Folk-rock to charm Buskirk

On Sept. 16, musician Mason Jennings will perform at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater during the first week of his tour, which is expected to run through February. This tour comes on the wake of his latest album, “Minnesota,” which will be available Sept. 13.

Jennings, a folk rock musician who said his biggest influence is Johnny Cash, grew up with music in his life. He said his mother played records when he was growing up.

“I loved it all my life, you know?” Jennings said.

He wrote his first song at age 14 and has been writing and performing music ever since.

Jennings has released more than 15 EPs and albums and one DVD, along with two songs featured on the soundtrack to the film “I’m Not There.”

For the soundtrack, Jennings covered two Bob Dylan songs — “The Times They Are a-Changin’” and “The Lonesome Death of Hattie Carroll.”

In 2009, Jennings released his album “Blood of Man” on both CD and vinyl. When asked why he chose to dually release in vinyl, Jennings laughed.
“I like to see how it looks,” he said.

Jennings explained that a lot of fans requested that particular format.

His newest album will also be released on clear vinyl.

“For me, every night I play is exciting,” he said. And with that in mind, Jennings said he does not have a favorite venue or city to play in. He said he does, however, enjoy recording in his studio, located in the woods just outside of Minneapolis. Jennings said nature has a large impact on his music.

Jennings also said his music is inspired by different relationships with people.
Jennings said his upcoming tour will vary state by state. Every show will have a different feel as he brings new instruments to the mix in each place.