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http://www.omniture.com --> Sections Home Page Local News AP News Archives Business Classifieds Event Calendar Forums Life Opinion Obituaries Photo Gallery Since We Asked Sports Tempo Weather Special Coverage 2006 Britt Festivals --> Shop Our Valley AutoFinder HomeFinder JobFinder Search Our Valley Special Sections Homelife Magazine Joy Magazine Readers Choice 2006 Oregon Golf Info Oregon Wine Info Our Valley Other Publications Local Links Ashland News eSouthernOregon Newspapers In Education Personals Moving Here Movie Listings TV Listings Volunteer Customer Service Advertise With Us Media Kit Place Classified Ad Contact Us FAQ's Home Delivery Site Map --> Email Story to a Friend August 18, 2006 The Starlings The Starlings Americana music played on the foot-stompin' side The Starlings are a comin' to town. Not your everyday winged variety, but a Seattle-based group that promises some foot-stompin' Americana music. "The band's name has got a mysterious ring to it," says Joy Mills, vocalist for the group. "It's a name that I thought would stick in people's heads." The Starlings started out as an acoustic folk duo with Mills and her partner Tom Parker. Mills plays mandolin and guitar, and Parker plays guitar and harmonica. Both perform vocals. "We met about five years ago and began performing music that was more like contemporary folk than country roots music," Mills says. "There's five of us now. So there is plenty of sound," she says. "We play a blend of bluegrass, old country and folk music that we call Americana. It's on the upbeat side." Advertisement Mills and Parker are the primary songwriters for the group, and Mills says that they try to be dynamic. "There's some softer songs. I draw lyrics from bits and pieces of things that I observe. Mick (Chegwidden) also writes some songs." Mills also is a short story writer. She and Parker have been joined by Aimee Zoe Tubbs on drums and vocals, Mick Chegwidden on mandolin, guitar, banjo and dobro and Ryan Farris on upright and electric bass. The group is touring to promote its debut CD "Songbook." Mills says she's proud of the CD. "The recording process went well. We had a great time and didn't fee overwhelmed by the experience. And we've received good response to it." "Songbook" showcases harmonies by Mills and Parker and instrumental arrangements that range from barn burners to quiet ballads. It was recorded at Trapdoor Studio by Chad Hinman. Highlights include the opening track titled "Hand to Mouth," a homage paid to elders, and "Alaskan Fire," a wanderer's story, both penned by Mills. Other songs include the "Bones to Ashes" and "Sinner's Glory" and the scratchy, old-time classic "Long Black Veil." The CD is available at starlingsmusic.com and cdbaby.com on the Web. Mills says that The Starlings' live shows invite listeners to get up and dance. "We're known for our high energy, and there's a lot to think about in the songs' lyrics," she says. "Mick also puts on a good show as our lead player." Advertisement Copyright © 1997-2006 Mail Tribune, Inc. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions | Website Feedback online casinos news Home Security Systems California Casinos Men's Clothing Southern Oregon Loans --> GMAT Prep Fundraisers Send Flowers Entertainment Guide --> Casinos Canada Trunks, Footlocker Online Casino Reviews