Wow.  The band’s description just said “untraditional traditional music, but the instruments (banjo, guitar, fiddle and cello) gave some clue that the concert might be to my liking.  Linda, my spouse,  was up for the trip to Elk Creek Cafe in Millheim,  but I was far from certain that she’d want to stay to the end of the concert:  it takes a lot to grab and keep her attention.  But Ti Ti Chickapea sure did.

Linda sat up straight and leaned over as necessary to follow closely in turn the tenor (4-string) guitar of Richie Stearns,  the cello of Hank Roberts and the fiddle (6 string!) of Eric Aceto.  The extended and complex arrangements,  the interplay of melodies and instruments (including voice), and the innovative percussive elements added up to a mesmerizing concert.  We were there for the standing ovation and encore,  and look forward to the next Ti Ti Chickapea experience.  Wow.

PS:  The Elk Creek Cafe and Aleworks in Millheim is worth checking out all for itself.  The food is innovative, delicious,  reasonably priced,  and based on locally produced produce and meats.  Eight varieties of site-brewed beer mean you might want to bring a designated driver along.  My favorite: the sampler of all 8 !

Right on on all accounts, Mel.  I thought it was a great show, too.  Unfortunately, I didn’t get to stay til the end of it because the noted designated driver was ready to go about halfway through the 2nd set.  Again, as noted, the dd was more than necessary…  those dunklebocks snuck up on me something fierce

The Elk Creek is a really happening place out there—- I like the aesthetic Tim’s carving out both in terms of food and drink, as well as music.