It was a great Taos morning, the skies the color of blue you’ll see nowhere else. Festivalgoers were up and eager for the day’s events.

I missed the first two bands on the roster: Greg B and the Gunsels and Sean Healen. I was especially bummed to miss Sean. I understand that the Santa Fe Brewing Company honored him recently with a permanent addition to their fine line of brews, called “Healen’s Big Hat Nut Brown Ale.” He’s famous, not only for his music but for his hats.

The inaugural Music on the Mesa Music Festival opened onto a glorious Taos NM day. Deep blue skies and stunning views of the Sangre de Christo peaks to the side of the main stage added to the spirit of this festival. On site at the Taos Mesa Brewing Company, emcee Don Richmond of The Rifters gently directed festivalgoers to three stages of amazing Americana bands.