Dearest Ragsters,
Last night I and two friends had the X-treme privilege of hearing the Ragamuffin Band and Ashley Cleveland in concert at Carbondale, IL.

The house was packed out ... I'm not sure what seating capacity is for the Shryock, but all seats except for the balcony were filled. It was great to see so many in attendance.

Ashley Cleveland opened up, and in typical Ashley fashion was absolutely FABulous, both in singing and in her very honest comical "shtick". She commented that upon thinking about her set list, she realized that "all my songs are about heaven and eternity...I hope nobody out there is about to die..." She sang a very jazzy version of "Soon and Very Soon," and left everyone awestruck with the song, "Jesus" from the Jesus album. Her last song, a tribute to her little girl Lillie, was a great tribute to child-like faith. All in all, Ashley blew us away.

1. Every Where I Go (I See You)
2. Faith, Hope and Love
3. Surely God is With Us
4. My Deliverer
5. Calling Out Your Name
6. Bouncin' Off the Ceiling
7. Man of No Reputation
8. Hold Me Jesus
9. God Grant Me Tears
10. Make Me An Instrument
11. Awesome God
12. Creed
13. That Where I Am There You...
14. Step by Step
15. Doxology

The guys seemed to have comfortable confidence and calm that was exuded throughout the entire concert. Their sound was tighter than its ever been...musically they were so "on."

Rick and Mark joked around a lot, and Rick even did a little "Irish jig" and a solo "hoe-down" at the end of "That Where I Am." They seemed to be enjoying themselves and Mark did his trademark tirade regarding record companies, his belief that the fans really want to be challenged musically and not issued cookie cutter Christian jingles (I'm paraphrasing here), and told the sad tale of woe regarding thier T-shirts and UK Customs. Rick and Mark both spoke warmly about Rich and how bittersweet these past three years have been. I felt compassion and genuine love for the audience coming from the stage. All in all, the best Ragamuffin show I've EVER seen.

Afterward, the guys of course hung around to chat and sign EVERYTHING pushed in thier faces...what gentleman ! I love them more every time I see them!

I count it a great honor that they came to Southern Illinois ... I know not a single fan went away disappointed.

Please keep the guys and thier families in your prayers, they give so much in every single concert, I'm sure they must be exhausted and road weary.

Blessings to all!

Because of Grace,
Paula