Pokey LaFarge
Pokey LaFarge Just a guy and his guitar, the way they use to do it back in the day. And by back in the day we’re talking like the 1920’s and 30’s. Pokey LaFarge keeps the roots of the blues alive while writing songs of today. A versatile songwriter and blues fingerpicker, Pokey can have you dancing one minute to a boogie beat, stomping your foot to a bouncy rag, or singing aloud to a sad ballad. A driving thumb and fast fingers set a groove not far off from what an old barrelhouse pianist would do. But there is also a strong sense of mountain music such as old-time and country, as well as a lot of river music influence such as ragtime, and its offspring, jug band music as well. In fact Pokey hails from the home of jug band music: Louisville, Kentucky and is excited to be in a position to carry on the tradition. His music is of course modern but very much connected to what became in essence rock n’ roll and soul and has vowed to always keep roots music alive and growing. Pokey has been touring with different projects since he was 18 years old including a stint playing mandolin with the Virginia based acoustic outfit the Hackensaw Boys. Since going solo a little over a year ago he has quickly won over crowds all over America with relentless touring and heartfelt and energetic performances along the way. He is now working on a second record which is to be released in August. He has had the honor of playing and/or touring with acts such as Old Crow Medicine Show, Hackensaw Boys, Avett Bros., Donna the Buffalo, Special Ed and the Shortbus, Mayhem String Band, Woody Pines, the Two Man Gentleman Band, and the Carolina Chocolate Drops. "His guitar sounds like a ukulele, his voice like a transgendered punk Bessie Smith, and his style suggests a hobo Pee-wee Herman. .." Riverfront Times St. Louis, Mo.