Artichoke music is a Portland OR, landmark! Founded in 1971 by Judith
Cook Tucker it was named Artichoke because "artichokes are all heart!"
Over the years, this establishment has changed locations and owners but
the core philosophy has remained constant. This is home to Portland's
Folk music community. Currently with Richard Columbo and Jay Morris at
the helm, Artichoke supports the musicians of the northwest with a nice
selection of instruments and a venue to perform.
So, on a rare sunny Portland afternoon in May, Artichoke offered up a
concert that was attractive enough to bring north westerners indoors....
Tony Kolenberg and Michael Manring!
As you enter the Artichoke Café through a side entrance, you are
absorbed into an intimate, old salon like setting with a compact stage
at one end and an assortment of tables and chairs that make you feel
more like home than a venue. A full house of Portland's eclectic music
lovers, beer, wine, snacks and light conversation completed the scene.
As the room was almost filled to capacity, I lucked out when a very
gracious couple offered me the extra seat at their table. (Thanks again
Folks!)
The show got underway with an opening act originally from New Zealand
named "Down Owens Lane". Folk music numbers with the acoustic guitars,
mandolin, clarinet and earthy vocals made me drift back to the 60's and
Joan Baez. (The surrounding audience's long hair, dreadlocks, beards
and Tie dye helped that time leap along)
For the main event, guitarist Tony Kaltenberg and Michael Manring took
the stage. (To be joined shortly after by percussionist
Jarrod Kaplan) The combination of steel string acoustic guitar, Djembe
drums, hand cymbals, ankle bells, and fretless bass wove an intricate
tapestry of harmony, rhythm, and emotions. Playing off each other,
these extraordinary musicians spoke to us in a purely instrumental,
higher language that kept the house enthralled in silent awe. Creative
freedom was manifest, and captivated the crowd.
