Get ready, folks! This Friday night, the charming Ugly Mug Café in Soquel is set to host the talented Florida-based music duo, Jennings & Keller. The dynamic pair, Laurie Jennings Oudin and Dana Keller, have been on the road since the mid-2000s, sharing their heartfelt tunes with audiences far and wide.
Laurie Jennings Oudin isn’t just a performer; she has a rich background in theater and once owned The Main Street Café in Homestead, Florida. This beloved folk club was a hotspot from the late ’80s to early 2000s, showcasing the likes of Janis Ian and Fred Eaglesmith. Sadly, after nine years of fostering a vibrant community and incredible music, the café closed its doors due to hurricanes, local politics, and shifting cultural tides. But from the ashes of that venue, Jennings and Keller emerged, initially forming a classic six-piece country band before settling into the duo we know today.
What You Can Expect
Mark your calendars for 7 p.m. this Friday! Jennings & Keller will take the stage at The Ugly Mug, located at 4640 Soquel Drive. Tickets are priced at $30 at the door, which is a steal for an evening filled with music that emphasizes community and hope. Their journey through music has been quite the adventure, from touring in an old RV to their current setup. They’ve upgraded their wheels for reliability—thank goodness, right?
What’s particularly exciting is that they’re currently road-testing over 25 new songs for their upcoming record. You might hear some of their fresh tracks like “Kindness,” “Susan B. Anthony,” and “Room at the Table” during the show. It’s a chance to get a sneak peek of what’s to come while enjoying the intimate atmosphere of The Ugly Mug.
On the Road Again
Before hitting Soquel, the duo had a whirlwind schedule. They played private house concerts in California, graced the airwaves on KSQD Radio in Santa Cruz, and even faced the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Their resilience shone through as they adapted their performances, including socially-distanced concerts at an RV park in Santa Fe, New Mexico, which has become a second home. They spend about four to five months a year there, and it’s clear that the community they’ve built is just as important to them as the music itself.
But it doesn’t stop there! After the Soquel show, they’ll continue their tour with more performances, including several Sundown Concerts at Santa Fe Skies throughout May and June. Make sure to check out their website for the full tour schedule, including events in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and even a couple of dates in Texas and South Carolina later this year.
So, whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Jennings & Keller’s music, this Friday promises to be a memorable night filled with good vibes and great tunes. Don’t miss out! Grab your tickets, gather your friends, and head to The Ugly Mug to support these road warriors of folk music!