New Over the Rhine offers larger, varied lineup

A new chapter opens in the saga of local folk-rockers Over the Rhine Saturday, when the band plays a Bogart's concert and unveils a new six-member lineup that promises to be the group's most innovative, multidimensional cast to date.

Original members Karin Bergquist (vocals, guitar), Linford Detweiler (piano) and Brian Kelley (drums) will be joined by three other musicians: Mike Georgin (fretless bass), Terri Templeton (vocals, violin), and Jack Henderson (electric guitar).

The varied lineup bodes well for the music of the group's songwriters, Detweiler and Ms. Bergquist, whose richly textured songs are suited to a large ensemble.

The band is again drawing the attention of national labels; members say several record company scouts will be at Saturday's concert. The band had three national releases on IRS Records, but IRS fell apart when the record company had corporate problems.

Over the Rhine plays Bogart's Saturday with opening act Vigilantes of Love ($8 advance, $10 at the door; Select-A-Seat).

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CD releases: Dixie Karas has just released her first CD. You may be saying ''Dixie who?,'' but Ms. Karas has probably been heard by more Cincinnatians than almost any other local singer, through a 10-year string of jingles, local bands and even novelty records.

The modern-rock band Porterhouse plans a CD release party for ''Strike Up the Band'' at 9 p.m. Friday at Bellevue Veterans Hall in Bellevue, Ky. ($5).

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Free folk: Dayton's CityFolk hosts the 59th National Folk Festival June 20-22, with dozens of local and international musicians performing at the Courthouse Square area at Third and Main Street.

All events, held at various clubs and outdoor stages, are free.

Among the headliners of what is billed as the ''nation's oldest multicultural celebration'' are the gospel group the Blind Boys of Alabama, featuring Clarence Fountain; the bluegrass band Blue Highway; and the all-female Irish dance ensemble Cherish the Ladies (937-223-3655).

Publication date: 06-19-97