Sundance Mountain Resort Bluebird Cafe Summer Concert Series

The evening began with a special summer barbeque where pulled pork sandwiches, potato salad and homemade coleslaw were served under a canopy of pines. Red and white checked tablecloths reminded me of summer nights growing up, and the sound of a gently gurgling river set a relaxed mood.

When the concert began, Don Henry, Kim Richey and Jack Tempchin entered the stage to raucous applause. Each sat facing the crowd, their guitars the only thing separating us, ready to serenaded us with love ballads, dance numbers and silly singalongs.

Grammy award winner Don Henry was the first to perform sharing lighthearted songs and easy banter that made me laugh all night.

Although Don Henry excelled at joking around with the audience, he had a serious side too. His award winning song, “Where’ve You Been” brought tears to my eyes.

The best vocalist of the evening was Kim Richey, who has written hit songs for Trisha Yearwood, Brooks and Dunn, and many others. Her soulful serenades; Angelshare, Straight as a Crow Flies and Thorn in my Heart (the title track of her new album), were beautifully tender. Not to mention the stories she shared before each were very entertaining. At one concert, a grumpy girl in the front row sang along so loudly, she took over the lead vocals, leaving Kim to sing back up on her own song.

The third contributer, Jack Tempchin, is best known for his work with the Eagles. He performed his song Peaceful Easy Feeling and Already Gone at the concert, allowing the audience (and other performers) a chance to sing along. Although Jack performed some big hits, his most memorable song of the evening was a silly one titled, “Eat Some Food, Watch TV.”

As darkness settled, the other concert goers and I were mesmerized by comfort of this perfect summer night. The warm music, good stories and beautiful scenery brought us together like a large musical family.

Sundance Mountain Resort’s Bluebird Concert Series was the perfect way to enjoy the summer. I can’t wait till next year!