Artists announced for Rhythms of Durango Vol. 3

DURANGO, Colo. – Nineteen local musicians and singer/songwriters have been selected for Rhythms of Durango, Volume 3, a music CD sponsored and produced by the Durango Business Improvement District (BID). The CD will be released Nov. 21 at a special release party/concert slated to be held at the Henry Strater Theatre.
 “The Business Improvement District exists to help all business within the Central Business District,” said Seasons owner Karen Barger, BID board member. “Live music happens all over our Downtown. We’re delighted to be able to promote our local vocalists and musicians and, by extension, the venues at which they play.”

Artists featured on Rhythms Vol. 3 are, the Bar D Wranglers, Lacey Black, Lisa Blue, Annie Brooks, Carute Roma, Jack Ellis & Larry Carver, Tim Guidotti, JS Trio, Gigi Love, Dave Mensch, Pete Neds, Cameron Phillips, Matthew Russell, Stillwater, Jeff Strahan, Strange New Shoes, Tim Sullivan, Jason Thies and Waiting on Trial.
“We’re very excited because many of the songs featured on the CD are yet-to-be-released and/or new material from these performers – a first for Rhythms of Durango, and likely to make Vol. 3 even more of a collector’s item,” said Indiana Reed, co-producer of the CD with Pam Glasco. “Plus, in addition to some of the more established names that people likely will recognize, we’re featuring some very new talent – some younger artists who are just beginning their careers, but are extremely gifted.”
“The CD is still an eclectic mix of artists and sounds,” added Glasco. “It’s a wonderful blend that ranges from country and bluegrass to jazz and rock, and more. The difficulty we’re having now is that there are so many terrific artists in Durango who are not featured on this CD. We took advantage of the maximum minutes on the disc, but it still wasn’t enough.”
Because of the number of quality artists who could be featured on Rhythms of Durango, the BID is considering production of a two-disc offering in 2009, but this will depend on how well Volume 3 is received. The BID is producing 1,000 discs and they will retail for $15 (plus tax) at a variety of outlets in the Historic Downtown.
“We’re not producing the CD to make money,” said Glasco. “Only cover our costs. We’re also exploring the idea of a Christmas album for next year. The artists will need to tell us if that’s something they want to partner with us to produce. We’ll see.”
Rhythms, as in the past, includes a booklet insert, designed by graphic artist Lisa Morales, featuring biographies of and contact information for all participating artists. As Reed reminds, while the music is terrific, a goal of the CD is to promote the artists and Downtown.
“We want locals and visitors alike to hear this music, learn more about the artists, and say, ‘Hey, that group is playing Downtown, they’re great, let’s go see them,’ and maybe even buy their CDs or book them for a gig,” said Reed. “It is very rewarding to work with local artists who often are every bit as talented as some of the superstars out there. Many of our local musicians are on their way to national acclaim. How cool will it be to say, ‘We knew them when…’?”
For additional information on Rhythms of Durango, or to make arrangements for wholesale orders for retail, contact Glasco at 970.375.5067.

The Durango Business Improvement District was formed in 1997 with a goal and mission to support businesses within the District by assisting with special event marketing, providing research on topics of concern to the District (facilities, special events, best practices), planning and development of new facilities, and providing capital budget for equipment that enhances business in the District. Funding is generated by a 1.5 mill levy on property owners within the district, with additional marketing dollars contributed by the City of Durango and Durango Area Tourism Office. BID Board members are John Wells, presiding officer; Bob Allen, Karen Barger, Rod Barker and Tim Wheeler.