Gemini Jam 2021

It was another perfect Upper Cumberland evening, with mostly clear skies and very comfortable temps as Trey Binkley, Van Buren County native, and his two fellow musicians took to the “big stage” just as the sun was going down. Their lively opening set ranged all the way from Jimi Hendrix and Steve Miller covers to Hank Williams and some rockin’ original compositions. Trey seemed as happy to be on the Redbud outdoor stage as we were to have him and his band open up the Gemini Jam evening’s entertainment. Ray Wiley Hubbard’s “Snake Farm” was a highlight — just as funky and rocking as RWH himself ever cranked it out. (“Just sounds nasty”- “Pretty much is”)

The evening got even a little sweeter as our well-known returning headliner, Smoky Nights turned in a couple of sterling sets, mixing in a good portion of their excellent original material along with their crowd-pleasing standard covers, as only Smoky Nights can do it. They’re finishing up their new album in the next few weeks at the world famous Fame Studios down in Muscle Shoals, AL — I predict their appearances in our area will become much more rare after their new recordings are released and their expanded fanbase grows.

Both of these Upper Cumberland artists/bands are indeed “on their way up”. We are so pleased and proud to be a venue where rising Upper Cumberland music artists enjoy performing and sharing their very cool talents and art with our discerning “Burlapper” audiences.

Thanks to our sponsors and vendors for the Gemini Jam — Cedar City RV, One Stop Soul Shop, Tabitha Kierjung from Joe L Evins Appalachian Craft Center, and Dekalb Animal Shelter (they need volunteers, folks!).

Thanks to all the Gemini’s who came out to celebrate with us — you’re in good company! Some of your fellow Gemini’s are:

Patti Labelle, Paul McCartney, Morgan Freeman , Marilyn Monroe , Johnny Depp, Prince, and our very own Heidi Short Horne (Burlap Room Event Co-ordinator)