OUTPOST: St. Patrick’s Day Party ft Los Gun Show + Lyndsay Pruett Express
– ALL AGES- STANDING ROOM ONLY – RAIN OR SHINE – NOON-6PM Kick it at The Outpost this year for St. Patrick’s Day! We’ll have local supergroup Los Gun Show on stage + Lyndsay Pruett Express + DJ sets and more! LGS is a psyche blues band featuring members of Drunken Prayer, Pleasure Chest, Reigning Sound and Ouroboros Boys. Come hungry because The Grey Eagle Taqueria food truck will be serving up some Irish favorites that you won’t want to miss out on! Enjoy outdoor games and activities like:- Coin-Hole (our Irish take on Corn Hole) – Irish Jig Dance Contest – Adult & Pet Fashion Show+ more!
Eddie 9V
– ALL AGES- STANDING ROOM ONLYEDDIE 9VAs far back as he can remember, Capricorn Studios was calling Eddie 9V. As a kid scanning the sleeves of his favorite vinyl records, this fabled facility in Macon, Georgia, was always the secret ingredient, adding a little grit and honey to every song born on its floor. Capricorn and the bands who blew through it urged the Atlanta guitarist to ditch school at 15, play his fingers bloody throughout the south, and turn apathy into acclaim for early albums Left My Soul in Memphis (2019) and Little Black Flies (2021).Eddie spent his first quarter-century admiring Capricorn from afar. But in December 2021, the 26-year-old finally put his thumbprint on the studio’s mythology, corralling an eleven-strong group of the American South’s best roots musicians to track his third album. “There was overwhelming excitement at being in such a legendary studio,” he says. “But we hugged and got right to work. Everyone was joyous, loving, and flat-out playing their asses off.”You don’t come to Capricorn Studios for polish. Frozen in time since its opening day in 1969, the mojo from sessions by giants like the Allman Brothers and Bonnie Bramlett still hangs in the air, while the recording philosophy remains gloriously raw. That suited Eddie, whose output has been celebrated for its warts-and-all snapshot of what went down. “In a world where everyone is trying to sound the best, I’m trying to sound like me,” he reasons. “I always want the listener to feel like they’re in the room with us. So I’d leave it in if a drum pedal squeaked or someone laughed during a take on the Capricorn album. It’s our way of putting a stamp on the song.”Eddie’s old-school ethos goes way back. Born Brooks Mason in June 1996, he acquired his first guitar aged six, “One of those with the speaker in it – the most bang for your buck, y’know?”, ignored the prevailing pop scene at Oak Grove High School in favor of local heroes like Sean Costello and studied “older cats” like Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, Freddie King, and Rory Gallagher “to see what made them groove and tick.” His shoot-from-the-lip lyrics adds Eddie came from family fish fries, where his Uncle Brian “taught me to make people laugh, how to hold an audience’s attention.”When Eddie infiltrated his home state’s live circuit – first with covers band The Smokin’ Frogs, then its more adept blues-rock offshoot, The Georgia Flood – he quickly pricked up ears everywhere he played. His artistic vision became full realized when he killed Brooks Mason and adopted the solo moniker that promises an electrifying night out, “Eddie 9 Volt”. “There are too many Joe Schmo r&b bands,” he reasons. “I was on the road with another band, and we were talking like mobsters. So we gave each other names – mine was Eddie.”Already, there has been massive acclaim for his early output, with Left My Soul in Memphis dubbed “fresh and life-affirming” by Rock & Blues Muse and Little Black Flies praised by Classic Rock as “the most instinctive blues you’ll hear all year.” But as the Capricorn sessions ticked closer, Eddie fused the nervous energy into his best songs yet. “Coming off a straight blues record, I wanted to show people we’re more than that,” he reflects. “I was listening to Muscle Shoals and soul, a lot of music recorded at Capricorn in the late-’60s too. So we spent way more time crafting the new tunes. Each song took a week to write, instead of five in one night like Little Black Flies.”
Eric Travers ‘Dead End Street’ HOMETOWN PREMIERE
ALL AGESSTANDING ROOM ONLYERIC TRAVERS BAND29 year old, Eric Travers has found his way back home playing his drums, guitar, keyboard and blowin’ on his blues harp in Black Mountain, NC writing his next album with a new lineup. The Asheville, NC-based group plays Rock N Roll Blues, Americana, and Rhythm & Blues roots! Eric Travers Band is also bringing a hometown nostalgia feeling with their DEBUT SINGLE to be released on May/20 at The RailYard Outdoor Stage Grand Opening Celebration. They will be playing at the upcoming Asheville Fest this summer and the Band just welcomed two new members Dorsey Parker and Ian Harrod. Ian is a great singer and bass player and along with Dorsey’s guitar expertise, they make a great team. They’ve been jammin’ together for 10+ years! Learn more about the Eric Travers Band. His small town stomping grounds always welcome him after long tours with Travers Brothership. In 2019, they played 200+ shows in 9 countries! Eric began writing songs and formed his fourth band by the age of 15 with his twin brother, Kyle Travers and original members of Travers Brothership. They were blessed to share the stage with Warren Haynes, Moe, Old Crowe Medicine Show, Ivan Neville, Dr. John, Taj Mahal, Jeff Sipe, Karl Denson, Jaimoe, Yonrico Scott and MANY more. Being the same age and growing up with a bit of jam-band roots, some highlights of Eric’s career include sit ins with Marcus King and Billy Strings. Now, with 15 years of touring experience and 35+ songs recorded under his belt, Travers looks to reach for new horizons in 2023 with ETB and his new label, All Aboard Records. PEACOCK PLANETPeacock Planet is the creative project of Louly Peacock and Simeon Hickman. The “Planet” came out with their latest album, Trashee Deevas, in the fall of 2023, featuring Jeff Sipe, Jack C. Mascari, Zack Page and Lyndsay Pruett. Critics praise how Peacock Planet’s miasma of styles condenses down to guitar and keyboard driven progressive rock, harkening back to new wave and jam band roots. Not many write, nor perform, such a crazy, eerie mishmash! Imagine if the B 52s had a baby with Southern Culture on the Skids with Phish as the Godfather.Howie Finkle (bass) and Dana Drevitson (drums) round out the rhythm section and lay down the sonic canvas that provides the creative launchpad of Sim (guitars and vox) and Louly (Vox and Keys and cowbell). Rocky Horror at the discotheque, Peacock Planet will get you shakin’ your mojo bag all night long! (PS: the next album, Moxie Sparklebomb is set to drop in May 2024)
Jontavious Willis
– ALL AGES- SEATED SHOW- LIMITED NUMBER OF PREMIUM SEATING TICKETS AVAILABLE JONTAVIOUS WILLISJontavious Willis is reshaping the blues scene with his own unique style. Hailing from Greenville, Georgia, his deep connection to his rural Americana and black heritage infuses his artistry with authenticity and character.Jontavious occupies a unique position as a child of the 90s whose artistic canvas, the blues, is among the most vintage of American art forms. His work provides an avenue for modern audiences to access a part of history all too often deemed inaccessible. On tour and in the studio, he is captivating audiences with his unique perspective, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music, breathing new life into one of America’s greatest contributions to music and culture.His debut album, “Blue Metamorphosis,” received critical acclaim and was honored with the Best Self-Produced CD Award by the Blues Foundation. His second album, “Spectacular Class,” produced by Taj Mahal and Keb’ Mo’, solidi ed his status as a rising star, and earned him a Grammy nomination. Currently, Jontavious is working on his upcoming album, which will showcase his evolution as an artist. The project is a product of Jontavious’ relationship with Georgia. He is working hard in his home state, drawing inspiration from both the historical and contemporary, to produce an album that will make its’ mark on the state’s musical tradition.JODY CARROLLJody Carroll is a blues & Roots performer and songwriter who effortlessly creates bold interpretations of old Blues and American Folk music, his own songs, stories and improvisational musical journeys. He is a Finger style/slide guitar master and amazingly soulful singer blending flavors of old Blues, Folk, Mountain music, Jazz and Rock all together into a true power packed gumbo.
Taj Farrant
– ALL AGES – SEATED SHOW – LIMITED NUMBER OF MEET & GREET TICKETS AVAILABLE (includes early access to GA seating) TAJ FARRANT’S PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEOGRAPHY POLICY: Taking photos on small hand-held cameras or smartphones is permitted. Professional cameras (deemed as cameras with removable lenses), video, and recording equipment are strictly forbidden.TAJ FARRANTTaj Farrant is a young musician who has taken the world by storm with his exceptional guitar skills and captivating performances. At just 14 years old, Taj has already made a name for himself in the music industry, leaving audiences in awe of his talent and potential. Taj was born into a family with a deep appreciation for music, which played a significant role in shaping his early life. Growing up in Australia, Taj was exposed to a variety of musical genres from a young age, thanks to his parents’ diverse taste in music.Taj’s exceptional guitar skills have garnered attention from music enthusiasts and professionals alike. His ability to effortlessly play intricate solos and execute complex guitar techniques is truly remarkable for someone of his age. Taj’s performances are characterized by a unique blend of technical precision and raw emotion, captivating audiences with his soulful playing style. Taj’s talent has not gone unnoticed in the music industry. He has had the opportunity to perform on renowned stages, sharing the spotlight with established musicians and bands, such as Carlos Santana, Rob Thomas and even given the opportunity to jam with KISS during band rehersal in their studio. Taj’s performances have garnered him recognition and praise from industry professionals, further solidifying his status as a rising star. His musical influences range from rock legends like Angus Young and Jimi Hendrix to contemporary guitar virtuosos such as Gary Moore and Stevie Ray Vaughan, which is reflected in his playing style.Taj’s meteoric rise to fame has resulted in a growing fan base and a dedicated following on social media platforms. His videos showcasing his guitar skills have gone viral, reaching millions of viewers worldwide. NATHAN BRYCE & LOADED DICE
OUTPOST: Mama & The Ruckus
– ALL AGES- STANDING ROOM ONLY- RAIN OR SHINEMama & The RuckusThe Ruckus is an intergenerational project with a big sound and an even bigger heart. They recently represented the Women in Blues Foundation in Memphis at the International Blues Competition. Inspired by The Allman Brothers, Janis Joplin, and Etta James, The Ruckus is led by Mama who writes songs about the trauma and pain that every person inevitably experiences in their lives. She sings these songs as a cry for hope, healing, and inspiration to others and you hear that in every note that the band plays. With soaring guitars, wailing vocals, screaming harmonicas, and funky bass, keys, and drums, the Ruckus has a sound that is undeniably unique. Options 22Option 22 is an eclectic Americana band with a revolutionary vibe. They are channels for the music, allowing it to flow through them and deliver it to whomever is present along with messages of hope, love and healing. On the fly collaborative dynamics, rhythmic muscle and thematic inventions shower you with sound that is sure to lift your vibration and unlock the doors of your heart, allowing you to groove freely and transcend. Based in Princeton, West Virginia, Lori McKinney (vocals, drums, djembe, spoken word) and Robert Blankenship (guitar, shamisen, hand-drums, didgeridoo) have been writing and playing music together since early 2004, when her passionate and angelic vocals married his smooth, steady groove. Now infusing the mix are the intricate bass lines of Brandon Dunn (bass), the rock-solid, seasoned rhythms of Ary’an Graham (drums) and the soulful guitar stylings of Jacob Brooks (lead guitar). These artists understand the power of music to heal and transform, and they use their creative gifts to make a positive impact on the world around them. They live and work within a multi-purpose creative zone which they created in downtown Princeton known as The RiffRaff Arts Collective, which is revitalizing a once dark and depressed area with color and life. They write, perform, teach and record there as well as host music nights, drum circles, art parades and more. They founded and produce Culturefest World Music & Arts Festival, now in its 19th year, a weekend long creative oasis on a magical mountaintop which promotes unity and respect for diversity. Understanding the power of music and the arts, they use these gifts to inspire and uplift. Option 22 now tours the region inspiring and empowering community transformation with their original musical, multi-media production, Create Your State. With 3 albums of new music set to release in 2022, they are ready to take on this year. Their last albums, “The Change” and “Choose The Music” are available at option22.net.
OUTPOST: The Lads
– FREE SHOW- ALL AGES- STANDING ROOM ONLY- RAIN OR SHINEThe LadsClassic rock and blues. They call it classic for good reason. The Lads will make you want to dance, sing along, or both. Get classic with The Lads avl.
OUTPOST: Mama & The Ruckus
– ALL AGES- STANDING ROOM ONLY- RAIN OR SHINEMama & The RuckusThe Ruckus is an intergenerational project with a big sound and an even bigger heart. They recently represented the Women in Blues Foundation in Memphis at the International Blues Competition. Inspired by The Allman Brothers, Janis Joplin, and Etta James, The Ruckus is led by Mama who writes songs about the trauma and pain that every person inevitably experiences in their lives. She sings these songs as a cry for hope, healing, and inspiration to others and you hear that in every note that the band plays. With soaring guitars, wailing vocals, screaming harmonicas, and funky bass, keys, and drums, the Ruckus has a sound that is undeniably unique.
Tab Benoit
– ALL AGES – STANDING ROOM ONLY TAB BENOIT Tab Benoit is a Grammy nominated singer, songwriter and guitarist who has built a remarkable 30+ year career on the foundation of his gritty and soulful Delta swamp blues, acquiring a devoted legion of fans along the way, as well as 5 Blues Music Awards, including BB King Entertainer of the Year (twice) and an induction into The Louisiana Music Hall of Fame. He has recorded and/or performed with Junior Wells, George Porter Jr, Dr. John, Willie Nelson, Big Chief Monk Boudreaux, Billy Joe Shaver, Maria Muldaur, James Cotton, Cyril Neville, Kenny Aronoff, Allen Toussaint, Kim Wilson, Jimmy Thackery, Charlie Musslewhite, Kenny Neal, Chris Layton, Ivan Neville, Jimmy Hall, Jim Lauderdale, Anders Osborne, and Alvin Youngblood Hart to name a few. Tab’s accomplishments as a musician are matched only by his devotion to the environmental health of his native Louisiana wetlands. Benoit is the founder and driving force behind Voice of the Wetlands, an organization working to preserve the coastal waters of his home state. In 2010, he received the Governor’s Award for Conservationist of the Year from the Louisiana Wildlife Federation. Benoit also starred in the iMax motion picture Hurricane on the Bayou, a documentary of Hurricane Katrina’s effects and a call to protect and restore the wetlands. ANTHONY ROSANO AND THE CONQUEROOSThe Billboard and iTunes Chart toping Blues Rocker Anthony Rosano has drawn comparisons to a wide variety of Artists. From SRV and Rory Gallagher to Led Zeppelin and Bruce Springsteen, with a fiery live show and songwriting depth that is refreshing to fans of American Blues Rock. Rosano’s 2017 self released record “Anthony Rosano and the Conqueroos” debuted at #9 on Billboard and made #1 on the iTunes blues chart, dethroning The Rolling Stones. The record was produced by Mike Zito and featured guest performances by Zito, Anders Osborne, and Johnny Sansone. Extensive touring and live shows followed, culminating in 2019 With Rosano and his “Conqueroos” joining the legendary Bob Seger for a string of opening shows across the eastern United States and Canada. “ I want to be an on ramp to the Blues.” Drawing from his influences Rosano mixes traditional Blues and Roots elements with a modern Rock delivery. “You see all sorts of music fans at the shows, from Blues Aficionados to long hairs with Metallica T-shirts. If I can get that dude in a Metallica shirt to listen to Muddy Waters, I feel like I am working off a debt to the genre.” This Diversity in appeal has led to slots at LOCKN, Western Maryland Blues Fest, and Madison Square Garden. Opening for artists like Samantha Fish and Tab Benoit to Bob Seger , ZZ Top, and Gov’t Mule. During the 2020 lockdown Anthony continued to live stream acoustic shows to his fans through Facebook. “I did it at first just to stay sane, performing live is something I NEED to do… It’s part of my makeup. I hoped it would help others get some sort of comfort and forget about what was going on for a little bit.” The streams were a success and one of the new songs “Isolation Blues” ended up being used by NPR for “Voice of America”. Other songs followed and along with a new trio, In 2022 The band signed with Whiskey Bayou Records and recorded 11 songs, produced by Tab Benoit. The album is set for release in Spring of 2023 with national touring to follow.
Chris Duarte Group
– ALL AGES- SEATED SHOW- LIMITED NUMBER OF PREMIUM SEATING TICKETS AVAILABLECHRIS DUARTE GROUP To classify Chris Duarte simply as a Blues Man is an understatement. In his own words, “rockin’ blues” or ”punk blues” describes him best. “Ferocious blues” also fits. Legend has it that Chris will play so hard that his fingers bleed in a set. The legend is true. Photos attest. Chris Duarte is a road warrior playing more than 150 dates a year. As well, Chris has headlined major festivals and clubs throughout the US, Canada and Europe. Chris is a savant, a sorcerer of tone, a master at channeling the spirits and sounds of great musicians of our past, while remaining completely recognizable in his own sound. He has shared his stage with many of the greatest musicians of our time as well as the multitude of “young lions” and local musicians he meets on the road. From his many years as a side man in Austin, he easily changes roles from front to side, graciously allowing all to share the conversation of the jam. Chris Duarte’s music is ever changing. In many interviews, he has said “Music must evolve.” His own early offerings often become magical journeys into changing tempo and jazzy interludes before returning to their core. With such a vast catalog of recordings, there are no two shows alike. Every set list is different, and each song may be offered distinctly, based on the feel of a show and the audience. For those reasons, loyal fans often return to a Chris Duarte show again and again, and always walk away awed and satisfied to have witnessed such a legendary, but humble guitarist.The Chris Duarte Group emerged on the scene out of Austin, Texas in the early 90’s and gained notoriety after wowing a packed room of industry insiders at the South X Southwest convention. In the wake of Stevie Ray Vaughan’s passing, Duarte quickly gained a National reputation as young man imbued with a playing style comparable at times to the late guitarist. After fielding interest from a number of labels, Duarte signed to Silvertone Records and his debut album “Texas Sugar/Strat Magik” reportedly sold in excess of 100,000 units in the United States, no small feat for a blues/rock guitarist. This coupled with Duarte’s strong commitment to touring, was the impetus for Chris’ winning the “Best New Talent” in Guitar Player’s 1995 Reader’s Poll. He also finished fourth in the magazine’s “Best Blues Guitarist” category that year behind legends Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy and B.B. King.