My Morning Jacket

1. ynwa

1. ynwa
2. oistheone

1. ynwa
2. oistheone
3. br00ke

1. ynwa
2. oistheone
3. br00ke
4. bold99 +1

1. ynwa + magic cookie bars (food item for the community table)
2. oistheone
3. br00ke
4. bold99 +1

5 strong so far, huh?  not too bad, all things considered.  just thinking of the who, what, where & when i'm wondering why it's still not listed on the shows page and also about how lucky we are  :)  i'm ridiculously psyched for this!!!

there was some talk in the other ramble thread about meeting up somewhere beforehand.  i'm definitely down with that, but not really in a position to do anything too pricey.  

here's a list from the town of woodstock homepage:
http://woodstockny.org/content/Tourism#Restaurants

there's all kinds of stuff on there (there's also a link to bed & breakfasts if anyone needs).  i'm not a foodie @ all & tend to gravitate more toward places w/ a good beer selection.  priorties people  ;)  so for me, the catskill mountain pizza company fits that bill.  here's some reviews (they do have more than just pizza + they sell package goods):
http://www.yelp.com/biz/catskill-mountain-pizza-company-woodstock

but i'm open to other suggestions.  the red onion restaurant that br00ke mentioned is on the list too.  any opinions?

I definitely want to hang out somewhere during the day (depending when I get there from the MMJ show in Portland the night before) and maybe grab some food so that pizza place looks good.


but I can tell you from experience....when I was there for the DBT ramble the party was in the parking lot (well Levon's backyard).  Good time out there talking and drinking with everyone..also don't get there early or you will be waiting in a car line forever.  They literally open the gate exactly when it says and not a minute earlier.

yeah, i definitely want to do the hang out in the field w/ everyone.  that seems to be a big part of the overall experience, from what i've heard.  wouldn't miss that for anything!

just figured since there's what looks to be only a handfull of us from here that are going, some of us going solo, it'd be cool to meet up someplace for a drink & quick bite before caravaning over to the lot for the festivities.

i'll be driving up from NJ that day & would like to check out the town a bit.  even though it's just under 2 hrs drive for me i've never been (i know, shame on me!).    

A bunch of people ate at this place on the way up to the DBT Ramble. We passed it on the way and it looked awesome! (this big ol' barn so it kinda goes w/the BARN theme of the evening). I think you should all meet up there then drive into Woodstock and park. (Not many places to eat in Woodstock, there's a little taco place called Juan's). This is a few miles out but so close and on the way from NYC or NJ. Just a suggestion!

http://www.hickoryrestaurant.com/

(also i plan on going up to the Ramble again in Nov, and I'd like some scouting reports on the BBQ)

How in the world do you get tickets to these "Rambles!"  This is on my bucket list...keep your ears open and nose to the ground I 'spose...I would love to go to this one...

QuoteHow in the world do you get tickets to these "Rambles!"  This is on my bucket list...keep your ears open and nose to the ground I 'spose...I would love to go to this one...

go to the Ramble website and sign up for updates.
there are usually shows posted a month or so ahead of time
the updates don't come out each time an artist signs on (which is WHY YOU'RE SUPPOSED TO BE ABLE TO COUNT ON THE ARTISTS' WEBSITE TO NOTIFY YOU..but i digress and i'm bitter, sorry sorry)
it should be on every music fan's bucket list.  :)

1. ynwa + magic cookie bars (food item for the community table)
2. oistheone
3. br00ke
4. bold99 +1
5. alexzbik +2

Quote
just figured since there's what looks to be only a handfull of us from here that are going, some of us going solo, it'd be cool to meet up someplace for a drink & quick bite before caravaning over to the lot for the festivities.   

yes .. i am down with this plan. esp. as i think i am coming up solo. the pizza place sounds great!

QuoteA bunch of people ate at this place on the way up to the DBT Ramble. We passed it on the way and it looked awesome! (this big ol' barn so it kinda goes w/the BARN theme of the evening). I think you should all meet up there then drive into Woodstock and park. (Not many places to eat in Woodstock, there's a little taco place called Juan's). This is a few miles out but so close and on the way from NYC or NJ. Just a suggestion!

http://www.hickoryrestaurant.com/

(also i plan on going up to the Ramble again in Nov, and I'd like some scouting reports on the BBQ)

you crack me up, wanting us to scout this place out.  but, it is a possibility  ;)

i'd like to add that if anyone ends up having an extra - i'm looking.  the 16th is my bday & if it can work out, i'd love to have my lil sis with me  :)

I thankfully was able to score some tickets, just wondering, how many people will be at this thing? whats the capacity of the barn?

10/16 is my birthday as well, and I would give anything to attend this.  I have T5 tickets to trade.

QuoteI thankfully was able to score some tickets, just wondering, how many people will be at this thing? whats the capacity of the barn?

I'd say its 200 max..very small.  Some seats and then standing.

also an FYI..not to be dowener but don't expect a long MMJ set..when I went to the DBT one I think they played 7 songs.  You have to remember they are the opening band.

1. ynwa + magic cookie bars (food item for the community table)
2. oistheone
3. br00ke
4. bold99 +1
5. alexzbik +2
6. wamsankas +?

Quote10/16 is my birthday as well, and I would give anything to attend this.  I have T5 tickets to trade.

hope you get a ticket birthday buddy  :)

Thanks YNWA!  I mean, I can't help but think that my favorite band playing an intimate gig nearby on my birthday is a sign from a higher power.  We'll see!  Let me know if you hear of any leads.

tiny tiny picture but gives you an idea of the interior .. loft up top for the 'standing room only'. i just had a ton of friends that went this weekend for the anders + stanton moore trio and am loving all the reviews today .. getting so0oo0o jazzed for our turn !!

(http://www.jambands.com/images/2010/09/27/24342/inside%20the%20barn-300x-353x.jpg)

Oh man, I can only imagine how amazing that latest Ramble was. Were these written reviews or just "HOLY SHIT" comments? I love reading any piece of Ramble literature I can get my hands on.

Oistheone ... i PM'ed you :)

ok .. everybody going, obviously we are to hatch a plan of attack. just got the skinny from a friend that went this past weekend and had this to say about getting the best spots (for standing room only) ..

QuoteSo you've got to try and do what we did and get to the Ramble to be one of the first in the door.
There are a couple of amazing spots upstairs looking down on the room - that are great because you have rail space - and you can stand and dance and you are not forced to sit.  

We'll talk when you get closer to going but you should start explaining to your friends that you want to be pulling in levon's driving around 545pm no later on the day you go in order to have a chance. Everyone on your team needs to be totally into this idea - if they aren't them leave them behind.

magically experience

QuoteOistheone ... i PM'ed you :)

ok .. everybody going, obviously we are to hatch a plan of attack. just got the skinny from a friend that went this past weekend and had this to say about getting the best spots (for standing room only) ..

QuoteSo you've got to try and do what we did and get to the Ramble to be one of the first in the door.
There are a couple of amazing spots upstairs looking down on the room - that are great because you have rail space - and you can stand and dance and you are not forced to sit.  

We'll talk when you get closer to going but you should start explaining to your friends that you want to be pulling in levon's driving around 545pm no later on the day you go in order to have a chance. Everyone on your team needs to be totally into this idea - if they aren't them leave them behind.

magically experience

Damn this is going to be so cool.
If I could reverse the hands of time, I would have gone to this one instead. I'm so happy for all of you.

QuoteThanks YNWA!  I mean, I can't help but think that my favorite band playing an intimate gig nearby on my birthday is a sign from a higher power.  We'll see!  Let me know if you hear of any leads.

exactly.  i hesitated on buying a ticket for about a minute and then realized that when the stars align like that - you just gotta go with it  ;)

i'll keep my eyes open for ya!

Quote

QuoteOistheone ... i PM'ed you :)

ok .. everybody going, obviously we are to hatch a plan of attack. just got the skinny from a friend that went this past weekend and had this to say about getting the best spots (for standing room only) ..

QuoteSo you've got to try and do what we did and get to the Ramble to be one of the first in the door.
There are a couple of amazing spots upstairs looking down on the room - that are great because you have rail space - and you can stand and dance and you are not forced to sit.  

We'll talk when you get closer to going but you should start explaining to your friends that you want to be pulling in levon's driving around 545pm no later on the day you go in order to have a chance. Everyone on your team needs to be totally into this idea - if they aren't them leave them behind.

magically experience

Damn this is going to be so cool.
If I could reverse the hands of time, I would have gone to this one instead. I'm so happy for all of you.

br00ke - thanks for the heads up!  i'm all for making a plan to insure a good spot.  i mean, from the look of that pic & from what others who have done a ramble before say - there isn't a bad spot in the place.  but, no standing isn't really what i'm lookin for  ;D

so - are folks still down w/ meeting up ahead of time for a bite to eat & a beer @ that pizza place?  i'd say maybe by 4 or thereabouts?  i'm horrible @ planning these things so if people think earlier (or later) is better - please speak up.

penny - wouldn't this ramble, liiiike, get you pumped for your marathon?
:-/  i mean...      

Quote

Quote

QuoteOistheone ... i PM'ed you :)

ok .. everybody going, obviously we are to hatch a plan of attack. just got the skinny from a friend that went this past weekend and had this to say about getting the best spots (for standing room only) ..

QuoteSo you've got to try and do what we did and get to the Ramble to be one of the first in the door.
There are a couple of amazing spots upstairs looking down on the room - that are great because you have rail space - and you can stand and dance and you are not forced to sit.  

We'll talk when you get closer to going but you should start explaining to your friends that you want to be pulling in levon's driving around 545pm no later on the day you go in order to have a chance. Everyone on your team needs to be totally into this idea - if they aren't them leave them behind.

magically experience

Damn this is going to be so cool.
If I could reverse the hands of time, I would have gone to this one instead. I'm so happy for all of you.

br00ke - thanks for the heads up!  i'm all for making a plan to insure a good spot.  i mean, from the look of that pic & from what others who have done a ramble before say - there isn't a bad spot in the place.  but, no standing isn't really what i'm lookin for  ;D

so - are folks still down w/ meeting up ahead of time for a bite to eat & a beer @ that pizza place?  i'd say maybe by 4 or thereabouts?  i'm horrible @ planning these things so if people think earlier (or later) is better - please speak up.

penny - wouldn't this ramble, liiiike, get you pumped for your marathon?
:-/  i mean...      

it would! the Ramble's in upstate NY and my marathon's in downstate (as in Ohio) ....no can do. pizza place, what about my BBQ place idea...damn you.  ;)

Quote

Quote

Quote

QuoteOistheone ... i PM'ed you :)

ok .. everybody going, obviously we are to hatch a plan of attack. just got the skinny from a friend that went this past weekend and had this to say about getting the best spots (for standing room only) ..

QuoteSo you've got to try and do what we did and get to the Ramble to be one of the first in the door.
There are a couple of amazing spots upstairs looking down on the room - that are great because you have rail space - and you can stand and dance and you are not forced to sit.  

We'll talk when you get closer to going but you should start explaining to your friends that you want to be pulling in levon's driving around 545pm no later on the day you go in order to have a chance. Everyone on your team needs to be totally into this idea - if they aren't them leave them behind.

magically experience

Damn this is going to be so cool.
If I could reverse the hands of time, I would have gone to this one instead. I'm so happy for all of you.

br00ke - thanks for the heads up!  i'm all for making a plan to insure a good spot.  i mean, from the look of that pic & from what others who have done a ramble before say - there isn't a bad spot in the place.  but, no standing isn't really what i'm lookin for  ;D

so - are folks still down w/ meeting up ahead of time for a bite to eat & a beer @ that pizza place?  i'd say maybe by 4 or thereabouts?  i'm horrible @ planning these things so if people think earlier (or later) is better - please speak up.

penny - wouldn't this ramble, liiiike, get you pumped for your marathon?
:-/  i mean...      

it would! the Ramble's in upstate NY and my marathon's in downstate (as in Ohio) ....no can do. pizza place, what about my BBQ place idea...damn you.  ;)

ahhh, i see your point.  ohio is a bit too far  ;D  we'll just have to channel ya.
you and your damned BBQ place,  >:( ;).  majority wins so if people prefer that, BBQ it shall be

i'm definitely down for the pre-show meet up!! per our FB message .. it seems i'm heading up early that morning and will be staying with a friend from college. she's not going to the show but is into dropping me off and picking me up .. so i figured she could drop me at whatever pre-show meet up we do (pizza / pub sounds purrrfect, she'd probably be inclined to hang out too) and perhaps i can ride into the show with one of you guys? hrmm .. and maybe get a ride out too (post-show) and someone can drop me where we had met up earlier so my friend can pick me up? (http://www.thejamgirlz.com/phorums/images/smiles/eusa_think.gif)

something i just realized RE: my other friend with the plan on how to get the best seats. i believe they are talking about seat seats .. and we all have standing room only right? i will definitely ask her about that. at any rate, i am super into the plan of getting in as soon as we are allowed.

and aside from MMJ + Midnight Ramble excitement .. i'm excited to see you folks too !!!  :)

a southern girl .. i *love* BBQ so i'd be down. is that place in woodstock/close though? for some reason i feel like you said it was more en route than in woodstock?

o0oh and if we happened to pick a pre-show spot that had college football on .. i'd be over the moon  ;) there are some key games on that day!

i didn't check the map for the BBQ place, it's not IN woodstock, but is possibly on the way.  so that is a definite possibility.  the college football may be a good tie-break solution. i don't follow it but i do like to watch

got the FB mssg - and yeah, you can def ride into & back out of levon's w/ me.  and please do encourage your friend to join us for the pre-show meetup.  the more the merrier!  ooooh, if there's no college football access but there IS a jukebox, maybe we can recruit a new mmj fanatic  ;)

I know i am late but just found out about this show and have no tickets if anybody happens to have one extra please pm me or email me at hflpjtrade@gmail.com
helder

QuoteI know i am late but just found out about this show and have no tickets if anybody happens to have one extra please pm me or email me at hflpjtrade@gmail.com
helder

i haven't seen anything about extras for this show as of yet.  but since there are no "hard" tix (purchaser's name is added to a master list & has to present ID @ the venue), i think that sways odds in favor of extras being posted here.  just keep checking - maybe somethng will turn up.  best of luck!  

I might know somebody with an extra but I think they are looking to trade it for 2 Phish Halloween tix.

QuoteI might know somebody with an extra but I think they are looking to trade it for 2 Phish Halloween tix.

PM sent.

Quote

QuoteI might know somebody with an extra but I think they are looking to trade it for 2 Phish Halloween tix.

PM sent.

Interesting swap. Fair trade in a few different ways. Both pretty special shows. hard tix to get, and pretty equal as far as $.

One I'd do if I was on the either end.

Gotta love forums like this one!! 8-)

two weeks from today  :D

Quotetwo weeks from today  :D

Yes!!

I have a friend that is at Levon's right now for the ramble...getting excited.

I want to hang, sheeit.

QuoteI want to hang, sheeit.

make it happen.  and then you might as well just stay the whole following week too.  seriously, for someone so dedicated to this band - it just ain't right to miss all the goodness.

i am still looking for a ramble ticket.  i'll be in NYC on saturday 10/16.  if anyone hears about a ticket in the wind, let me know.  [smiley=beer.gif]

10 DAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Quote10 DAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

:D

I just got 2 tickets!!! My connection at the Levon Helm Studios came through! On the guest list at front door. Have to pay when I arrive. $150 each. Now who is coming with me?

Penny, I would ask you to come but I know you are running a marathon that day!

Two of my friends are really interested! I will let them fight it out!

So excited!!!  :D

QuoteI just got 2 tickets!!! My connection at the Levon Helm Studios came through! On the guest list at front door. Have to pay when I arrive. $150 each. Now who is coming with me?

Penny, I would ask you to come but I know you are running a marathon that day!

Two of my friends are really interested! I will let them fight it out!

So excited!!!  :D

:D that. is. awesome!  glad your connection could hook you up...it's gonna be such a great night.

are you down w/ meeting up for a pre-ramble?  catskill mtn pizza co. is, i think, the place.  details will be ironed out soonish.

say now, if your friends end up killing each other, my friend may be interested in a ticket.

Hells yeah! Pizza sounds perfect. What time u all meeting up there? I will let you know what happens with my friends.

QuoteI just got 2 tickets!!! My connection at the Levon Helm Studios came through! On the guest list at front door. Have to pay when I arrive. $150 each. Now who is coming with me?

Penny, I would ask you to come but I know you are running a marathon that day!

Two of my friends are really interested! I will let them fight it out!

So excited!!!  :D

that is awesome. i'm truly happy for you and honored that you'd take me. what a crap weekend to be out of town. nice job with the connection!

Quote

QuoteI just got 2 tickets!!! My connection at the Levon Helm Studios came through! On the guest list at front door. Have to pay when I arrive. $150 each. Now who is coming with me?

Penny, I would ask you to come but I know you are running a marathon that day!

Two of my friends are really interested! I will let them fight it out!

So excited!!!  :D

that is awesome. i'm truly happy for you and honored that you'd take me. what a crap weekend to be out of town. nice job with the connection!

Drop the Marathon Penny!!!

QuoteI just got 2 tickets!!! My connection at the Levon Helm Studios came through! On the guest list at front door. Have to pay when I arrive. $150 each. Now who is coming with me?

PM sent...

1. ynwa + magic cookie bars (food item for the community table)
2. oistheone
3. br00ke
4. bold992006 +1
5. alexzbik +2
6. wamsankas +?
7. dodobird + 1

for anyone (hopefully everyone  :)) who can make it over to pre-ramble:
Catskills Mountain Pizza Company
51 Mill Hill Rd
Woodstock, NY 12498
(845) 679-7969
@ 4/4:30ish

here's the link w/ info/reviews:
http://www.yelp.com/biz/catskill-mountain-pizza-company-woodstock

they don't take reservations so we'll just have to cross our fingers that we hit it @ a good time.  i'm planning to get there around 4 & will do my best to grab a few tables or seats or whatever.

8 DAYS!
:D :D :D

i love when i see this thread bumped up  :D

Hells yeah!!! Me too! LOL  ;D

So my friend if def in for the ramble. Sorry yvon...

I should be able to make it up for pizza by 4:30pm. Then head over to Levon's studios for 6pm tailgate action in the parking lot. Penny was saying it is a real chill scene. I was gonna bring my bagpipes and play a few tunes in the lot. Hopefully Jim and the boys come outside to see what the F is going on! Bagpipes? LOL  :D  

i don't know about jim & the rest of the boys, or anyone else for that matter, but when I hear bagpipes - i wanna know what the F is going on  ;)

everyone that's done a ramble has said that it's just awesome.  the whole scene.  i am super psyched for this!  

looking forward to meeting up w/ you folks  :)

Quotei don't know about jim & the rest of the boys, or anyone else for that matter, but when I hear bagpipes - i wanna know what the F is going on  ;)

everyone that's done a ramble has said that it's just awesome.  the whole scene.  i am super psyched for this!  

looking forward to meeting up w/ you folks  :)

Who the? What the? Where the F is that coming from?  :D

I can jam on some pretty fun tunes. Stuff you never heard played on pipes before. I will have to break out the old Halloween set! And off course the classics like the "Top Gun Theme Song" and "Blister in the Sun"!

Hopefully it is not too cold. Fingers don't work to well when the freeze up.

Now the question is should I wear my Kilt? Prob be more comfortable without it. A man needs pocket! LOL  ;D

Quote

Quotei don't know about jim & the rest of the boys, or anyone else for that matter, but when I hear bagpipes - i wanna know what the F is going on  ;)

everyone that's done a ramble has said that it's just awesome.  the whole scene.  i am super psyched for this!  

looking forward to meeting up w/ you folks  :)

Who the? What the? Where the F is that coming from?  :D

I can jam on some pretty fun tunes. Stuff you never heard played on pipes before. I will have to break out the old Halloween set! And off course the classics like the "Top Gun Theme Song" and "Blister in the Sun"!

Hopefully it is not too cold. Fingers don't work to well when the freeze up.

Now the question is should I wear my Kilt? Prob be more comfortable without it. A man needs pocket! LOL  ;D

i've seen the kilt and i've heard Dodo play those things and all i can say is they're LOUDDDDDDD!!!!   ;) :)

Quote

Quote

Quotei don't know about jim & the rest of the boys, or anyone else for that matter, but when I hear bagpipes - i wanna know what the F is going on  ;)

everyone that's done a ramble has said that it's just awesome.  the whole scene.  i am super psyched for this!  

looking forward to meeting up w/ you folks  :)

Who the? What the? Where the F is that coming from?  :D

I can jam on some pretty fun tunes. Stuff you never heard played on pipes before. I will have to break out the old Halloween set! And off course the classics like the "Top Gun Theme Song" and "Blister in the Sun"!

Hopefully it is not too cold. Fingers don't work to well when the freeze up.

Now the question is should I wear my Kilt? Prob be more comfortable without it. A man needs pocket! LOL  ;D

i've seen the kilt and i've heard Dodo play those things and all i can say is they're LOUDDDDDDD!!!!   ;) :)

perhaps a little something like this:

[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dr40k4vMv3Q[/media]

;D dodo's playing was the beacon back to my car after the merriweather show (dude, there's my car.  on the right).  no kilt that night tho.  hmmm

i'm trying to figure out what songs might possibly be on a halloween set list for bagpipes.  i keep getting stuck on "monster mash" and can't stop giggling...  i am always down for the "top gun anthem" - maybe maverick (or someone wearing aviator shades)will do a flyby?

Penny,
I think I played them for you in doors that time. Bad idea. Pipes should not be restricted by walls. The woods around Levon's barn will help absorb the sound! Or Jim's beard if he comes out for a listen.  ;)

ynwa,
Can't give away my entire setlist. But "the monster mash"  is not on it ;D

I keep trying to think of a good MMJ song that might fight in the scale of the bagpipes. Any ideas? There is only one octive in B-flat.

youre not really planning on playing a bag pipe at Levon's house, are you? could be conceived as disrespectful

one week from today !!!!

:) ;) :D ;D 8-)

Quoteyoure not really planning on playing a bag pipe at Levon's house, are you? could be conceived as disrespectful

I will not be playing in his house. But rather in the parking lot as we tailgate outside waiting for the doors to open at 7pm.

And I spoke with the manager of Levon Helm Studios who was kind enough to squeeze me in for two tickets because of a connection I had. I asked her if it would be cool and she was fine with it!

I would never disrespect Levon. I just thought it would be fun to jam in the parking lot for my fellow jacket fans as we anticipate an epic evening of music for MMJ and Levon!!!

You got a problem with that??? LOL JK   :D

i was in woodstock yesterday .... totally got me even more pumped for the ramble!! be sure to check the temps up there, way cooler than it was here in NYC anyway. warm during the day but quite cold @ night, burrr shiver!!!

also, what with it being peak time for leaf peepers .. woodstock is likely to be more crowded than usual. it was pretty hopping yesterday.

can't wait to see the boys and all of you  :D

You're right Brooke. It looks like it is going to be cold and windy next Saturday in Woodstock. It's no fun playing the bagpipes in the cold. It will be a game time decision I guess. Probably will depend on how many drinks I have to warm me up in the parking lot  ;)

Can't wait!

ooooooh, hat & mittens weather???  it's my favorite kind.  ok, maybe it won't be that cold.  temps run about 7 degrees cooler up there (i've been monitoring the weather in prep for sat.  yes.  i am a dork.).  no worries tho - we will all be doing juuust fiiine.    

br00ke - i'm sure a little bourbon will keep ya feelin toasty.  check your boot  ;)

dodo - probably too cold for a kilt!  and leggings w/ a kilt is just not acceptable.

bold - penny said you guys still don't have a place to crash.  i'm sure you've tried the usual suspects (priceline, hotwire etc) but i just did a quick search: http://kayak.travel.aol.com/r/WbvDFx
there's a couple in a nearby town, kingston (about 8 miles from woodstock), that may be worth looking into.  or if they are all booked, maybe they can offer suggestions for you.  also, maybe try re-calling places to see if there were any cancellations.  let's get this sorted out -i feel nervous for you.  

only a few more days people  :D

Quoteooooooh, hat & mittens weather???  it's my favorite kind.  ok, maybe it won't be that cold.  temps run about 7 degrees cooler up there (i've been monitoring the weather in prep for sat.  yes.  i am a dork.).  no worries tho - we will all be doing juuust fiiine.    

br00ke - i'm sure a little bourbon will keep ya feelin toasty.  check your boot  ;)

dodo - probably too cold for a kilt!  and leggings w/ a kilt is just not acceptable.

bold - penny said you guys still don't have a place to crash.  i'm sure you've tried the usual suspects (priceline, hotwire etc) but i just did a quick search: http://kayak.travel.aol.com/r/WbvDFx
there's a couple in a nearby town, kingston (about 8 miles from woodstock), that may be worth looking into.  or if they are all booked, maybe they can offer suggestions for you.  also, maybe try re-calling places to see if there were any cancellations.  let's get this sorted out -i feel nervous for you.  

only a few more days people  :D

Thanks...I actually did that yesterday.  Called a bunch of places I already called.  No luck..Apparently nobody is backing out of this stupid Sheep and Wool Festival..lol.

I'll figure it out.

Quote

Quoteooooooh, hat & mittens weather???  it's my favorite kind.  ok, maybe it won't be that cold.  temps run about 7 degrees cooler up there (i've been monitoring the weather in prep for sat.  yes.  i am a dork.).  no worries tho - we will all be doing juuust fiiine.    

br00ke - i'm sure a little bourbon will keep ya feelin toasty.  check your boot  ;)

dodo - probably too cold for a kilt!  and leggings w/ a kilt is just not acceptable.

bold - penny said you guys still don't have a place to crash.  i'm sure you've tried the usual suspects (priceline, hotwire etc) but i just did a quick search: http://kayak.travel.aol.com/r/WbvDFx
there's a couple in a nearby town, kingston (about 8 miles from woodstock), that may be worth looking into.  or if they are all booked, maybe they can offer suggestions for you.  also, maybe try re-calling places to see if there were any cancellations.  let's get this sorted out -i feel nervous for you.  

only a few more days people  :D

Thanks...I actually did that yesterday.  Called a bunch of places I already called.  No luck..Apparently nobody is backing out of this stupid Sheep and Wool Festival..lol.

I'll figure it out.

dang.  now i'm really curious as to what this sheep and wool festival is all about.

fingers crossed that something opens up for ya

Quote
dang.  now i'm really curious as to what this sheep and wool festival is all about.

ya know .. i think i'll just skip the ramble and check out this sheep thing







[size=20]NOT !!![/size]  ;D

http://www.sheepandwool.com/

there people are serious about their Sheep and Wool.

I'll just ask Levon if we can crash..he will be cool with that right? lol.

woah - that is some serious stuff!  but look - you can camp there!  and even though it's gonna be chilly, there'll be an abundance of woolen stuffs to keep ya warm.

no sure levon will let you crash @ his place, but ya never know.  maybe sneak it?  remember - it's always easier to ask for forgiveness than permission  ;)

ummmmm ..... uhhhhhh ..... DAY AFTER TOMORROW  (http://www.thejamgirlz.com/phorums/images/smiles/016.gif)

i plan to grab a couple bottles of wine to share .. could someone bring some extra plastic cups if your already bringing some? i'm staying with a friend in phoenicia and being the urbanite w/o a car .. i'm taking the bus up early to phoenicia (and later getting a ride to woodstock) and i don't want to bring a whole thing of solo cups on the bus if someone could pretty please have an extra?  :)

and just to recap ..

Quote1. ynwa + magic cookie bars (food item for the community table)
2. oistheone
3. br00ke
4. bold992006 +1
5. alexzbik +2
6. wamsankas +?
7. dodobird + 1

for anyone (hopefully everyone  :)) who can make it over to pre-ramble:
Catskills Mountain Pizza Company
51 Mill Hill Rd
Woodstock, NY 12498
(845) 679-7969
@ 4/4:30ish

here's the link w/ info/reviews:
http://www.yelp.com/biz/catskill-mountain-pizza-company-woodstock

they don't take reservations so we'll just have to cross our fingers that we hit it @ a good time.  i'm planning to get there around 4 & will do my best to grab a few tables or seats or whatever.

aaand .. i am told that there are about 8 good choice spots and i think it's the area on the left (upstair) towards the front. apparently the only spot that you can stand / boggie. hopefully we can all tag team that area together.

(http://www.jambands.com/images/2010/09/27/24342/inside%20the%20barn-300x-353x.jpg)

Quoteummmmm ..... uhhhhhh ..... DAY AFTER TOMORROW  (http://www.thejamgirlz.com/phorums/images/smiles/016.gif)

i plan to grab a couple bottles of wine to share .. could someone bring some extra plastic cups if your already bringing some? i'm staying with a friend in phoenicia and being the urbanite w/o a car .. i'm taking the bus up early to phoenicia (and later getting a ride to woodstock) and i don't want to bring a whole thing of solo cups on the bus if someone could pretty please have an extra?  :)

and just to recap ..

Quote1. ynwa + magic cookie bars (food item for the community table)
2. oistheone
3. br00ke
4. bold992006 +1
5. alexzbik +2
6. wamsankas +?
7. dodobird + 1

for anyone (hopefully everyone  :)) who can make it over to pre-ramble:
Catskills Mountain Pizza Company
51 Mill Hill Rd
Woodstock, NY 12498
(845) 679-7969
@ 4/4:30ish

here's the link w/ info/reviews:
http://www.yelp.com/biz/catskill-mountain-pizza-company-woodstock

they don't take reservations so we'll just have to cross our fingers that we hit it @ a good time.  i'm planning to get there around 4 & will do my best to grab a few tables or seats or whatever.

aaand .. i am told that there are about 8 good choice spots and i think it's the area on the left (upstair) towards the front. apparently the only spot that you can stand / boggie. hopefully we can all tag team that area together.

(http://www.jambands.com/images/2010/09/27/24342/inside%20the%20barn-300x-353x.jpg)

i've got the plastic cups all covered  ;)  planning to bring some beers & maybe some sort of hot beverage to share.  *it's going to be chilly and possibly raining.  check the forecast before you head over & dress appropriately!*

re: tag teaming the choice spots upstairs - hell yes.

hands in the middle, team...

Loving the game plan!  ;)

I am bringing some beers and water. Will have some solo cups too.

a friend wanting to give me pointers to maximize our evening ..

It is the upstairs spot on the front left as you look at that picture!!!  standing looking down over the piano keyboard and looking straight across the room at Levon's kit.

So what you need to understand is being early in is your key to that spot and success.  There will be many people who love Levon who want to sit in the front row and not be allowed to stand.  You don't want that.

Do you best to arrive in Levon's driveway no early than 5:40pm - we rolled in around 5:45pm - 5:50pm - what you want to do is try and line in behind cars that may already be in line, we managed to come down the drive way and then pull off to the left in a clearing a little ways before the entrance gate.  you cannot do this at 5:40 - at 5:50 you can get away with it.  

DO NOT GO TO THE GATE straight away - they will turn you back to the end of the line!!  Feel out how close you can get to the gate - without people freaking out - and then wait as the guy walks the drive way and let's you know a confirmed number for your car's entry, at some point he'll walk up to you and say you are car 1 or 3 or whatever.

Get your check in at the gate - after the bracelet is on and the woman says it's ok - get someone out of the car and into the line at the barn door.

Park - bring a trash bag, cooler, ice, plastic cups to make drinks and something to throw on the potluck table if you want.

Once they open doors - go up into the barn and then take a left, towards the back of the room - you will go upstairs - across the room to that rail and lock it down.  Be closer to the front end of the stage on that rail so you can see the guitar players pick if you'd like - vs against the back wall. 8 people can fit across that rail - 4 on the other rail facing.

do not put drinks or over the rail or security will flip - there is a nice deck outside the door where you will be - you can sneak in and out that way.

the shortest bathroom line will almost always be in the kitchen.

and ..

You'll be outside with everyone for an hour while in line... once you are established folks can switch off going back and forth to the car for drinks and stuff - you kinda do that all night anyway.

you do need to at least have one of two people holding your spot, yes and it's so worth it.  not much going on outside besides the fire pit and cig smoking... and drink making.  the barn is so amazing and everyone's so excited once you get in you are in and stoked about it.

at break between MMJ and levon everyone makes a break and goes and hangs outside with stuff left on chairs if i remember right.

That is a good spot...Also when I was there the people right behind the band overlooking looked like that had a nice view.  My friend also went a few weeks ago and got a spot right next to the horn section and said it was great.

woah - that's some serious intel, br00ke & bold!  it kinda feels like we are part of a secret ops mission or something  8-)

so exciting!!!

so stoked for this that i actually dreamed about it last night .... in the dream levon had some other engagement and we were gonna have michael franti instead and i was really disappointed  ;D

Quoteso stoked for this that i actually dreamed about it last night .... in the dream levon had some other engagement and we were gonna have michael franti instead and i was really disappointed  ;D

i had a dream last night that Jim got married.

Quote

i had a dream last night that Jim got married.

and by dream you meant nightmare?!!!

Quotea friend wanting to give me pointers to maximize our evening ..

It is the upstairs spot on the front left as you look at that picture!!!  standing looking down over the piano keyboard and looking straight across the room at Levon's kit.

So what you need to understand is being early in is your key to that spot and success.  There will be many people who love Levon who want to sit in the front row and not be allowed to stand.  You don't want that.

Do you best to arrive in Levon's driveway no early than 5:40pm - we rolled in around 5:45pm - 5:50pm - what you want to do is try and line in behind cars that may already be in line, we managed to come down the drive way and then pull off to the left in a clearing a little ways before the entrance gate.  you cannot do this at 5:40 - at 5:50 you can get away with it.  

DO NOT GO TO THE GATE straight away - they will turn you back to the end of the line!!  Feel out how close you can get to the gate - without people freaking out - and then wait as the guy walks the drive way and let's you know a confirmed number for your car's entry, at some point he'll walk up to you and say you are car 1 or 3 or whatever.

Get your check in at the gate - after the bracelet is on and the woman says it's ok - get someone out of the car and into the line at the barn door.

Park - bring a trash bag, cooler, ice, plastic cups to make drinks and something to throw on the potluck table if you want.

Once they open doors - go up into the barn and then take a left, towards the back of the room - you will go upstairs - across the room to that rail and lock it down.  Be closer to the front end of the stage on that rail so you can see the guitar players pick if you'd like - vs against the back wall. 8 people can fit across that rail - 4 on the other rail facing.

do not put drinks or over the rail or security will flip - there is a nice deck outside the door where you will be - you can sneak in and out that way.

the shortest bathroom line will almost always be in the kitchen.

and ..

You'll be outside with everyone for an hour while in line... once you are established folks can switch off going back and forth to the car for drinks and stuff - you kinda do that all night anyway.

you do need to at least have one of two people holding your spot, yes and it's so worth it.  not much going on outside besides the fire pit and cig smoking... and drink making.  the barn is so amazing and everyone's so excited once you get in you are in and stoked about it.

at break between MMJ and levon everyone makes a break and goes and hangs outside with stuff left on chairs if i remember right.

Wow! That is some serious advice on how to enjoy The Ramble! That just got me so excited!  :D

This is gonna be an epic evening with MMJ and Levon!  :)

parking may be a bitch in woodstock (for the pizza spot meet up) .. there is $5 parking off of rock city road if your having trouble finding something. BUT .. just down the street from catskill pizza on mill hill is a sunflower natural foods market that is sorta like a shopping center. if you can get away with parking there and just walk over, that might be the easiest.

What's the deal with this pot-luck at the Barn? I've never been before, and I feel like I should show my appreciation by contributing something. Is wine for the table encouraged, or do they not want any booze inside the barn?

wishing all you lucky folks a wonderful time at the ramble!
should be a night you will never forget and talk about always.

looking forward to reading about it sunday and hearing 1st hand stories when i see ya'll nxt wk at the T5 shows.

Can't wait to start the festivities at McGees as soon as I can get out of work

Safe travels, everyone. I'll need some text updates, too.  ;) :)

QuoteWhat's the deal with this pot-luck at the Barn? I've never been before, and I feel like I should show my appreciation by contributing something. Is wine for the table encouraged, or do they not want any booze inside the barn?

i've never been to a ramble but i do know that on the website they make a very big deal about no drinks inside unless it's inside a plastic cup so i'd say no go on bottles of wine or alcohol for the masses. i think it has to do with insurance and legal issues. i think they also state that alcohol (not inside plastic cup) has to be kept in your car ... so people are often coming and going to refill their cups.

QuoteSafe travels, everyone. I'll need some text updates, too.  ;) :)

we'll miss ya .. good luck w/ the fierce running!!!

QuoteWhat's the deal with this pot-luck at the Barn? I've never been before, and I feel like I should show my appreciation by contributing something. Is wine for the table encouraged, or do they not want any booze inside the barn?

from the levon helm studios website:
"We encourage everyone to bring food or a side dish for our
community table for all to share. It's lots of fun!!"

it's a very nice thought but i'm not sure if they'd allow wine for the table.  looks like just food/snacks.  i'm pretty sure you are allowed to drink inside, so long as you aren't a mess & aren't making a mess.  and only from a plastic cup - no glass.

i'm baking cookies to bring.  not very nutricious but hopefully delicious.  if food is not your thing but you still want to bring something, they are collecting items for the Toys For Tots charity...  

QuoteSafe travels, everyone. I'll need some text updates, too.  ;) :)

thanks & same to you missy!  

Quote

Quoteso stoked for this that i actually dreamed about it last night .... in the dream levon had some other engagement and we were gonna have michael franti instead and i was really disappointed  ;D

i had a dream last night that Jim got married.

;D  I swear this week is gonna end with a restraining order.

Wooooo made it to Woodstock! Def. some chilly weather, but perfect for hangin out in cafes & driving around on car-tour.  :P

Well I didn't really know I'd be here in time for the Rambler, but I've certainly landed!

Doubtful doubtful that there are any tickets available, (esp. if it's just a "names list," type-a thing without physical tickets_.... but just throwin it out there that I'd gladly purchase a spot if there's one to be had!

In any case, it looks like the rain is supposed to ease up a bit tomorrow and just be windy-ish.... not sure where I might end up tomorrow, but if I'm around it would be sweeeeeet to meet up at the pizza spot beforehand! There seems to be quite a few ristorantes on Tinker St / Mill Hill St. and a sweet spot called Joshua's cafe (where I'm reporting from right now actually!) And it may just be me, but there are several free parking lots and lots of free street parking along Tinker (rt. 212) that I don't feel are too terribly far from the pizza spot, cause it's a really really cool/interesting street to walk along. It's also such a cute scenic little town, with lots of creeks/waterfalls/awesome-colored trees.

Bold if you're still super hard-up for your lodging situation (and don't mind camping in the super beautiful area!) there is sweet camping at Rip Van Winkle campground (showers and wi-fi even!) or the KOA on 212 (also showers & wi-fi) Me I'm just sleeping in my car til the weather breaks a bit. But seriously, it's only $30-40/night.... but it is camping, and it's totally available.... and it's right outside the Catskills  :P Heh just sayin!!

But regardless of my Ramblin' attendance, I'd love to meet up with everyone pre T-5! And maybe even just hang & tailgate too! (Bagpipes--how exciting!) I have a friend that lives just outside of Woodstock, and if he can get out of work on time, he'd love to hang and 'gate too if we can't actually get in! And br00ke if you'd need a ride from the pizza spot to the show, I could def. help ya out! Though if I can't meander in for the show, I probably won't be stickin around much after things get started (unless I can possibly hear anything from outside heh)

I think I'm stayin at the KOA tonight, so I should have wi-fi if the connection is kosher... If anyone knows of a ticket or spot available, please PM me!  8-) Hope to see everyone tomorrow anywho!

I just found out my flight to Ohio is cancelled due to strong winds so i cancelled my trip home. Turns out i'll be around this weekend.
YNWA call me!! I wanna go!!!
I need a ride and a ticket LOL!

i could give you a ride as i now have a rental car (a friend's corporate code = 1/3 the price, w00) .. but i am going up early to hang with a friend and am staying the night in phoenicia in an awkward spot that doesn't really have space for me (long story but friend broke up with BF and is living in the back of an art gallery she runs)

penny - i'll let ya know when i hear something.  

*fingers crossed*

as long as the mojo is flowing:  i am also going to be in woodstock w/o a ticket.  anyone who has a friend who cancels, let me know!

Hey everyone, I know this probably isn't the right place on the forum for me to post this but...

Is anyone planning on recording the Ramble tonight? I would be more than willing to pay for a decent quality audio of the show if that helps! I'm sooooo unbelievably bummed that I can't go and I thought I'd take a shot at the next best thing.

Hope those who are going enjoy the show! I think I can say with complete confidence that it's going to be an amazing night.

HAPPY RAMBLE DAY!

thanks for your scouting report woodnymph, much appreciated!  were you able to find a ticket?  if not - definitely come to the pre-ramble meetup & tailgate.  the more the merrier  :)  and yes, it looks as if the rain should have passed thru by then:

http://www.weather.com/weather/narrative/USNY0995?from=tenDay_bottomnav_undeclared

sweet pickles - it would be awesome if someone taped this show.  but i hear they are very strict w/ the no pictures or recording of any kind rule.  levon's rule, i think.

game plan:
meet up for drinks & a bite to eat - from 4pm til about 5:30
Catskill Mountain Pizza Company
51 Mill Hill Rd
Woodstock, NY 12498
(845) 679-7969
*site says it has a private parking lot but if not, there seems to be some lots nearby (see previous posts)
http://www.yelp.com/biz/catskill-mountain-pizza-company-woodstock

the pointers posted above by br00ke's seem like a great way to go about insuring a good spot in line & inside for the show  8-)

i'm going to PM everyone my # so we can all be in touch

see y'all later!!!  it's gonna be such an awesome night

You can't really get in the parking lot without a ticket.
You'd have to turn back and go back down the driveway opposite of all the cars coming up. I wouldn't recommend it. Just FYI.  

Wish I was joining today.  Hope you all have a great time!

And YNWA hope yours is extra special, bday girl!  ;)

Thanks for the invite, ynwa, HAPPY BDAY RAMBLE! It's SUCH a beautiful day, still chilly but glad it's not a Snowy Ramble  :-X And thanks for the lookout, Penny! I wonder how long that driveway is, I drove past it yesterday but didn't wanna be the lunatic the day before ramble spying on his property heheh with this gorgeous NON-RAINY-FINALLY weather I have no qualms with parking a mile away to join everyone if I can't get in  8-)

Well it seems I've slept in past my predetermined time (the car is warrrmmm!) but it's SO f'n NICE OUT I need to get into those mountains!! Hopefully I'll catch everyone at the pie spot! I REALLY recommend a little stroll through the 'stock, it's overflowing with art and flowers and history, amongst other awesomeness! AHHHHH today will be AWESOMMME!  8-)

QuoteWish I was joining today.  Hope you all have a great time!

And YNWA hope yours is extra special, bday girl!  ;)

thank ya thank ya thank ya.  wish you were coming too lil sis.

QuoteThanks for the invite, ynwa, HAPPY BDAY RAMBLE! It's SUCH a beautiful day, still chilly but glad it's not a Snowy Ramble  :-X And thanks for the lookout, Penny! [highlight]I wonder how long that driveway is, I drove past it yesterday but didn't wanna be the lunatic the day before ramble spying on his property heheh[/highlight] with this gorgeous NON-RAINY-FINALLY weather I have no qualms with parking a mile away to join everyone if I can't get in  8-)

Well it seems I've slept in past my predetermined time (the car is warrrmmm!) but it's SO f'n NICE OUT I need to get into those mountains!! Hopefully I'll catch everyone at the pie spot! I REALLY recommend a little stroll through the 'stock, it's overflowing with art and flowers and history, amongst other awesomeness! AHHHHH today will be AWESOMMME!  8-)

[highlight]hilarious![/highlight]

thanks woodnymph!  enjoy the beautiful morning & see ya later!

Really interested to hear about this night and see a set list. Have fun everyone! If they aren't strict, recording would be awesome - but don't get yourselves kicked out if you're trying.

A great time for all who is going...Have a lot of fun for all of us who couldn't make it. Enjoy the area too; Woodstock and the catskills has a special place in my heart and wish I could be there tonight!

Oh yeah and tell Levon and Yim I said hello if you get some face time!  ;)

hello from woodstock / phoenicia :) incredible drive up .. hanging with a friend from college and will hopefully grab a light bite to eat and watch some football. looking forward to the meetup .. just realized i don't know what most of you look like so if you see me say hi .. i have brown hair, bangs, hair in a bun with a white flower in my hair.

rock on \m/ \m/

Enjoy your day in Woodstock, and show tonight,everyone.

Also a Happy Birthday to you ynwa! What a great way to spend your day.  8-)

Enjoy and I look forward to hearing about it next week.

Happy Birthday Liz, have a great time tonight and probably one of the best BDay celebrations ever!!

Hope to see you Monday at T5 or McGee's first.

Can't wait to hear about THIS show!

I wish I was in Woodstock...this is the best MMJ month ever.... :D

Yes yes yes

yes yes yes yes

after last night's setlist, guessing this is gonna be a continuation of surprises

from what I remember..not in order..Golden, I'm Amazed, Gideon, The Way That He Sings, What A Wonderful Man, Smokin From Shootin, Anytime, OBH, Nashville to Kentucky...Wonderful....Jim sang It Makes No Difference with Levon's band which was worth the price of the ticket alone..the entire band joined for The Weight.  I was standing 3 ft from Jim during Levon's set (he remembered me from meeting him the night before and thanked me for coming!)..him and Patrick could not of been having a better time...just rocking out to every song.  MMJ set was killer, we were up behind the stage rocking out.  It was an amazing night.  Levon's set ended with It Makes No Difference, King Harvest, Chest Fever and The Weight.  Donald Fagan was there, Danny Louis from Gov't Mule...and a few other guests.  Just awesome!

Oh and Jann Wenner from Rolling Stone was rockin out front row.  He was really into MMJ.  Can you say cover??

QuoteOh and Jann Wenner from Rolling Stone was rockin out front row.  He was really into MMJ.  Can you say cover??

I like this post!  I like everything about it!   :D

Quotefrom what I remember..not in order..

you nailed it !! in order ..

golden
i'm amazed
way he sings
gideon
nashville to kentucky
wonderful
smokin'
what a wonderful man
anytime
OBH

ahhhhmazing time last night, amazing!!!

oh christine .. sorry i didn't text you. i left my charger at home so i was out of pocket.

ah also .. nobody's told woodynymph's story. so she has been in woodstock the past few days & she's never had a ticket for this show. she met up with us at the pizza spot and we talked her into driving down into levon's and just say she thought she could come tailgate with us and pretend she didn't know that it wasn't allowed. WELL .. she did that and b/c traffic was backed up the driveway she had to sit by her car until the show finished loading in. she comes over to talk to us in line and they tell her she needs to wait in her car until she can leave ... and then i notice they kept talking and i'm like ... they are going to sell her a ticket! and that's exactly what happened .. pretty fucking magical !!

still up here and what a gorgeous day. i wish you could see the view from our back porch.

Quote

Quotefrom what I remember..not in order..

you nailed it !! in order ..

golden
i'm amazed
way he sings
gideon
nashville to kentucky
wonderful
smokin'
what a wonderful man
anytime
OBH

ahhhhmazing time last night, amazing!!!

oh christine .. sorry i didn't text you. i left my charger at home so i was out of pocket.

ah also .. nobody's told woodynymph's story. so she has been in woodstock the past few days & she's never had a ticket for this show. she met up with us at the pizza spot and we talked her into driving down into levon's and just say she thought she could come tailgate with us and pretend she didn't know that it wasn't allowed. WELL .. she did that and b/c traffic was backed up the driveway she had to sit by her car until the show finished loading in. she comes over to talk to us in line and they tell her she needs to wait in her car until she can leave ... and then i notice they kept talking and i'm like ... [highlight]they are going to sell her a ticket! and that's exactly what happened[/highlight] .. pretty fucking magical !!

still up here and what a gorgeous day. i wish you could see the view from our back porch.

That is so sweet...wow what a nice night. It most have been beautiful out with the stars & moon, crisp air...

badassery was rampant last night, that's for sure. and everyone there was absolutely lovely.

QuoteWELL .. she did that and b/c traffic was backed up the driveway she had to sit by her car until the show finished loading in. she comes over to talk to us in line and they tell her she needs to wait in her car until she can leave ... and then i notice they kept talking and i'm like ... they are going to sell her a ticket! and that's exactly what happened .. pretty fucking magical !!

What an awesome story!  So happy for Woodnymph and great to hear stories from all. :)

Pretty much the only way to sum up last night is EPIC. Easily the best concert experience of my life. Levon's house is a magical place. I felt lucky just being there.

MMJ's set was just perfect. I can't believe how much I'm Amazed has grown on me. I was never the biggest fan on the song but the last 2 times I have seen them play it they just absolutely kill it. It might have been my highlight from last night. Nashville to Kentucky was pure bliss and got me so excited for T5. They brought out Levon's horn section for OBH which brought the house down. Jim had some great stage banter about Levon's house, he told a great story about the last time they were there they watched a bear go head 1st into a dumpster for some ham. I was hoping they were going to play The Bear.

Levon's set was amazing. So many classic The Band tunes. Ophelia, Look Out Cleveland, Long Black Veil, It Makes No Difference, King Harvest, Chest Fever and The Weight.

They played some great covers, Sam Cooke's Ain't it Good News and Shakedown Street were 2 of my highlights.

I am not a Steely Dan fan but I was in awe of Donald Fagan. The man can sing and still rocks the keys. Larry Campbell is the fucking man, and Theresa Williams has an amazing voice.

I am def going to go to another Ramble sooner then later!

So great to meet so many of you last night both at the pizza place and at the show. So many great discussions about music. I am horrible with remembering names and I didn't get everybody's forum name but I know I am going to run into all of you at T5(I was the one in the Phillies hat with a moustache). Last night got me even more fired up for T5 then I already was.

It was a magical night!  We were literally looking down @ the band from the loft behind them.  Such a cool view!  Had an awesome time rockin out w/ brooke, woodnymph, bold & his friend greg & some cool kids who came in from colorado just for he ramble!

Awesome story #3 (bold & greg rockin out by/with jim, woodnymph gettin in):  After the mmj set, a woman who we were chatted w/ while waitin to get in came up into the loft, grab-hugged brooke's arm & was like, " you girls are doing a great job rocking out up here!  I was watching you & you know all the words..."  she also said she loved mmj  :)

Carl reached up & shook a couple of our hands after their set.  And i got a selist!

The music was fantastic!  Standouts for me were, oh, all of them.  Haha.  Carl played sax on Nashville To Ky.  sexy. Loved the version of shakedown street w/ donald fagan on keys & lead vocals.  Boogied down to that  :D.

Such a great vibe in that place.  So good to meet so many of you & look forward to seeing you again his week!

Excellent birthday, eric & headhunter - thanks guys.  We will def chat @ mcgees!

QuoteSo good to meet so many of you & look forward to seeing you again his week!

don't cha mean tomorrow!!?! haha!! i can't believe the machine of shows starts up tomorrow!! so stoked for the drive back to nyc, it's beyond gorgeous out !!

OMG!!! LAST NIGHT WAS EPIC! LIFE CHANGING.... I AM SPEACHLESS... OR SHALL I SAY WORDLESS. I FEEL SO BLESSED   :)

I am SO happy for all you good folks who made it to the ramble.
Can't wait to hear more when I see ya at McGees.

Can't wait to get to McGees-- NEVER been so excited for a Monday.   :D

This thread is so spiritual. I love it.
Great reports. Jann wenner, it's about f-in time for a cover!!

This is so fantastic!  I love that you got a setlist on your birthday Liz!  So happy for all you guys and gals, and see you all...um...


[size=22]TOMORROW[/size]
Insane....

QuoteIt was a magical night!  We were literally looking down @ the band from the loft behind them.  Such a cool view!  Had an awesome time rockin out w/ brooke, woodnymph, bold & his friend greg & some cool kids who came in from colorado just for he ramble!

Awesome story #3 (bold & greg rockin out by/with jim, woodnymph gettin in):  After the mmj set, a woman who we were chatted w/ while waitin to get in came up into the loft, grab-hugged brooke's arm & was like, " you girls are doing a great job rocking out up here!  I was watching you & you know all the words..."  she also said she loved mmj  :)

Carl reached up & shook a couple of our hands after their set.  And i got a selist!

The music was fantastic!  Standouts for me were, oh, all of them.  Haha.  Carl played sax on Nashville To Ky.  sexy. Loved the version of shakedown street w/ donald fagan on keys & lead vocals.  Boogied down to that  :D.

Such a great vibe in that place.  So good to meet so many of you & look forward to seeing you again his week!

Excellent birthday, eric & headhunter - thanks guys.  We will def chat @ mcgees!

What a great birthday present for you!!!!!

Reading these posts made me a little teary-eyed. So glad everyone had an amazing time. :)

Quote
I am SO happy for all you good folks who made it to the ramble.
Can't wait to hear more when I see ya at McGees.

Can't wait to get to McGees-- NEVER been so excited for a Monday.   :D

Took the words right out of my mouth Jeff!

Couldn't be there but felt I was there in spirit. So glad for all of you who got to experience this.

Definitely want to hear some more details first hand at McGees.

Liz strikes again with a setlst and on your birthday. How cool is that! 8-)  

From Twiiter, cool!

(http://desmond.yfrog.com/Himg521/scaled.php?tn=0&server=521&filename=su3w.jpg&xsize=640&ysize=640)

just made it back to brooklyn .. gorgeous drive back while still buzzing from last night's show. i can't believe i get to do it all again tomorrow!!

my favorite part last night .. i think it was during smokin' .. jim turned around and it felt like we head-banged it out together. we were so close!!!!! an amazing experience for sure & so great to meet you guys  :)

I'm so jealous, this sounds like a musical event of epic proportions. Glad everyone had a great time.

Did anyone get any pics inside?

CAN NOT HABLA. SI SENORITAS Y SENIORS. FTW.

:o :o :o :o :o

Woodstock might have to become a place of residence for me.............

(http://www.pic4ever.com/images/2uge4p4.gif)(http://www.pic4ever.com/images/2uge4p4.gif) (http://www.pic4ever.com/images/treeswing.gif)  

br00ke, ynwa, I'M NOT WORTHY!!! You gals made the night, it was your magick mojos that helped pull all the strings! (http://www.pic4ever.com/images/worship.gif)(http://www.pic4ever.com/images/worship.gif)(http://www.pic4ever.com/images/thankyou.gif) and it was all you crazy cats that made it happen, thank you toooooo! it was so awesome to meet you all before the terminal fiveality *group hug!!!*(http://www.pic4ever.com/images/grouphugg.gif)

oh and br00ke thanks for the story-telling, i'm not online a whole super bunch on the road and appreciate story-sharing! and sorry i couldn't reply to posts the day of the ramble, i just woke up and signed on for 10 mins or so and took off into the Catskills! WHAT GORGEOUS WEATHER-- I will have to post a couple pics eventually!

I have more to write but I'm at camp again tonight after a long rendezvous with the city! And gotta ready up the t5 wagon for a good night's rest before an early start into the city again tomorrow! Oh what will the morrow bring.....

Just thanks everyone for your great awesome sweetness! You all made it so special!!  [smiley=grin.gif] [smiley=grin.gif] [smiley=vrolijk_26.gif]

News ArchivePublished: 2010/10/17

My Morning Jacket, Danny Louis and Donald Fagen Ramble with Levon HelmMy Morning Jacket opened for Levon Helm last night. The performance took place right outside Woodstock, NY in Helm's studio/performance space as part of his series of Midnight Rambles. In preparation for its multi-night run at Terminal 5—where the band will run through all five of its albums in their entirety—MMJ dusted off some earlier songs like "The Way That He Sings" and "Nashville To Kentucky." The band also offered "Wonderful (The Way I Feel)," a song the band plans to record for its next studio record.
In addition to his steady touring band, Helm's backing group included Steely Dan frontman Donald Fagen. The Woodstock-area resident is currently married to the mother of Helm's daughter, Amy, and has regularly performed with The Band drummer over the past two years. In addition, Gov't Mule keyboardist Danny Louis, who also lives in the area, sat in a various points throughout the night. As expected, My Morning Jacket frontman Jim James joined The Levon Helm Band on The Band's "It Makes No Difference," a song MMJ recorded for a tribute album a few years ago. The members of My Morning Jacket also sat in on a sing-along version of "The Weight" that found Patrick Hallahan move from his drum kit to the microphone.
Jim James also joined Helm onstage in San Francisco this past August for an event tied to Outside Lands. MMJ will perform its first album The Tennessee Fire in its entirety at at Terminal 5 tomorrow.

jim james singing it makes no difference w/ levon's band .. video  (http://www.jambands.com/news/2010/10/17/my-morning-jacket-danny-louis-and-donald-fagen-ramble-with-levon-helm/)

QuoteOMG!!! LAST NIGHT WAS EPIC! LIFE CHANGING.... I AM SPEACHLESS... OR SHALL I SAY WORDLESS. I FEEL SO BLESSED   :)

YES!!!

oh yeah - the bagpipes were a huge hit too!  (i think it was) the same woman who grab-hugged br00ke's arm was totally lovin it while staniding in line  :)

truely one of the coolest concert experiences ever.  i felt like i was @ a friend's house party & they had awesome bands playing.  literally they were right there, not a bad seat/spot in the place (but i think we had the sweetest spot of all).  small, intimate, good vibes all around.

i loved watching patrick watch levon's set.  he was totally digging it!

trish & eric - the setlist gods did smile down upon me again.  so effing cool  :)

woodnymph!!!!  so so so happy you got in - that was karma workin in your favor, girl!

some awesome pics - br00ke & woodnymph are in the 5th one - hello ladies!!!  way to rep the forum:
http://encoremag.com/new-york/articles/9260/photos-levon-helms-midnight-ramble

no cameras allowed inside for us regular folk.  luckily, there were some pros there to document.  the pics looking down on the band - that's where we were!! i literally had to move over a little & restrain myself from dancing too hard so as to not bump him while he shot thoese pics   ;D  8-)

still in la-la land from saturday.  cannot wait til later.  i am getting zero work done today  :D

Quote

i loved watching patrick watch levon's set.  he was totally digging it!

YES .. i loved that!!! patrick was having a great time + looking sharp in his suit.

good find on the pix. i think there will be some more up from levon's own people at a later date. i'm really hoping to find a pic that has all of us behind the band but most pix i've seen from those shows are tight shots of the band only (which makes sense)

oh and liz .. that woman we made friends with, i later saw her up and dancing herself. i like to think we helped inspired her to ditch the sitting and shake it  :)

Quote

Quote

i loved watching patrick watch levon's set.  he was totally digging it!

YES .. i loved that!!! patrick was having a great time + looking sharp in his suit.

good find on the pix. i think there will be some more up from levon's own people at a later date. i'm really hoping to find a pic that has all of us behind the band but most pix i've seen from those shows are tight shots of the band only (which makes sense)

oh and liz .. that woman we made friends with, i later saw her up and dancing herself. i like to think we helped inspired her to ditch the sitting and shake it  :)

yes, he did look very snazzy!

i've been doing the same thing - hoping we end up in a photo somewhere.  well, so long as we don't look completely spastic.  who am kidding - i WAS completely spastic.  hahaha

that's awesome our friend was up & dancing too, i didn't see that.  of course we inspired her  ;)  i'm sure she is a mmj fan now too.  she loved their set!    

Quotejim james singing it makes no difference w/ levon's band .. video  (http://www.jambands.com/news/2010/10/17/my-morning-jacket-danny-louis-and-donald-fagen-ramble-with-levon-helm/)

I put this up at first too...but its actually from San Fran..not the ramble..still awesome!

Quote

Quotejim james singing it makes no difference w/ levon's band .. video  (http://www.jambands.com/news/2010/10/17/my-morning-jacket-danny-louis-and-donald-fagen-ramble-with-levon-helm/)

I put this up at first too...but its actually from San Fran..not the ramble..still awesome!

touché .. you are correct! sorta mis-leading to throw it up with the ramble article (if your not paying attention, which i clearly wasn't ;))

rolling stone article (http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/51942/222842) about the show is up with pictures

It was well past midnight when Levon Helm called opening act My Morning Jacket back to the stage to close out their epic concert with a euphoric rendition of "The Weight," featuring Helm, Jim James and Steely Dan's Donald Fagen swapping lead vocals. It was the perfect way to Saturday's majestic Midnight Ramble, part of a regular series of concerts held in a barn at Helm's Woodstock, N.Y. home, and featuring a rotating cast of local musicians and special guests. Helm recently had a procedure to remove a growth on his vocal chords, and yet he belted out the "Go down Miss Moses" verse like it was 1968, and was beaming uncontrollably.

Four and a half hours earlier My Morning Jacket took the stage in the tiny barn, which was filled to capacity with fans shocked they were about to see an arena-level band play to a crowd of about 250 people. Opening with a tender acoustic version of "Golden," the group played an hour-long set that drew from every one of their five albums, just two days before they begin playing them in sequence at New York's Terminal 5. By the second song, "I'm Amazed," they plugged in and rocked out as if they were at Madison Square Garden. "Can you believe we're all here?" frontman Jim James asked the crowd midway through the set. "To say it's an honor would be an understatement. If you've been here before you know what a gift from god it is. If if you haven't, you're about to get your mind blown."

It was evident from the opening moments of "Ophelia" that Jim James was right. Although Helm is still recovering from the throat surgery and preserving his voice, on this Band chestnut he let loose. For most of the night he stayed behind the drum kit and let his incredible band — which includes his daughter Amy Helm, Donald Fagen, guitarist Larry Campell and his wife Teresa Williams — handle the singing. One of the great joys of the Midnight Rambles is to watch the seventy-year old Helm flawlessly play the drums as he grins from ear to ear. My Morning Jacket drummer Patrick Hallahan sat about four feet behind the kit all night, watching Helm's every move.

The set list was, in many ways, a journey through the Great American Songbook. Forty-three years ago Bob Dylan gave the Band a musical history lesson during the early Basement Tapes sessions, teaching them material ranging from from the Carter Family to the Impressions. Although Levon was absent from most of those sessions, his shows draw from the same songbook — though it has now been updated to include everything from Steely Dan to the Grateful Dead and, of course, the Band. Fagen, who spent behind the piano on the far left side of the stage, took lead on a jazzy "Shakedown Street," Steely Dan's "Black Friday" and the Band's "King Harvest (Has Surely Come)." He's described these shows as the most musically rewarding thing he does, and his presence elevated the evening to an even higher level.

The group was lead by Larry Campbell, whose tenure as Bob Dylan's guitarist from 1997 to 2004 coincides with the greatest period of the Never Ending Tour. He played on far bigger stages in those days, but it's easy to tell he prefers the musical freedom Dylan's former drummer gives him. He sang lead on a killer "Chest Fever," which he proceeded with a long guitar solo. Teresa Williams sang a delicate "Long Black Veil," while guest Happy Traum (introduced as the "unofficial musical mayor of Woodstock") reached way back to the 1930's with a sing-along version of Blind Boy Fuller's "Step It Up and Go."

Jim James spent most of the show sitting on a staircase near the back corner of the stage, mesmerized, and occasionally playing air drums. Near the end of the set he was called back onstage to sing "It Makes No Difference," which he covered on a Band tribute album three years ago. Summoning the spirit of Rick Danko, James belted much of the song out with his eyes closed. It was easily one of the night's high points. Afterward, James stuck around near the stage as the audience and musicians began to filter out. "That was so emotional," James told Rolling Stone. "Rick Danko is one of my favorite singers and musicians. That song has always meant a lot to me. Playing it here tonight is beyond anything I thought could have happened in my life. When I saw the light shining down on Levon here I thought we were all in heaven. This is as good as life can get."

Quoterolling stone article (http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/51942/222842) about the show is up with pictures

It was well past midnight when Levon Helm called opening act My Morning Jacket back to the stage to close out their epic concert with a euphoric rendition of "The Weight," featuring Helm, Jim James and Steely Dan's Donald Fagen swapping lead vocals. It was the perfect way to Saturday's majestic Midnight Ramble, part of a regular series of concerts held in a barn at Helm's Woodstock, N.Y. home, and featuring a rotating cast of local musicians and special guests. Helm recently had a procedure to remove a growth on his vocal chords, and yet he belted out the "Go down Miss Moses" verse like it was 1968, and was beaming uncontrollably.

Four and a half hours earlier My Morning Jacket took the stage in the tiny barn, which was filled to capacity with fans shocked they were about to see an arena-level band play to a crowd of about 250 people. Opening with a tender acoustic version of "Golden," the group played an hour-long set that drew from every one of their five albums, just two days before they begin playing them in sequence at New York's Terminal 5. By the second song, "I'm Amazed," they plugged in and rocked out as if they were at Madison Square Garden. "Can you believe we're all here?" frontman Jim James asked the crowd midway through the set. "To say it's an honor would be an understatement. If you've been here before you know what a gift from god it is. If if you haven't, you're about to get your mind blown."

It was evident from the opening moments of "Ophelia" that Jim James was right. Although Helm is still recovering from the throat surgery and preserving his voice, on this Band chestnut he let loose. For most of the night he stayed behind the drum kit and let his incredible band — which includes his daughter Amy Helm, Donald Fagen, guitarist Larry Campell and his wife Teresa Williams — handle the singing. One of the great joys of the Midnight Rambles is to watch the seventy-year old Helm flawlessly play the drums as he grins from ear to ear. My Morning Jacket drummer Patrick Hallahan sat about four feet behind the kit all night, watching Helm's every move.

The set list was, in many ways, a journey through the Great American Songbook. Forty-three years ago Bob Dylan gave the Band a musical history lesson during the early Basement Tapes sessions, teaching them material ranging from from the Carter Family to the Impressions. Although Levon was absent from most of those sessions, his shows draw from the same songbook — though it has now been updated to include everything from Steely Dan to the Grateful Dead and, of course, the Band. Fagen, who spent behind the piano on the far left side of the stage, took lead on a jazzy "Shakedown Street," Steely Dan's "Black Friday" and the Band's "King Harvest (Has Surely Come)." He's described these shows as the most musically rewarding thing he does, and his presence elevated the evening to an even higher level.

The group was lead by Larry Campbell, whose tenure as Bob Dylan's guitarist from 1997 to 2004 coincides with the greatest period of the Never Ending Tour. He played on far bigger stages in those days, but it's easy to tell he prefers the musical freedom Dylan's former drummer gives him. He sang lead on a killer "Chest Fever," which he proceeded with a long guitar solo. Teresa Williams sang a delicate "Long Black Veil," while guest Happy Traum (introduced as the "unofficial musical mayor of Woodstock") reached way back to the 1930's with a sing-along version of Blind Boy Fuller's "Step It Up and Go."

Jim James spent most of the show sitting on a staircase near the back corner of the stage, mesmerized, and occasionally playing air drums. Near the end of the set he was called back onstage to sing "It Makes No Difference," which he covered on a Band tribute album three years ago. Summoning the spirit of Rick Danko, James belted much of the song out with his eyes closed. It was easily one of the night's high points. Afterward, James stuck around near the stage as the audience and musicians began to filter out. "That was so emotional," James told Rolling Stone. "Rick Danko is one of my favorite singers and musicians. That song has always meant a lot to me. Playing it here tonight is beyond anything I thought could have happened in my life. When I saw the light shining down on Levon here I thought we were all in heaven. This is as good as life can get."

there a few pictures in that article that showed some blurred out people where we were standing...but you can't make them out really...cool pix though..love the one of Jim and Levon.

additional RS article ;)

http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/51942/224517

SWEET MANNA HOW SUPREME!!! Just saw these last few posts today!!! What a great article.... captures the essence!! Great to see it in the Rolling Stone, too!! Wow... br00ke I need another pinch or two, it's happening again!!! (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-basic/cloud9.gif) (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

And Mike it was so cool to meet with you and hang out + share in this sacred event!!!!

Til next time!!! [smiley=beer.gif]

QuoteSWEET MANNA HOW SUPREME!!! Just saw these last few posts today!!! What a great article.... captures the essence!! Great to see it in the Rolling Stone, too!! Wow... br00ke I need another pinch or two, it's happening again!!! (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-basic/cloud9.gif) (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

And Mike it was so cool to meet with you and hang out + share in this sacred event!!!!

Til next time!!! [smiley=beer.gif]

Yes you too!  still can't believe how awesome that was.

Quote

Quoterolling stone article (http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/51942/222842) about the show is up with pictures

It was well past midnight when Levon Helm called opening act My Morning Jacket back to the stage to close out their epic concert with a euphoric rendition of "The Weight," featuring Helm, Jim James and Steely Dan's Donald Fagen swapping lead vocals. It was the perfect way to Saturday's majestic Midnight Ramble, part of a regular series of concerts held in a barn at Helm's Woodstock, N.Y. home, and featuring a rotating cast of local musicians and special guests. Helm recently had a procedure to remove a growth on his vocal chords, and yet he belted out the "Go down Miss Moses" verse like it was 1968, and was beaming uncontrollably.

Four and a half hours earlier My Morning Jacket took the stage in the tiny barn, which was filled to capacity with fans shocked they were about to see an arena-level band play to a crowd of about 250 people. Opening with a tender acoustic version of "Golden," the group played an hour-long set that drew from every one of their five albums, just two days before they begin playing them in sequence at New York's Terminal 5. By the second song, "I'm Amazed," they plugged in and rocked out as if they were at Madison Square Garden. "Can you believe we're all here?" frontman Jim James asked the crowd midway through the set. "To say it's an honor would be an understatement. If you've been here before you know what a gift from god it is. If if you haven't, you're about to get your mind blown."

It was evident from the opening moments of "Ophelia" that Jim James was right. Although Helm is still recovering from the throat surgery and preserving his voice, on this Band chestnut he let loose. For most of the night he stayed behind the drum kit and let his incredible band — which includes his daughter Amy Helm, Donald Fagen, guitarist Larry Campell and his wife Teresa Williams — handle the singing. One of the great joys of the Midnight Rambles is to watch the seventy-year old Helm flawlessly play the drums as he grins from ear to ear. My Morning Jacket drummer Patrick Hallahan sat about four feet behind the kit all night, watching Helm's every move.

The set list was, in many ways, a journey through the Great American Songbook. Forty-three years ago Bob Dylan gave the Band a musical history lesson during the early Basement Tapes sessions, teaching them material ranging from from the Carter Family to the Impressions. Although Levon was absent from most of those sessions, his shows draw from the same songbook — though it has now been updated to include everything from Steely Dan to the Grateful Dead and, of course, the Band. Fagen, who spent behind the piano on the far left side of the stage, took lead on a jazzy "Shakedown Street," Steely Dan's "Black Friday" and the Band's "King Harvest (Has Surely Come)." He's described these shows as the most musically rewarding thing he does, and his presence elevated the evening to an even higher level.

The group was lead by Larry Campbell, whose tenure as Bob Dylan's guitarist from 1997 to 2004 coincides with the greatest period of the Never Ending Tour. He played on far bigger stages in those days, but it's easy to tell he prefers the musical freedom Dylan's former drummer gives him. He sang lead on a killer "Chest Fever," which he proceeded with a long guitar solo. Teresa Williams sang a delicate "Long Black Veil," while guest Happy Traum (introduced as the "unofficial musical mayor of Woodstock") reached way back to the 1930's with a sing-along version of Blind Boy Fuller's "Step It Up and Go."

Jim James spent most of the show sitting on a staircase near the back corner of the stage, mesmerized, and occasionally playing air drums. Near the end of the set he was called back onstage to sing "It Makes No Difference," which he covered on a Band tribute album three years ago. Summoning the spirit of Rick Danko, James belted much of the song out with his eyes closed. It was easily one of the night's high points. Afterward, James stuck around near the stage as the audience and musicians began to filter out. "That was so emotional," James told Rolling Stone. "Rick Danko is one of my favorite singers and musicians. That song has always meant a lot to me. Playing it here tonight is beyond anything I thought could have happened in my life. When I saw the light shining down on Levon here I thought we were all in heaven. This is as good as life can get."

there a few pictures in that article that showed some blurred out people where we were standing...but you can't make them out really...cool pix though..love the one of Jim and Levon.

Awesome! Thanks so much for posting! What a night!!!

http://www.hearya.com/2010/11/08/my-morning-jacket-at-levon-helm-studios-part-ii-concert-review/

These once informal gatherings have taken on mythic, perhaps even religious, importance as fans and musicians continue to make the pilgrimage to Levon's Midnight Rambles. In fact, there's little that can be done to add to the joy of seeing Levon in what can only be described as the ultimate setting for live music. However, the addition of My Morning Jacket as the opening act is one thing that managed to elevate the experience on a recent Saturday in October.

Having attended a few Rambles over the years, we were uncertain as to how My Morning Jacket would approach their set, given the intimate confines of Levon's post and beam studio. However, this question was answered before the show even began as an all out soundcheck of "I'm Amazed" filtered through the woods to our car a ¼ mile away, where we sat anxiously waiting for the gates to open.

Once My Morning Jacket took the stage some two hours later, they thrilled and amazed the packed studio with a 10-song set that included tracks from each of their five studio albums. The mellow opener, "Golden," was followed by plugged in versions of "I'm Amazed," "The Way That He Sings," and "Gideon" that tested the structural integrity of Levon's barn. The magnificent pairing of Jim James's angelic voice with the pastoral setting was perhaps most evident on "Wonderful (The Way I Feel)," a song that will be included on the bands next LP. My Morning Jacket closed their set with the anthem, "One Big Holiday," which left the crowd incredulous that what had just concluded was merely the opening act.

After a brief intermission that allowed time to retrieve beverages from the car, and sample some of the offerings at the potluck style food spread, Levon took the stage and seemed determined not to be out done in his own home. Although his singing is limited to select songs as result of a recent procedure to remove a nonmalignant tumor from his vocal chords, Levon opened with a raucous "Opehlia" that showcased the emotion and depth of his voice. Throughout their almost three-hour set, members of The Levon Helm Band traded lead vocals, bringing a different sound to each song. Teresa Williams stepped up front for the oft-covered Lefty Frizzell song, "Long Black Veil." Later in the evening, Donald Fagen took the lead on a brilliant rendition of The Grateful Dead's "Shakedown Street." One of the night's most memorable moments came when Jim James was invited back to the stage to sing the part of Rick Danko on "It Makes No Difference", a song that My Morning Jacket had recorded for the 2007 tribute album, Endless Highway (Thankfully, recording devices are prohibited from use at The Midnight Ramble, but below is a video from a similar collaboration at this year's Outside Lands Festival).

The level of talent that Levon surrounds himself with is almost surreal, and their set would do well as a crash course on the history of American music. However, the enormity of Levon's presence commands the attention of the audience, which included the members of My Morning Jacket who were gathered behind his drum kit. Levon's nimble drumming leaves no doubt that he deserves the title, 'the greatest drummer', that was once bestowed upon him by Ringo Starr. The fact that Levon's singing is limited, gives those rare moments when he does sing an enormous sense of gravity. Subsequently, the crowd of roughly 250 people was awe struck when Levon retook the microphone for a haunting version of Bob Dylan's "Blind Willie McTell." The evening concluded as it traditionally does with a version of "The Weight," which on this night included all the members of My Morning Jacket. Jim James took the opening verse, while Levon offered his vocals on "go down Miss Moses." It's hard to imagine a better pairing of vocal talents, and a more perfect end to an extraordinary evening of music.

Hours earlier, during My Morning Jacket's set, Jim James expressed a prescient sentiment that accurately reflected how I believe everyone in the audience felt as the show ended, and night gave way to morning. He said "Can you believe we're all here? To say it's an honor would be an understatement."

Jim James with The Levon Helm Band – It Makes No Difference (Live at Outside Lands)

http://musicandies.com/?p=9330

"After the finale, they'd have the midnight ramble," Helm told Scorsese. With young children off the premises, the show resumed: "the songs would get a little bit juicier. The jokes would get a little funnier and the prettiest dancer would really get down and shake it a few times."

When Levon Helm, the legendary singer and drummer of The Band, was diagnosed with throat cancer in the late 1990s, the initial treatment suggested by his oncologist was to surgically remove his vocal chords. Luckily for us all, he immediately sought a second opinion from Sloan Kettering hospital and decided instead to pursue radiation treatment. Over the next five weeks, he endured 28 intensive sessions of radiation therapy, during which he was strapped down to a bed while doctors shot waves through three holes in his throat. The prognosis was that his vocal chords might not recover, and he was left mute for a considerable time. With enormous medical bills and unable to even speak, Levon admits it was a dark time, but making music was a way for him to confront his struggle. Reflecting on this period in a CBS interview Levon said, "Trying to make music is the best thing for pain, sadness, you know." Well, it turns out making music not only helped him confront the pain, but also led to a second act in his career.

The Levon Helm Midnight Rambles began in 2005 as informal musical gatherings in Levon's home studio in Woodstock, NY. The idea for the rambles arose because of the need to pay off his medical debts. As Levon explains, "And then after I got sick I needed money, I couldn't take a job. So we started puttin' on little mini concerts here inside the studio." Gathering together an assortment of local and NYC-based musicians, word of the Rambles quickly spread and soon enough they were packing the house every Saturday night. Miraculously, Levon's voice slowly emerged from its slumber and by 2006 his voice was back to about 70%.

Eventually, Levon recruited Larry Campbell, a veteran producer and multi-instrumentalist who played in Bob Dylan's band from 1997 to 2004, as bandleader. After playing together for a while, they began to consider recording an album. The resulting album, Dirt Farmer, was released in 2007 to critical acclaim and won The Levon Helm Band their first of two Grammy awards. Levon's daughter, Amy Helm, Larry's wife, Teresa Williams, Jimmy Weider (The Band's last guitarist), Jimmy Vivino, Mike Merritt, Brian Mitchell, Erik Lawrence, Steven Bernstein, Little Sammy Davis and more recently Donald Fagen of Steely Dan have been regular members of The Levon Helm Band.

Awesome articles & info you guys!! LIZ I can't believe I just noticed the link with the pic of Br00ke & meself! I was just so damn giddy my processing is still catching up!

I went to my friend's the other day who's been a drummer since I ever met him in 4th grade (one of the first people to really put me onto the Band), and his roommate has the book "This Wheel's On Fire" written by Levon, and I opened it up to take a peek and landed immediately on a chunk about Woodstock! Just proof that the magick that place puts out is somehow infinite... pics of Levon lookin' a helluva lot like Mr. James James back in the day too (freaky how similar!)

(http://www.moviepilot.de/files/images/0219/2388/LevonHelmMandolin_article.jpg)

Great book so far! Still reeling about that show.........