La Luz
– ALL AGES- STANDING ROOM ONLYLA LUZ On their self-titled fourth album, La Luz launch themselves into a new realm of emotional intimacy for a collection of songs steeped in the mysteries of the natural world and the magic of human chemistry that has found manifestation in the musical ESP between guitarist and songwriter Shana Cleveland, bassist Lena Simon, and keyboardist Alice Sandahl.To help shape La Luz, the band found a kindred spirit in producer Adrian Younge. Though primarily known for his work with hip-hop, soul, and jazz acts, Younge saw in La Luz a shared vision that transcended genre. “We both create music with the same attitude, and that’s what I love about them,” he says. “They are never afraid to be risky and their style is captivating. It was an honor to work with them.”The result is an album that is both the most naturalistic and psychedelic of the band’s career. All the elements of classic La Luz are still present—the lush harmonies, the impeccable musicianship, the gorgeous melodies—but it’s a richer, earthier iteration, replete with inorganic sounds that mimic the surreality of nature—the humming of invisible bugs, the atmospheric sizzle of a hot day. La Luz is an album that celebrates love—of music, of friendship, of life in all its forms. JAYWOOD Canadian songwriter and producer Jeremy Haywood-Smith needed an escape from his state of mourning when he began working on Slightshot, his most recent LP as JayWood, the recording project he started in 2015. After the loss of his mother in 2019 and a global standstill with multiple social crises throughout 2020, Haywood-Smith yearned for some forward momentum. “The idea of looking back to go forward became a really big thing for me—hence the title, Slingshot.” Haywood-Smith explains. Feeling disconnected from his past and ancestry after the death of a parent, Haywood-Smith made a conscious effort to better understand his identity and unique Black experience living in the predominantly white province of Manitoba. Through a year of self reflection and reconnection with his roots, Haywood-Smith has made the biggest leap forward for his project JayWood by simply looking back. Merging fantasy scenarios, personal anecdotes, and infectious pop and dance instrumentals, Slingshot is a self-portrait of JayWood at his surface and his depths.
The Nude Party
– ALL AGES- STANDING ROOM ONLYTHE NUDE PARTYFor The Nude Party, nearly a decade has flown by in the blink of an eye. In that time, the New York-based band has released a pair of well-received albums, an EP, and played countless shows. Prior to the pandemic, the band was really starting to hit its stride. They had a system in place and were spreading their brand of melodic rock to the masses. In fact, they could count Jack White, Arctic Monkeys, and Orville Peck as vocal supporters, which led to support slots for each. Soon, incredible live appearances at Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza, Newport Folk Festival, and Shaky Knees became the norm.Over the course of the last two years, The Nude Party decided to produce their new album, Rides On, themselves. With the help of Matthew Horner, The Nude Party had as much fun creating as they ever had at any other point in their career. Their new album includes 14 songs that dabble in electro-pop and stripped-down country. The Nude Party coalesced and embraced the spirit of collaboration. They’re excited to begin the next chapter of their career. At a time when it would have been easy to pack it in, the band continues to persevere.LADY APPLE TREE Lady Apple Tree is the project of LA-based singer-songwriter Haylie Hostetter. Originally from Northern California, Hostetter moved to Los Angeles in her pursuit of music and has contributed to releases and performances from Sam Burton, Drugdealer, and Sylvie while recording and writing her own material. The first, and earliest, batch of this aforementioned material arrives on September 15, 2023 in the form of a self-titled, self-released EP. A collection of eight original songs produced and recorded with friends in an abandoned recording studio in the Santa Monica canyons, the EP is a fresh take on classic American folk and country music and a first taste of Hostetter’s songwriting and vocal capabilities. GOOD TRAUMAGood Trauma is the lifelong musical project of Eli Raymer. Comprised of years worth of songwriting and musicianship, the full band we know today came to fruition in 2022 after Eli’s involvement in dozens of bands in the Asheville scene. Good Trauma melds multiple genres into something new and exciting – elements of early psychedelia, classic country, new wave, and indie rock are all tied together with mindful, intentional lyrics, displaying a gratitude and awareness for the music that came before. Good Trauma is ever evolving and pivoting, bringing an air of mystery to every live performance and recording released. They’re newest EP is set to be released in 2024 and promises a new chapter of tenderness and musicality.
The Ballroom Thieves
– ALL AGES- FULLY SEATED SHOW- LIMITED NUMBER OF PREMIUM SEATING TICKETS AVAILABLETHE BALLROOM THIEVES The Ballroom Thieves is Calin Peters and Martin Earley. For the last decade the band has focused on an energetic and dynamic live show that features a powerful quartet of searing vocals, drums, bass, electric guitars, and more recently synths. But this winter they’re scaling things back to expose the bones of some of their most well-loved songs on an intimate duo tour. “This run of more personal shows is built around the conversational nature of songwriting as a way of telling a story,” says Earley. “The colder, cozier months seemed like a perfect setting for us to perform our songs in the way they were written, just the two of us,” adds Peters. The band’s July ’22 release, Clouds, is a song cycle born of mixed experiences and fueled by the power of imagination. The album is a lush meditation on longing to return to touring – to see different sunsets and cities. But, it’s also a reflection of its difficulties, such as insomnia brought on by staying in different hotel rooms every night. “We miss exploring the country,” says Peters. “The road offers us structure and it gives us something to write about. During the pandemic we learned just how much we love and need it.” As they leaned into their wanderlust, themes became apparent – the idea of a life spent in motion (“Shine”), the power of the storm representing a relationship transformed into heartbreak (“The Lightning”), Man’s ceaseless degradation of resources and Nature’s inevitable fury (“Worldender”), and Harry Styles (“Harry Styles”), who should be considered a force of Nature as far as Peters and Earley are concerned. “We were sitting around our woodstove, and Callie looked over at me and said, ‘I think I’m in love with Harry Styles,'” Earley recalls. “And my first thought was, ‘wait a minute, I love Harry Styles! You can’t have him!’” Clouds became an opportunity for the band to mine the challenges of the past three years for creative inspiration. “We were able to step away from a lot of the big three-part harmonies and for the first time we recorded most of the album live,” says Earley. “We try to let change inspire us, even when it comes with difficulty.” It’s an artistic statement that doubles as a life mission. The pair both emphasize that they’ve learned to navigate complicated situations, including their struggles with depression, which often colors their songs. If they can impart anything to listeners, it’s that talking about mental health is not a weakness—and that sharing any of life’s trials can be a source of strength. THE HIGH DIVERS (DUO) The High Divers have seen some things. There are scars adorning each member that serve as constant reminders that the traveling rock n’ roll lifestyle is not for the faint of heart. After narrowly surviving a bloody scene with a semi on an Arizona Highway in 2017, and a stage silencing pandemic, the band has proved its resilience and dedication to crafting albums that they can continue to be proud of. With the release of their newest record, “Should I be Worried” due out April 2023, the band is breathing a sigh of relief in finally getting the Sadler Vaden produced album out into the hands of their fans.
Love Bubble (Record Release Show)
– ALL AGES- FULLY SEATED SHOW- LIMITED NUMBER OF PREMIUM SEATING TICKETS AVAILABLELOVE BUBBLE (RECORD RELEASE SHOW) Asheville’s favorite harmony driven Bubblegum Pop trio is at it again with their sophomore record release “Dream Big.” Expect more love, more bubble, and genius lyrics written and co-written by Hank Bones, Paula Hanke and Peggy Ratusz; all veterans of the Asheville music scene for decades. From storytelling to prose and poetry, each of the 14 tracks is rich in arrangement, instrumentation, melody, rhyme and rhythm. With reviews like the one from Music Street Journal which harkens: “it’s like a long lost gem of times gone by” and calls it “dreamy & psychedelic, entertaining & poignant.” Rocktimes finds it “wonderfully beautiful and colorful with a cool & groovy hippie vibe.” Sea of Tranquility says “with a name like Love Bubble, it’s no wonder they’d release a record with the theme of love coursing through its grooves. Listening to this album is like taking a time warp into the 1960’s or turning on your local AM dial and letting the pop vibes wash over you. Sunshiny tracks bursting with optimism! Put on your tie-dye and dive in!” Rootstime says “it’s warm, carefree and uplifting with brilliant, impeccable harmonies that invite you to forget your troubles and concerns of the modern day.”
PATIO: Kim Smith
– ALL AGES- LIMITED PATIO SEATING IS FIRST COME, FIRST SERVEDKIM SMITHKim Smith is a singer-songwriter/collaborator based out of Asheville, North Carolina. “Songwriting is not just a passion, it’s an expression and extension of myself in the most vulnerable and strongest times.” Kim continues to record and release songs produced by Asheville-based Chris Rosser as well as Nashville-based Dean Miller.
PATIO: Fo Daniels
– ALL AGES- LIMITED PATIO SEATING IS FIRST COME, FIRST SERVEDFO DANIELSFo Daniels combines the raw intensity of a rock and roll band with a songwriter’s attention to lyrical and emotional detail. His debut LP, “Imitation Roses” was cut completely live in his home base of Charleston, SC, all in one day. Since its release, he has been tirelessly releasing new music and touring the east coast, quickly gaining renown for his dynamic performances and unforgettable songs.
Drivin N Cryin
– ALL AGES- STANDING ROOM ONLYDRIVIN N CRYINCelebrating their 35th Anniversary together, Atlanta-based folk rock act, Drivin N Cryin, have spent most of their career on tour. In October 1985 Drivin N Cryin played their first show at Atlanta’s famed 688 Club. The band quickly gained attention for their blistering live shows, and amassed a rabid fanbase in the fertile soil of the late-1980s Southeast music scene.Now, 35 years later, and after releasing four full length albums on Island Records and one on Geffen Records, founding members Kevn Kinney and Tim Nielsen find themselves enjoying a milestone anniversary for the band, having survived the pressures of fame, a shifting musical landscape, multiple lineup changes, and miles of back roads and highways to arrive here.After a gold record, 9 full-length albums, and a handful of EPs to their credit, the band still refuses to rest. In 2012, a documentary about the band, entitled Scarred but Smarter: Life n Times of Drivin’ N’ Cryin’, was produced. In 2015, a collection of 10 choice cuts from the band’s 4-EP “Songs” series, entitled Best of Songs, was released on Nashville’s Plowboy Records. Additionally, the band was inducted into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame the same year. The following year, Drivin N Cryin released a vinyl-only album, entitled Archives Vol One, with a collection of basement recordings from the years 1988 to 1990. With Dave V. Johnson on drums, and the band’s newest member, Laur Joamets, (originally Sturgill Simpson) added to the lineup, Drivin N Cryin continues to tour the U.S. to great acclaim.A quote from the band’s lead singer, Kevn Kinney, gives a little insight into what Drivin N Cryin is all about: “We are a band that’s like your record collection.” Drawing influence from a wide array of musical elements, Drivin N Cryin has developed a unique sound over the years. Their name derives from the eclectic nature of this sound: a little drivin’ rock n roll and a little country twang. Comfortable with their past and confident in their future, the band has an arsenal of songs, a full tank of gas, and no plans of stopping any time soon.LAUREN MORROWAfter over a decade as the centerpiece of popular Americana band The Whiskey Gentry, Lauren Morrow packed her bags, her dogs, her cats, and husband and moved to Nashville to pursue a career as a solo artist and grow her craft as a songwriter and performer. Within months, she released her first solo EP to widespread critical acclaim and landed on many Best Of year ends lists from Rolling Stone to Garden & Gun, quickly launching her already budding career and sending it into hyperdrive. Over the next year, Morrow filmed an episode for PBS’ Bluegrass Underground and toured the US playing festivals such as Pickathon and Bristol Rhythm & Roots to name a few. Morrow recently wrapped recording her first solo, full-length album at the legendary Nashville studio, Sound Emporium. Mixed by Vance Powell (Chris Stapleton, Jack White, Phish) and Jaquire King (Kings of Leon, Tom Waits, Shania Twain) set to release in 2023, Morrow’s new album, People Talk, showcases her flawless vocals and intricate songwriting, but also her willingness to take risks — an edge that makes her stand out from the Nashville norm. Whether she’s singing an alternative/indie rock banger, a classic-country crooner, or a traditional lovesick ballad, there’s a unique impression she leaves that lingers and is unlike anything you’ve heard before.
PATIO: Taylor Knighton
– ALL AGES- LIMITED PATIO SEATING IS FIRST COME, FIRST SERVEDTAYLOR KNIGHTONSinger-songwriter Taylor Knighton grew up on the Gulf Coast but now calls the mountains of Western North Carolina home. Her musical stylings reflect her southern roots, with plenty of twang, a big heartfelt voice, and a sweet pop influence. She likes to incorporate her love of mythology and folk tales into her songwriting, telling timeless stories with a fresh, fun spin.
Deerhoof
– STANDING ROOM ONLY- ALL AGES- “MASK REQUESTED,” PER DEERHOOF DEERHOOF MIRACLES WANTED! (EVERYTHING IS A MIRACLE EXCEPT WAR AND GASOLINE) PHASE-OUT ALL REMAINING NON-MIRACLES BY 2028 (LUCKILY THERE AREN’T THAT MANY ANYWAY) WE NEED ONLY *LOVE* SONGS (YES, THIS WORD GETS USED OFTEN) BUT I MEAN HIGH-LEVEL I MEAN MIRACLE LEVEL LET’S WASH OUR DIRTY HANDS WITH LOVE LET’S LIVE LET’S WALK CLOSELY TOGETHER I CAN HOLD AN UMBRELLA FOR YOU FOR A LONG TIME Deerhoof’s new album, Miracle-Level, was produced, recorded, and mixed by Mike Bradavski at No Fun Studios in Winnipeg, Manitoba. It’s the band’s 19th album and the first to be produced, recorded and mixed entirely in a recording studio. All of the songs are in Japanese.FLYNT FLOSSY & TURQUOISE JEEPTurquoise Jeep Records is an independent record label founded by rappers Flynt Flossy and Whatchyamacallit. It is best known for its YouTube videos including “Lemme Smang It” (by Yung Humma featuring Flynt Flossy) and “Did I Mention I Like to Dance.” Currently, the label has three albums, titled Keep the Jeep Riding, Existing Musical Beings, and Eclectic Catapilla, as well as four singles.
OUTPOST: The Pinkerton Raid
– ALL AGES- STANDING ROOM ONLY- RAIN OR SHINEThe Pinkerton Raid is “a towering forest of indie rock with a timbre of folk that shadows Langhorne Slim, Cold War Kids and The Killers,” says THE SPILL. 2022’s THE HIGHWAY MOVES THE WORLD begins two decades ago in Jesse James DeConto’s childhood basement, where he learned The Beatles and first turned a songwriter’s eye on his own rich and complicated family life. “Radiant,” says AMERICAN SONGWRITER. “Poignant,” says ROLLING STONE. “Anthemic,” says AMERICANA-UK. Since the lockdowns, Jesse is back on the road with a totally new lineup, but, as always, a gang of friends with a full-band sound. The Durham, NC-based band has played at festivals from Georgia to Ohio, sharing stages with Liz Cooper, The Bones of JR Jones and The Nude Party. “A sound for dreamers around a campfire,” says GHETTOBLASTER. “Folksy indie rock,” describes FLAGPOLE MAGAZINE, “threads of the quilt of American folklore.” —–Annabelle’s Curse is an electrified indie-folk band from Bristol, TN/VA. The band has developed a reputation for high energy live shows and immersive studio albums. They have released five full-length albums and one EP. Since forming in 2010, Annabelle’s Curse has toured extensively throughout the southeast and mid-Atlantic, developing a devoted fan base. They have had the privilege of supporting acts such as Blues Traveler, Sam Bush, Langhorne Slim, Anderson East, Paul McDonald, The Hackensaw Boys, and Birds of Chicago. The band has been a staple at Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion, most recently taking the stage for their 10th year, and have been featured at numerous other music festivals including Floydfest, Rooster Walk, Fall for Greenville, Rhythm N’ Blooms, and North Carolina Brewers Fest. The band has also appeared on PBS’s Music City Roots and Song of the Mountains. —–Hailing from North Carolina, two sisters and friends of the Maggie Valley Band came together in the town they now identify themselves with. Each member learned their trade of music in the beautiful mountains of Maggie Valley, NC. Sisters Whitney & Caroline Miller grew up in a home where playing the piano was a daily requirement. Daily requirements turned to passion as they hit the streets to street busk. After years of busking, The Maggie Valley Band was officially formed and decided to take it inside-to venues. TMVB released their album “The Hardest Thing” in 2018 under under the direction of Grammy & Emmy nominated producer, David Mayfield. TMVB comes together to produce a sound affectionately referred to as “Dark Appalachian”, ranging from folk rock to indie rock.
