One
of Michigan’s Finest – The Ragbirds Come to Canal Street Tavern
Written by Jimmy Cummings
My first encounter with The Ragbirds was a couple of
weeks ago the The Werk Out Music and Arts Festival. The band from Ann Arbor,
Michigan put on quite a show at the caverns and when they collaborated with
Ganga Giri I was absolutely blown away. The one bad thing about their set was
that it was it only lasted an hour; that’s why I was stoked when I found out they
were coming to Canal Street with special guests Boogie Matrix Mechanism; finally,
a chance to hear a full set of music.
The Ragbirds are one of the most eclectic bands I
have ever seen. The band derives its unique sound from a host of musical
influences that span the globe; their live show is like taking a musical expedition
around the world. The band is led by the very talented Erin Zindle (Vocals,
Violin, Mandolin, Accordion, and Banjo); Zindle’s musicianship is one of the
things that will catch your attention when you witness the band for the first
time the other is her angelic voice. Together with husband and Percussionist Randal
Moore (Congas, Tabla, Bongos, Timbales), TJ Zindle (Guitars, Vocals), Brian
Crist (Bass, Percussion), and Loren Krantz (Drums, Vocals), The Ragbirds are a
one of a kind musical experience.
The Ragbirds portfolio includes three CD’s, “Yes
Nearby”, “Wanderlove”, and their latest endeavor “Finally Almost Ready”
have garnered great local, regional, and national reviews. The band has
performed at some of the best festivals around like Hookahville, Summer Camp,
and Rothbury touring the country in their converted diesel van that runs on
vegetable oil. One of my favorite songs of the evening is from their Wanderlove
release called “Onyame Kokroko;” the song is like a tribal
drum circle on stage. Very cool! Another highlight was when Danny Sauers (Romeo Champagne) joined the band giving them yet another element to their already complex sound. The energy that comes from the stage is
infectious which translate into one of the liveliest shows you will ever see. The Ragbirds live might be the most fun you will ever have at a concert.
2011 Reviews and Interviews 
