On Youtube, Ellis Paul describes songwriting as a “problem-solving, psyche-exploring, heart-wrenching storytelling ride — a way to break down the Universe in three minutes and somehow come to peace with it.” And after more than 20 years of writing and perpetually touring, Paul estimates he’s spun at least 500 such musings. Many of those songs have taken on their own existence, appearing in TV and film (Me, Myself & Irene and Shallow Hal, for example) and earning their creator 15 Boston Music Awards, among other accomplishments. Perhaps more important, though, they’ve justified Paul’s well-worn path through countless communities with an ear for folk music. Following his stage technique workshops at The Swannanoa Gathering’s Contemporary Folk Week, the prolific music maker will put his own lessons into action. Isis Restaurant & Music Hall hosts his performance on Sunday, July 31, at 7:30 p.m. $20/$24. isisasheville.com. Photo by Jack Looney
