The Unwieldies and the Rhyolite Sound at the Las Vegas Bluegrass Festival at Centennial Hills Park

 Outdoor events are tough in Las Vegas since the winters are chilly and windy and the summers are hot and windy, so there's a small window or opportunity. But, kudos to the City of LV for putting on a fun, free event just as summer weather is starting to hit.

Our pals the Unwieldies opened up the day at the bright'n'early hour of 11:00 am to a good group of folks ready for some warm weather, sunshine and music. Today Dani (vocals/guitar) and Rob (bass/vocals) were joined by long-time dobro guru Richard and relative new-comer, banjo twanger Eric (violinist Jack is out of town). The stage and sound were top-notch here, so they sounded great as they ran through a comparatively short set with classic numbers from their several albums to at least one brand new (to my ears, anyway) tune. Terrific Americana-y/folk/bluegrass/whatever mixture with fab harmonies and excellent songwriting and playing all around. I think it's obvious that I always love these guys but it was an especially good set today, and certainly left people wanting more. Great start to the day, for sure!

It had been way too long since I had seen Vegas' premier old-school country combo, the Rhyolite Sound, so it was particularly nice to see them on this bill, and right after the Uns! They had a stripped down, more acoustic set up today with a suitcase/snare drum kit (AJ), acoustic bass (Jason), two acoustic guitars and one 'lectricfied Telecaster. Since it had been more than 2-1/2 years since I last saw them (damn, that's crazy), I'm not sure what they "normally" play these days, but it was a fun way to see them and the harmonies (lead singer Larry and the acoustic lead player - sorry, I didn't get a chance to be introduced) were augmented by Vegas' country chanteuse, Paige. The Tele player was a hot-shot lead picker, as well, adding nice touches to the sound. Hope to get to see them around town more often now that shows are opening up again!

(PS - Huge kudos to the Psyatics' Ron Hudy for saving the day by biking home for a snare stand for the 'Sound to use! And guys, update your website!)

The sun was getting to us by this time and even after a soft-serve cone, we decided to hit it and get some air-conditioned errands done, but there was lots more fine music to come, I am sure! 

Thank you to the City of Las Vegas and Brian Garth for booking these fine combos on this happening event!