Music. Alcohol. Oysters. Books.

Opening the show was local guitarist Teja Gerken, kicking things off with his charming new composition Aerogramme. Vicki's Red Boots featured some great tapping technique, and the tune 11:11PM delighted with its impressive melody. I really enjoyed John Coltrane's Naima, played on a 12-string guitar, as well as Teja's The Groomsmen, which had a bit of a rock feel. He wrapped up his set with a short version of Turlough O'Carolan's Sí Bheag, Sí Mhór. A great start to the night!

After a short break, David Wilcox took the stage, opening with the pleasant Start With the Ending. I liked the next catchy tune called We Make the Way by Walking. David's extended set showcased many gorgeous songs with witty lyrics, along with intriguing poetry and some spoken word. And his laugh was absolutely infectious! Wilcox's guitar technique is undeniably impressive, though his music often leans too soft and mellow for my taste — I find it more engaging when it carries a bit more edge. Among the more energetic pieces, I especially enjoyed Rusty Old American Dream — such a great tune! I also got quite a kick out of Ladders and Chainsaws, performed a cappella to the tune of My Favorite Things — what a hilarious moment! I'd love to see David perform again, but wouldn't mind having other musicians accompanying him. An evening well spent.

Set list (Teja Gerken, 8:00 PM — 8:30 PM): Aerogramme, Vicki's Red Boots, 11:11PM, Naima, The Groomsmen, Sí Bheag Sí Mhór

Set list (David Wilcox, 8:45 PM — 10:28 PM): Start With the Ending, We Make the Way by Walking, I Wish You Enough, ? ("it's getting pretty close to sunset"), The Beautiful, Rusty Old American Dream, Show the Way, Eye of the Hurricane, The Way I Tell the Story, Roses, Ladders and Chainsaws, Disappearing Man, Worst Enemy, ? ("switch off my distractions"), ? ("I don't know the next right thing"), Perfect Storm, Deeper Still, The View from the Edge, Spectacular Catastrophe
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