Chris Vallillo welcomes folk duo Ashley and Simpson to the Hickory Ridge concerts stage on Saturday, August the 16th at 7:00 pm at the historic Ellisville Opera House in Ellisville, IL. Comprised of Jennifer Ashley and Joel Simpson, Ashley & Simpson this folk duo blends traditional songs and instrumentation along with beautiful vocal harmonies reminiscent of famous duos such as Ian & Silvia and The Everly Brothers.
With their sophomore release “Off To Here Land,” they have pushed the art of folk to a new sound with an all traditional track list that will delight fans new and old. Both bringing a classical perspective to their duo, Jennifer Ashley & Joel Simpson have reached a new level with incorporating elements of jazz, popular music and other modern styles in their arrangements. Joel Simpson plays guitar, mandolin, dobro, banjo, and bass. Jennifer Ashley’s first instrument is piano, but also plays guitar and dabbles in tenor banjo. Although a lifelong musician, Jennifer is newer to the folk scene.
Ashley & Simpson’s third album, “Hello, Mrs. Sun,” is currently in the works. In addition they operate an independent record label called Randomosity Records located in Downers Grove, IL where they record, produce and teach.
The Hickory Ridge Concert Series is hosted by singer-songwriter Chris Vallillo. Concerts are usually (but not always) held on the 3rd Saturday of the month and begin at 7:00 p.m. with the doors opening at 6:00 p.m. The Ellisville Opera House is a second story venue however they do now have an elevator and is air conditioned. Coffee, drinks, and a variety of desserts are available during intermission. There is an admission charge of $10.00 per adults with children under 12 free. Hickory Ridge Concerts is supported in part by WIUM 91.3 FM, your source for NPR programming, local news and a variety of music, the Two Rivers Arts Council, and the Doris and Ken Kolb Foundation. Follow Hickory Ridge Concerts on facebook, or on the website, www.hickoryridgeconcerts.com.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT CHRIS VALLILLO @309-224-8210.
***Courtesy of Chris Vallillo***
