Galen Kipar’s “Riversong” is a swirling, tightly-woven tapestry of free-floating lyrics paired with organic rhythms and bright strings sounds. From its first notes, the song recalls Crosby, Stills and Nash from their most melodic and psychedelic era, but there are also flirtations with world-beat influences, classical composition and deep Appalachian mysticism. Which is kind of what Kipar does (read a review of his album The Scenic Route). And it’s also kind of what Asheville does, so the song is a celebration. Kipar is offering a version of “Riversong,” recorded live at The Grey Eagle during a 2010 concert, for free download (details on that below).
Why, you ask? Because Kipar is headlining RiverLink‘s annual RiverFest on Saturday, Aug. 11. Festivities run from 1-7 p.m. in French Broad River Park at Amboy Road and Riverview Drive. Nikki Talley and Mountain Feist also perform.
A highlight of the festival is its Anything That Floats Parade where competitors in two divisions (adult and youth) are judged in five categories of creative, silly and ingenious rafts. The cost to enter is $20 per team.
But the festival itself is free. RiverFest is a fundraiser that helps Riverlink continue its goal of revitalizing the French Broad River as a place for everyone to live, work and play. Get in on the play part with a full day of crafts, food, beer, music and water.
Which brings us back to Kipar’s riparian “Riversong.” Listen to it here:
Go here to download it for yourself.
