Rave On, Over the Rhine
“Over the Rhine” is both the name of the newly viable neighborhood in Cincinnati and the moniker of my all-time favorite band. Karin Bergquist and Linford Detweiler are the on- and off-stage couple who write beautifully poetic and deeply reflective songs that have kept me a loyal follower for nearly a decade now (wow…I feel old). For the past seven years, I’ve been blessed to be able to attend their annual Christmas concert at the Taft Theatre, as well as their more intimate and casual “Sunday Soiree” at the idyllic St. Elizabeth’s in Norwood. This year was no different, and I was thrilled to have the lovely Sarah join me at the church for their performance. They played some of my newer favorites—the heartbreaking “Oh Yeah By the Way,” humorous and rhythmic “Don’t Wait for Tom,” and the sweetly deprecating “All My Favorite People”—all set against the haunting, stained glass visage of the old cathedral. I’ve taken different people to OtR concerts over the years, from boyfriends and friends, to my parents, to even an ex-boyfriend, yet I cherish each memory as uniquely sentimental.
You don’t have to take my word for it, but I feel strongly that “Ohio” is one of the greatest albums ever made, followed closely by “Good Dog Bad Dog.” Give them a listen, I promise you won’t be disappointed.
XOXO Betsy
