Austin City Limits Season 33 Episode 14 Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival

In Austin City Limits season 33 episode 14, viewers are taken to the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival in San Francisco, California. This festival is known for its eclectic mix of bluegrass, folk, rock, and country music, and this episode showcases some of the best performances from the 2008 festival.

First up is legendary singer-songwriter Steve Earle, who takes the stage with his band the Bluegrass Dukes. Earle is a master of blending Americana genres, and his set features a mix of heartfelt ballads and foot-stomping bluegrass tunes. He’s joined on stage by Allison Moorer for a duet of “Days Aren’t Long Enough,” a song they co-wrote for Earle’s album Washington Square Serenade.

Next, viewers are treated to the high-energy, danceable tunes of the Carolina Chocolate Drops. This trio of talented musicians plays old-time string band music with a modern sensibility, infusing it with elements of blues, jazz, and hip-hop. Their set includes lively instrumentals, soulful ballads, and even a cover of Blu Cantrell’s “Hit ‘Em Up Style (Oops!).”

The episode also features the gritty, raw sound of Tennessee-based band Old Crow Medicine Show. Their set is a rousing mix of traditional bluegrass and old-time country, highlighted by the infectious fiddle and banjo playing of Ketch Secor and Critter Fuqua. They perform crowd-pleasers like “Wagon Wheel” and “Tell It To Me,” as well as newer material like “Alabama High-Test.”

Singer-songwriter Patty Griffin brings her powerful vocals and introspective songwriting to the festival stage, performing solo with just her guitar. Griffin’s set includes songs from her acclaimed album “Children Running Through,” as well as new material like “Heavenly Day” and “Trapeze.” She also covers the classic song “Wayfaring Stranger,” showcasing her ability to infuse old standards with new life.

In addition to these main acts, the episode also features brief performances from a number of other festival artists, including the bluegrass stylings of The Del McCoury Band, the soulful sound of Mavis Staples, and the country twang of Emmylou Harris.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated not only to great music but also to a glimpse of the joyful, communal atmosphere of the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival. The crowd is diverse, with people of all ages and backgrounds coming together to celebrate their love of music. There’s a sense of camaraderie and belonging that’s palpable, and it’s clear that everyone is united by a shared passion for the rich musical traditions of the American South.

Overall, Austin City Limits season 33 episode 14 is a celebration of all that makes the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival so special. From the joyous energy of the Carolina Chocolate Drops to the heartfelt poetry of Patty Griffin, it’s a testament to the enduring power of roots music.