There are lots of things I like about my husband Tim and his skill at photography ranks up there pretty high. We have lots of framed photos in our home from his trips abroad but some of my favorite photos are ones that he’s taken of musicians while they are performing. It’s pretty tricky – the photographer has to wait until the artist is: a) far enough away from the microphone that it doesn’t obscure too much of the face, b) not making a grimace or strange expression – which most singers do as they put emotion into their voice, c) free of instrument tuners, event wrist bands and stage clutter. Sometimes all these stars (A,B,C) align & photo magic happens.

One such magical photo was taken in Portland, Oregon at the Alberta Rose Theater of Allison Russell. Allison was performing with J.T. Nero, Chris Kokesh, Lincoln Crockett, Mikey August and Jason Montgomery. On Wednesday, September 18th Birds of Chicago (Allison Russell and J.T. Nero) will be at Chestnut House Concerts for the first show of the 2013-2014 series.

Birds of Chicago falls in the general category of Roots/Americana with the smooth voice of Allison mixing with J.T. Nero’s husky vocals. Both artists are song writers and they blend aspects of gospel, folk and soul with ukulele, guitar, clarinet and banjo instrumentation. Seats for the show are saved by emailing tlehman9@gmail.com or calling/texting 717-940-9311. The name of each person attending is requested in advance and donations of $15/20 are accepted at the door.