Redstone series to begin Jan. 23
There’s nothing quite like an open mic. Artists of varying skill levels arrive with a common impulse — to share their voice (or playing) with strangers. Whether a seasoned musician, upcoming star or hobby guitarist, all are welcome to take the stage and sing their heart, spit their poetry or tell a little story.
Since the summer of 2021, Dri Liechti has provided a space for these intimate, vulnerable performances. It began at Craft Coffee House, previously at 689 Main Street in Carbondale, and continues at Craft Wellness in Basalt. Among the early champions, Sopris Sun contributor Will Buzzerd and Dylan Stars helped lead the charge.
The spirit of an open mic dovetails perfectly with Liechti’s mission for Craft: To combat loneliness by giving people a welcoming place to find community. “Music allows people to have a place to go,” she commented, “and there’s so much local talent in this valley.”
Craft transitioned last year from a creative coffee shop abounding with events and support for small businesses, into a community wellness collective where yoga classes, workshops, pop-ups and more regularly take place at 160 Midland Avenue, Basalt. Among the offerings: a sauna and cold plunge for rent.
Nowadays, Adam Gray organizes the open mics most Wednesdays with a spotlight on rising talents. During the summer months, the courtyard behind Craft surges with up to 60 people, many spilling over after the Wednesday concert in Basalt River Park. During the winter, it’s more of a cozy affair, with charcuterie and wine, and 50% of ticket sales go to the featured artist kicking off the night with an extended set. Among the spotlighted artists: Harley Ellis, David Brown and, most recently, duo Jenny Henry and Logan Coleman Pickrell ahead of their move to Asheville, North Carolina.
Gray takes each occasion to interview the featured artists about their work. “I think people want to get to know the artists, to see the process,” he commented. “That’s my open mic.”
Thomas Howard, owner of Howling Parrot, provides professional sound equipment and videography, archiving these soulful displays by locals and visitors alike. His skills were sharpened shooting for bluegrass festivals including Planet Bluegrass in Lyons.
“It’s like a family,” Howard affirmed. “Everybody is super friendly.” Volunteering his time and expertise helps Howard connect with his son who passed on last year and was a close friend to Liechti and Craft.
Among the organizers, an emphasis on creating an attentive, encouraging tone is paramount. Unlike in a bar or restaurant, the audience is composed entirely of people there to respectfully listen, and maybe even work up the courage to share.
“We’re just a family,” Liechti reiterated. “Anyone who walks through that door.” And with community effort, the event continues to build.
Beginning this Friday, Jan. 23, at 6pm, Gray will take the open mic series to Redstone in partnership with Joy & Wylde and the Pitkin County Library. Joy & Wylde will serve hot soup made from scratch and charcuterie, along with specialty cocktails and other beverages. According to Gray, what they’re building is “venue agnostic.” He added, “The spirit can travel.”
On Jan. 28, back at Craft, Penelope Thornton will be the spotlighted artist. The show starts at 7:30pm. You can catch Thornton performing a preview on Everything Under The Sun on KDNK this Thursday, Jan. 22, at 4pm.
Stay apprised of future Craft offerings at @craft_wellness on Instagram.