Music Maker 25:'Gospel': The Branchettes with special guest Phil Cook

The Sunday proceedings at Music Maker 25 celebrate the gospel tradition. The Branchettes are a Johnston County, NC duo comprised of vocalist Lena Mae Perry and pianist Wilbur Tharpe, who are devoted to sharing the songs and congregational hymns that live in their hearts. Having previously tapped Perry for his own Southland Revue shows and in other collaborative efforts, gospel's influence on Phil Cook's inimitable vocal delivery is unmistakable. Aquarium Drunkard praised his 2018 album People Are My Drug as a vital product of our times, adding that "the Durham-based singer/songwriter clearly views his mission as a celebratory one, recognizing that the work required right now is good work to do." In recent years, Cook has also worked with Hiss Golden Messenger and Mavis Staples, an indication of his impressive range. Cook joins The Branchettes for a special collaboration.