The grapes will not bear wrath August 29 when M. Ward performs at Folktale Winery in Carmel Valley.
Ward has been playing guitar and writing songs since he was in high school but doesn’t identify himself with a particular genre. Some call it folk-inspired. Others note the influence of blues, of songs heard at 33 and a third or 45 revolutions per minute. Even after putting out nine albums, he is difficult to pin down.
“I still don’t really know what kind of music it is or what it should be called,” he says. “I get most of my inspiration from older records and older guitar and production styles.”
This will be the first time Ward performs at Folktale. And he’s looking forward to it.
“I love the area,” he said. “I grew up in Southern California and my family used to spend time in the summers nearby. I’m hoping to have some time off to revisit some sights.”
Ward plays half of his performances with a full band, while the other half are solo shows. The Carmel show will be a solo performance.
It’s difficult to think of Ward without other musicians in mind. Ward admires so many, such as guitar players like Hubert Sumlin, John Fahey, Elizabeth Cotten, Andres Segovia and Keith Richards. And he works alongside a number of performers, appearing on stage or in the studio with the likes of Norah Jones, Neko Case, Cat Power and Beth Orton.
The last time Ward played in the Monterey Bay area was at the “fabulous” Coconut Grove in Santa Cruz. This appearance is part of KRML's Live in the Lives series.
He has been playing at more wineries over the last few years, including in Spain, which becomes a good mix of work and a holiday for him.
“When in Galicia I recommend Ribeira Sacra,” he said.
Folktale Winery is excited about the addition of Ward to their summer lineup. Ashleigh Poland, of Folktale says, “We’re 100-percent looking forward to have him,” she said. “He has such a reputation with other artists. It’s really exciting to bring him to the Peninsula.”
M. WARD 6pm Wednesday, Aug. 29 Folktale Winery, 8940 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel. $59-$79. 293-7500, folktalewinery.com.
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