Folk at the New Bedford Summerfest

July 01, 2011|By James Reed, Globe Staff

Upholding a long tradition of celebrating folk music from around the world, The Greater New Bedford Summerfest appeals not only to the ear, but also to the feet and the stomach. As you crisscross the cobblestone streets this weekend, there’s music emanating from every corner, in addition to dancing and vendors peddling the city’s fabled Portuguese food. (Insider’s tip: Go with the linguica.) Over two days, highlights abound; here are a few you shouldn’t miss.

“THOUGH I’VE BEEN FROM MAINE TO MEXICO: MUSIC OF FAR-OFF PLACES’’ In-the-round workshops are a staple of folk festivals, and this one showcases an array of styles. Massachusetts roots luminaries Antje Duvekot and Mark Erelli will be joined by Italian multi-instrumentalist Livio Guardi and Celtic-flavored band the Outside Track. Saturday, 1:30-2:45 p.m., Centre Street Stage.

VISHTÉN Composed of seventh-generation Acadians, this acoustic trio preserves French-Canadian musical traditions while making them new and exciting again. Saturday, 2:30-3:30 p.m., Custom House Stage.

“HE WAS HER MAN BUT HE DONE HER WRONG: SONGS OF LOVE GONE WRONG’’ Hell hath no fury like a folkie scorned. Cliff Eberhardt, Mark Johnson, Duvekot, and Liz Longley will get to the bottom of love on the rocks. Saturday, 5-6:15 p.m., Kruger/Water Street Stage.

SLOAN WAINWRIGHT Celebrating a new album, “Upside Down & Under My Heart,’’ Wainwright is always a pleasure to behold live. The way her voice rumbles like thunder on a mountaintop will make you a believer. Sunday, noon-12:50 p.m., Meet the Performer National Park Theater.

“DARLING, WON’T YOU EASE MY WORRIED MIND: INSPIRATIONS FOR MY MUSIC’’ It’s a broad topic for the broad range of talent in its lineup of contemporary singer-songwriters, including Eliza Gilkyson, Caroline Herring, Steve Tilston, and John Gorka. Sunday, 1-2:15 p.m., Custom House Stage.

“FROM SEA TO SHINING SEA: SONGS & MUSIC OF AMERICA’’ Just in time for July Fourth, this workshop will salute patriotism through song. With bluegrass ensemble NewFound Road, Americana revivalists QuasiModal String Band, singer-songwriter Ellis Paul, and Italian troubadour Beppe Gambetta. Sunday, 5-6:15 p.m. Custom House Stage.

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