Alison Krauss & Union Station featuring Jerry Douglas BY MARK DOLEJS The last day of MerleFest 2026 was a beautiful day, no more rain...
BY MARK DOLEJS
The last day of MerleFest 2026 was a beautiful day, no more rain and not too hot. Plenty of people were around at the various stages and everyone seemed to be a bit tired, but ready for another day of music.
My day started with Dom Flemons & The Traveling Wildfires. I’ve seen Flemons in person several times through the years, but this was the debut of his new band at MerleFest. Flemons and his traditional music is even better with the added musicians. He finished his set to a standing ovation from the crowd.
Next up was Jake Shimabukuro. This dude is insanely talented, and its incredible how he manipulates just four strings on his ukulele to create his music. His enthusiasm matches his talent. I can see why he has such a big and loyal following. I count myself as one of his admirers now that I’ve seen and heard him.
Gospel Hour with Leon Timbo & The Family Band on the Creekside Stage was perfectly timed church on this Sunday morning. During the show Timbo commented, "It’s my first time at MerleFest, I don’t know about you, but it was a big hug for me." And the crowd reciprocated with hugs after the show as they waited in line to greet him. This set was a much needed home run for me, thanks Leon for bringing church to us on these sacred grounds.
I headed back to the Cabin Stage to catch a bit of Jim Lauderdale’s set. Lauderdale is one of the artists who you can expect to see every year at MerleFest and he puts on a great show. The fans always show up to sing along with him.
A little bit later in the day I caught AJ Lee & Blue Summit on a sunny stage before quite the crowd that was gathered to see her and her band. The talent abounds in this group with Lee on vocals and mandolin, Sullivan Tuttle on guitar, Jan Purat on fiddle, and Sean Newman on upright bass. This is a fun group that knows how to play in such a way that you don’t want to take your eye off them so you don’t miss anything.
Last up for the day was Alison Krauss & Union Station, featuring Jerry Douglas. Douglas on dobro was great, along with Krauss’ beautiful vocals and fiddle playing. This was a shorter day than the other days of the festival, but having Krauss there as the closer was a perfect fit for a fantastic weekend of music, fellowship, and friends.
- [message]
- MARK DOLEJS
Photography is an avenue that
Mark Dolejs uses to learn about the people and places that cross his path. After more than 30 years as a photojournalist, Mark enjoys concert, macro, and roadside photography. Follow Mark on Instagram at @solidrockpix.
Read Mark's posts here.
COMMENTS