Roland’s Next Door assembles entertaining concert line up

Jacksonville’s premiere Americana music venue, Roland’s Next Door, has released a list of the featured talent to be showcased during its upcoming concert series.

Roland’s Next Door, located at 102 S. Ragsdale St., was founded by former Jacksonville resident and attorney, Roland Brown and is now operated by Karen Johnson Cameron.

According to its website, Roland’s Next Door, is a smoke-free, alcohol-free, family friendly folk-music venue “located in a century-old historic building in Jacksonville that brings in national and local talent once a month from early fall through late spring.”

Cameron said, “We’re getting ready for another round of music at Roland’s Next Door in downtown Jacksonville.

“Expect first rate Americana music by national and local artists. Dress is casual and folks can come and go throughout the evening’s performance.”

This year’s concert season kicks off Saturday, Sept. 14, with a CD release concert for Randy Lewis Brown’s new CD, Red Crow.

“Award winning singer/songwriter Randy Lewis Brown -- despite being well past his prime and having an early bedtime -- can still take an audience on a magical journey of discovery with his story telling and songs,” Roland’s website states. “Hailing from what he describes as the upper east side of Texas, his songs are tightly packed with sadness, wonder, joy, humor, philosophy as well as a tiny tad of that subtle southern smart-ass.

“With guitar, mandolin and voice alone he will guide you through his rich inner world and you will find yourself in the exact spot where the wide open spaces of the West meet the mossy confines of southern pine forests and mysteries are laid bare.”

Others acts to catch this year at Roland’s Next Door include:

- Janet Feld on Oct. 19;

- Bernice Lewis on Nov. 16; - Plain Folks on Dec. 14;

- Dana Cooper, featuring opener Alex Coba on Jan. 18;

- Steve Fisher on Feb. 15;

- Johnnie Helm Band, featuring opener Steve Devries on March 21; and

- Kate Wallace and Doug Clegg on April 18.

Doors open for each show at 6:30 p.m. Music starts at 7 p.m. All concerts will include an intermission.

Suggested admission donation is $15 at the door. All door proceeds go directly to the musicians. Coffee, cold drinks and desserts will be available.

Reservations are not required but will ensure a seat, as seating is limited. Call (214) 794-0706 to make reservations.