Lamplighter livestream- PETER MULVEY/ SISTASTRINGS/ PAUL CEBAR
2020-12-20 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | su carpa
Well, for some reason we cannot hold any events here, so, nanny nanny booboo, fine- we will hold the annual Lamplighter sessions virtually.
Access through Peter Mulvey’s Facebook page or Peter Mulvey’s YouTube page.
While we will all miss the excitement and anxiety the weather often caused, and the pleasures of being crammed in a small room after eating in a noisy restaurant, with a little mindfulness and gratitude and acceptance we will share a good experience in a new way.
Thanks to Peter, Monique, Chauntee, and Paul for sharing their talents, and to listeners for participating in the adventure.
PETER MULVEY
SISTASTRINGS
PAUL CEBAR

15th Annual Boxing Day Show at the Cafe Carpe- not
2020-12-26 19:00 - 20:00 | virtually
We will miss hosting this fun event, but WHAT’S HIS NAME & the OTHER GUY will carry on the tradition of playing at the Carpe on Boxing Day. You can catch the spirit and share in the fun virtually on Brian Lucas’ Facebook Page.
If you want jambalaya carryout before the show, ($9 per order, $1 more with creole sauce) be sure to place your order by Friday night and pickup at our side door between 5 and 6:30. E-mail info@cafecarpe.com or call 920-563-9391. Expect a response from us no matter which method, and, if you don’t get one, try the other method.
From Brian Lucas (Looper) and Greg Valde (Valdemortified) “We couldn’t let year 15 go by without a show and so it shall be, online. We are going to do one set for about an hour and we hope that you will join us for this long-standing tradition.

The good news is that you don’t have to wait in line to get a drink, just go to your fridge. Need to go to the restroom, take us with you.
Want some delicious food? Go to the Cafe Carpe before the show and pick up some jambalaya with chicken & ham- order no later t
We’re going to miss all of our wonderful friends being with us both on and off the stage. Not to mention the annual post-gig party, but there’s always next year. Happy holidays and we hope to see you on Saturday. Cheers!”

BILL CAMPLIN- virtually
2021-02-14 19:00 - 20:00
BILL CAMPLIN will be live streaming a concert on Valentine’s Day.
To listen, go to the Cafe Carpe YouTube channel at 7 pm on that day.
Satchel will have an opportunity to test his new video equipment, and Bill will test out his voice.
Donations will be accepted. The PayPal link will be posted during the concert.

BILL CAMPLIN in partnership with OFF SQUARE MUSIC
2021-02-26 19:30 - 20:30
Resident cyclist and crooner BILL CAMPLIN will be doing a live set of original works, spontaneous ramblings, and infamous tuning segments with resident cyclist and crooner. Bill is partnering up with OFF SQUARE MUSIC, a nonprofit music organization run by some friends down in Woodstock, Illinois. This livestream is part of their “4th Friday Concerts at Home” series. Here is the link to the show.

WILLY PORTER Carpecast- livestream sans audience
2021-03-21 19:30 - 21:00
WILLY PORTER will be Carpecasting on our stage, live streamed to you by our quality technicians. Mark your calendar.
Here is the link to our YouTube channel, to which you should subscribe: Cafe Carpe YouTube channel. Subscription can be set up to remind you of upcoming shows.
The Cafe Carpe channel is where you will access this show, and any other shows we do. Live shows do not show up there until showtime.

CHRIS PORTERFIELD Carpecast
2021-04-11 20:00 - 22:00
Catch Milwaukee’s CHRIS PORTERFIELD working his magic in our Carpecast series, brought to you in living color and stellar sound quality by our amazing production team of Satchel and DJ. Here is the YouTube link for the live show.
This will be Chris’ first solo acoustic show here. He’s joined us the last few years for our Lamplighter series in December, and his spirit always feels right at home in our space. We’re really happy to have him for a full night this time around.
Please throw something in the hat if you can, so we can offset production costs, and make this worth everyone’s while. We encourage you to tune in, regardless.
Any donations received will be split 50/50 between Chris and Café Carpe. It would help us gauge interest/support if you would offer a handshake pledge by sending an e-mail to yocarpecast@gmail.com with “Chris Porterfield” in the subject line. Sort of like buying a ticket in advance, but not.
We’ll provide a PayPal link for donations during the broadcast, of course. Hope you can make it!
Check out our YouTube channel and consider subscribing. The live show will not appear on the channel during the livestream, so be sure to use the link above to see the show. Shortly after the show is over it will appear on our channel.

BILL CAMPLIN w/ NATHAN KILEN Carpecast
2021-04-24 20:30 - 21:30
Very local singer-songwriter BILL CAMPLIN will be joined by percussionist NATHAN KILEN, who has performed here many times with Peter Mulvey. “I don’t play drums, I play songs.” This will be a Carpecast, livestreamed on our YouTube channel.
Find access to this show just before 8:30 pm using this link. If you subscribe to our YouTube Channel, and sign up for notifications, I think you will be notified whenever a show is scheduled.
Donations will be accepted at www.paypal.me/cafecarpe.

LIVE STREAMING- Michael Hecht w/ Bill Camplin
2021-05-20 19:00 - 20:00
A live streaming Carpecast on the Cafe Carpe YouTube channel with literary artist MICHAEL HECHT reading excerpts from writings and speeches , and musical interludes by BILL CAMPLIN. Streaming link: https://youtu.be/W3S3k37agfw. Donation link www.paypal.me/cafecarpe will also be posted during the show.
Subscribing to our YouTube channel allows you to set Notifications to alert you to any upcoming live stream event. Past events can be accessed with that link, but for live events you will need the streaming link mentioned above.
From the mouth of Bill:
“This Thursday, May 20th I will be sharing an evening of excerpts form the writing of poets, playwrights, authors and historical figures with Michael Hecht. These will include Helen Keller, Arthur Miller, Eric Maria Ramarque, Lucy Atkins, Yusef Kamuryakaa, Jimmy Santiago Baca, Dalton Trumbo, Martin Luther King Richard Harrison, Paul Laurence Dunbar and Langston Hughes.
This will be at least the 7th time we have worked together with me supplying songs spaced between the writing he has organized and reads from. I have never had a better collaboration in which to place songs, which in this case are all my own writings. It is not to presume that I am equating my own lyrics with any of these writers, but allows me to visit the type of writing that has inspired and informed me through out my 74 years ( minus the first 7 or so). Most of Mr. Hecht’s choices were specifically unknown to me so I am in the audience too. As I listen I find a comfortability in performing that I have seldom had. It feels so right.
It runs about 75 minutes and will transmit on the Cafe Carpe YouTube channel. Also will be available on YouTube for some time after. It is such a pleasure to sing in the context of the written word.

THIRD COAST BLUEGRASS- sold out
2021-06-16 19:00 - 21:00
This is our first show in more than a year!!!!! We are excited to have this group, with whom we have many long-term connections.
Show may sell out, so BUY TICKETS BELOW early. Seats will be assigned.
We are assuming full vaccination by most attendees. Wear a mask or not, and don’t attend if you feel uncomfortable in a crowded setting. We will try to keep the whole space really well ventilated.
We will also be livestreaming the show, and accepting donations that evening at www.paypal.me/cafecarpe. This donation information will also be on the screen. Here is the link for the live streaming.

THIRD COAST BLUEGRASS (TCB) is a band of longtime friends and musical cohorts with deep roots in the Upper Great Lakes bluegrass scene going back to the 70’s. The lineup speaks (and picks and sings) for itself, in alphabetical order:
Marc Edelstein – Bass & Vocals
Ken Finkel – Banjo & Vocals
Peter Knupfer – Fiddle (& you don’t want the vocals!!)
Don Stiernberg – Mandolin & Vocals
Jerry Wicentowski – Lead Vocals & Guitar

TCB’s repertoire spans bluegrass classics, hidden gems, originals, and adaptations from amazing songwriters. The band highlights Jerry’s “true to the tradition” vocals, seamless trios and masterful instrumentals. With world class soloists Don and Peter stepping out front on the instrumentals with rock solid banjo from Ken, it’s as powerful as it is tasteful. Marc’s bass and Jerry’s rhythm guitar lay down the essential rhythmic foundation. As Don says, “Back to the roots of the hard grass with admired colleagues who are also great friends. What could be better?”

Upon arrival, mention the name under which the tickets were purchased to be shown your seats. Please come at least 15 minutes before showtime, and an hour or more before if you plan to eat. Menu will be limited to fewer items to facilitate getting people served before this early show starts.
We will also be livestreaming the show, and accepting donations that evening at www.paypal.me/cafecarpe. This information will also be on the screen.

DAVID HUCKFELT w/ Michael Rossetto
2021-06-26 20:30 - 22:30
We welcome the return of DAVID HUCKFELT (of the Pines) with guitarist Michael Rossetto, celebrating the February release of Room Enough, Time Enough, his second solo album.
“The lyrical poetry of the album also carries the sound higher through its overarching theme of perseverance and preservation.”
–AMERICAN SONGWRITER
“…illustrated the power of song to speak love to power, to create an atmosphere in which we ponder what it means to be human, and to evoke the power of memory to liberate and to provide hope.”–FOLK ALLEY
“…likewise celebrates both the joy and the sociopolitical power of art, embracing a belief, as he put it, “that music should expand the space of the room where you sit, but at the same time, be so powerful that it nails you to the wall”. – NO DEPRESSION
“….tells us we can transcend our country’s troubled past if we come together with honesty and a healthy respect for each other, and in the process gives us a glorious American masterpiece for our times.” –AMERICANA HIGHWAYS
Tickets will be $20 day of the show, so buy in advance.

Link for live streaming: https://youtu.be/rVoQtiFgzGY Donation link www.paypal.me/cafecarpe

LONESOME BILL CAMPLIN
2021-07-03 20:30 - 22:00
Surprise vocal and guitar fireworks display by actor/model citizen BILL CAMPLIN.
We always like it if you call 920-563-9391 to state your intention to attend.

PETER MULVEY- sold out
2021-07-09 20:30 - 22:30
Welcome back to the home turf, Peter- it’s been a covid while.
We are live streaming this show on our Carpecast YouTube Channel. Here is the link to access the show– donations may be made to www.paypal.me/cafecarpe

PETER MULVEY has been a songwriter, road-dog, raconteur and almost-poet since before he can remember. Raised working-class Catholic on the Northwest side of Milwaukee, he took a semester in Ireland, and immediately began cutting classes to busk on Grafton Street in Dublin and hitchhike through the country, finding whatever gigs he could. Back stateside, he spent a couple years gigging in the Midwest before lighting out for Boston, where he returned to busking (this time in the subway) and coffeehouses. Small shows led to larger shows, which eventually led to regional and then national and international touring. The wheels have not stopped since.
Nineteen records, an illustrated book, thousands of live performances, a TEDx talk, a decades-long association with the National Youth Science Camp, opening for luminaries such as Ani DiFranco, Emmylou Harris, and Chuck Prophet, appearances on NPR, an annual autumn tour by bicycle, emceeing festivals, hosting his own boutique festival (the Lamplighter Sessions, in Boston and Wisconsin)… Mulvey never stops. He has built his life’s work on collaboration and an instinct for the eclectic and the vital. He folds everything he encounters into his work: poetry, social justice, scientific literacy, & a deeply abiding humanism are all on plain display in his art.
In late January 2019, Mulvey and his band, SistaStrings (Chauntee & Monique Ross) with Nathan Kilen on drums, decamped to their home turf, the Cafe Carpe, in Fort Atkinson, WI where they spent just five days making two records in the tiny back room. The live record, “Peter Mulvey with SistaStrings Live at the Cafe Carpe” is out now on Righteous Babe Records. It’s a celebration of a world that is temporarily on hold: a small folk club, packed with listeners, and a band shoulder-to-shoulder, playing and singing with intimacy and abandon.
The other shoe, “Shenandoah” a studio album about love and family in the midst of a dying empire, will drop in early 2021, provided there is still a republic within which to drop it.

PETER MULVEY and ???mystery guest act- Sold Out
2021-07-11 19:00 - 21:00
Groundhog Day. Turns out that more people wanted to attend Friday’s show than we had seats, so Peter decided to add another show, and then a secret special guest act applied for a co-bill job and got it.
If you plan on eating, come at least an hour before showtime. We will be opening at 5:00 to begin serving food. Food menu will be limited to allow us to get everyone fed expediently. Always come 15 minutes before any show to allow time to grab a drink and be shown to your seat.
We are live streaming this show on our Carpecast YouTube Channel. Here is the link to access the show– donations may be made to www.paypal.me/cafecarpe.

JOE JENCKS
2021-07-17 20:30 - 22:30
Please call 920-563-9391 to reserve seats.
JOE JENCKS is a 22-year veteran of the international folk circuit, an award-winning songwriter, and celebrated vocalist based in Chicago. Merging conservatory training with his Irish roots and working-class upbringing, Joe delivers engaged musical narratives filled with heart, soul, groove and grit. Having penned several #1 Folksongs including the ever-relevant Lady of The Harbor, Jencks is also co-founder of the harmony trio, Brother Sun. From Festivals like Falcon Ridge, Kerrville, Mariposa, and Old Songs, to venues like Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall, Jencks has enthralled diverse audiences with his approachable style. Joe is noted for his unique merging of musical beauty, social consciousness, and spiritual exploration. Blending well-crafted instrumentals and vivid songwriting, Jencks serves it all up with a lyric baritone voice that has the edgy richness of a good sea-salt caramel.
“Beyond the fine selection of songs and the talented team assembled in the studio, what really shines through on Joe Jencks’ new album are his resonant, honey-rich voice, his open-hearted humanity, and his commitment to social justice. We need artists who inspire our better selves more than ever, don’t we?”
– John Platt , Sunday Supper, WFUV, Bronx, NY
“Poets, Philosophers, Workers & Wanderers -is absolutely Joe Jencks’ finest effort thus far. Jencks’ captivating tenor voice, lofted by flawless production, demonstrates music of conscience and provides a feast for the ear as well as nourishment for the soul.”
– Rich Warren, The Midnight Special – WFMT, Chicago, IL
“Joe Jencks brings us moving and stunning songs of hope, redemption, connection and remembrance. Sung with passion and delivered in his rich tenor voice, the songs on Poets, Philosophers, Workers & Wanderers are a balm for the times.”
– Laurie DesJardins – KVMR, Nevada City, CA
“Climb inside the songs of Joe Jencks, and you meet real people. His lilting melodies and warm, caramel tenor draw us closer to the stories he tells. Jencks finds the humanness that binds us to the people in his songs!”
– Scott Alarik – Author of Revival and host of Folk Tales, WUMB, Boston, MA
“You can expect many a gifted artist to move you deeply, but Joe Jencks will change who you are.” – Angela Page – WJFF, Radio Catskill, Jefferson, NY

THE BOSTON IMPOSTERS
2021-07-23 20:30 - 22:30
THE BOSTON IMPOSTERS are a husband-wife singer-songwriter duo based in Southeast Wisconsin. Davey Harrison and Maire (pronounced like Mary) Clement began collaborating many years prior, but their duo was officially founded during their time living as Midwestern Imposters in Boston. The duo blend beautiful harmonies, accompanied by acoustic guitar, mandolin, and banjo to craft heartfelt original songs. Inspired by traditional, classic and contemporary folk music, The Boston Imposters write about their lives and experiences, inspired by the people who have been a part of their journey.

LONESOME BILL
2021-07-24 20:30 - 22:00
BILL CAMPLIN will be reminiscing with Bob Dylan.
Lest any of you take this literally- no, Bob will not be in attendance.

SONG CIRCLE w/ TRICIA ALEXANDER
2021-07-29 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 regularly on the last Thursday of each month.

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.

JOHN SIEGER with special guest ROBIN PLUER
2021-07-31 20:30 - 22:30
Please call 920-563-9391 to reserve seats. See Home page regarding COVID at the Carpe. It is not our weekly special, and though it has been de rigeur, we do not want to serve it.
Songwriter, singer and guitarist JOHN SIEGER has a long resume. His band the R&B Cadets ruled the dance floors in Milwaukee in the 1980s, playing a mix of his originals and obscure soul tunes unearthed by bandmates Paul Cebar and Robin Pluer. Their debut, “Top Happy,” for Twin/Tone Records, turned out to be their finale. In the late 80’s his band Semi-Twang recorded for Warner Brothers Records. Both bands have regrouped in recent years and since then, Semi-Twang has released three more collections of his songs, most recently and ode to his hometown, “Kenosha.”
Other Sieger songs have been covered by a long list of great artists including Dwight Yoakam (Don’t Need It Done), Jerry Harrison of Talking Heads (Rev It Up), The Bodeans (The Strangest Kind), Flaco Jimenez (I Found Out), Robbie Fulks (You Break It – You Pay), Phil Lee (I Hope Love Always Knows Your Name, Neon Tombstone) and Greg Trooper (My Bluebell, Real Like That and others). Recorded but still waiting to be released, is a version of “Salty Tears,” sung by Etta James.
Asked to describe his newest release, an 11-song collection called Modern Folk, Vol. II, Sieger says, “These songs draw a bead on the cracks between folk, blues, country and pop. It’s dedicated to artists I admire, ones who avoid calling themselves poets, but always strive for something poetic in their writing.”
“Sieger on Songs,” his column at UrbanMilwaukee.com, is John’s ongoing love letter to the music he digs. A live show at the Jazz Gallery Center for the Arts (on hiatus for now) brings John and fellow artists together to talk about their songs and those that have influenced them in a new series called “Sieger on Songs: Conversations.”
For the second set he will be joined by special guest, ROBIN PLUER, a sultry diva with pizzazz and jazzy style- a multi-faceted songstress who elegantly but playfully delivers a mélange of vintage French ballads with a distinctive twist, as well as some R & B gems and non-French ballads.

BEN MERENS
2021-08-06 20:00 - 22:00
Please call 920-563-9391 to reserve seats.
BEN MERENS is a singer, troubadour, and storyteller.
He likes to combine all three roles, take audience suggestions, and write songs “on the spot.”
Ben also plays originals and well-known covers in never-heard-before ways.
Many know Ben from his 21 years on Wisconsin Public Radio. He currently broadcasts weekly on Riverwest Community Radio in Milwaukee.
He also works as a case manager for the Milwaukee Health Department.
Ben is the author of two books — “People Are Dying To Be Heard,” and “Uni-Tasking: 25 Tips For Better Listening.”

JIM CRAIG! / MARK DVORAK / BILL CAMPLIN
2021-08-07 20:00 - 22:00
ATTENTION: The summer fling of the Delta variant has us once again rethinking how to do safely do our business. The small space of the listening room prevents any reasonable distancing. For the safety of everyone, and to protect the performers who cannot mask while performing, we will be requiring mask wearing in the backroom, and recommending it in all of our spaces when not eating or drinking.
A lovely in-the-round song swap that was originally scheduled for last year.
For those of you who cannot be here in person, you may watch on our YouTube channel using this link. Donations accepted at www.paypal.me/cafecarpe
It has been a long time since we have had JIM CRAIG! as a solo act, and to have him with the wonderful MARK DVORAK and BILL CAMPLIN should make for a fantastic evening of music and camaraderie.

JIM came of age during the folk boom, “listening to Pete Seeger and Dave Van Ronk, but also more obscure musicians like Dock Boggs and Pink Anderson, folks who were off the map but were rediscovered in the early ’60s.” He was a regular at the Green Dragon Inn, where we came to know and love him for his understated warm grace. Jim has guitar chops and a beautiful baritone voice, and an interesting repertoire of songs.
He taught guitar at the Old Town School of Folk Music, jammed with figures in the Chicago folk scene such as Eddie Holstein and Steve Goodman. He is the owner of Hogeye Music in Evanston. He is a gentleman.

MARK DVORAK is a modern day troubadour who has never stopped performing, writing and recording. He has been called “a folk singer’s folk singer” with “an encyclopedic knowledge of traditional songs.” His original songs are described as “wondrous” and “profound.” Though Mark often appears in theaters and on festival stages, he is also at home in a more intimate setting. His concerts are a mix of the familiar and the new, traditional folk and standards from the American songbook. He plays authentic country blues guitar and picks great old-time banjo.
Mark enjoys involving his audiences in sing-along songs, just like The Weavers used to do, and mixes in his own well-crafted and infectious originals. Mark has a refreshing, down-to-earth stage presence, and is a very engaging performer. He sings with a clear, signature voice, and he likes to joke around with the folks who attend his shows. Throughout the program he’ll interject personal anecdotes and add a touch of history or social context to the performance.
“Masterful” Chicago Tribune
“The real deal. His show is funny, passionate, intimate & unforgettable” Old Town School of Folk Music
“One of a vanishing breed. Although all of us benefit from the tradition, Dvorak is one of the few who keep it alive.” Utah Phillips
And then there’s BILL CAMPLIN, who can sing and play guitar too. Amazing
Did I mention this will be a really fun in-the-round?

JEFFREY FOUCAULT-advance tickets
2021-08-12 20:00 - 22:00
JEFFREY FOUCAULT is gracing us with a hometown visit, carrying stories from his trip with fellow-Jeff Bezos.
Buy tickets right here. Likely to sell quickly-
NOTA BENE- After discussion with Jeff, the following decision was made: The room will be crowded, and the Delta variant seems to be working overtime,, so we are requiring proof of vaccination to enter, and masking during the show.

Assuming y’all know of him, but for the uninitiated, here are some takes on his art:
THE NEW YORKER:
“Jeffrey Foucault sings stark, literate songs that are as wide open as the landscape of his native Midwest”
MOJO:
“Songwriting brilliance”
THE IRISH TIMES:
“Quietly brilliant”
UNCUT:
“The music of Wisconsin native Foucault is the kind so many aspire to but never attain: beat-up troubadour folk whittled to dolorous perfection”
So bright you gotta wear shades.

GEORGIA RAE/ GEORGIA RAE FAMILY BAND- canceled
2021-08-13 20:00 - 22:00

BILL STAINES
2021-08-18 20:00 - 22:00
Please call 920-563-9391 to reserve seats.
Masks are required in the confined space of our listening room, and recommended elsewhere when not eating or drinking.
Anyone not familiar with the music of BILL STAINES is in for a special treat.
Singing mostly his own songs, he has become one of the most popular and durable singers on the folk music scene today, performing nearly 200 concerts a year and driving over 65,000 miles annually. He weaves a blend of gentle wit and humor into his performances and one reviewer wrote, “He has a sense of timing to match the best standup comic.”
Bill’s music is a slice of Americana, reflecting with the same ease his feelings about the prairie people of the Midwest or the adventurers of the Yukon, the on-the-road truckers, or the everyday workers that make up this land.
Many of Bill’s songs have appeared in grade school music books, church hymnals, and scouting campfire songbooks; he is one of only a few songwriters to have eight songs published in the classic song collection, Rise up Singing. Composer David Amram recently described Bill as “a modern day Stephen Foster…his songs will be around 100 years from now.”
Over the decades, you have heard Bill singing on Garrison Keillor’s A Prairie Home Companion, HBO’s award winning series Deadwood, and Public Radio’s Mountain Stage. Additionally, his music has been used in a number of films including Off and Running, with Cyndi Lauper, and The Return of the Secaucus Seven, John Sayles’ debut as a writer- director.
In 1975, Bill won National Yodeling Championship in Kerrville Texas. Another important recognition was given to him in 2007. Presented by the Boston Area Coffeehouse Association, The Jerry Christen Award recognized Bill’s contribution to New England folk music.
Currently, Bill has recorded 26 albums; The Happy Wanderer and One More River were winners of the prestigious Parents’ Choice Award, taking a gold medal and silver medal respectively. His songs have been recorded by many artists including Peter, Paul, and Mary, Tommy Makem and Liam Clancy, The Highwaymen, Mason Williams, Grandpa Jones, Jerry Jeff Walker, Nanci Griffith, Glen Yarborough and others.
“Folk music is rich in the human spirit and experience. I’ve always wanted to bring something of value to people through my songs.” With these thoughts, Bill continues to drive the highways and back roads of the country year after year, bringing his music to listeners, young and old.
“Bill Staines has been my hero since 1977. He carries on where Woody left off-carrying on the tradition of stories and characters you wish you knew.” – Nanci Griffith
“Staines is one of the best songwriters in folk music today, penning lyrics that evoke a sense of place and a generous spirit to go along with his pretty melodies. – Associated Press
“There is no better writer of instantly memorable singalong choruses in this genre of music!” – The Boston Globe
“His gentle lilting voice, spacious melodies and common-chord lyrics give his songs a homespun grace that often belies his mastery of the folk form. He is such a pure pleasure too, people forget to notice how damn good at the job of singer-songwritering he really is.” – New England Folk Almanac
“Folk singer Bill Staines’ compositions recall the paintings of Grandma Moses – simple, literal and evocative of a bucolic tranquility that modern times have almost erased.” – Hartford Courant

PIPER ROAD
2021-08-20 20:30 - 23:00
ATTENTION– Be sure to stay tuned for updates. The Delta variant is having a summer fling which may last past the summer, and we will be adapting. Since the backroom space is so small, and will be really crowded on this night, the band has requested for their safety that all attendees bring proof of vaccination, and that masks be worn during the performance, and as much as possible elsewhere except while eating or drinking or in open air. This variant carries a ridiculous viral load, and the more we can reduce its spread, the better.
PIPER ROAD was born into the age of rock & roll with individual backgrounds diverse as classical, cowboy, folk, blues and Dixieland. Influenced by some live performances of Doc Watson and Bill Monroe and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band release of “Will The Circle Be Unbroken” in the early 1970’s, they put away the electric amps and guitars and developed a unique acoustic/bluegrass style. They never completely abandoned their musical roots and have blended Irish fiddle tunes with American country, big band, novelty and space-aged Grateful Dead inspired jams.
The band continues to swing! With their strong bond of friendship, commitment to quality musicianship and continuing support of a strong fan base, Piper Road invites you to join them as their show hits the road. The current Piper Road roster has accumulated over 100 years of experience performing together.

Purchase tickets below or at the Carpe in advance of the show.

Rhythm on the River Remix- JOHN GAY
2021-08-21 12:30 - 14:30
This will take place in our parking lot. It is part of the Fort Chamber of Commerce Rhythm on the River Remix:
Join us Saturday, August 21st from 10:00am to 6:00pm along the Rock River in Fort Atkinson for a “remix” of Rhythm on the River. This family-friendly, free event will feature five downtown 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!
Rhythm on the River has been a late August staple of the community for over 15 years, and this year’s Rhythm Remix is a way to keep the tradition alive. With a focus on family friendly entertainment and supporting our downtown businesses, Rhythm Remix is a day long festival that is meant to encourage community members and visitors to explore the best that Fort Atkinson has to offer.
Singer-songwriter JOHN GAY brings a gritty, contemplative sound to his Americana-Country-Christian style. In 2017, John started performing his solo acoustic set at various venues around southeastern Wisconsin, playing original music along with covers of his favorite artists such as Jason Isbell, The Lumineers, Chris Stapleton and Zach Williams.
Be sure to catch the lineup of amazingly talented local and regional artists at the following venues:
Riverwalk Plaza (behind Brock’s Riverwalk Tavern & Grill at 99 S. Main Street)
Cafe Carpe (18 S. Water St. W.)
Jones Market (601 Jones Ave)
Barrie Park Bandshell (210 Robert St)
Tavern on Rock (29 Sherman Ave W.)

Rhythm on the River Remix- THE DRIFTLESS
2021-08-21 15:00 - 17:00
This will take place in our parking lot. It is part of the Fort Chamber of Commerce Rhythm on the River Remix:
Join us Saturday, August 21st from 10:00am to 6:00pm along the Rock River in Fort Atkinson for a “remix” of Rhythm on the River. This family-friendly, free event will feature five downtown 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!
Rhythm on the River has been a late August staple of the community for over 15 years, and this year’s Rhythm Remix is a way to keep the tradition alive. With a focus on family friendly entertainment and supporting our downtown businesses, Rhythm Remix is a day long festival that is meant to encourage community members and visitors to explore the best that Fort Atkinson has to offer.
THE DRIFTLESS is a Cambridge-based band specializing in classic country, bluegrass, rock, and folk by bringing reimagined music with soul to all listeners. The five-person band is made up of Dave Kratovil, Will Peters, Mark Hansen, Joe Lundsten, Matt “Huck” Gent, Jake Kemler and Jim Fitzgerald. Amazing vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, banjo, 12-string guitar, mandolin, percussion and bass guitar all make an appearance during performances.
Be sure to catch the lineup of amazingly talented local and regional artists at all the following venues:
Riverwalk Plaza (behind Brock’s Riverwalk Tavern & Grill at 99 S. Main Street)
Cafe Carpe (18 S. Water St. W.)
Jones Market (601 Jones Ave)
Barrie Park Bandshell (210 Robert St)
Tavern on Rock (29 Sherman Ave W.)

BILL CAMPLIN BAND
2021-08-21 20:30 - 22:30
ATTENTION: The summer fling of the Delta variant has us once again rethinking how to do safely do our business. The CDC recommends that vaccinated Americans return to wearing masks in indoor spaces in communities where coronavirus transmission is substantial or high, and Jefferson county, Wisconsin, is currently in the substantial category https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#county-view, so we’ll do our part.
The small space of the listening room prevents any reasonable distancing. For the safety of everyone, and to protect the performers who cannot mask while performing, we will be requiring mask wearing in the backroom, and recommending it in all of our spaces when not eating or drinking.
Keep checking for updates, as circumstances could require further measures, or even cancellation. We are cautiously optimistic that the show will go on.

Please call 920-563-9391 to reserve seats.

KAREN JOHNSON
2021-08-27 20:00 - 22:00
ATTENTION: The summer fling of the Delta variant has us once again rethinking how to do safely do our business. The CDC recommends that vaccinated Americans return to wearing masks in indoor spaces in communities where coronavirus transmission is substantial or high, and Jefferson county, Wisconsin, is currently in the substantial category https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#county-view, so we’ll do our part.
The small space of the listening room prevents any reasonable distancing. For the safety of everyone, and to protect the performers who cannot mask while performing, we will be requiring mask wearing in the backroom, and recommending it in all of our spaces when not eating or drinking. Keep checking for updates, as circumstances could require further measures, or even cancellation. We are cautiously optimistic that the show will go on.
Please call 920-563-9391 to reserve seats.
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

ERIK KOSKINEN/ Will Overman-buy tickets here
2021-09-09 20:00 - 22:15
ATTENTION: The summer fling of the Delta variant has us once again rethinking how to do safely do our business. The CDC recommends that vaccinated Americans return to wearing masks in indoor spaces in communities where coronavirus transmission is substantial or high, and Jefferson county, Wisconsin, is currently in the substantial category https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#county-view, so we’ll do our part.

The small space of the listening room prevents any reasonable distancing. For the safety of everyone, and to protect the performers who cannot mask while performing, we will be requiring:

mask wearing in the listening room, and recommending it in all of our spaces when not eating or drinking
proof of vaccination

Keep checking for updates.
The show will also be live streamed on our Carpecast YouTube channel, accessible through this link: https://youtu.be/DBnOpfD1-10
If you watch , please make a donation to help support the artists and the Carpe in this endeavor.
Musically driven from blending American folk, country, rock-n-roll, and blues, ERIK KOSKINEN realizes a sound that is distinctive and fresh while familiar and rooted. Koskinen’s music is a lyrical and musical metaphor of American’s theater of love and war, of history and pain, and of the reflections in the mirror. Knowing but not didactic, Koskinen channels the ways of Whitman and reverently enters the anthology of uniquely crafted wry songs with the likes of Woody Guthrie, Ry Cooder and Randy Newman while speaking as plainly as your neighbor.
The Minneapolis Star Tribune calls Koskinen “the real deal” and “the best country songwriter in Minnesota.” ​
WILL OVERMAN– will do an opening set.
The Charlottesville, VA based singer-songwriter’s music carries a maturity to match the up-and-down life he has lived over the past 26 years. From fronting a touring band while attending college, through-hiking the Appalachian Trail and traveling around the world for several months, to witnessing his parents’ divorce, standing by his wife as she fought and beat cancer twice, and going through tough financial situations while trying to make it as a creator; Will’s songs evoke the wisdom of an old soul with youthful optimism. Listeners can easily recognize a blending of genres such as Folk, Pop, Country and Rock n’ Roll among Will’s music, bearing to mind the approach that legends Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, or James Taylor took in their prime, and how today’s singer-songwriter heroes such as: John Mayer, Jason Isbell, and Josh Ritter, have expanded on it.

TODD ALBRIGHT
2021-09-10 20:00 - 22:00
ATTENTION: The summer fling of the Delta variant has us once again rethinking how to do safely do our business. The CDC recommends that vaccinated Americans return to wearing masks in indoor spaces in communities where coronavirus transmission is substantial or high, and Jefferson county, Wisconsin, is currently in the substantial category https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#county-view, so we’ll do our part.

The small space of the listening room prevents any reasonable distancing. For the safety of everyone, and to protect the performers who cannot mask while performing, we will be requiring mask wearing in the backroom, and recommending it in all of our spaces when not eating or drinking. Keep checking for updates, as circumstances could require further measures, or even cancellation.

Please call 920-563-9391 to reserve seats.

TODD ALBRIGHT is a country blues, twelve string guitar player and vocalist based in Detroit, Michigan. Grounded in the pre-war era of the blues tradition (1880-1939), Todd is a mindful purveyor of blues history. His repertoire upholds musical pillars such as Blind Willie McTell, George Carter, Blind Lemon Jefferson and Leadbelly. His life’s work continues the distinguished tradition of the very roots of American music as told by the African American musicians who created it. Todd joined Jack White’s Third Man records in 2016.

Todd’s vigorous, gritty and soulful performances are accompanied by stories of the masters and a deep intuitive sense of respect for craft, providing audiences with a meaningful experience while creating a transcendent moment. One of the top blues guitarists in the world, Todd is the only contemporary twelve string player in his genre.
Todd began playing the blues while still a teenager, some twenty-five years ago. Initially, he was drawn to the sound of the finger-picked style and has since immersed himself in the foundational music and narratives of American culture. Over the years, Todd has shared the stage with artists such as Roy Book Binder, Charlie Parr, Paul Geremia, and Dakota Dave Hull.
Todd’s first full-length LP, Fourth Floor Visitor, was released by Jett Plastic Recordings out of Detroit, Michigan (2017). His latest album, Detroit Twelve String: Blues & Rags, is out now on Third Man Records (2017).

“The character and emotional vibe of the performance are delicious…” Acoustic Guitar Magazine

“…an explosion of acoustic wonder. Albright plays with heart, daring, and conviction.” American Blues Scene
