Sez and I have recently returned from an unforgettable trip to "Pickin' Land." We saw and heard some wonderful pickin' in Nashville; got to meet David Grier, a phenomenal flat picker who hails from Nashville. We frequented many of the pubs; such as Tootsie's, the Blue Bird Café and the world-famous Station Inn; and listened to some of the hottest pickers around. It's a tough business and if you budding South African players think you've got it tough, these guys just play for drinks and tips! Guys, there is still hope!

Sez had organised appointments to meet some of his pedal steel guitar heroes and we had the great pleasure of meeting Bobbe Seymour, a great player who worked with many of the top country artists and worked with Elvis; and Lloyd Green, who has worked with many of the top country stars and has worked with Sir Paul McCartney. Both Bobbe and Lloyd are thoroughly nice chaps who made us welcome in their homes. Please Bobbe and Lloyd come and visit us.

Sez Adamson attended a wonderful Dobro workshop, hosted by Rob Ickes, one of the up-and-coming dobro players; who is yapping at the heels of the great Jerry Douglas. I attended a flat pick guitar workshop with Jack Lawrence (Doc Watson's guitar buddy) and Uwe Kruger, a Swiss Bluegrass guitar player who just blew me away! Also in attendance was Irish flat picker John Doyle. Learnt some great stuff from some down-to-earth, lovely guys!

The festival was fantastic; the music incredible and the crowd a record 81 000! Have booked my slot for next year; it's really not to be missed! Here are some pics to go through...