Larry Long Presents American Roots Revue Live at the Dakota

American Roots Revue is a revolving showcase of world-class musicians and musical repertoire, who have toured throughout the region for the last decade. Produced by Long, each curated performance features American roots standards, spanning folk, blues, jazz, gospel, pop and rock, plus original songs by guest artists and the core group

American Roots Revue returned to the Dakota on April 8, 2022 for a sold out performance in downtown Minneapolis with a spectacular lineup featuring Robert Robinson (“Pavarotti of Gospel”), Claudia Schmidt (“Masterful Weaver of Story & Song”), Tonia Hughes (“Powerhouse of Soul”), and Larry Long (“American Troubadour”).

The all-star band was led by Michael Bland (former Prince and Current Soul Asylum Drummer) and Billy Steele (Keyboardist for the Legendary Steele Family and Sounds of Blackness).

This recording captures what American Roots Revue does best, joyfully explore a wide range of popular and profound original material. From Tonia’s plaintive and celebratory take on Sam Cooke’s “A Change Is Gonna Come” to Robert’s bone-chillin’ “Everybody’s Chains Came Off” to Claudia’s lovely original “Long, Long Time,” Larry’s own spiritualized “Holy Ground,” and Billy Steele’s beautiful “Blessing Song.” It’s all there on disc, nine song beacons shining like a million-candle powered lighthouse along the north shore.

Watch the April performance of American Roots Revue: Live at the Dakota streaming on PBS-TPT Stage.

 

Robert Robinson Vocals
Claudia Schmidt: Vocals, Acoustic 12-String, Dulcimer
Tonia Hughes Kendrick: Vocals
Larry Long: Vocals, Acoustic 6-String, Harmonica, Mandolin
Billy Steele: Vocals, Keyboards
Michael Bland: Drums
Joe Savage: Pedal Steel, Dobro
George Parrish: Electric Guitar
Daryl Boudreaux: Percussion
Larry Dalton: Upright & Electric BassMixing & Master Engineer: Mark Thayer | Signature Sounds
Sound & Recording Engineer: Alain Krause | Dakota
Photography: Mark Thayer
Design: Acorn Design | Karin PreusAmerican Roots Revue is produced by Larry LongSound Recording: ℗ © Larry Long Publishing 2022 | American Roots Revue is a trademark of Larry Long | All Rights Reserved

American Roots Revue Live at the Dakota is also available on most major streaming services including iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, YouTube, Deezer, Pandora, Shazam, and more.

Special thanks to the Dakota, Lowell Pickett, Hammermillers, and each of you for your ongoing support. May the songs on this recording bring you joy.

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Review of American Roots Revue Live at the Dakota

REVIEW

Larry Long’s American Roots Revue Live at the Dakota captures the essence of a musical tradition that celebrates the rich tapestry of American roots music. Recorded live on April 8, 2022, at the Dakota Jazz Club in Minneapolis, this performance brings together a stellar ensemble of artists, each contributing their unique voice to a collective narrative steeped in folk, gospel, blues, and soul.

The ensemble features Robert Robinson, often hailed as the “Pavarotti of Gospel,” whose commanding vocals imbue each song with profound emotion. Claudia Schmidt, with her mastery of the 12-string acoustic guitar and dulcimer, offers a blend of storytelling and melody that resonates deeply. Tonia Hughes Kendrick’s soulful interpretations add a dynamic layer, while Larry Long, the troubadour and producer behind the Revue, provides a grounding presence with his acoustic guitar, harmonica, and mandolin.

The rhythm section, led by drummer Michael Bland—known for his work with Prince and Soul Asylum—and keyboardist Billy Steele of the legendary Steele Family and Sounds of Blackness, lays a solid foundation. Joe Savage’s pedal steel and dobro, George Parrish’s electric guitar, Daryl Boudreaux’s percussion, and Larry Dalton’s upright and electric bass round out the ensemble, creating a rich, textured soundscape.

The setlist is a curated journey through American musical heritage. Tonia Hughes Kendrick’s rendition of Sam Cooke’s “A Change Is Gonna Come” is both plaintive and celebratory, capturing the song’s enduring relevance. Robert Robinson’s performance of “Everybody’s Chains Came Off” delivers a powerful message of liberation and hope. Claudia Schmidt’s original “Long, Long Time” offers introspective lyricism, while Larry Long’s “Holy Ground” provides a spiritual anchor. Billy Steele’s “Blessing Song” concludes the set with a heartfelt benediction.

The live recording, available on major streaming platforms and for purchase on Bandcamp, not only showcases the individual talents of each artist but also highlights the collaborative spirit that defines the American Roots Revue. The performance was also filmed and is available for viewing on PBS-TPT Stage, allowing a broader audience to experience the concert’s energy and intimacy.

In essence, American Roots Revue Live at the Dakota is more than a concert recording; it is a testament to the enduring power of music to bring people together, to tell stories, and to celebrate the diverse threads that weave the American musical fabric. Through this performance, Larry Long and his ensemble invite listeners to reflect, rejoice, and find common ground in shared melodies and rhythms.