By Eddie Jorgensen

If you were a regular at the Palms Playhouse, chances are you remember seeing John McCutcheon at both its hallowed and now-defunct venues in Davis and Winters. 

This week’s show finds the Grammy-nominated, multi-instrumentalist getting back to what he does best – singing songs from his story book and playing different instruments. He’ll also be showcasing cuts from his deep catalog, as well as his latest record with longtime friend, Tom Paxton. 

McCutcheon and Paxton’s aptly-titled album, “Together,” was released back in October. Written over the many Zoom conversations they had during the Covid lockdown, the latest record features 14 songs culled from the astonishing hundred or so they came up with. 

McCutcheon is quite the ambidextrous musician, playing hammered dulcimer, banjo, piano, guitar and harmonica.

Even the late Johnny Cash once referred to McCutcheon as “the most impressive multi-instrumentalist I ever heard.” 

With forty-four records to his credit, it might seem there’s nothing left for the 71-year-old folks master to prove. Yet, McCutcheon is continuing his annual short run of California shows that starts in Sacramento. 

Doors for the upcoming January 5^th  show at The Sofia are at 6 p.m., with the show getting started at 7 p.m. Tickets are available at www.bstreettheatre.com for $28 advance, plus a $7 venue fee – or you can take your chances at the door and forego the latter. All ages are welcome. The Sofia is located at 2700 Capitol Avenue in Midtown.