Wednesday, May 21, 2025

Scenes from Duluth Dylan Fest 2025: A Midweek Album

The energy is high this year, with plenty more to come. 
Dylan Fest actually kicked off in Hibbing on Sunday.
On Monday the eight-day event moved to Duluth.

Here are photos from Monday.


The Dylan Fest Acoustic Jam Session w/ host Leslie Black at
Carmody's was impressively packed. Fest-goers were invited 
to "Bring your voice and/or instrument and music stand." 
Some might say it was "organized chaos" but it was 
an evening of pure Dylan.


This year we enjoyed a visit from Tokyo Bob and his entourage. 
Here's a little about Tokyo Bob's Dylan-themed bar Polka Dots:

Tokyo is a vibrant metropolis brimming with unique experiences for every traveler. For Bob Dylan enthusiasts, a visit to the Polka Dots bar is a must-do. Nestled in the heart of the city, this subterranean gem is a dedicated Bob world, where the jukebox exclusively spins Dylan tunes and the walls are adorned with iconic Zimmy posters and memorabilia. 

Since opening its doors in 2006, Polka Dots has been lovingly managed by Tokyo Bob, Japan’s leading Dylan tribute artist. While he channels Dylan’s persona on stage with a signature wig, suit and polka dot shirt, at the bar Tokyo Bob is a warm and welcoming host, ensuring every guest feels at home. Tucked away in the basement of an unassuming building, this intimate venue seats just 20 people, offering a cozy, immersive experience akin to a Dylan fan’s ultimate dream den. For those with their own memorabilia collections, picture adding a fully stocked bar, expertly curated music, and delicious bites—Polka Dots brings that vision to life.



On Tuesday the Fest moved from Carmody's 
to Wussow's Concert Cafe
where DJ Stagger Lee entertained us 
with his curated collection of Dylan vinyls
in their original form, through an analog sound system.


Once satiated we crossed the street to catch a show
featuring Paul Metsa and Sonny Earl with special guest
Gregg Inhofer, one of the original Minnesota musicians
who recorded five songs from Blood on the Tracks. 

Click HERE to see the schedue for the rest 
of this week's events.

Photos by Michael Anderson and my self. 
The high. quality images courtesy of Michael.

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