What to KnowRoots & RailsLos Angeles Union StationMay 27 to 10 p.m.Free, but be sure to RSVP ahead of timeSeating is “first come, first served”Presented by Metro Art in partnership with The Bluegrass Situation
While trains, railroads, and locomotives can colorfully cameo in all sorts of songs, genres, and musical styles, the choo-choo, on-the-go life frequently appears, with pathos and beauty, in bluegrass tunes.
Call it RailGrass if you like or simply think of one or two bluegrassy gems that talk about train depots and roundhouse romances; there is plenty to enjoy over the decades.
Now a “first-of-its-kind” bluegrass concert is breaking out the fiddles and bows at one of our city’s most aurally and visually exquisite spaces, the historic Ticket Concourse at Los Angeles Union Station.
Presented by Metro Art in partnership with The Bluegrass Situation, Roots & Rails will feature a host of acclaimed acts, including Watkins Family Hour, Sunny War, and Crying Uncle Bluegrass Band.
While entry is free, you’ll want to RSVP. And seats will be limited, available to the “first come” set.
Arriving by Metro? Be sure to present your TAP card when you arrive at the concert and you just might receive some nifty Metro goodies; the first 40 people to break out their trusty TAP card upon entering will leaving with some cool swag.
Will any songs about trains be performed during the night devoted to “live music and community” in a storied place known for meeting up and crossing paths?
It’s a perfect location for a heartfelt of exploration of bluegrass and roots classics and newer fare.
For even if a train isn’t mentioned in a song, every bluegrass ditty feels like a journey of sorts, something that the emotive genre has in common with the rails it so dearly loves.