Preparing for another West Coast tour, which includes a stop at the iconic acoustic lounge of The Viper Room in Hollywood, New Orleans-based Father Ron and Friends are excited to celebrate their Global Music Award (Bronze) for the title track of their new album Forever The Seasons (out via Louisiana Red Hot Records).
Also known as a folk DJ on the beloved New Orleans radio station WWOZ, Father Ron Clingenpeel served as priest at Chapel of the Holy Spirit across from Tulane University in New Orleans. The core band consists of Robert Eustis on guitar; David Schwartz on keyboards; Barbara Smith-Davis on vocals; and Max Valentino on bass. They embrace a profound mission, honoring the American experience and channeling the legacies of Pete Seeger and Woody Guthrie.
Forever the Seasons features the New Orleans timeless standard “Saint James Infirmary,” as well as originals such as the comedic “Damned Roaches.” A slow dance in the dark under make-believe stars, “The Promise Land” echoes in haunting refrain – plaintive yet soothing like a favorite Gordon Lightfoot song. Guests on the album include talented Louisiana musicians Jack Craft on cello and Gina Forsyth on fiddle, with New Orleans vocal divas Debbie Davis (the daughter of Smith-Davis) and Cole Williams contributing to the chorus. Produced by Andre Bohren and recorded at various studios, including Marigny in New Orleans, it is available through the New Orleans Public Library’s Crescent City Sounds.
With their Porch Concert Series, Father Ron and Friends are creating an immersive experience following the release of Forever The Seasons. The folkies have extended their residency at Buffa’s Back Room through the rest of the year, and Father Ron will be headed back to The Viper room for a solo set.
Father Ron and Friends – Fall/Winter 2024:
October 26 – Ozone Songwriter’s Festival (Solo) – Covington, LA
October 26 – Grill & Grocery – Hattiesburg, MS
October 27 – Buffa’s Back Room – New Orleans, LA
November 24 – Buffa’s Back Room – New Orleans, LA
November 29 – House Concert – Los Angeles, CA
November 30 – Viper Room Acoustic Lounge – Hollywood, CA
December 22 – Buffa’s Back Room – New Orleans, LA
February 21 – Grill & Grocery – Hattiesburg, MS
April 4 – House Concert – Lebanon, TN (Fr. Ron Solo)
*Every Fourth Sunday Residency at Buffa’s Back Room
