Open Mic

The Polish women of Polky play our Nordlys Global Voices Series this Sunday. There's a good chance dancing will break out! Now living in Toronto, Polky celebrates music’s unity and invites us to revel in the joy of life. Their debut album was nominated in three categories at the Canadian Folk Music Awards 2022, ultimately clinching the Traditional Singer of The Year Award for the talented Ewelina Ferenc.

Armed with a guitar, a deadpan sense of humor, killer songs, and a voice that makes tough guys cry, Lucy Wainwright Roche is the daughter of Suzzy Roche (The Roches) and multiple Grammy-winner Loudon Wainwright III. Her music is gentle, well-crafted contemporary folk that eases us in with flat-footed authenticity, and then lets loose with beauty and drama. For fans of Bon Iver and Sheryl Crow.

Thank you for taking a moment to read this weekly update from Caffe Lena. I'm sure you have no shortage of emails to read. I want this virtual visit to remind you of what it feels like to come in person to a place where tables are shared, kindness reigns, and the music is superb. Tuesday's Rochmon Record Club will be devoted to honoring all those musicians who went on to the angel choir in 2023. I know it will be a tender, heartfelt night of great songs. The Lost Radio Rounders (Friday) will be full of nostalgia, as well. They specialize in lots of laughter and songs of long ago, including some you'll definitely sing along on. Nefesh Mountain (Saturday) has sold out in-person, but you can stream the show. Their Jewish-American roots music brings love and light during a time of heartbreak for all those affected by the war in Gaza--which is all of us.