The Road From Newport: Ben Sollee on tour. On bike.

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In 2010, Ben embarked on the “Ditch The Van Tour.” Ben and his band abandoned the comforts of a motorized vehicle and hauled their gear and instruments (yep, the cello too) across the country on bicycles. Ben’s mission was to engage a greater sense of community involvement at every performance. By huffing it on two-wheels between cities, instead of driving or flying, Ben and his crew were able to discover people and facets of our country in ways that traditional touring could not allow. According to Ben, “It’s not about being green or even sustainable… we want to exploit the limitations of the bicycle to slow down and experience the rich communities and people that I’ve spent years flying-by and driving past.”

Well, Ben is back at it for his 3rd bike tour! Following a performance at the prestigious Newport Folk Festival, Ben Sollee will once again load up his gear, strap his cello to his bike, and pedal up the Northeast coast. The Road From Newport: Ben Sollee on tour. On bike. is a week-long journey traveling on portions of the East Coast Greenway from Newport, RI to Portland, ME.

Newport Folk Festival’s history includes over 50 years of showcasing artists who have impacted the direction of folk music. Often likened to “coming home” to the very roots of the folk-music tradition, the Newport Folk Festival is an annual favorite of fans and musicians alike. On July 28, 2012 Ben Sollee, joined by percussionist Jordon Ellis, will bring his signature sound of cello-infused blue-eyed-soul to the esteemed event. Shortly thereafter, Ben and Jordon will embark on bicycle for a 4-date tour run with stops in Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine.