Shannon and the Clams at Treefort

TREEFORT DAY 1

This first day of Treefort is a sure sign that this weekend is going to have the biggest crowds we have ever seen. Hundreds upon hundreds of bicycles were lined up and stacked on top of each other, and it’s only Wednesday!

In order to rally for this huge event, I’ve decided to pace myself. Today was spent watching several smaller bands on pub stages, tons of people-watching, running into friends, and watching people heckle a loud street preacher with a mobile amp. I’m still trying to figure out if it was some kind of show.

I had a great time watching Shannon and the Clams! We had originally booked a session with them, but a conflict came up. We had also booked Wilderado on Friday, but they got an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel! The promise to do a session when they return to Boise to open for Mt. Joy.

Shannon and the Clams have a really fun retro sound. People just getting off work showed up to grab a cold drink and expose their wintered skin to the amazing sunshine. I grabbed a video, sorry that it’s a bit jumpy because there were literally a dozen people running in front of me. I really hope this band returns soon!

Treefort steel cups are $8, tokens are $4 each, and it takes 2 tokens to purchase a beer, so $8 beers this year. The Po Po is everywhere, so ride your bike or get rides home if you can. They are watching closely.

Please tune in Friday at noon, as I’ll have a visit and a few songs from Oregon artist Margo Cilker. When I listened to her, I got a feeling and thought, “there’s something about her.” She feels like she’s “one to watch.” Press like No Depression, Paste Magazine, and NPR have raved about her music, saying her album was the best country album of 2021. It’s going to be so great to have her in for some songs. Here is her song, “That River.” Watch out for a couple F-bombs if you’re at work. You’ll likely recognize some of the scenery in this video, and a beautiful nod to Basque culture. Margo will play the Basque Center Friday night, and a Second Chance show at Modern on Saturday,

Listen for her at noon Friday for Lunch in the Library! Margo Cilker has been touring some with Hayes Carll, who plays Boise’s Olympic Venue 4/20. I am seeing his name everywhere. The show is sold out, but we WILL have a few free tickets! There are so many styles and artists at Treefort. It’s hard enough to watch them all, but we are contacted by tons of artists wanting interviews. I’ve heard from quite a few rap/hip hop artists, but it’s just not in our wheelhouse.

We’ll do our best to cover a few of the Second Chance Record Exchange shows. I’m waiting to hear back from managers regarding video permission of a few groups.

I’m pretty darned excited to see Austin Texas blues artist Jackie Venson at the Main Stage on Friday. She’s played Boise a few times and I’ve never been able to catch her.

Enjoy Treefort! Hug your friends, find a ride home. Remember important things like hydration, sunscreen, phone charger, and earplugs. If your dog can’t wear earplugs, please don’t take them to the loudest stages in town? Pace yourself, we’ve got 4 more days!