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Old Folkie: Ellis Paul

Ellis Paul
SATURDAY: Since his early start in Boston coffeehouses and open-mic nights, Ellis Paul has held his own in the thriving folk scene. The key? His lyrics, which are as detailed and well-conceived as poetry. Paul's lyrics don't bludgeon home the point the way most folk music does — instead they dance around the heart of the song, revealing it gracefully.

This contemporary troubadour even has Nora Guthrie (daughter of the legendary Woody) singing his praises — she allowed Paul to put one of Woody Guthrie's unpublished pieces, "God's Promise," to music.

Be sure to grab his latest album, "A Summer Night in Georgia: Live from Eddie's Attic," which boasts tracks like "Angel in Manhattan," about a sweet transvestite named Baby D. Another favorite is "Hurricane Angel," written about Hurricane Katrina.

Better yet, just go see what all the fuss is about at Jammin' Java this Saturday.

» Jammin Java, 227 Maple Avenue East, Vienna; Sat., April 4, 7 p.m., $20; 703-255-1566.

Written by Express' Nicole Ocran
Photo courtesy Jack Looney Photography

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