Buy an Early Bird Season Ticket before the start of the season and save over 20% at-the-door admission to Opera House events for the year. Once the season starts, for $125, you can receive a season ticket that gets you in the door for all of this season’s performance series events.
Go On Red is a grunge-core band hailing from Baltimore, Maryland. Founded in 2013 by frontman Tory Vasquez, the band has spent over a decade making waves in the scene, relentlessly delivering high-energy performances. With over a decade of slaying the Mid-Atlantic region, Go On Red has built a dedicated following and is now gearing up for their highly anticipated new release. Be the first to hear their latest music live as they unveil fresh, electrifying material that showcases their evolution and raw intensity. Stay tuned—big things are coming!
With Special Guest
Dead City Empire
Grayscape
Indie Division
The Pocahontas County Opera House is thrilled to announce a special performance by country music sensation Glen Shelton on April 19, 2024.
Glen Shelton, a native of Central Virginia, has captivated audiences with his blend of mainstream and traditional country music, steeped in classic American values. Known for his engaging, family-friendly, and high-energy performances, Shelton's shows are guaranteed to leave audiences inspired and entertained.
The past year has been particularly momentous for Shelton, who signed with Jordash Records of Nashville, TN. His recent releases, "Writing You a Love Song" and "I'm All In," have consistently climbed various music charts, establishing him as a formidable presence in the country music scene. "I'm All In" impressively reached the top 60 on MusicRow within the first four weeks of its release and continues to rise. By August 2023, it had secured #51 on MusicRow, #35 on New Music Weekly Country Radio, and #26 on New Music Weekly Country Digital. This chart-topping hit is also a mainstay on popular platforms like iHeart Radio.
Shelton's impressive career includes sharing the stage with legendary country artists such as Randy Travis, Joe Nichols, and Darryl Worley. Most recently, he has performed with David Lee Murphy, who will soon be inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
The historic Pocahontas County Opera House, with its 250-seat capacity, offers a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere that is also accessible to those with disabilities. Given the anticipated high demand for this event, advance bookings are recommended. Tickets are available for a $10 donation, while those aged 17 and under can attend for free, ensuring accessibility for families and fostering youth engagement with the arts. Tickets can be obtained through the Opera House website, the 4th Avenue Gallery in Marlinton, or at the venue on the day of the performance.
The success of the Pocahontas County Opera House is made possible by the support of numerous sponsors, including the West Virginia Division of Culture and History and the West Virginia Commission on the Arts. Their support, along with contributions from local organizations and the community, helps keep the arts vibrant in Pocahontas County.
The Lambda Alpha International New York Chapter cordially invites you to our MEMBER'S ONLY EVENT!
This is a joint event with the LAI New York Chapter and the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH) New York Chapter.
The New JPMorgan Chase Headquarters at 270 Park Ave.
Tour & Presentation on decarbonization and sustainability efforts.
270 Park Avenue is set to be the new state-of-the-art global headquarters for JPMorgan Chase. The 1,388-foot (423 meter), 60-story skyscraper will be New York City’s largest all-electric tower with net zero operational emissions and exceptional indoor air quality that exceeds the highest standards in sustainability, health and wellness. It will help define the modern workplace with 21st century infrastructure, smart technology and 2.5 million square feet of flexible and collaborative space that can easily adapt to the future of work.
There is limited space so tickets are on a first come first serve basis so please register ASAP!
*There are only 8 spots available for the tower tour, presentation, and social/networking reception.
*There are an additional 8 spots available for just the presentation and social/networking reception.
The presentation will be given by our esteemed panel including:
- James Shea - Managing Director, JPMorgan Chase & Co.
- Devin Maher - Executive Director, JPMorgan Chase & Co.
- Jeremy Dworken - Partner, Foster & Partners
- Justin Boyler - Partner, Foster & Partners
- Michael Ritchie - Associate Principal, Adamson Associates
- Christopher R. Horch - Principal, Severud Associates
- Fortunato Orlando - Principal, Severud Associates
- Peyman Askarinejad - Founding Principal, PAN Partners
Ecstatic Dance DC is the dance-iest dance floor in all of DC.
The 5th annual ConnectHER Weekend Retreat is an exclusive gathering designed for high-achieving women seeking holistic growth and connection. Curated by Tammy Barnett, this transformative annual 3-day experience celebrates imperfection, identifies missing elements in participants' lives, provides valuable education and resources for their next pivot, and fosters meaningful connections with like-minded women.
Event Details:
Date: April 25th-27th
Location: Chicago, IL
Theme: Connections Is Currency: What's Your Net Worth?
ConnectHER Weekend Retreat transcends the ordinary to become a truly life-changing and holistic experience that intricately activates women across multiple dimensions—emotionally, mentally, financially, physically, spiritually, and socially. This transformative retreat goes beyond the surface, delving deep into the core of each participant's being to ignite profound shifts in various aspects of their lives.
The 10th Anniversary of Charm City Django Jazz Fest is a celebration of the amazing musical legacy of legendary guitarist Django Reinhardt featuring some of the top musicians in the world.
The seated listening concert on Friday April 25th is at Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore MD 21218. Doors at 7PM. Show at 8PM.
The seated listening concert on Saturday April 26th is An Die Musik, 409 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21201. There are two separate ticketed sets for this show, 8PM & 9:30PM
Friday April 25th at Baltimore Museum of Art : Hot Club of San Francisco, Ultrafaux, and The Django Legacy Band w/Henry Acker, Sam Farthing and Grant Flick
Saturday April 26th at An die Musik Concert Hall : Hot Club of Saratoga w/Jonathan Greene on clarinet, Hot Club of Baltimore w/Dallas Vietty, Tim Green and Steve Karla (Hot Club of Asheville)
Plus Saturday afternoon workshops in guitar, trad jazz, Gypsy jazz ensemble and accordion to be held at An die Musik April 26th. Sign up by going to our website DjangoJazzFest.com
The freshest pop punk to hit the Mid-Atlantic takes over Zen West with a lineup destined to be out of this world from start to finish.
Featuring:
Aita
Gabe Woodrow
Turn Two
Come Out Swinging
For more details, visit Rappolla Entertainment.
https://rappolla.com/
Ecstatic Dance DC is the dance-iest dance floor in all of DC.
Join us on May 2nd at 7 PM at the Pocahontas County Opera House for an electrifying performance by Nora Jane Struthers & The Party Line. Struthers, known for her compelling storytelling and energetic shows, returns with her new album, "Back To Cast Iron," encompassing themes of resilience and the balance of motherhood and musicianship.
After the pandemic interrupted her 2020 tour, Struthers turned her experiences into the upbeat tracks of her latest album. She maintains an engaging presence with fans through her Patreon account, ensuring a close connection with her audience.
Her album, produced by Neilson Hubbard and featuring her husband Joe Overton, showcases a mix of rock, honky-tonk, and soul in songs like "Carhenge," "Children They Need You (All Of The Time)," and the title track, "Back On The Road."
Hailing from Virginia and New Jersey, Struthers was inspired by her father’s banjo playing and the Telluride Bluegrass Festival to pursue a musical career in Nashville. There, she formed The Bootleggers and later, The Party Line, creating a significant impact in the Americana genre.
Tickets for this highly anticipated performance are $10 for adults, while young music lovers 17 and under can attend for free, making it an accessible event for families. Tickets can be purchased online at pocahontasoperahouse.org, at the 4th Avenue Gallery in Marlinton, or at the door on the night of the show, subject to availability.
The Opera House Performance Series is proudly supported by grants from the West Virginia Division of Culture and History and the West Virginia Commission on the Arts. Additional support comes from Pocahontas County Dramas, Fairs and Festivals and the Pocahontas County Convention and Visitors Bureau, reflecting the community's dedication to preserving and promoting its cultural heritage.
Ecstatic Dance DC is the dance-iest dance floor in all of DC.
The Queers are an American punk rock band formed in 1981 in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Known for their fast, melodic, and often humorous style, they are heavily influenced by classic punk bands like the Ramones, as well as elements of surf rock and pop-punk.
The band, led by longtime frontman Joe Queer (Joe King), gained a cult following with albums like Love Songs for the Retarded (1993), Beat Off (1994), and Don’t Back Down (1996). Their lyrics often focus on themes of rebellion, relationships, and tongue-in-cheek humor, sometimes stirring controversy.
Over the years, The Queers have toured extensively, sharing the stage with bands like Screeching Weasel, NOFX, and The Mr. T Experience, and have remained an influential force in the punk scene, consistently releasing music and maintaining a dedicated fanbase.
The Huntingtons are a punk rock band known for their high-energy, Ramones-style sound. Formed in the mid-’90s, they quickly gained a following with their fast, melodic punk anthems and relentless touring. Over the years, they’ve shared the stage with The Queers, MxPx, Teen Idols, and more. In 1999, they had the honor of backing Joey Ramone for a live performance, solidifying their place in punk history. With a discography packed with raw, hook-driven tracks, The Huntingtons continue to keep classic punk alive.
With Special Guest
An architectural practice presents unique challenges when the owners decide it is time to engage in succession planning in order to ensure the continuation of the firm and a smooth exit for the principals. Succession planning can be viewed as the art of structuring the transition of the ownership, management, and control of the architecture practice. Each of these elements requires careful planning, structuring, and implementation in order for the succession plan to be successful. This panel will discuss transition planning for architecture and design firms. The topics will include the types of transitions, corporate structures, planning for transitions, the tax implications, and common mistakes when making transitions.
AIA Continuing Education: 1.5 LU Approved
Ecstatic Dance DC is the dance-iest dance floor in all of DC.
The Toasters are a pioneering third-wave ska band from New York City, formed in 1981 by Robert "Bucket" Hingley. As one of the first American ska bands, they helped shape the genre and founded Moon Ska Records, a key label in the ska movement. Known for hits like Don't Let the Bastards Grind You Down, 2-Tone Army, Weekend in L.A., and Thrill Me Up, they’ve toured globally with The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, Reel Big Fish, and Fishbone.
The Toasters have played major festivals worldwide, including It’s Not Dead Festival, Supernova International Ska Festival, Jera On Air, and the Rude CAT, Rude MAD, and Rude GAS Jamaican Sounds Festivals in Spain. Decades later, they remain a driving force in ska, continuing to tour and influence new generations.
Presented By Rappolla Entertainment
Deep Six is a surf rock band hailing from Bel Air, Maryland. Formed in 2024, the band has quickly made a name for themselves in the local music scene. They've shared the stage with Ballyhoo at a sold-out event in January 2024 and have performed at venues like Angels Rock Bar and headlined a major event at The Recher.
Their self-titled EP, Deep Six, released in late 2024, has garnered significant attention on streaming platforms. The lead single, Queen of Hearts, stands out as their most successful track to date, contributing to their growing fanbase.
https://linktr.ee/deepsixmd
Founded in 1999 during the mid-'90s ska revival, The Players Band (TPB) has spent 25 years delivering horn-heavy Jamaican ska and reggae across the Mid-Atlantic, playing over 550 shows. Its members hail from bands like The Pietasters, Jah Works, Bumpin Uglies, Scotch Bonnets, and more. TPB has shared stages with The Isley Brothers, Joe Strummer, Toots & the Maytals, The B-52s, The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, and The Skatalites. Highlights include the Supernova Ska Festival, Baltimore’s New Year’s Eve Spectacular, and Maryland’s Olympic Tribute. They’ve rocked iconic venues like 9:30 Club, Capital One Arena, Fillmore Silver Spring, Pier 6, and Rams Head Live!
https://theplayersband.com/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561373974503&sk=about
The Pocahontas County Opera House is pleased to announce that Andes Manta will be performing on May 17 at 7 p.m. This concert will offer a rare and vibrant cultural experience through the sounds of traditional Andean music.
Andes Manta, comprised of the four Lopez brothers—Fernando, Luis, Bolivar, and Jorge—have dedicated their lives to preserving and sharing the ancient musical heritage of the Ecuadorian Andes. Their performances serve as a musical bridge, fostering cultural understanding between South America and North America.
The Andean music performed by Andes Manta has roots that stretch back thousands of years, although its earliest origins remain shrouded in mystery. This rich and powerful tradition is one of the few ancient cultural forms to survive the five centuries of European colonization unscathed. It is widely believed among indigenous South Americans that this music preserves the heart and soul of their ancestors. Far from being somber, their music is a joyous celebration of life, marked by ceremonies and festivals celebrating milestones from the blessing of a house to the birth of a child.
Using more than 35 traditional instruments, Andes Manta brings the vibrant Andean culture to life. From the piccolo and panpipes to drums and guitars, their music captures the essence of their homeland, blending pre-Colombian and Catholic rituals in energetic performances that have captivated audiences across the globe.
"We are thrilled to host Andes Manta and bring the magic of the Andes to our community," said [Opera House Representative’s Name], [Position] of the Pocahontas County Opera House. "Their genuine artistry and extraordinary performances will offer our audience an unforgettable evening."
Tickets for this highly anticipated performance are $10 for adults, while young music lovers 17 and under can attend for free, making it an accessible event for families. Tickets can be purchased online at pocahontasoperahouse.org, at the 4th Avenue Gallery in Marlinton, or at the door on the night of the show, subject to availability.
The Opera House Performance Series is proudly supported by grants from the West Virginia Division of Culture and History and the West Virginia Commission on the Arts. Additional support comes from Pocahontas County Dramas, Fairs and Festivals and the Pocahontas County Convention and Visitors Bureau, reflecting the community's dedication to preserving and promoting its cultural heritage.
Andes Manta has performed in esteemed venues such as Carnegie Hall, the National Cathedral, and Lincoln Center, and their concerts have consistently garnered standing ovations. As Stephanie Korobov of SUNY New Paltz remarked, "The crowd would not let them stop; these guys are magic."
Trixie Little's NOT DEAD YET Cabaret!
Renowned artist and entertainer Trixie Little makes her Zen West debut with a rollicking evening of irreverent cabaret. Expect a wildly fun mélange of witty songs, surreal dance numbers, crazy props, ridiculous puppets, and Trixie’s signature acrobatic burlesque stripteases—a talent that earned her the Queen of Burlesque title from the Burlesque Hall of Fame in Las Vegas.
Called “smart, funny, and dumb in all the best ways” by The Washington Post and “truly, madly, deeply weird” by her parents, Trixie is a beloved Baltimore legend who never disappoints.
Joining her for this one-night-only extravaganza is special guest star and Trixie’s redheaded sister from another mister—the incredible BURGUNDY BRIXX. Traveling all the way from Vancouver, Canada, Burgundy is a New York City-trained triple threat, fresh off a run of her one-woman show about the risqué world of Ruth Wallis at the Hawai'i Fringe Festival.
PLUS: Even more shenanigans and surprises than you can twirl your tassels at.
With 26 recordings and hundreds of songs in his repertoire, Tom Chapin serves up a tasty mix of story songs, ballads, comedic and political songs, family music, sing-alongs, old-time folk classics and a favorite song or two of his late brother Harry’s. Tom accompanies himself on guitar, banjo and autoharp.
In a career that spans five decades and three Grammy awards, Hudson Valley Troubadour Tom Chapin has covered an incredible amount of creative ground. In addition to his work as a recording artist and concert performer, Chapin has acted on Broadway, as well as working extensively in films, television and radio. As a music-maker, the multi-talented singer/songwriter/guitarist has maintained two long and productive parallel careers, both as a highly respected contemporary folk artist and as a pioneer in the field of children's music. Chapin has established a reputation for insightful, heartfelt songcraft, masterful fingerpicking, and charismatic live performance.
In addition to his varied musical and media endeavors, Chapin is a board member of
WhyHunger, the organization which Tom's older brother, the late singer-songwriter/activist Harry Chapin, founded in 1975. He also remains active in a variety of environmental causes, as well as efforts on behalf of music and the arts in our public schools.
Ecstatic Dance DC is the dance-iest dance floor in all of DC.
On The Decks: Dj Rocky Styles
Rappolla Entertainment and Gawds Presents
Billy Lyve and iLL LuCK with JayMoney Hackett
- L3 with GAWDS & Special Guests
With Special Guest
- Xavier James with Dj Dyrti
- Apex tha Genius
- UllNevaNo
- Ricky Rich
- Krizzo
- Brina LaBarz with Lowtide
Join AIA Baltimore's Committee on the Environment (COTE/R) for a recap of the 2025 Maryland legislative session.
Ecstatic Dance DC is the dance-iest dance floor in all of DC.
The Never Early Preshow At Zen West
Wheatus is an American rock band best known for their 2000 hit “Teenage Dirtbag.” Formed in 1995 by Brendan B. Brown, they blend alternative rock and pop-punk. Their Teenage Dirtbag music video featured Jason Biggs and Mena Suvari, tying into the American Pie era’s high school angst.
Musidc Video For Teenage Dirtbag
Beyond their biggest hit, Wheatus found success with “A Little Respect” (a UK Top ), “Leroy,” “Wannabe Gangster,” and “Only You.” They’ve toured with Bowling for Soup, Everclear, Hoobastank, Reel Big Fish, Lit, Busted, and more. They’ve maintained a cult following, continuing to tour and release music independently in the past two decades.
Their most recent release, "I’d Never Write a Song About You" (2024), continues their evolution as a band, resonating with fans old and new.
I’d Never Write a Song About You" Performed Live from McGonigel's Mucky Duck Here
With Special Guest
Special Thanks To
Music Space
Punk Rock Saves Lives
"The greatest interpreter and vocalist performing in the contemporary folk scene." ~ Sing Out
Born in Hamilton, Ontario to parents of Nova Scotian descent, Garnet Rogers spent many hours in front of the old floor model radio listening to Grand Ol' Opry broadcasts and harmonizing with his brother, the late folk legend Stan Rogers. Two years later, Garnet was playing the definitive 8-year-old's version of "Desolation Row" on his ukulele. He soon abandoned that instrument to teach himself the flute, violin and guitar. At 18, Garnet was on the road as a full-time working musician with brother Stan. Together they formed what has come to be accepted as one of the most influential duos in the history of North American folk music. Garnet acted as producer and arranger for his older brother from 1973 to 1983, when Stan died tragically in a plane crash. Since then, Garnet has courageously established himself as a formidable solo artist. Hailed by the Boston Globe as a "...charismatic performer and singer — one of the major talents of our time," they continue by saying that "Garnet's vocal and instrumental talents are complimented by an undeniably powerful physical presence — close to six and a half feet tall — with the lungs to match."
With his "smooth, dark baritone," (Washington Post) his incredible range and thoughtful, dramatic phrasing, Garnet is widely considered by fans and critics alike to be one of the finest singers anywhere. His music, like the man himself, is literate, passionate, highly sensitive, and deeply purposeful. Cinematic in detail, his songs give expression to the unspoken language of the heart. An optimist at heart, Garnet sings extraordinary songs about people who are not obvious heroes and of the small everyday victories. As memorable as his songs, his over-the-top humor and lightning-quick wit move his audiences from tears to laughter and back again. Rogers has been the featured performer on numerous television and radio programs including Much Music, Mountain Stage, and All Things Considered. He has been a headliner at concert venues and festivals such as Wolf Trap, Lincoln Center, and Art Park; sharing the stage with performers such as Mary Chapin Carpenter, Billy Bragg, Bill Monroe, Ferron, Greg Brown, and Guy Clark. Though Garnet has enjoyed much popularity over the years, he remains resolutely independent, turning down offers from major labels to ensure that he continues doing music his own way.
Garnet Rogers recently published a memoir, Night Drive: Travels with my Brother.
"I have found strength and comfort in his songs. This is good and rich and big music. Welcome one and all. Come on in. Get down." ~ Greg Brown
"Celtic guitar god." ~ Baltimore City Paper.
"Breathtaking...brilliant technique, always in service of the music." ~ Guitar Player.
"A musician whose technical skill and stylistic expertise are second to none...a time-served folkie of the highest calibre." ~ Classical Guitar (U.K.).
Robin Bullock is a prolific composer and multi-instrumentalist, whose virtuosity on guitar, cittern and mandolin blends the ancient melodies of the Celtic lands and their vigorous Appalachian descendants into one powerful musical vision. The 17th-century harp tunes of legendary Irish bard Turlough O'Carolan, the spirited jigs and reels of rural Ireland, the haunting ballads of the southern Appalachians and evocative original compositions all find a musical common ground in Robin's music, where lightning-fast fingerwork one moment is perfectly balanced with tender, quiet intimacy the next. A warm, friendly presence onstage, Robin effortlessly creates a magical world for the audience with his multi-instrumental wizardry, taking them on a journey to the heart and soul of Celtic and American traditions.
"Dazzling spirit... what he offers is not just virtuosity for the sake of virtuosity, but also the sensibility of one on a quest between past and present, traditional and modern." ~ Trad Magazine (France).
Originally rising to prominence as a founding member of the innovative acoustic world-music trio Helicon, Robin's solo career has won him three Washington Area Music Association WAMMIE Awards, a Governor's Award from the Maryland State Arts Council, and a feature broadcast on National Public Radio's hugely popular Celtic music program "The Thistle and Shamrock."
Maryland Crafted: Centreville is an open-air market and happy hour event that is perfect for a casual Saturday afternoon. Meet local artisans and learn about the local craft beverage industry from the wineries, breweries, and distilleries themselves while sampling their products! When you find something you like, you can purchase bottles and cans to take home with you!
Sponsored by the Town of Centreville and the Maryland Wineries Association
. 
Thank you to Visit Queen Anne's County and The Wine Coach for promotional and event support!
Southern WV's premier EDM Festival
IONA‘s music is a unique, acoustic weave of the traditional music of Scotland, Ireland, Wales, Cornwall, Brittany (France), the Isle of Man, Asturies and Galicia (Spain), as well as their transplants in America. Blending songs, dance tunes, and aires into a rich and stunning tapestry, their style is outstanding in an arena where these traditions are seldom intertwined.
Conceived in 1986, IONA was the musical offspring of lead singer, bouzouki, guitar and bodhrán player Barbara Ryan and wind section, Bernard Argent. With fiddler Jim Queen (banjo and vocals as well), percussive dancer and singer Marsha Searle, and Leigh Oben on guitar, bass guitar and double bass, IONA has become the leading Celtic group in the Mid-Atlantic region.
They are all seasoned performers: entertainers who involve their audiences with the history and cultural backgrounds of the music, with teaching words to the songs — even those sung in a Celtic tongue, with leading simple Breton dances, with humor, and with every emotion in the spectrum.
An IONA show is known for:
- Traditional Celtic Material The haunting songs, toe tapping dances and the humor of the Celtic peoples from Scotland to Brittany provide IONA with an incredibly varied repertoire
- Original Acoustic Arrangements All the members of the band play several instruments, often switching within a piece to achieve their unique sound. They weave tunes from different countries around their songs, pursuing complex rhythms with deft professionalism.
- Lively Entertaining Presentation Above all, IONA’s performances are FUN! Barbara and Bernard teach audiences words to their songs (some in Celtic languages!), lead them in clapping and even encourage them to dance!
$50 EARLY BIRD (50 max tickets)
$75 Pre-Sales
$100 @ Gate
18+
INDOOR AIR CONDITIONED Stage w/ Bar
3 Days of strictly broken beat/bass music
Private Property
No Noise Ordinance
Camping HIGH¤LY Encouraged
Staff/Security/EMTs on Site
FOOD & DRINK
Absolutely NO GLASS or will be confiscated
Outside alcohol is allowed w/ a $50 fee
(No limit on how much, and this pertains to alcohol ONLY)
Food will be availabe, or potentially a food truck
VENDORS
Trav's Tie-Dyed Treasures
www.tt-dt.com/
www.facebook.com/TTDT24
¤
Art By Futch
Custom art from the heart
Painted by M.Futch
www.instagram.com/futch_dnb
¤
(Message @Chris Swedish @Garrett Riley on facebook to Apply)
Want to VOLUNTEER?!
Free entry and perks like Free food/drink + MANY MANY MORE PERKS!
(Depending on level of involvement}
We're looking for some general help (staff, security, etc.)
We're also looking to expand our team and add some permanent people to our family/crew
Message @Garrett Riley to apply.
Photography by Mo's Photos
@Morgan Perry
Any other inquiries message @Synesthesia Productions
Buskin & Batteau have been winning hearts and minds with their soulful acoustic balladry and fun-filled performances for more years than they care to remember. "We're not from the Cambridge, came-over-on-the-Mayflower first wave of folkies [Joan Baez, Tom Rush, Eric Von Schmidt]," says Buskin, "but we'd like to think we've stolen many of their licks." The Washington Post called their work "an irresistible amalgam of melodic, sensual pop, folkie grit and killer wit.” And while their humor runs the gamut from topical irony ("Second Homeless") to terminal silliness ("Jews Don't Camp"), it's their unique combination of instrumental virtuosity (piano and violin, primarily, though both play other instruments as well), soaring vocal harmonies and unparalleled lyric-writing that prompts the standing ovations and rhapsodic reviews: "The most musically sophisticated act in folk" — The New York Times; "Acoustic Heaven" — The Boston Globe. Famous in the eighties as superstar jingle writers — Batteau's "Heartbeat of America" heads a list of a hundred or more hits — they've also divided their time between writing songs for other artists — e.g., Judy Collins, Tom Rush, Astrud Gilberto, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Peter, Paul and Mary and Bette Midler; helping a diverse group of non-profits — Paul Newman's Hole-In-The-Wall Camps, Harry Chapin's WhyHunger, Roger Payne's Ocean Alliance, among others; and hosting their quirky, unpredictable Radio B&B show on WPKN-FM and WPKN.org. Their latest CD, Love Remembered, Love Forgot, was recorded at Neale Eckstein's Fox Run Studios in Sudbury, MA, features some delightful guest appearances.
More than a decade touring the U.S., Heather Aubrey Lloyd has brought her lush, passionate voice to every type of venue, from folk festivals and bars to bait shops and clothing-optional resorts. A recovering reporter, her songs drift from journalistic to deeply personal, each narrative offered up in her distinctive alto and layered over finger-picked guitar. Her sets are rounded out with a few pieces on djembe, the instrument that earned her primal reputation as co-front for the Baltimore-based band ilyAIMY. She’s backed and supported Dar Williams, Ellis Paul, Shawn Mullins, performed as a 2012 Most-Wanted Artist at the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival and was a DC Lilith Fair Talent Search finalist. In Jan. 2015, she began work on her second solo CD, “A Message in the Mess,” a collaboration with Reno band, The Novelists.
“Lloyd’s voice has a powerful emotional and technical range, using everything from a delicate whisper to a bluesy growl to breathe life into the folk narratives.” ~ Michael Duck, The Morning Call
Truth is, it is nearly impossible to sum up Christine Lavin is a few sentences. She is an iconic sin ger/songwriter who has earned her legendary status through years of tireless performing, doing shows at once quirky, hilarious & touching. Her songs have a wordsmith’s eye for detail, with a comic’s vision for the absurd & a huge & fearless heart that will go anywhere … & who else baton twirls, knits with her audience before a show, & does their nails?? “A garrulous comic observer of contemporary manners” – NY Times. “An enchanting stage performer” – Cosmopolitan. “Lavin is the central force in the most visible segment of the contemporary folk music scene. Captivating.” Billboard. “Christine Lavin puts delightful melodies behind wry, witty & perceptive observations about life.” NY Daily News. “Lavin can write serious, sensitive songs with the best of them. But it’s her funny material that sticks in the mind.” Providence Bulletin. “She’s a folkZinger!”~ Orlando Sentinel.
Vance Gilbert burst onto the singer/songwriter scene in the early 90's when buzz started spreading in the folk clubs of Boston about an ex-multi cultural arts teacher who was knocking 'em dead at open mics. Born & raised in the Philadelphia area, Vance started out hoping to be a jazz singer & then discovered his affinity for the storytelling sensibilities of acoustic folk music. Once word got out about Gilbert's stage-owning singing & playing, Shawn Colvin invited him to be special guest on her Fat City Tour. Noted not only for being the ever consummate performer, Gilbert has recorded 12 albums, including 4 for Philo/Rounder Records & a duo album with friend Ellis Paul. Along with being opener of choice for artists as varied as Aretha Franklin, Arlo Guthrie & Anita Baker, 2006 & 2007 found Gilbert opening 140+ shows for comedian George Carlin. Most recently he’s the opener of choice for Paul Reiser & The Subdudes. Considered by many to be an integral part of the national folk scene, Gilbert's approach to the acoustic singer songwriter idiom is significant. Gilbert's compositions, while frequently employing sophisticated melodies & harmonies that attest to his jazz roots, remain sublime attestations to the storyteller's craft. He even has a tune on a Grammy Nominated children’s album.
“…the leading singer/songwriter of the New Folk movement”
– Rolling Stone
“Gorka is widely heralded for the sophisticated intelligence and provocative originality of his songs.” ~ Boston Globe.
John Gorka is an honored icon of folk tradition. Energetic acoustic music that is not a trend, not a fad, but an expression of everyday life, is his trademark.
“He weaves wry, slice of life observations . . . ” ~ Associated Press.
Rising from a milieu of lovelorn singer/songwriters, John Gorka illuminates instead with his trademark wordplay, twisting, tuning and typing words and phrases in the way a balloon artist creates complex creatures from simple balloons. Few contemporary songwriters coax language as deftly as Gorka. For over three decades Gorka’s keen ear has picked up the stories of those along his path, folding them into poetry and song. His keen perceptiveness inspires people from all over the world to share their stories. By involving those tales in his music he escapes the trap of introspection that hobbles less gifted singer/songwriters. John Gorka flies below the pop culture radar with an almost cult-like following that never fails to fill concerts. Speak with any of his fans and one instantly feel’s their enthusiasm and genuine affection. His shy, almost self-effacing stage presence, rightfully focuses attention on the songs. John’s versatility on guitar and piano keeps his sets musically interesting while his rich baritone effortlessly executes his bidding. And he’s never short of the sly comment or clever joke that invariably ignites his audience. So for your next magical spell, just wave your wand and … “Gorka!!” ~ Baltimore Sun.
