Coffee With Conscience presents Americana trio Red Molly on Saturday, Jan. 21 at 8 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church.
Known for their tight harmonies, lush vocals and infectous enthusiasm, Red Molly has been playing roots/Americana/bluegrass music featuring three-part harmonies with banjo, Dobro and guitar, since 2004.
The trio was originally comprised of Laurie MacAllister, Abbie Gardner and Carolann Solebello. Solebello left the band and was replaced by a real-life Molly, Molly Venter.
The band, with a dedicated following known as "the RedHeads," has opened shows for artists such as Aztec Two-Step, Catie Curtis, Jonathan Edwards, Jeffrey Gaines, John Hammond, Johnsmith, Michael Smith, Bill Staines and David Wilcox.
"We played Coffee with Conscience a few years ago, but we're really excited to come back with our brand new CD 'Light in the Sky,' said Gardner, daughter of renowned jazz trombonist Herb Gardner. "The CD has been on the Americana Charts for 10 weeks now, topping at the number 10 slot, which is a great achievement for an independent band. We'll be sharing songs from this CD as well as others, and we've got Robby Hecht, an excellent songwriter, opening the show for us."
Hecht is the winner of the 2010 Telluride Troubadour Competition.
"We'll be doing two 45-minute sets, a mix of covers and originals, and we love to meet the audience after the show," said Gardner.
The Coffee With Conscience Concert Series in presented by Arrhe Maros, owner of Ahrre's Coffee Roastery in Westfield and the Fair Trade Coffee Company.
"The band is packed with tight harmonies and lots of energy," said Maros. "I tell everyone, they're like the Dixie Chicks but a lot more affordable."
While other concerts have benefited Habitat for Humanity, NJ Community FoodBank and the Interfaith Council for the Homeless, proceeds from Red Molly's performance will go toward the The Keith Knost Special Needs Fund.
For more information, a schedule of upcoming events, or to purchase tickets, visit http://www.eventbrite.com/org/99352634?s=3523311
