Countdown in Photos: Day 19

Seattlest will be counting down to 2011 with a series of posts on our highlights of this year and what we're looking forward to in the next. Got a list to suggest? Send it our way. See the entire series here.

I bet you guys thought i wasn't going to write up a post for the Countdown today. Well you're WRONG. How could I possibly let my public down (all 10 of you)? My photo for tonight is of The Maldives, and more specifically Jason Dodson. The Maldives are one of Seattle's true super groups. Not only is Tomo Nakayama of Grand Hallway one of the original members, but Chris Zasche of the Head and the Heart and various other bands is a member as well. They have a huge group of tremendously talented musicians creating a full sound that you can't possibly recreate.

I, myself, am not a huge bluerass fan; at least not in the traditional sense. I've been known to love newgrass bands like Nickel Creek, but never really got into the whole movement itself. I now find myself totally mesmerized by the Moondoggies and the Maldives with no explanation other than they are amazing bands. I suppose that's enough of a reason in and of itself. Starting with Doe Bay, I somehow managed to cover several shows in a very short period of time with most of them including the Maldives. So, without noticing it, I had learned every one of their songs and started singing along. I took that as a hint and bought their album, not looking back since. This shot is from that first Doe Bay show. Nothing can compare to that amazing weekend on Orcas.

Check out my previous countdown photo here.

The Maldives @ Doe Bay Music Festival August 14
photo by morgen schuler