Sun Star | Story

	Ringenberg ready to rock UAF
	by Jeff Step Student Activities Coordinator

	This weekend Nashville’s Jason Ringenberg, a certified music legend, will be rockin’ and stompin’ on the UAF campus. If you are already a fan of Ringenberg or his legendary band, Jason and the Scorchers, you are already counting down the days to the show. If this is your introduction to “the rockinest folk singer that ever lived” you’re in for a treat. According to the London Times, "Ringenberg has gained a reputation as one of the most dynamic live performers of his generation." Ringenberg, a father of three, has also developed a special children's show as his alter ego, Farmer Jason. On Saturday, Sept. 24, he'll play one Farmer Jason show during the family matinee of the Far North Conservation Film Festival at 3 p.m. and a Jason Ringenberg show at The Pub later that evening. Jason Ringenberg's stage outfit hangs in the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville—and for good reason: This alternative country legend is the original roots-punk barnstormer. As one critic put it, "No act has ever blended punk rock intensity with a country swagger better than Jason Ringenberg ... he's the closest thing Nashville has to a rock 'n' roll legend." Long known for his dynamic stage show, Ringenberg has been receiving praise for his songwriting. After the release of his most recent album, Empire Builders (Yep Roc Records), one reviewer compared Ringenberg to Woody Guthrie and others identified him as a protest singer. In a recent email interview, Ringenberg responded, “I am of course very honored to be even mentioned in the same sentence with Woody Guthrie. He was the master at making singable songs out of very complex subjects. It is interesting to see me now labeled a ‘protest singer’, which usually means left-wing slanted. Actually I am somewhat conservative on many issues, and many of my fans are right wingers.” He continued, “However, my new cd, Empire Builders, in part questions America's frequent use of war as a foreign policy tool since World War Two. I also pay homage to Americans that I admire like Chief Joseph, The Tuskegee Airmen, my Dad, and Link Wray. I am a proud American. I just feel much of our power elite has made some pretty serious mistakes in the last 60 years in terms of social and foreign policy, both Democrat and Republican.” Ringenberg is, obviously, a student of history and current events, and he brings that perspective to his audience with a presentation that is atypical of most folk singers. “I would say I am a solo punkabilly barnstorming folk singer. Don't be put off that you will see a typical singer-songwriter. I won't be sitting on any stool. Although I am solo and roots based, its an energy show.” Folk. Punk. Left wing. Right wing. Ringenberg has blazed a unique trail that many others have tried to follow. However, he offers this advice to college students: “I would say always follow your instinct and imitate no one.” As an added bonus for the UAF community, Ringenberg will also be playing a short set on Friday, Sept. 23, in the Wood Center at 1 p.m. During this free performance, the ASUAF Concert Board and Student Activities Office will be offering free ice cream, while supplies last.
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September 20, 2005