DENVER — "Ignorance & Privilege" from John Gorka's 2009 album, So Dark You See, has been called one of the "Top Ten Best Folk Songs of 2009" by Folk Alley. Gorka will perform at Swallow Hill on Saturday, January 30 at 8 p.m.

Folk Alley's review of the song proclaims, "Gorka discusses what many of us are born into in America. Despite our economic struggles, most of us have it pretty good, but most of us have no idea what our ancestors went through so we could have it so nice. Practically poking us with a stick, Gorka raises questions about our blind acceptance of being born into such comfort."

Adding to a catalog of music that would rival the Beatles' in size, on So Dark You See Gorka solidifies himself as one of folk music's greats with a collection of songs that are rich with meaning and emotion. Intelligently crafted lines weave themes of love and hope together with sharp observations of the troubled times we all must endure. So Dark You See captures Gorka at the pinnacle of his craft, and he will be playing selections from the acclaimed album during his concert at Swallow Hill.

Award-winning, California-based singer/songwriter Joel Rafael will open the show. Rafael is celebrated as one of music's foremost interpreters of the work of American folk icon Woody Guthrie, having released two acclaimed compilations of Guthrie's songs.

Tickets are now on sale at www.swallowhillmusic.org (now with no processing fees) or by calling (303) 777-1003 x2. Discounts are available for Swallow Hill members. As a courtesy, parking is FREE but limited for all concerts at 71 E. Yale Avenue, so come early!

Thank you for supporting live music in Denver!

About Swallow Hill Music Association:
Helping people make and enjoy music since 1979, Swallow Hill Music Association celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2009 as one of the largest nonprofit institutions of its kind in the United States as a source for folk, roots and acoustic music. In 2008, Swallow Hill Music served more than 80,000 people through their concert, school and outreach programming. With more than 2,300 members, Swallow Hill provides a place to celebrate music that is rarely heard elsewhere in the Rocky Mountain Region. Three concert venues house more than 200 performances a year, featuring some of the world's great artists as well as up-and-coming new talent. Swallow Hill’s Julie Davis School of Music offers classes for every interest, skill level and member of the family. Each year, a faculty of 60 instructors provides training to more than 4,000 students. A Tier II member of the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District, Swallow Hill has been named one of the Top 25 Movers & Shakers in Arts & Culture by the Rocky Mountain News, has won both the Mayor's and Governor's Awards for Excellence in the Arts and countless "Best of Denver" awards, has been recognized by the North American Folk Alliance, and is one of the most sought-after venues by folk and roots performers in the country.