Riffle, Backed by Zhivago, Open for Red Molly Tonight

Jay Barrett/KMXT

The latest in the continuing series of KMXT-produced concerts resumes tonight with the bluegrass sounds of "Red Molly," an acoustic trio from New York. Another New York-based singer-songwriter who just released his first album is the opening act. It’s Chris Riffle, who is backed up by Jimi Shivago. KMXT’s Jay Barrett has more.

Originally from Puget Sound, Chris Riffle made the jump to New York City a few years ago, bypassing the usual Northwest venues of Eugene and Portland, Oregon. He says the move really has changed and shaped his songwriting and sound:

— (Riffle 1 36 sec "Moving to New York … recreate that in myself.")

("Believe in Now")

Shivago describes Riffle’s music as "cinematic" in scope and sound:

— (Riffle 2 40 sec "It’s a very modern take on … pick, line Leonard Cohen.")

Riffle says one challenge they will have is rearranging his music from a full band to just the two of them:

— (Riffle 3 41 sec "Jimi and I went on our … really well, I feel like.")

KMXT reached the pair in Mount Vernon, Washington, as they prepared to make their way to Alaska. This will be the first trip north for both of them. Zhivago says he’s heard good things about the music scene here.

— (Riffle 4 42 sec "So we’re hoping to come … beautiful part of the country.")

Riffle and Zhivago will be opening for Red Molly tonight at 7 p.m. in El Chicano’s. Tickets are available there, at the Treasury, and here at KMXT until about 5 p.m. tonight, while they last.

I’m Jay Barrett.

("Walk Away")

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