The Redwood Coast Music Festival in Eureka, California, was a musical extravaganza that captivated audiences from October 3-6, 2024. With over 100 sets across six venues, the festival offered a veritable feast for music enthusiasts, showcasing a wide range of genres, from hot jazz and blues to zydeco and rockabilly. Attendees were treated to performances by renowned artists, as well as the opportunity to discover new talents, all while immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of the coastal city.

Redwood Coast Music Festival: Where Legends and Newcomers Converge for an Unforgettable Experience

A Tapestry of Genres and Talents

The Redwood Coast Music Festival was a true melting pot of musical styles, with something to delight every attendee. From the soulful blues of Jontavious Willis and Duke Robillard to the infectious zydeco rhythms and rockabilly energy, the festival offered a diverse array of performances that showcased the rich tapestry of American music. Attendees were also treated to tributes to iconic figures like Chet Atkins and Merle Travis, as well as a journey through the sacred lands of jazz legends such as Armstrong, Morton, Moten, Condon, Bessie, Clara, BG, and Duke.

Debut Performances and Reunions

The festival was particularly notable for the debut visits of veteran musicians John S. Reynolds and Ray Skjelbred, who captivated audiences with their masterful performances. Another highlight was the appearance of the Austin, Texas, phenomenon Alice Spencer, whose passionate vocals and interpretations of classic tunes left a lasting impression. The festival also served as a reunion for many dear friends, including Marc Caparone, Dawn Lambeth, Clint Baker, Katie Cavera, Hal Smith, Mikiya Matsuda, Sam Rocha, Dan Barrett, and the "EarRegulars" from New York, Jon-Erik Kellso, Matt Munisteri, and Dennis Lichtman, as well as new St. Louis pals Valerie Kirchhoff, Ethan Leinwand, and T.J. Muller.

Energetic Performances and Intimate Moments

The festival was a whirlwind of musical experiences, from the dreamy set of 1931-33 dance music by Mikiya Matsuda and the Alcatraz Islanders to the characteristically energized performance by Clint Baker's Jazz Band, featuring the captivating vocals of Jessica King. Hal Smith's Mortonia Seven and the Holland-Coots Jazz Quintet, with the passionate singing of Alice Spencer, also left an indelible mark on the audience. The EarRegulars, the heroic denizens of the Ear Inn in downtown Manhattan, delivered a delightfully unusual set that showcased the talents of Jon-Erik Kellso, Matt Munisteri, Ray Skjelbred, and Dan Barrett.

Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future

The festival also paid tribute to the rich musical heritage of the region, with performances that celebrated the legacies of Bunk Johnson, Kid Ory, and Freddie Keppard, among others. The Hollywood Hot Shots, featuring Reynolds, Caparone, Zimmerman, Cavera, and the wonderful vocals of Dawn Lambeth, delivered a scorching rendition of "High Society" that evoked the spirit of 1933 Louis Armstrong. The festival also provided a platform for up-and-coming artists, such as the remarkable "big-band" set co-led by Jonathan Doyle and Jacob Zimmerman, which showcased their individual homages to jazz icons and their own original compositions.

A Joyous Celebration of Music and Community

The Redwood Coast Music Festival was more than just a series of performances; it was a joyous celebration of music and community. The festival's volunteers, led by the tireless Mark and Val Jansen, ensured that the event ran smoothly, while the audience members themselves contributed to the festive atmosphere, with emotional reunions both on and off the bandstand. The festival also provided sustenance for the attendees, with a Colombian food truck offering delectable empanadas that fueled the listening experience.As the festival drew to a close, the bacchanalia led by Kellso, Munisteri, and Lichtman provided a fitting finale, with a rousing rendition of "A Shanty in Old Shanty Town" and a heartfelt tribute to the past with Duke Robillard's "S.K. Blues." Though the festival may have ended, the memories and the music will continue to resonate in the hearts and minds of all who were fortunate enough to experience the Redwood Coast Music Festival.