TIM GRIMM
2024-11-02 20:00 - 22:00 (America/Chicago)
TIM GRIMM is a bit of a Renaissance man in the performing arts world, forging a rich and varied career that blends his love of songwriting, travel, and acting in theatre, film and television. For most of his 25-year career as a storytelling balladeer in the tradition of John Prine, Woody Guthrie, and Bob Dylan, Tim has written primarily about community, history, family, and social issues – often framed by his strong sense of place and the many years he spent on the family farm he built in rural Indiana. His songs are filled with rural characters and landscapes, written and sung with vivid warmth and intimacy.

BUDDY MONDLOCK
2024-11-08 20:15 - 22:15
BUDDY MONDLOCK writes songs. He does it so well that some great songwriters have recorded his songs on their own albums- Guy Clark, Nanci Griffith, and Janis Ian, to name just a few. You might’ve heard his song “The Kid” (recorded by David Wilcox, Peter, Paul and Mary and Cry, Cry, Cry) and maybe even sung it yourself around a campfire. He draws you into his world – where a single snowflake follows the trajectory of a relationship, where you get you pocket picked by a Roman cat, where you might swim over the edge of the world if you’re not careful and where dreams that don’t come true still count.
Mike Lindauer will accompany Buddy on fretless bass.
More bio follows ticket link-

“I first saw Buddy Mondlock while hosting the Ballad Tree, a tradition at theKerrville Folk Festival. This kid in a bathing suit walked up and played “No Choice” to an audience of 30 – 40 people. By the time he got to the secondverse, he had 200 people singing along with him. He blew me away! Payattention to Buddy; he’s a great writer!”
Guy Clark
“As acclaimed as he is as a songwriter, he is a fine performer who can create his share of magic with his high clear voice and inventive acoustic guitar.” David Johnson – Boston Globe
“One of my favorites, Mondlock is brilliant in his word choice, poignant in his observations and powerful in his presentation.” Kathleen Hudson – Kerrville Daily Times
His latest album, Filament, finds him exploring some new territory, both sonically and rhythmically. Produced by Brad Jones, known for his creative approaches to singer/ songwriters, songs like “Problem Solved” and “Sunlight In My Pocket” are propelled along by drums and percussion. Others are painted with woodwinds and string arrangements. Buddy is at heart a storyteller and the songs cover a lot of territory too, ranging from a young artist who finds fame too soon in the title song, to the wonders and mysteries found in “The Dark,” a song he co-wrote with the great Guy Clark.
When Buddy’s not on the road you can find him in Nashville but he grew up in Park Forest, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago. He didn’t have a troubled childhood. His parents were nice to him. They paid for guitar lessons when he was ten and they never said, “when are you going to get a real job?” He sang Crosby, Stills and Nash songs with his sisters and answered his little brother’s questions from the top bunk. A few years away at college puzzling over Homer and Plato and then he was back. Living in the big city this time and playing open mics at Chicago’s crucible for songwriters in those days, the famed Earl of Old town. He once opened for the amazing Steve Goodman there on New Year’s Eve. Buddy was 21. Says he could have walked out of there that night and gotten hit by a bus and he wouldn’t have felt like life cheated him at all.
When Buddy made his first trip to Texas from his native Chicago, Guy Clark heard him singing one of his songs under a tree at the Kerrville Folk Festival and liked it. So Guy went back to Nashville, opened the door and said, “listen to this kid, he’s good!” A publishing deal and a U-Haul headed south soon followed.
People were starting to pay attention. In 1987 he was a New Folk Award Winner at Kerrville and he released his first album called “On the Line”. Over the next few years
David Wilcox recorded “The Kid” on his first record for A&M. Buddy did some writing with this other new kid in town named Garth Brooks. Janis Ian heard him singing at the Bluebird Cafe and asked him if he’d like to write with her. Their song “Amsterdam” got recorded by Joan Baez. Nanci Griffith asked Buddy to sing on a show she was taping for Irish television. She ended up liking that song so much that she recorded “Comin’ Down In the Rain” on her Grammy Award winning collection “Other Voices, OtherRooms.” Garth became a star and “Every Now and Then” ended up on his album “The Chase.”
Buddy was touring all over the U.S. by this time playing coffeehouses and the occasional festival (he’d become a regular on the main stage at Kerrville). And there were trips to Europe too. Buddy’s second album, produced by Steve Addabbo in 1994, got picked up by Son Records, a small label in Ireland started by the band U2, and he was well received on the island of poets. He’s toured there consistently ever since. 1996 was a good year. Peter, Paul and Mary recorded “The Kid” and then asked the kid himself to sing with them on their “Great Performances” TV special. He won a Kerrville Music Award for Song of the Year that autumn for “The Kid” too.
Since then he’s released a string of critically acclaimed solo recordings on his own label and on EMI. And in 2003 Buddy toured North America and Europe with Art Garfunkel and Maia Sharp in support of their album “Everything Waits To Be Noticed” which they wrote and recorded together as a trio. “Filament” will be his seventh album.
In recent years Buddy has been writing songs with military veterans through a program sponsored by an organization called Music Therapy of the Rockies and he includes several of those songs in his shows (and one on his new album). “This has been such a powerful experience and I’m honored to have been trusted with these stories of trauma and of triumph too,” he says.
Buddy and Maia Sharp have also been collaborating on a new musical called, “The Girl In the Red Dress.” It includes several songs from their project with Art Garfunkel and a slew of new material from Buddy and Maia. Set in a world where “The Leader” has banished all color as subversive, the story focuses on a young woman who must learn to believe in herself and comes to find that she can actually make a difference.
In addition to writing and touring Buddy also teaches songwriting. Along with one day workshops across the US and Europe he has also been a staff instructor at the Swannanoa Gathering, the Kerrville Folk Festival Song School, the Sisters Folk Festival Song Camp and retreats like Ellis Paul’s New England Songwriter Retreat and Cedarsongs in Tennessee.

KAREN JOHNSON
2024-11-09 20:00
Please call 920-563-9391 to reserve seats and to let us know if you will be dining here that night.
KAREN JOHNSON grew up in West Allis, WI, surrounded by music. One of her favorite memories is listening to old country tunes with her dad while riding along in his old pick-up truck. 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 loves playing in the Carpe’s listening room.
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

VON CARPE FAMILY SINGERS- Homeless Coalition Benefit
2024-11-14 19:30 - 21:30
A reprise of last year’s successful benefit- all proceeds will go to the Homeless Coalition of Fort Atkinson.

The Von Carpe Family Singers will include Karen Reinhardt and Jim Marousis, sister Lisa Reinhardt, brother Eric Reinhardt and his partner Frankie Ciccarelli, daughter Laura Christianson and grandson Camdyn James, daughter-in-law Stephanie Kilkenny, perennial crowd favorite Brian “Looper” Lucas, as well as the WAMI-nominated Krause Family Band!
Here is the link for streaming- there will be a DONATE button on the screen so you can watch and support.

Come early and have dinner at the Carpe. Eat, drink and be merry while you support a good cause. Hope to see you there! Tickets are limited so order yours early.

ANNE HILLS
2024-11-15 20:00
“ANNE HILLS is such an exquisite singer that it’s understandable that people might be swept up in the pure beauty of her voice and thereby overlook her writing. That would be a mistake. For me, Anne’s writing, in songs like ‘Follow That Road’ and many others, is as direct, melodic and deep as any work being done today. She is quite simply one of my absolute favorite songwriters.”— Tom Paxton
More bio follows ticket link:

Anne is one of the most beloved voices of the contemporary folk music scene, receiving awards and recognition for her live performances, her unique solo and collaborative recording projects, and her overall artistry and benefit work. Her song “Follow That Road” was the title cut of the Martha’s Vineyard Songwriter Retreat and has been a certified folk classic since the late 1990s. Whether she is singing her own songs, the words of six-year-old Opal Whiteley, or her song settings of the Hoosier poet James Whitcomb Riley; accompanied with her guitar, banjo, or simply a Tibetan bell, she puts her whole heart and soul into the moment. You won’t want to miss a chance to hear her songs and stories in person.
The AllMusic Guide says, “A stunning soprano tone has made Anne Hills one of contemporary music’s premiere vocalists … Her knack for writing heartfelt songs [has] brought her to the upper echelon of her craft.”

KELLY HUNT
2024-11-16 20:00
KELLY HUNT
“Standing shoulder to shoulder with contemporaries like Gillian Welch and Rhiannon Giddens…folk music harking back to the stripped-down sounds of Leadbelly, Robert Johnson and Woody Guthrie.” — JOHN VAITES [AMERICANA UK]
On the walls of any local used music shop there hangs a gallery of mysteries. Picked up and handed down across the decades, each instrument contains the imprints and stories of those who have played it before, most of which remain untold. For New Orleans-based songwriter Kelly Hunt, the most intriguing of these stories is the origin of her anonymous calfskin tenor banjo. “I really wasn’t looking for it,” she says, “but I opened up the case and found a note saying, ‘This banjo was played by a man named Ira Tamm in his dog and pony show from 1920 to 1935.’ It was unlike any banjo I’d ever heard…so warm and mellow, with an almost harp-like quality to it, very soulful”—apt words for the Memphis native’s debut album, Even The Sparrow, which was released in May 2019 and nominated for the International Folk Music Awards “2019 Album of the Year.”
The daughter of an opera singer and a saxophonist, Hunt was raised in Memphis, TN amidst a motley mélange of musical influences ranging from Rachmaninov to Joni Mitchell to Mississippi John Hurt. She grew up singing in choirs, poring over poetry books, and writing her own music as a matter of course, first on piano then 5-string banjo. After being introduced to the banjo in college while studying French and visual arts, Hunt began to develop her own improvised style of playing, combining old-time picking styles with the percussive origins of the instrument. After college, Hunt embarked on a rambling path through career pursuits in farming, French breadmaking, and visual arts, ultimately landing in Kansas City, where she would go on to write and record her debut album, Even the Sparrow.
While reminiscent of modern traditionalists such as Gillian Welch, Even The Sparrow reveals an ineffable quality that hovers beyond the constraints of genre, à la Anais Mitchell and Patty Griffin. Over the span of a dozen songs, Hunt’s penchant for storytelling and intriguing arrangement cast a spell which No Depression describes as “the musical equivalent of a book you can’t put down, one you’ll want to revisit again and again to catch every nuance and turn of phrase.”
In “Men of Blue & Grey,” what begins as a Reconstruction-era ballad about the repurposing of Civil War glass plate negatives in a greenhouse roof soon becomes a meditation on the hope that growth and life may one day be able to emerge from the ruins of suffering and haunting of violence. “Across The Great Divide” turns an otherwise traditional accounting of spurned love into a philosophical epic of the ethics of forgiveness and freedom, evoking the ideas of Søren Kierkegaard and Walt Whitman.
(ALEXSI CAMPAGNE was also scheduled to appear this day, but the whims of the Canadian government’s visa promise will keep him away. We hope to reschedule for next year.)

ROUND ROBIN w/ Tricia Alexander
2024-11-20 18:30 - 20:30
Round robin 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 Wednesday (formerly 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.

Caplan/ Whitcomb CELLO DUO
2024-11-21 19:30 - 20:30
What could be better than the cello? Two cellos! Fort’s own BENJAMIN WHITCOMB and rising star DAVID CAPLAN (who has been regularly subbing with the Chicago Symphony!) join forces to bring you an eclectic and fun variety of cello duo works, including pieces by Paganini, Beethoven, Popper, Faure, plus some Brazilian dances and a classic rock arrangement!

WATTLE & DAUB/ BEN MULWANA
2024-11-22 20:00 - 22:00
Round Robin with WATTLE & DAUB and BEN MULWANA
Fuller bios follow ticket link:

Wattle & Daub’s authentic acoustic voice is rooted in their passion for the power of the folk music tradition. From the heart of the midwest, in northern Illinois, husband and wife singer-songwriters, Tim and Susan Mocarski are dedicated to keeping folk culture alive and kicking through participation, social commentary, and entertainment.
Their debut album, Struggles and Love (2017) garnered immediate praise from folk radio hosts such as Nick Noble of the Folk Revival on WICN, FM who proclaimed it one of his “picks for top albums of 2017.” Middle of the Road (2020) contains songs ranging from just plain fun to those focused on what it means to be human in these times, our loves and our experiences.
With Trees in the Breeze (2023) the duo continues offering their take on the world around them touching on personal experiences and encounters in their lives. Their simple vocals and sparse instrumentation reflect what they bring to a live performance and encourage participation.
“Wattle & Daub… comes armed with a brace of bold, inventive, sometimes highly personal originals and choice covers that are equal part spirited and gritty, poignant and tender.” — Scott Engstrom, President of the Lake County Folk Club
Tim (guitar, banjo, harmonica, vocals) met Susan (guitar, mandolin, vocals) back in 2013 listening to live local music at a bar in Kenosha, Wisconsin. A year later they started writing and performing together. Three years later, they got married – twice. The first time because they had to, the second because they wanted to, but that’s a whole other long story.
“I think that ‘Luckiest One’ is a perfect example of how things come out when you honor your own individuality. It’s really a special song that everyone in the world should get to hear.” — Corky Siegel
BEN MULWANA is a Ugandan-born and raised artist residing in Wisconsin. With songs about love, loss and everything in between, Ben’s band project “Ben Mulwana and the Village” is made of a groovy, rock and soulful sound from a group of amazing musicians.
“MR. MULWANA”
Ben released his debut album, “Mr Mulwana”, on May 1st 2024; and it is available on all streaming platforms. The album “Mr. Mulwana” is about growth, in music, mind and soul. “I built the studio I recorded in from scratch with the goal of recording all the songs in it. I thought of giving up several times, and several times I got back up and kept going. This album is the musical representation of this process, all the ups and downs, the struggle and the joy of it all.”
Review: https://www.jsonline.com/story/entertainment/music/2023/06/01/8-best-milwaukee-music-releases-for-june-2023-from-partyat4-you-win-direct-hit-and-more/70269834007/

CARMEN, KOSTIA & STAS VENGLEVSKI
2024-11-23 20:00 - 22:00
These talented musicians will play in a few different configurations this evening, as a trio, some solo, some duo- none to disappoint. Carmen has played the Carpe numerous times with Willy Porter. This time she will be sharing songs from her debut solo album, Room To Grow, with internationally renowned musicians, Kostia (piano) & Stas Venglevski (bayan accordion), whom will each also take a turn sharing their unique stories & compositions.
More bio following ticket link:

CARMEN NICKERSON’s debut solo studio album, Room To Grow, received 2024 WAMI awards for folk/country album of the year as well as song of the year for Emily. Besides fronting her own band, Carmen collaborates with nationally acclaimed singer/songwriter, Willy Porter. Porter/Nickerson released an album of co-writes titled, Bonfire to Ash, in 2016.
Carmen Nickerson’s musical journey is a testament to her deep-rooted connection with heartland values. Growing up on a farm in Iowa, she breathed in the essence of working-class sensibilities, cherished family bonds, and the profound richness of the land. These authentic roots form the very essence of Carmen’s music, effortlessly reflecting the truths and pressures of her life.
The Milwaukee Journel Sentinel says,“her shimmering voice seizes the spotlight.”
KOSTIA EFIMOV, who trained as a concert pianist in St. Petersburg, came to America to record with Narada Records. He blends a wide range of styles into his playing, including classical, jazz and pop. He performs with The Daryl Stuermer Band (of Genesis fame) as well as many other regional acts. His original compositions are treasured throughout the world and have been heard on Sex in the City, in many national commercials, soundtracks, ringtones & more. In addition, Olympic figure skaters have frequently chosen Kostia’s music for their routines.
“It’s hard to believe all the sounds are coming out of one piano!” Indianapolis Star, Indianapolis
STANISLAV, “Stas,” VENGLEVSKI, a native of the Republic of Moldova, is acclaimed as a virtuoso of the Bayan. Stas is an Accordionist, a Musician, an Arranger, an Entertainer and a Teacher. Stas’ repertoire includes his original compositions, a broad range of classical, contemporary and ethnic music. He has toured extensively as a soloist throughout the former Soviet Union, Canada, Europe, and the United States, including numerous performances with Doc Severinsen, Steve Allen and with Garrison Keillor on the Prairie Home Companion Show. The brilliant artistry and musical virtuosity of Stas afford an expanded dimension in music and an innovative musical adventure to the audience. Beyond his artistry he is a consummate entertainer capable of engaging any audience.

SISTASTRINGS
2024-11-24 18:00
The Ross sisters are back in Wisconsin for some larger shows at Stoughton Opera House (sold out) and the South Milwaukee Performing Arts Center, and asked if they could do a show here. We had to think about it for a second.
So happy we are to have them return.
Tickets are likely to sell quickly. If you already have tickets for one of the shows mentioned above, please give others a shot at seeing them.
We will open at 4:00 with a petite menu which will be shared in advance of the show via e-mail.
SISTASTRINGS

LIMITED THANKSGIVING WEEK HOURS
2024-11-27 08:00 - 2024-11-29 16:30
We will closed Wednesday the 27th and Thanksgiving Thursday the 28th, as well as Friday lunch.
Reopening at 4:30 on Friday November 29.
Our daughter will be home, and that is a good enough excuse for us.

LOST SOULS
2024-11-29 19:45
They always push to start the show earlier, but that can only happen if you get here early and allow enough time (at least an hour) for our very small kitchen to feed you. We set the time at 7:45, BUT will start the show only when all who came at a reasonable time to allow for eating have been fed. We will limit the menu in order to feed people faster.
Bio follows ticket link:

The LOST SOULS are Looper Lucas & Greg Valde (with some surprise musical guests if we’re lucky). These two have been playing together around these parts for over 25 years – under an array of monikers. You may have known them as “What’s his name & the other guy,” “Devil in the Outhouse,” or “Syd Hartha & the Monkeyminds.” Folks often ask if they are twins, but they’re not. Fun fact: same sperm, different mothers. As for music, expect some stirring and rousing americana, blues, country, and humor.
“Sure it’s juvenile and irreverent, but if you drink enough it’s not that bad.”
(anonymous satisfied customer)

JOHNSMITH
2024-11-30 20:00 - 22:00
JOHNSMITH is one of those artists so often under-recognized – he possesses a genius that cannot be denied, ignored, or overlooked. For the past forty-plus years, Johnsmith has been sharing his music all across America and abroad. He has become a favorite at festivals, clubs, and house concerts alike. In addition to being a Kerrville New Folk Winner, Johnsmith has released nine solo CDs to rave reviews, leads musical tours to Ireland, leads Idaho rafting trips, teaches songwriting, and has served as a staff songwriter in Nashville.

With his faded jeans, his twinkly blue eyes, and his infectious smile, John immediately connects with audiences. You get the sense of a man who loves his life, his family and friends, and who loves nothing more than sharing that love in song and stories all across this land.

BEATS WORKIN'
2024-12-05 19:30
Though not unique it is no less true that ‘BEATS WORKIN’ is the outgrowth of a series of jam sessions attended by 5 guys who love traditional bluegrass music, while believing that the genre is not set in stone, and that through the joy of making music, tasteful and creative contributions are waiting to be discovered (We think Bill would be proud!). As we each looked at the other 4 and concluded those guys are near-irreplaceable, the transition to a band seemed quite natural.
Band bio follows ticket link:

THE BAND:

VIKTOR BRUSUBARDIS– bass, vocals
Viktor began performing on the bass in the spring of 2021, joining members ofChicken Wire Empire, The Milbillies, and co-founding the Milwaukee bluegrass band “SugarBush”. He has shared the stage with artists Dead Horses, Chicken Wire Empire, Billy Bronsted (Billy Bronsted and the Bluegrass Buddies), Mike Mangione (Mike Mangione and the Kin), and others. Viktor enjoys exploring different genres including Jazz, Classical, Bluegrass, Folk, Americana, and Old Time Music. While Viktor is not playing the bass he performs as a classical cellist in Milwaukee’s Festival City Symphony and teaches cello in the Milwaukee YouthSymphony Orchestra’s Progressions program. During his summers he participates in festivalssuch as the Musiques et Vignes en Confluence festival in the Loire Valley of France, the Gott istgut festival in Struppen Germany, Latvian Song and Dance Festivals in Canada and the United
States, and other local festivals. Currently, Viktor regularly performs with groups Beats Workin’,
Sugar Bush, Milwaukee Hotclub, and Cream City Hotclub.

KEN FINKEL Banjo and vocals
Ken got involved in Bluegrass while at the University of Rochester (NY), Largely self-taught, he made his way to Cincinnati where he met Dede Wyland and Jim Price through mutual friends. During a gig in Chicago, they came down along with Peter Knupfer and Dan Crownover. Turned out they formed Grass, Food, and Lodging. In their five years together, they built a strong regional following and gained national recognition, appearing on the Prairie Home Companion, and many prestigious festivals around the country. Following GF&L, Ken had his own booking agency,
representing Bluegrass, Roots, Blues, and Irish musicians and doing event booking and stage management- Summerfest, Bastillle Days, etc. A long career in the software industry followed. The passion for Bluegrass was reignited when GF&L had reunions in 2013 and 2015.

PETER ROLLER- Dobro
Peter is a longtime performer and composer of fingerstyle and slide guitar music. In the ‘80s he was main accompanist for 1st generation bluesman Yank Rachell, acting as Producer and playing guitar on his Grammy-nominated Blues Mandolin Man album. In the ‘90’s Roller’s original lap slide instrumental Rancho Mirage was included on the popular compilation Masters of Acoustic Guitar, while he also performed and recorded with dance band Paul Cebar & the Milwaukeeans, gospel quartet The Masonic Wonders, and Violent Femmes bassist Brian Richie. After retiring as Professor Emeritus of Music from Alverno College, Roller returned to his early love for Bluegrass and old-time Country Dobro, writing adventuresome pieces and performing with eclectic band The Resonators along with Beats Workin.’

JOHN STINEMAN- Mandolin, vocals
Growing up in Wabash, IN , John was introduced to Bluegrass music by the many people who migrated from Appalachia for employment. Upon witnessing an exceptional flat picker in the local music store he decided he could “do that “, bought a guitar and commenced. After refining his musicianship and moving to Florida he founded The Kitchen
Table Boys, his first success in music .He eventually became a member of Big Timber Bluegrass, a long time Orlando based band that had been founded by Chubby Anthony, who had fiddled with the Stanley Brothers, and later featured frequent guest appearances by Chubby Wise, legendary fiddler with Bill Monroe in the late 1940’s. Upon moving to Asheville , NC in 2001 he co-founded One Leg Up, a five piece swing ensemble that toured the Southeast until 2019.
During the pandemic John relocated to Northern Illinois and has returned to playing Bluegrass music, concentrating on mandolin, as a member of Beats Workin.’

JERRY WICENTOWSKI– Guitar, lead vocals
As a teenager growing up in New York City, Jerry was inspired to sing Bluegrass music by the performances of first-generation artists. His high clear voice carries on the tradition of the pioneers of Bluegrass, but his singing is far from a pale imitation or carbon copy of those early greats. Jerry’s performances have uniqueness, depth of feeling, and most important, respect and reverence for the music. He revisited the material of one of his early inspirations in his most recent CD tribute to Mac Wiseman entitled, ‘Thanks, Mac!’. Mac himself praised Jerry’s work saying, “Jerry, I’m very flattered by your interpretation of my material and I think it’s a wonderful piece of work! I heartily endorse it, and I’m very pleased that you’re carrying on my legacy.” In October 2019, just prior the pandemic, Jerry featured material from his recording on the stage of the historic Station Inn in Nashville.

WHITNEY MANN/ HAYWARD WILLIAMS
2024-12-07 20:30
Bios follow ticket link. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 day of show

As a girl, WHITNEY MANN dreamed of a life in Country music. “I daydreamed all day, every day, of singing songs that I wrote in front of thousands of people,” she says. At the age of four, she began writing her own songs, and two decades later she realized her version of success by opening shows for legends like Willie Nelson, George Jones, and Loretta Lynn on big country stages and in theaters throughout the Midwest.
Whitney put down her guitar to raise a family. But songwriting is in her bones. It’s an itch that will perpetually need to be scratched. Her old songs are about love and truth and heartbreak. And to listen to her new material, you’ll realize that she’s stayed true to form – except now she’s looking for a fight.
HAYWARD WILLIAMS is a veteran singer/songwriter from Milwaukee, WI.
Growing up in Wisconsin in the 80’s and 90’s convinced Hayward Williams to search for something more out there in the world. Foregoing higher education, he joined a band and learned much about what to do and what not to do in the Midwest music scene. Playing in pubs for many years , getting thick skin and finding a notably sharp tongue, avenues opened up to Williams. Headlining European tours, major US festivals and a few trips to Australia later, Hayward has carved out an impressive niche in the folk music business.

SHITUNAUTS Thursday
2024-12-12 20:00
First show of a 4 day run.
WILLY PORTER PETER MULVEY BILL CAMPLIN KATIE DAHL
(Randy Sabien has a prior commitment but will become the 4th beetle for the Saturday and Sunday shows.)

SHITUNAUTS- Friday
2024-12-13 20:30
Second show of a 4 day run.
WILLY PORTER PETER MULVEY BILL CAMPLIN SATCHEL PAIGE
(Randy Sabien has a prior commitment but will become the 4th beetle for the Saturday and Sunday shows.)

SHITUNAUTS- Saturday
2024-12-14 20:15
Third show of a 4 day run.
WILLY PORTER PETER MULVEY BILL CAMPLIN RANDY SABIEN

SHITUNAUTS- Sunday
2024-12-15 18:00
Last night of a 4 night run. Showtime is 6:00. We will open at 4, and are serving food.
WILLY PORTER PETER MULVEY BILL CAMPLIN RANDY SABIEN

THE DONJUANS "Snow, Snow, Snow Show"
2024-12-19 20:00
By their name you might assume that The DONJUANS rely merely on their good looks. However, you will be impressed to know that the group includes two GRAMMY® Award-winning songwriters, DON HENRY and JON VEZNER. Their song, “Where’ve You Been” (recorded by Kathy Mattea) was the first song in country music history to sweep all major song of the year honors including the GRAMMY®, ACM®, CMA, and the Nashville Songwriter’s Association International (NSAI) awards.
Fuller bios follow ticket link:

“Jon Vezner writes about the details, the details of our hearts and feelings. His gift is in speaking to these ordinary things which connect us to one another. And in recognizing their simple beauty, he transforms them into something extraordinary.”  Mary-Chapin Carpenter
“The crowd was won over by [Don Henry] this guy and his guitar. Long may he write.”
​ – Dirty Linen
Grammy award-winning songwriter, Nashville based, JON VEZNER is a tunesmith of rare sensitivity and dry wit. His catalogue of recorded songs, topped by the poignant “Where’ve You Been,” reflects his straight-to-the heart sensibility and emotional awareness. Vezner weaves the particulars of his own feelings with the lives of people he has known into universal themes that deeply touch listeners’ emotions.
Vezner was honored with a Grammy for “Best Country Song” and the Nashville Songwriters Association “Song of the Year” in 1990, for “Where’ve You Been”, the true story of Vezner’s grandparents, co-written with Don Henry, and recorded by Kathy Mattea. “Where’ve You Been” was also honored as “Song of the Year” by the Country Music Association (CMA) and the Academy of Country Music (ACM).
Jon’s catalogue of songs reads like a songbook itself, interpreted and recorded by the greats in the business as varied as the songs themselves; artists such as Martina McBride, Janis Ian, John Mellencamp, Nancy Griffith, Faith Hill, Clay Walker, Diamond Rio and Native American recording artist, Bill Miller. Other co-penned songs recorded by Kathy Mattea include “A Few Good Things Remain,” “Time Passes By,” “Whole Lotta Holes,” “Slow Boat,” “Who’s Gonna Know,” “All Roads to the River,” “The Innocent Years,” “Calling My Name,” “Trust Me,” and most recently the touching ballad “Ashes in the Wind.” Singles written by Vezner include “If I Didn’t Love You” by Steve Warriner, “Has Anybody Seen Amy” by John and Audrey Wiggins, “Then What” by Clay Walker, and “You’re Gone” by Diamond Rio.
Born in Minnesota, Jon Vezner began his musical career as lead singer and bassist in high school, going on to earn a B.A. degree in music education and music theory at Minnesota Southwest State University in the mid 70′s. Vezner’s preparation as a music educator was well earned, but songwriting was and remains his main interest, the next logical step in his career led him to Nashville in the 80′s.
Graduating with a B.A degree has also led to another labor of love, producing CD projects and earning a growing list of production credits with artists such as Danny O’Keefe, Victoria Shaw, and singing legend Patti Page.
Grammy Award winner DON HENRY ‘s songs have been recorded by legends like: Ray Charles, Patti Page and Conway Twitty, By country crooners like: Gene Watson, John Conlee and B.J. Thomas, By young hit makers of today like: Blake Shelton, Lonestar and Miranda Lambert….and the list goes on.
And he’s shared the stage with performers as diverse as Joey Ramone to Keith Urban.
The wit and wisdom of Don’s songs are widely renowned whether it’s campfire favorites, the hilarious “B.F.D.” and biker lullaby “Harley”, to the wonderfully poignant tribute to Martin Luther King “Beautiful Fool”, and of course his Grammy Award winning country classic “Where’ve You Been”.

CASH BOX KINGS
2024-12-20 20:15
Alligator Recording artists the CASH BOX KINGS are bona fide blues royalty. Co-led by real-deal Chicago blues vocalist and songwriter OSCAR WILSON and songwriter, harmonica giant and singer JOE NOSEK, the band plays masterfully raw and unvarnished houserocking blues. Wilson’s huge, gritty vocals and Nosek’s powerhouse harmonica fuel their razor-sharp original songs. BILLY FLYNN will be making it a trio with his masterful guitar playing.
Mixing tough Chicago and Delta blues, jumping proto-rock ‘n’ roll, and steamrolling “bluesabilly” (their original mix of Chicago blues and Memphis rockabilly), they attack every song they play with contemporary authority and old school authenticity. With their top shelf musicianship and trademark good humor, the Cash Box Kings are a one-of-a-kind blues band. In the words of MOJO magazine, the band is “flawless.”

ERNIE HENDRICKSON
2024-12-21 20:30
Bio follows ticket link:

Hailing from Shullsburg, Wisconsin, ERNIE HENDRICKSON is a voice of American roots music, influenced by icons like Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, and Jerry Garcia. His 2007 solo record, Down the Road, which the Illinois Entertainer deemed “Groundbreaking,” pushed him onto the Midwest’s radar as an emerging singer-songwriter. His second and third records, ‘Walking with Angels’ and ‘One For the Dreamers,’ found him working with industry veterans Bo Ramsey (Lucinda Williams, Greg Brown) and Chad Cromwell (Neil Young, Mark Knopfler), respectively. Roll On,’ was released in the summer of 2019 and was recorded in Chicago by producer Brian Deck (Counting Crows, Iron, and Wine).
He has played stages from the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville to the Living Room in New York City and all points in between, and his songs have been in regular rotation at over 100 different radio stations across the country. Each performance is a unique exploration of melody and spirit, a must-see for any music lover.
Come help him celebrate the release of his new album, “Live at Cafe Carpe,” recorded here in December 2023!

CLOSED DECEMBER 25 & 26
2024-12-25 08:00 - 2024-12-27 11:30
You may not be surprised that we will be closed on December 25 & 26.

KRAUSE FAMILY BAND
2024-12-27 20:15
You are in for a treat with the great KRAUSE FAMILY BAND– father Rick Krause (guitar and vocals), daughters Katie (vocals) & Ruthie (violin and vocals), 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.

STILL NO TOMATOES/ CHRIS HAISE
2024-12-28 20:00
These two acts will share the evening, with Chris Haise starting. Ticket link follows bios.
STILL NO TOMATOES are a Hodgepop trio featuring Jeff Stehr, Mike Lizzo and Mark Walczynski. They blend diverse musical enthusiasms with inventive instrumentation. From folk rock to one drop, this eclectic ensemble connects the dots between genres, illuminating and exploring the terrain between imagination and expectation. Their new three song EP, Demo Listen Derby (2024) careens between the beautiful balladry of Warning Sign to the funky folk rock feel of the provocatively titled F@#king Old Men.
PRESS…“… that night, the band came across as triumphantly new. Perhaps it is the orchestration that allowed for this impression. When was the last time you heard a ukulele and trombone duet? When they sang together, their voices were intervallically close; the sound soft and certain. Lizzo played his baritone gently, as if loudly would have been impolite. They took water from the fountain of diverse experience and dipped into a deep pool of genres. What to call it? Currently, they describe their music as “Hodgepop”. This is accurate. Stehr takes generously from the songbook of his experience, plays around with the hodgepodge he finds and writes music that ranges from the witty to the poetic. Despite the inpatience of its name, Still No Tomatoes are ripe for the table.”— Jonathan Brodie, Cream City Grub blog –
Milwaukee based singer songwriter CHRIS HAISE leads the CHRIS HAISE BAND through a diverse repertoire of hook filled ballads and toe tappers. Mixing folk and rock, Haise’s vocals have been described as Dylan meets Springsteen meets Petty, while his lyrics have been described as “smart new songwriting” and “intense, thoughtful songcraft”. Sporting an indie rock feel with pop undertones Haise’s music will get stuck in your head for days.
PRESS…“… The Chris Haise Band’s latest album, “Busy People” (2024), released this week, is a captivating blend of soulful melodies and introspective lyrics. With a mix of folk, rock, and Americana influences, the band shines on this record, anchored by previous singles “Bric-a-brac” and “I Don’t Listen to Love Songs.” On the title track, Haise assumes the stature of a tenured songwriter, reflecting on the world and the people that simply don’t have time to slow down for him or anyone. The piano takes center stage on much of this record, with heartfelt ballads that achieve anthemic heights more often than not. “Busy People” is a record worth slowing down for.”— Alan Halas, Breaking & Entering, Milwaukee

CHRIS HANSON BAND NY EVE afternoon
2024-12-31 15:00 - 20:00
PACKAGE DEAL SOLD OUT– Some tickets for just the show may still be available. ($40) Here is the link for show only
We are again doing our annual New Year’s Eve music and dinner package with a twist- an afternoon meal followed by a 5:30 show to get everyone home early. Entree options, to be chosen when you buy tickets, are seafood jambalaya (gluten free, dairy free) or puff pastry chicken a la Carpe.
Anyone with dietary restrictions should contact us to see if we can accommodate you. (cafecarpe@sbcglobal.net)
Doors will open at 3:00, and we will begin serving at 3:30. Seats will be assigned for the show and likely for the dinner. Depending on sales, we may be contacting you with a specific meal time to accommodate feeding everyone comfortably.
The package price includes the meal, dessert and coffee, dinner tip, and the fabulous show. Your drinks will be put on a tab for you to pay at the break. Chris Hanson band info follows the ticket link.

If you’ve ever watched TV you’ve heard CHRIS HANSON‘s music. Founder of MidCoast Music’s Catalog through Warner Chappell PM Chris’s compositions have been on 20/20, The Super Bowl, Sex and the City, he Sopranos and countless other shows. Growing up in Waukesha and carrying on in the tradition of Les Paul Chris loves the guitar and has produced albums for Greg Koch, John Sieger, Pat McCurdy and has led several bands of his own -The Agents, Nine Volt Jubilee and The Chris Hanson Band.
ROBIN PLUER is a perennial WAMI Award winner a for best female vocalist. A gifted entertainer who audiences love everywhere she performs. Robin was an original member of the R&B Cadets with Paul Cebar and John Sieger and has performed with Milwaukee’s own Mrs. Fun and numerous others. Robin combines French chansons, jazz standards with contemporary songs and has been a top draw at Milwaukee’s Bastille Days for years.
GLENN ASCH has been a violinist for the Milwaukee Symphony for over 30 years but his talents go deep into all music genres. From jazz, bluegrass and rock to the deepest ethnic roots found in Indian, Irish and Eastern music. Glenn beat the devil and challenges anyone to raise a bow against him ! There are no survivors.
They don’t make them like this anymore. JOHN PARROT is the rock of the band and the very definition of rhythm guitar. Playing an 18″ arch top John is a drum set that plays chords. Having played for years with Jethro Burns, Chet Atkins and Chuck Hedges, John brings the authority of a player who has gigged with the best.
JOHN BABBITT is one of Milwaukee’s most active double bass performers having worked with Manty Ellis, Chuck Hedges and David Hazeltine. John has worked with numerous Midwest Symphonic Orchestras including Rockford, Oshkosh, Green Bay and Milwaukee’s own MSO.

CLOSED JANUARY 1 & 2
2025-01-01 08:00 - 2025-01-03 11:30
We will be closed on New Year’s Day and the day following. Reopening Friday January 3 at 11:30.

CORKY SIEGEL & ERNIE WATTS- kickin' in the new year
2025-01-03 20:30
A two-night run with these two greats: video clip at bottom of page
“Ernie Watts is one of the greatest living tenor saxophonists, at the top of his game.” Ian Patterson / All About Jazz
Two-time Grammy Award winner ERNIE WATTS is one of the most versatile and prolific saxophone players in music. CORKY SIEGEL “is a piano and harmonica virtuoso of remarkable invention and wit.” – Billboard Magazine He is a Chicago Blues Hall of Fame and Lifetime Achievement awarded artist that Downbeat Magazine calls: “A national treasure.” More bios follow ticket link:

Corky and Ernie met in India as part of Global Fusion, an international touring company comprised of music visionaries from every part of the globe. What happens when these two extraordinary friends come together in one intimate setting? Ernie says: “We’ll rearrange your chromosomes!”
This will be a special concert where Ernie and Corky will share short tidbits of their unique adventures. Ernie toured with The Rolling Stones for 3 months, was part of the Johnny Carson Tonight Show Band for 20 years, and recorded with everyone from Cannonball Adderly to Frank Zappa. Corky toured with George Carlin for 3 years, and was part of the epic blues/rock explosion that included Janis Joplin, Santana, Hendrix and others.

CORKY SIEGEL & not ERNIE WATTS- read text
2025-01-04 20:15
DAY OF SHOW UPDATE: Ernie Watts will not be performing tonight, as he does not feel well.
Corky feels fine and will put on a fine solo performance.
He has been with Ernie and exposed unknowingly to whatever he may have.
A two-night run with these two greats: more bio info and video clip follows ticket link.
“Ernie Watts is one of the greatest living tenor saxophonists, at the top of his game.” Ian Patterson / All About Jazz
Two-time Grammy Award winner ERNIE WATTS is one of the most versatile and prolific saxophone players in music. CORKY SIEGEL “is a piano and harmonica virtuoso of remarkable invention and wit.” – Billboard Magazine He is a Chicago Blues Hall of Fame and Lifetime Achievement awarded artist that Downbeat Magazine calls: “A national treasure.”

Corky and Ernie met in India as part of Global Fusion, an international touring company comprised of music visionaries from every part of the globe. What happens when these two extraordinary friends come together in one intimate setting? Ernie says: “We’ll rearrange your chromosomes!”
This will be a special concert where Ernie and Corky will share short tidbits of their unique adventures. Ernie toured with The Rolling Stones for 3 months, was part of the Johnny Carson Tonight Show Band for 20 years, and recorded with everyone from Cannonball Adderly to Frank Zappa. Corky toured with George Carlin for 3 years, and was part of the epic blues/rock explosion that included Janis Joplin, Santana, Hendrix and others.
