concert reviews
Cats and the Fiddler, ROMP ‘08
What makes ROMP a great festival is the huge amount of talent. There are the veterans, who have been picking and singing for years, then there are the ones who are the next generation in bluegrass. This year the sun-baked crowd was treated to Cats and the Fiddler, a talented trio of 13-year-olds from Michigan. Cats and the Fiddler consist of twins Shaun & James Richardson and cousin Carmen Gibes. This was their first time playing a festival outside of their home state. Judging from the set, you wouldn’t have guessed it.
They treated the crowd to a 45-minute set during which they traded lead vocals and picked with a skill beyond their years. One of the many highlights was the popular “Dueling Banjos” where Carmen and Shaun did some outstanding picking competition, and an original tune, “Red Banjo”. Between them, these youngsters played a combined total of 9 instruments, and their on stage banter was as good as the veteran bluegrass artists. A standing ovation and encore capped it off.
I purchased their second CD and was pleased that they included the Utah Phillips’ “Orphan Train”, poignant when sung by the young folks - a more hit-ya-in-the-gut vibe. It also includes two instrumental numbers one of which was written by Shaun. They have begun work on a third recording that will include some of their own songs. I see a bright future for them. They are part of the next generation in bluegrass.
Cats and the Fiddler are
Carmen Gibes, lead and harmony vocals, rhythm/lead guitar
Discussion
15 comments for “Cats and the Fiddler, ROMP ‘08”
Post a comment
Categories
Recent Comments
- mickers on Why They Shouldn’t Let John Carter Cash Handle His Daddy’s Songs
- The 9513 on Why They Shouldn’t Let John Carter Cash Handle His Daddy’s Songs
- Sam Houston on Stuart Offers Photo History of Country Music
- Sam Houston on Dailey & Vincent Prove Duos Are Still Hot
- rascalita on A Tale Out of Luck - Willie Nelson Novel
These kids have a great future ahead of them. Their stage presence was amazing and their musicianship, simply superb. Really enjoyed them at ROMP 2008.
I have the best wishes for them also. BRC is proud to add their music.
I have had the pleasure of seeing these kids at the ARK in Ann Arbor. I bought their CD’s for my grandkids. I love their choice of music, as they seem to have picked the best of bluegrass/folk music to record. I look forward to seeing them again.
I have seen them 7 or 8 times in Michigan and I am very impressed.
I look forward to seeing them again.
I’ve seen this group perform at our church and am amazed at the music abilities God has gifted them with. They are truly remarkable and are a blessing to all to hear them.
I just found a video of them singing Orphan Train. It wasn’t from Romp but it does show them picking and singing
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9Rb2SwY7BM
Just found another video of them from Romp 2008. These are the original lyrics to “Will the Circle Be Unbroken.”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvY2MqzJJtQ
Thanks for this review. Certainly this trio is talent times more than three! And their future is filled with harmony! I had the pleasure of watching two full sets and have to say that these three young people have a tighter show and better professionalism than many adults who perform! Super!
These kids are totally blessed by God and bring blessings to everyone that attends their concerts. They are absolutely AWESOME. WOW.
I have watched these kids grow up.From avery young Shaun,first seeing his uncle Carmen (avery gifted musician in his own right)perform on video.Shaun effortlessly picked up a fiddle and played along.Carmen and Jamie followed,and we were treated to their amazing talent at holidays and family gatherings.Their talent is the direct result of an amazing family built on love,faith and the loving devotion of their parents.this is evident in their music,and although I may be bias,they are truly a beacon of light,and one tough act to follow !
So glad to know that Kentucky has been treated to a show by Cats and the Fiddler! I’ve had the pleasure of knowing them and seeing/hearing them perform for a few years now, and am constantly astonished by their musicianship, ease on stage, and good natures.
Kudos not only to Shaun, James and Carmen, but to those who have brought them to this point and continue to guide them along the way. The journey has only just begun!
We have seen them perform several times. They get better every time we see them. They are FANTASTIC!
This group of young musicians is exceptional, and knowing them personally I can tell you they are great kids as well. If you get the chance to see them perform, you will not be disappointed. Way to go Shaun, James and Carmen.
Forget the fact that they are only thirteen. Forget, too, that you likely have been listening to bluegrass music for longer than they have been alive. See them live or listen to their CDs and revel not only in their breathtaking technical ability, but in their musicality as well. They are the real deal!
I’ve been watching these kids since they were about 6 years old! It has been a real treat and blessing to see how they have matured and grown as musicians. Thank you Lord! If you have not had an opportunity to see them, do yourself a favor and view them. They are terrific, gifted musicians!