The Airtight Bridge is one of the more important and infamous crossings on the Embarras (pronounced: "Am-braw") River just outside of Charleston, IL.
Airtight (the stringband) embodies some pretty significant bridging of its own with ages spanning four decades and portfolios ranging from Homespun to Handel.
John and Steve, the elder members of Airtight, were members of the renouned Indian Creek Delta Boys oldtime stringband of the 1970s-90s. Of core significance to Airtight's repertoire are selections they field collected in downstate Illinois from the last generation of "pre-commercial" players.
The instrumentals are largely the dance music of windburned, tough-as-leather prairie folks at the turn of a previous century. Proudly unsophisticated and self-sufficient clodhppers--and they liked it steppy.
The two younger members of Airtight grew up in musical families, Jesse's father having been a member of the Indain Creek Delta Boys and JB's mother a local music teacher and choir director. Like most kids their age they are interested in all kinds of music, but enjoy the hard-driving and fun-loving nature of old-time string band music.
"Ticklin' The Strings" by Sweet Hollywaiians
Amazing Japanese hot string band playing 1920's, 30's, 40's style hawaiian, swing, calypso, blues, italian music and originals,featuring vintage instruments.3 songs with Robert Armstrong and Tony Marcus(from Robert Crumb and His Cheap Suit Serenaders)
"The Sweet Hollywaiians have probably the best feel for this 20's music of any string band working today. They manage the rare feat of sounding relaxed even when their playing is hot, are top notch musicians with tasteful arrangements and a full, rich, warm sound.Plus, they have a nice gamut of tunes, from King Nawahi to Giovanni Vicari to Bobby Leecan. See them live, if you can, for an unforgettable experience. If you can't, buy their Cds!" ~ Terry Zwigoff
Just wondering if anyone was wanting to have some art done. I'm in dire need of the work so feel free to pass the word. Also doing trades, and willing to travel abit if nesssecary...Prefferably for tattoo parties if that's a concept . I also do traditional art, photo-retouching and fixing and portraitures, etc...
Still offering exceptional deals on tattoos! I may also be able to travel! Also up for some trade work for various items or services. Pass the word and give me a call with any ideas you may have. Check out my new pics and songs if you haven't already.
Here's wishing you the happiest of Holiday Seasons. May all of your dreams come true. I took this photo a few years ago on a cold winter day in the old part of Bratislava, Slovakia, about an hour's train ride from Vienna.
Ok - sometime within the next month, me and Smith will be in town, and when we are, you'll be the first to know (besides my mom because . . well . . she's my mom).
