Seattle songstress Cruso stops at Oak Center

From performing in Europe amongst musicians, jugglers, comedians, one-man bands, mimes, and contortionists, to traveling the circus like Renaissance Fair circuit, Carolyn Cruso has led a musically adventurous life.

She has traveled the world sharing her voice, flute, guitar and hammered dulcimer talents.

Cruso will perform Saturday Oct. 6 at the Oak Center General Store.

Her show is a combination of instrumental and singer/songwriter pieces, drawing material from most of her eight albums including the recent “Have You Ever,” which features 14 songs spanning folk, pop, jazz and alternative country styles.

A master of the hammered dulcimer, Cruso is an innovator, Oak Center publists said. Her style is improvisational, lyrical and percussive. She uses effects like bending notes and playing two notes with one hammer. She incorporates the independent hand technique of percussionists as well.

“Through her hands the instrument became a living organism of beauty,” said Charlie Vervalin of the Black Rose Acoustic Society.

Her lyrics, spanning from poetic to narrative, explore love, loss and regeneration. She accompanies herself with an intricate, finger-picking guitar style and open tunings.

At a glance…

Who: Carolyn Cruso

When: 8 p.m. Saturday Oct. 6

Where: Oak Center General Store, Highway 63, rural Lake City

Cost: $5-$15 based on ability to pay

More info: 507-753-2080 or www.oakcentergeneralstore.com or www.carolyncruso.com

Tags: arts and entertainment, arts, entertainment, lifestyle