Ripton Community Coffee House Presents Charlie Sohmer and the Jazzed Up Hoodlums

The Ripton Community Coffee House, a nonprofit community concert series, welcomes Charlie Sohmer and the Jazzed Up Hoodlums for a concert on Saturday, October 4, at the Ripton Community House. Refreshment sales will benefit a fund to help repair the Billings Farm Road, which is damaged by floods this past summer.

Ontario-based Charlie Sohmer's style sounds like folk roots with a country twang and a bluegrass flair. The songs tell stories about heartbreak and love lost but there is a cool element in the arrangements, something that brings other musical influences to bear. Sohmer's voice is warm and versatile, with a range capable of matching the style the song. His songwriting talent is in synch with his musical talent. Is it folk? Is it country? Whatever it is, it's well worth listening to decide for yourself.

Sohmer has recorded five albums and has written more than 300 songs. He was was awarded a grand prize in the 2007 OCFF Songs From the Heart Awards. His work, Marie Anne Lagimodiere, was chosen as the best French song in the competition, which is open to all Ontario songwriters. His newest CD is called “Dying to Have a Good Time.”
The band consists of Sohmer on banjo and guitar and vocals; John Switzer on bass and vocals; Steve Briggs on guitar and mandolin; and Burke Carroll on dobro and lap steel.

Admission to the coffeehouse is $8.00 for adults, $5.00 for seniors, and $3.00 for children. Anyone who bakes gets in free. Andrea Chesman would appreciate hearing from you if you plan to bake. Call her about baking or for more information at 388-9782.