Gospel and soul legends The Holmes Brothers, originally of Christchurch, Virginia, have just received an NEA’s National Heritage Fellowship, the highest honor the United States bestows upon traditional artists. For nearly 40 years, brothers Wendell and Sherman Holmes, along with friend and neighbor Popsy Dixon, have shared their stunning harmonies and instrumentation with adoring fans across the globe. Baltimore is proud that Wendell now calls Owings Mills home!

Critics rave about The Holmes Brothers' spine-tingling three-part harmony singing, mixing Wendell's gruff and gravelly vocals with Popsy's soaring falsetto and Sherman's rich baritone, bringing the spirit of gospel-inflected deep soul music into every song they perform. Equally gripping is the rhythmic foundation laid down by Sherman's bass playing and Popsy's drumming, perfectly complementing Wendell's blues-soaked guitar solos and church-inspired piano playing. The band expertly blends Saturday night's roadhouse blues and rock with the gospel passion of Sunday morning's church service. As Wendell says, “We rock ‘em on Saturday and save ‘em on Sunday.”

They have recorded with Bob Dylan, Van Morrison, Odetta, Bruce Springsteen, Willie Nelson, Levon Helm, and Roseanne Cash among others. They bring musical mastery and an authentic, joyful spirit that will expand your vision of just how hip and current three elders can be.

Tonight Wendell’s apprentice in the Maryland State Arts Council’s Masters/Apprentice program Books Long, sits in for a few to show off what he’s learned. MSAC’s Cliff Murphy hosts a post-show Q & A. 8pm. $22, $18 mbrs.

- See more at: http://www.creativealliance.org/events/2014/holmes-brothers#sthash.hKjx7...