Ninigret Park in Charlestown, RI was one of the most pleasant places to be over the Labor Day weekend. Not only was the air fresh and clean from having been swept and washed by Tropical Storm Earl, but the temps were in the 70s, white puffy clouds hung low against a clear blue sky, and the air was filled with music and low-flying kites. Can you say idyllic?
Along with a friend from the local photo club, I spent the better part of Sunday enjoying the music and photographing the performers, as well as doing a bit of people watching during the short breaks. The weather was pretty close to perfect for this outdoor venue by the bay. The sun was bright and warm, and a strong breeze was blowing. Folks obviously happy to be there were holding onto their hats, blankets, and even their lawn chairs.
The aroma of Creole food intermingled with a Cajun beat to set the stage for a full day of good times, gorgeous weather and easy camaraderie. We partook of some delicious offerings while sitting in the shade of one of the larger trees. When one or the other of us decided to take a walk, our heavy photo equipment held down the folding chairs we'd brought with us.
Before the day was out, we'd managed to experience a few hours' of live music from the likes of Horace Trahan & the Ossun Express, Geoff Muldaur and the Texas Sheiks, CJ Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band, and the Danny Barnes Trio. It was the Trio that got the day started, and their brand of rhythm was a great way to ease into the day. Each group in turn picked up the beat a bit more, and by the time we left, we could spot people dancing all over the place.
Things were hopping everywhere. We obviously couldn't be everywhere at once, so we chose a shady spot and mostly just sat and enjoyed the music. On one side of the park, folks were getting lessons in Zydeco and Cajun dance. Elsewhere, kids played games, spun hula hoops, and generally had a great time. I didn't hear one baby cry all day, it was that pleasant a place to be. Jug bands, accordions, song writing, dancing, eating... there was just too much fun to be had.
To see a list of performers and other offerings, click on the Schedule link at the RhythmAndRoots.com website.
Next year's Rhythm & Roots Festival will again be held during the long Labor Day weekend, Sept. 2-4. If you're going to be in the Rhode Island area, give it a go. It's definitely a positive experience. It may become an annual tradition for you, as it has for many of the folks who attended this year.
Be sure to check out the slide show, that accompanies this article.
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