November 6-12, 2003

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West Philly Folk Fest

folk

"There are literally hundreds of dollars to be made in folk music!" is a wry insiders' joke often heard at folk-biz gatherings. The West Philly Folk Fest this Saturday demonstrates why. Folkies are lovers, not fighters. When two very strong Americana shows were slated to go up against each other, the promoters chose cooperation over cutting throats, and adjusted the times to let all the bands be seen. They even devised a combo discount. At Crossroads, local bluegrassers Fred's Mobile Homes share the bill with Ten Spiders who "start with Americana and end in the Milky Way." Later in the evening, the newly opened Mill Creek Tavern (the Track and Turf rehabbed and expanded) hosts three bands. Psych-a-billy suggests Brave Combo with a punk edge. Full Frontal Folk offer sensational harmonies on a blend of British, Appalachian and contemporary music. The evening ends, as it started, with bluegrass, from the Acoustic League of Justice. Those who attend Crossroads and show their ticket at the Mill Creek get a buck off the already low $6 door. For the ultimate cheap date, dine with Aunt Beth at the Calvary Center before the first show; her $5 complete meals are real home cooking. Sat., Nov. 8, 7:30 p.m. (6 p.m. dinner), Crossroads, Calvary Center, 48th and Baltimore, $5-$15, 215-729-1028; 10 p.m., $6, Mill Creek Tavern, 42nd and Chester sts., 215-222-9194.

by Mary Armstrong