Ray Abshire
Lafayette, Louisiana, United States | INDIE
Music
Press
"Abshire is a master from the old school, who with his young colleagues, delivers pure, joyful, energetic fare that will put you in motion, invite studied listening, and bring you back to a time and place you have never been before."
- Linda Morris - Dirty Linen Magazine
"Ray Abshire, he's one of the reasons Cajun music continues its roots resurgence. Abshire is one of the most awe inspiring accordionists you'll ever hear - the real deal in the old school tradition. He's loaded with technique, impeccable timing and an attacking drive that emanate the fullest sounds possible. The man known as Lafayette's best kept secret is no longer and to Cajun music zealots everywhere, that's headline news.
- Dan Willging - OffBeat Magazine - New Orleans, Louisiana
"Abshire is a authentic accordionist who has more than enough technical skills for several bands, while at the same time not being so schooled that his breathtaking playing is hidden by his technique. He attacks a song with the precise timing that might leave the listener gaping in wonder."
- Bob Gottlieb - Folk & Acoustic Music Exchange - Nelson, New Hampshire
"Honest and authentically Cajun music is what you hear on Ray's album. The spicy music has it's own colors and strength. Ray's authentic accordion style has never faded away"
- Ron Janssen - Folkworld
"Cajun music is great dance music and what we have here is about the best quality available. The singing is loud and plaintive, the fiddles and accordion are so tight as to be indistinguishable. Any way you slice it, this is a great CD."
- Andy Cohen - Sing Out - Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Discography
Don't Stop the Music (2005) , For Old Times Sake (2003) both have streaming and radio play.
Photos
Bio
Ray Abshire is one of Cajun Music's purist accordionists and vocalists and a living link to it's very roots. A member of one of Louisiana's legendary musical families, Ray grew up surrounded by Cajun Music's pioneer artists. He has performed with most all of the old masters whose recordings now form the texts for students of today.
In 1975, while at the pinnacle of Cajun music as accordionist for the legendary "Balfa Brothers Band" and helping to open windows for Cajun Music in the nation's musical consciousness, Ray left the bandstand. Abshire's return to the stage has been hailed by both critics and fans alike. He is once again at the forefront and sharing his knowledge and skills with a new generation.
Recognized as a master musician, and one of the resurgence leaders of Cajun Music, Ray now enjoys conducting workshops, teaching at music camps and performing at major festivals both nationally and abroad.
Ray's music is unfiltered and has it's own wholesome electricity. He plays it the way it was handed down to him and understands the importance of preserving the authenticity of one of this nation's great "folk" musics. Each and every time you attend a Ray Abshire performance, you are guaranteed the "real deal"!
Links
