It just keeps getting better

More good news from the people at Merlefest:

Acclaimed singer-songwriters John Prine and Robert Earl Keen have joined the line-up for MerleFest 2006! We should also note that MerleFest regulars Roy Book Binder and Laura Boosinger were accidentally omitted from the line-up in the September Electronic Newsletter.

Not only will REK be a fun Merlefest experience in his own right, but it will be a rare and great opportunity to see him live without dealing with the horror of the drunken frat boys and girls-gone-wild his club shows unfortunately attract. After having Bud Light spilled on me and suffering hearing damage from the drunk college girl screaming the lyrics in my ear for two hours at the last REK concert I saw, I swore never again. But I think Merlefest (this is the only time I'm GLAD it's a dry festival) will filter out most of the types who spoil the otherwise excellent REK live experience, so seize the day, my friends!

And let me not overlook the excellentness of having John Prine aboard. He also puts on a great live show. He's really perfected the balance of performing music and storytelling -- he strikes just the right balance and is really enchanting to watch.

Oh man, oh man. Late April can't get here soon enough!