With the recent earthquake that caused massive destruction and heartbreak, it was such an honor that Durty Nellies hosted a fundraiser in light of the tragic circumstances that befell Haiti.  On Valentine's Day, Durty Nellies provided the scene for bands to play and raise money for Haiti's disaster relief.  The bands included The Ryalls Brothers with Skip Haga, The Chickenhead Blues Band with a guest appearance by Eli Cook, the Two Kings, PTF, and the Brian Patrick Band.  Each performance was specialized and completely amazing.  The mood started out of rhythmic and funky, while soaring around rock and roll and ending on a bluesy, Americana note. 

I had never been to Durty Nellies, although I had heard several times it was a Charlottesville staple.  That being the case, I had no idea what to expect that evening.  What I found was an old-school music venue and deli that exuded down home charm, as well as community closeness that oozed from the darkened walls of this flavorful little pub.

I left with an impression of true compassion to fellow human beings around the world, which was refreshing.  It was exactly what I needed.  Many think that in order to help others, you have to think of yourself first.  If you have problems then you are simply unable to focus on another set of problems, therefore making little effort to aid when others are in trouble.  However, this rule does not apply if you consider yourself part of a worldwide family where everyone's problems are a universal concern.  This "impression" I observed was neither forced nor an inconvenience for anyone present that evening.  Everyone enjoyed the music in a comfortable and relaxed setting, giving way to a true musical immersion that rang through with rumbling excitement. 

Durty Nellies was bustling that night until its conclusion, with a consistent flow of traffic, a diverse fan base, and a sense of accord that has been long since overdue.  Each band played with exceptional ease and enthusiasm.  Whether or not you were alone or in a group, everyone contributed an attitude of enjoyment.

With the many tragedies of our world lately, any contribution to a noble cause is not only profoundly necessary, but instills a sense of pride for the citizens that chose to participate in such an event.  I am proud to say I was there, doing whatever I could in this small corner of the world, trying to state with my actions my concern for our planets welfare and all its occupants.  With the people that attended the Haiti Relief Fundraiser that night, I hope that the awareness of relief and responsibility to our society spreads everywhere, and that we consider our well-being a reflection on how we react to the needs of others that are less fortunate.  Tragedy and loss extends to various parts of our world, and it should weigh on every conscience to take the time to make movements of goodwill and contribute hope whenever possible.  We sometimes forget in our busy lives that a simple act of human kindness echoes future harmony in every manner of our being.  I hope to see more of this, alongside the comfort that music brings, in turn giving ourselves the chance for universal peace and accountability.  Music is a universal outlet that provides empathy and hope to us all in times of disparity.  I am writing this review specifically to Durty Nellies, the people responsible for hosting the Haiti Relief Fundraiser, and to the participating bands that offered the salvation of musical inspiration to us all.  Thank you for caring and for helping those whom you have never met.  This reflects your moral standing, and I offer my deepest feelings of gratitude and appreciation to have witnessed this alongside the exceptional music that I witnessed! 

Take care, and God bless you!  If you have any desire to be part of the Haiti Relief Project, please visit www.SamaritansPurse.org/Haiti. 

By Author and Staff Coordinator: Helen Brown

Although originally from Marion Junction, Alabama, Helen has been living in Ivy, Virginia for the last three years, because she absolutely loves the Blue Ridge Mountains.  She attended Emory and Henry College, in Emory, Virginia, gaining a degree in Philosophy and Psychology.  Helen moved to Charlottesville on a whim because of the unique music scene, interest in the Food and Wine Industry, and the desire to incorporate music into her professional aspirations.  She is looking forward to listening to an array of eclectic music, observing the local talent, and meeting some interesting people, while working with the Magazine33 team!  See you around town...

 

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