Getting Down and Dirty at Rhythm and Roots

Rhythm and Roots, Rhode Island’s annual extravaganza of blues, soul and all things Mardi Gras, returns to Ninigret Park in Charlestown this Labor Day weekend, August 31 through September 2. Expect eclectic entertainment from across the spectrum, with Friday’s line-up including Cape Verdean traditional storyteller Len Cabral, local Cajun band Magnolia, and New Orleans’ grooviest secret, Big Sam’s Funky Nation, before Steve Earle, the Dukes and their old friend the blues bring the evening to a rollicking conclusion.

Canadian Folk Music Young Performers of the Year, Feufollet, is an exciting new project out of Newfoundland that  will be sharing Saturday’s line-up with Los Texmanics (an explosion of Texas-rock, Mexican traditional grooves and pure, unapologetic blues), the astounding power and creativity of Dustbowl Revival, and the band with the best name in the business, Leftover Salmon.

The festival’s breathless pace continues into the final day. Not only will Sunday see legendary outfit Hot Rize share the stage with Red Knuckles & the Trailblazers, but old-time blues royalty Taj Mahal Trio will close the three-day shebang with all the energy of a caffeinated chihuahua.

But that’s not all. An extensive variety of food vendors will provide your tongue with endless pleasures, while craft stalls will be showing-off (and selling) the very best in handmade art. And don’t forget to attend the traditional Native American blessing ceremony on Friday morning, headed by local Narragansett elder Dawn Dove. Want to make a trip of it? Camping, as well as glamping, is available for all shapes and sizes of overnight accommodation.

Tickets are still available, and can be purchased directly from the event website: rhythmandroots.com/tickets