrupted by a pandemic).
Traditional Round Robin protocol applies – everyone is part of the circle and has an opportunity to: play, pass or request a song from someone in particular or from anyone in the circle.
Everyone is welcome to attend. $5 cover for musicians and audience. Come early and have a bite to eat- therein lies our sustenance.

SOFIA TALVIK
2022-08-24 19:30 - 21:30
Please call 920-563-9391 to reserve seats and indicate whether you will be eating here.
Masks recommended in our intimate listening space.
Americana Folk with Swedish roots
Unmistakably Nordic in flavor, SOFIA TALVIK somehow still conforms to American interpretations of her own original music, a North Sea siren blending sparkle and melancholy. A veteran performer with 7 full length albums as well as numerous EPs, singles and tours behind her.
Starting early August, Swedish Folk/Americana artist Sofia Talvik is finally going on the road with her album Paws of a Bear. As the world has been on hold for 2 years, so has her chance to play her new songs, released shortly before the pandemic hit, cancelling the two big release tours planned for 2020. For all the fans that have been waiting patiently, she is now mixing re-scheduled tour dates with new venues and music series all around the mid-west and north-east.

Armed with her breathtaking new album as well as some unreleased songs she’s taking her Winnebago Warrior Lil’Chief on a spin in early Fall, starting in Alabama, and going all the way up to the Canadian border in Michigan, and Maine, before doing a loop around New England and down to New Jersey.

”I hope I get to see some beautiful Fall colors on this tour”, says Sofia who did a similar tour in 2018. ”I’m looking forward to coming back to some favorite venues, as well as some new ones, but most of all I’m looking forward to seeing a lot of friendly faces. The online shows I did during the pandemic certainly fit a purpose, but I prefer to be able to see my audience in the room with me.”

Some of the stops include Porcupine Mountains Music Festival, The Buskirk-Chumley Theatre in Bloomington, IN and The Cultural Center of Cape Cod. True to her art, Talvik is keeping her shows intimate and personal, not unlike the 70’s coffeehouses and speakeasy’s. You will be up close and personal with a world class act that has played big festivals like Lollapalooza and SxSW and opened for artists like Maria McKee and David Duchovny (X-files, Californication). It is in this kind of setting where she can casually joke and communicate with the audience that her strength as a performer shines the most.

“Paws of a Bear, finds Talvik taking a more Americana-flavored approach — influenced by Jason Isbell, Valerie June and others” – Billboard Magazine
“This album is solid gold from start to finish” – Americana Highways
“Talvik develops is of a similar tapestry to Joni Mitchell, tapping into that same knack for soul-stirring clarity and resonance. Between, however, is something of a different nature. Open-air production sets the scene for an evocative and atmospheric release from the Swedish folk artist, coming in the form of an upcoming album, Paws of a Bear.” – PopMatters

JACKIE BRISTOW
2022-08-12 20:30 - 22:30
Learn more about JACKIE BRISTOW after the ticket link. Check back closer to the time of the show regarding COVID protocols for attending the show. Masks are recommended in the intimate back room listening space.
Like Joni Mitchell, Shawn Colvin and Bonnie Raitt, Jackie has created a body of work that will endure- finely shaded songs that are at once personal and universal, recording with her long-time musical partner, Australian-born guitarist and producer Mark Punch.

American Songwriter has hailed Jackie as “crafting some of the most beautiful, compelling Americana today”.

The lure of the road has always been a defining motivation for singer-songwriter JACKIE BRISTOW.
She took her first musical steps in Gore, in the South Island of New Zealand, honed her craft in the pubs and clubs of Sydney, Australia, and found her voice in the United States, where she has continued to enhance her reputation as a soulful, seductive independent recording artist and dynamic live performer.
Her wanderlust informed her writing on four previous albums – Thirsty (2002), Crazy Love (2007), Freedom (2010) and Shot of Gold (2015) – and again on her fifth, Outsider, which is due for release on March 4, 2022.
While building on the strengths of her previous albums, Outsider finds Bristow drawing inspiration from the music of the American South — particularly the myriad sounds of her adopted home, Nashville.
“Nashville feels like a melting pot in a hub of creativity,” says Jackie. “Being exposed to such great American music has really inspired me.”
Jackie put the finishing touches to Outsider while staying in New Zealand after its first Covid-19 lockdown in 2020. While in her homeland she has been “making the best of the crazy world” by focusing her creative energy in new directions.
A planned New Zealand Back to the Roots tour in 2021 fell by the wayside because of Covid restrictions, so Jackie used the time to develop a new youth songwriting programme called SongCatcher. The first programme yielded a single in November 2021, It’s Christmas, written and recorded by Jackie B and the Mini Band, a group of youngsters from the Queenstown area.
“Life changes,” Jackie says. “When one door closes another opens. You can’t sit and dwell on the setbacks. You’ve got to believe in yourself and keep moving forward.”
This unwavering positivity and global outlook have served her well in an industry where there are more hard knocks than greatest hits, enabling her to form lasting relationships with a wide range of influential personalities.
Her exquisite songcraft and compelling live performances have seen her share the bill and a personal connection with many of the world’s musical elite, including Bonnie Raitt, Boz Skaggs, Chris Isaak, Tommy Emmanuel, Steve Miller Band, Foreigner, Art Garfunkel, Phoebe Snow and John Waite.
And, always, the road calls.
‘Outsider, album by Jackie Bristow. A high point among Bristow’s many high points, Outsider blends Americana, rock, blues, urgency, romance, and joy in these 12 songs . Each is a stand-alone jewel and the entire album is an adventure into the heart of a legendary talent. Could be an album of the year.’ – Indie Pulse Music -USA
‘Addictive with a mix of acoustic and deep-down electric guitars, banjo, and her seductive Americana voice, this song will make you rock and soar with her melody at the same time’ – Shutter 16 Magazine – USA
‘Country music has been around for decades. It’s virtually up to the artist to modernize the antiquated mold & recreate a good country tune. Some rehash the same tired ingredients & some have no clue what true country tradition is. But, then there’s a Jackie Bristow who has the frame for it all. She paints with her own bold strokes’ . – Americana Highways
“The record finds her standing at the crossroads of soul and country, rock and roll and singer-songwriter folk and reveals her drive to embrace change, keep moving and to discover something new and exciting.”– Michael Christopher – Daily Times

MEGAN SLANKARD/ RACHAEL KILGOUR
2022-08-10 20:00 - 22:00
Masks recommended in our intimate back room listening space.
Ticket link follows the bios-
MEGAN SLANKARD was a finalist in 2020 in the International Songwriting Competition, a finalist in 2019 for both the USA Songwriting Contest and the International Acoustic Music Awards, and a 2018 finalist in the ISC. Megan won first place in the 2017 Unsigned Only Music Competition (AAA Category) for a punk song she wrote, record, and performed herself in her own kitchen. She has toured with Dire Straits co-founder David Knopfler, played duets with Pat Monahan and Train.
“Megan Slankard is something of an indie sensation. The Bay Area based indie singer-songwriter has a powerful, expressive voice and pairs that with honest, heartfelt lyrics. With five self-released albums up her sleeve… you can’t help but be impressed by her industry.” – MONO
Glad to have Rachael back. She has rightfully won some fans in her prior appearances here.
RACHAEL KILGOUR is a Minnesotan songwriter and performing artist whose sincere, lyric-driven work has been called both brave and humane. The 2015 grand prize winner of the esteemed international NewSong Music Performance & Songwriting Competition and winner of the 2017 Kerrville New Folk Contest, Kilgour has been featured at NYC’s Lincoln Center, at The Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. and by the ASCAP Music Cafe at the Sundance Film Festival.
Called “…a heartfelt slice of master crafted indie folk brimming with the battle-tested capacity to endure the worst in others” by Billboard, [her third album}Rabbit in the Road took an intimate and often painful look at the failed marriage and loss of family. Kilgour’s writing and delivery cut deep, with resolute simplicity. Ravelin Magazine observed “this sort of metonymic ability to evoke the whole of someone or the entirety of a feeling is typical of Kilgour’s poetic songwriting.”
Her newest EP, Game Changer, examines the artist’s tentative first steps into a new existence, post-heartbreak. With a clear head, Kilgour touches on the complicated nature of romance and relationship, sets up a stunning defense of queer love, and reassesses her priorities as a citizen of a changing wider world.

JOHN SIEGER/ DAVE RAMONT/ BILL CAMPLIN
2022-08-06 20:30 - 22:30
Please call 920-563-9391 to reserve seats and to indicate whether you are likely to dine here that night.
Masks recommended in our intimate back room listening space.
Another great in-the-round song swap with 3 fab singer-songwriters.
JOHN SIEGER – a prolific and excellent songwriter with a semi-country bent whose songs have impressed Dwight Yoakam, Jerry Harrison, The BoDeans, Robbie Fulks and Flaco Jimenez enough to record them. Taste this.
DAVE RAMONT
“Differentiating oneself in the burgeoning field of alternative country artists is a tricky proposition these days, but Dave Ramont stands tall in the crowd.” –Performing Songwriter magazine
Dave Ramont was born with a song stuck in his head. The doctors couldn’t get it out. 20-odd years later he was playing around the Chicago area, teaching at a music school and digging ditches.
He released 4 solo records and 4 more with his swillbilly band Dick Smith, garnering play on public & college radio here & abroad. His gigging expanded around the Midwest, South & East.
Ramont has produced a few records for other singer/songwriters, and he’s currently singing for rye whisky & sandwiches. And picking through his box o’ songs hidden under the basement stairs…
BILL CAMPLIN is still pushing songs- and people care to hear them.

DANCE AROUND MOLLY
2022-08-04 19:00 - 21:00
Please call 920-563-9391 to reserve seats and indicate whether you are likely to eat here that night.
Check back for any COVID updates. Masks are recommended in our intimate back room listening space.
DAM wowed in their first appearance here…
New to the stage as this moniker, DAM is comprised of the ‘best of the best’ of ‘pickers’ out of Madison, WI.Starr Moss, Trent Cuthbert, Michael Falk, Dave Havas and Paul Kienitz are out playing their own brand of bluegrass inspired music. As they are experienced journeymen of the BG scene (Mark Hembree Band, Hen House Prowlers, Nob Hill Boys, Sweet Grass, Squirrel Gray, Reeltime Travelers, etc.)…count on a unique bend of driving classics, original songs and masterly instrumentals that define the bands sound.

CARRIE ELKIN & DANNY SCHMIDT
2022-08-03 20:00 - 22:00
Check back closer to the date regarding COVID protocols. Masks in the back room no doubt strongly recommended.
Two Great Songwriters, One Great Night
It’s a special treat when DANNY SCHMIDT and CARRIE ELKIN, who normally tour separately and solo, share the stage together. If the chemistry seems especially amorous, they come by it honestly, as they are a rare breed: a romantic partnership in real life, as well as musical life. And the two together on stage makes for a classic case of the whole being greater than the sum of its parts. Danny Schmidt is best known for his riveting poetic lyrics, which have drawn favorable comparisons to Leonard Cohen and Townes Van Zandt for their depth and complexity. And gypsy spirit Carrie Elkin is best known for her incredibly soulful and dynamic vocals, which have drawn favorable comparisons to Patty Griffin at her most powerful, and Nanci Griffith at her most intimate. Together, the respective strengths they each bring, individually, merge into a much greater whole . . . a performance of great energy and spirit . . . and one that audiences seem to be able to connect with on a multitude of levels, at once: Emotionally, Spiritually, and Intellectually.

On Danny: Named to the Chicago Tribune’s 50 Most Significant Songwriters in the Last 50 Years, Austin, TX-based singer/songwriter Danny Schmidthas amassed a cult following for his stunningly poetic, poignant imagery. Danny is considered a preeminent writer, an artist whose earthy poetry manages to somehow conjure magic from the mundane, leading Sing Out Magazine to tag him: “Perhaps the best new songwriter we’ve heard in the last 15 years.”
On Carrie: Austin, TX-based Carrie Elkin is a born performer, possessing an infectious energy that cannot be contained. As Maverick Magazine so eloquently put it: “We have never seen a performer so in love with the act of singing. Onstage Elkin is simply a force of nature.” With her dazzling voice and unpretentious charm, Carrie wins over audiences with songs that are, as FolkWax puts it: “Intimate, yet universal. Naked, yet richly adorned. Her voice is simply revelatory.”
