An award winning songwriter and vocalist featured in the Hal Leonard book, Jazz Singers: The Ultimate Guide, Abbie took her songwriting to a new level on this release. Wishes on a Neon Sign features songwriting collaborations with kind-hearted outlaw Chris Stapleton (the wistful "Bad Leaver"), Nashville regular David Olney (on the deliciously slick "Empty Suit)", and bandmate Molly Venter (on the deeply true "Cold Black Water"), as well as Abbie-penned-originals resulting from "Real Women, Real Songs”, an all-female songwriting collective. Recorded in Brooklyn and NJ with producer Michael Bellar (Amos Lee, Fred Wesley) at the helm. He brought in NYC drummer Tony Mason (Norah Jones, Joan Osborne), as well as bassist Craig Akin and guitarist Jon Paul Ruggieri. The resulting album is a moving collection of barroom burns and bedroom ballads deeply steeped in folk, blues and country traditions.
Abbie Gardner is a fiery dobro player with an infectious smile. Whether performing solo or with Red Molly, her acclaimed tales of love and loss, both gritty and sweet, are propelled by her impeccable slide guitar playing. Solo performances feature truly unique use of the dobro as a solo instrument, bouncing between a solid rhythmic backbone and ripping lead lines, all in support of her voice and songs. An award-winning songwriter, Abbie's solo tour highlights include Falcon Ridge, Clearwater, VA Arts Festival, The Kate, Passim, Godfrey Daniels, Uncle Calvin’s, The Spire and a formal showcase at the 2018 Folk Alliance Conference. No Depression says she displays “uncommon versatility” on her latest CD Wishes on a Neon Sign (released January 2018). The recording features 12 original songs and a co-write with Chris Stapleton. WFUV's John Platt raves, “she’s not only a first-rate Dobro player, but a songwriter to be reckoned with."
Abbie Gardner with special guest Sean Kiely
Cathedral Arts Live