30 October 2020
Abbie Gardner online concert
The Me&Thee is extremely pleased to present a virtual concert with Abbie Gardner on Friday, October 30 at 8:00 pm. Abbie is a fiery dobro player with an infectious smile. Whether performing solo or with Red Molly, her acclaimed tales of love and loss, both gritty and sweet, are propelled by her impeccable slide guitar playing. Solo performances feature truly unique use of the dobro as a solo instrument, bouncing between a solid rhythmic backbone and ripping lead lines, all in support of her voice and songs. You can watch on YouTube or on Facebook.
Concert starts at 8:00 pm
Award-winning songwriter Abbie Gardner’s solo tour highlights include Falcon Ridge, Clearwater, The Kate, Club Passim, Godfrey Daniels, The Spire, and a formal showcase at the 2018 Folk Alliance Conference. She began touring nationally in 2018, heading to Oklahoma’s Woodyfest, Uncle Calvin’s in Texas, and a two-week tour of California.
No Depression says she displays “uncommon versatility” on her latest CD, Wishes on a Neon Sign. The recording features 12 original songs and a co-write with Chris Stapleton. After his first listen, WFUV’s John Platt raved, “she’s not only a first-rate dobro player, but a songwriter to be reckoned with.” It’s a career that didn’t come easily. Soon after quitting her day job as an occupational therapist, Abbie ended up with tendonitis from playing guitar. Continued heartbreak didn’t discourage her for long, though. Abbie found that playing lap-style slide was more ergonomic and easier on her hands than regular guitar. The dobro resonated with her on a deep level. She had the instrument just under a week when she formed Red Molly and soon traveled to Colorado and Nashville to study with expert players.
Abbie’s first solo effort since 2011’s Hope, Wishes on a Neon Sign is also her first since taking a hiatus from full-time touring with her band Red Molly. Created in this space of transition, Wishes is a soulful examination of love and heartbreak, pain and strength, and the transformative power of hope. “The record feels like a love letter to NYC” says Gardner. “I love the contrast here — how darkness makes Times Square shine brighter, how New Yorkers can seem so gruff but will help you the instant you fall. . . . And here I am, a contrast myself . . . a female singer/songwriter playing the dobro, a traditionally male-dominated bluegrass instrument, taking the instrument pretty far from bluegrass and doing it in the city.”
Abbie’s me&thee virtual show takes place on Friday, October 30 at 8:00 pm. Check back for links to the show on Facebook and YouTube. The suggested donation is $20 and payment can be made securely via PayPal.
Photo by Jeff Fasano
- [Abbie Gardner is] not only a first-rate dobro player but a songwriter to be reckoned with. John Platt, WFUV
- Gardner has made the most of her hiatus from touring with Red Molly by broadening her musical palette and giving life to a wide range of emotions. Country Standard Time
- Abbie Gardner is an excellent musician, which is combined here with a beautiful voice and good songwriting. She has a great ability to tastefully blend various styles of music. Rambles.net
