Front woman and songwriter Christa DeCicco’s velvety voice is earning her a reputation for being one of the finest up-and-coming jazz singers.  The group takes the shape of an old style string band. Worn suitcases and vintage clothes from the 1920s-1950s give the band a nostalgic ambiance.  The original songs with the Johns’ doo-wop harmonies are especially captivating. The group can often be found in thrift stores hunting for clip-on ties and cocktail dresses as they travel from town to town.  

Kicking off the first show of the Paonia series will be local musician extraordinaire, Russ Chapman, playing his original, creative style of Americana music.

The rollicking country swing of the Sweetback Sisters is as infectious as it is heartbreaking. Their charismatic charm harkens back to the golden era of both the silver screen cowgirl and the ersatz cowboy stars of local UHF TV kiddie shows. That whimsical exterior is wrapped around a core of deeply felt love for traditional country music styles and a palpable joy in playing and singing together.

Opening set by The Plowboys featuring award-winning songwriter Mike Finders of Finders & Youngberg with Bill Powers from Sweet Sunny South.

Denver trumpeter Ron Miles’ resume includes time with Bill Frisell, Elvis Costello, and the Ellington Orchestra.  Besides being solicited all over the world for his unique sound, Ron is a staple of the Denver jazz scene and his recent releases as band leader show off his skills as a composer and arranger as well as a “phenomenally gifted trumpeter” (Bill Milkowski).

Opening set from Virginia-based Honey Dewdrops singing beautiful folk music with incredible harmonies.

Caleb Klauder and his All-Star Country Band! Portland based songwriter, vocalist and instrumentalist Caleb Klauder has been performing professionally for over fifteen years, and has contributed to a number of successful musical groups including the Foghorn Stringband, Pig Iron, and Calobo.

Opening set by Wild Earl (Betse Ellis from The Wilders and KC Groves from Uncle Earl)