Corb Lund has received multiple CCMA, JUNO, and international award nominations and wins. A rural Albertan hailing from the foothills of the Rocky Mountains with a long family lineage of ranchers and rodeo people, Lund is about as authentic as they come. Embracing both his Western heritage and his indie rock past through his music, Lund has been known to filter a range of cowboy themes past and present through his unique lens – from rough-and-tumble tales of lawless frontier saloons to the somber realities of running a modern family ranch.
Most recently, Lund released Songs My Friends Wrote. The 10-song set features Lund putting his spin on some of his favorite songs written by close friends and world-class songwriters such as Hayes Carll, Todd Snider, Canadian Country Music Legend Ian Tyson, and more. Met with critical acclaim, Holler said in their 8.5 out of 10 Star review, “Lund unearths, dusts off and revives lost should-have-been classics, hopefully encouraging listeners to search out the original versions” while American Songwriter said, “Lund remains a singular artist, and the fact that he can take outside material without being affected by any dominating influence provides all the proof we needed.” No Depression said “…he and his band, the Hurtin’ Albertans, deliver lively, empathetic versions that will renew your appreciation for the songs you’re familiar with and pique your interest in the writers of those you’re not” while Glide Magazine said “…the appeal is unavoidable.” Songs My Friends Wrote is the follow up to 2020’s critically acclaimed Agricultural Tragic, Lund’s first studio album of original material in 5 years, which earned him the 2021 CCMA award for Alternative Country Album of the Year, his 13th career win. Lund also recently had his debut on stage at the historic Grand Ole Opry.
Sunny Sweeney, a genre-bending, songwriting spitfire who has spent equal time in the rich musical traditions of Texas and Tennessee, returns with Married Alone, the celebrated singer-songwriter’s fifth studio album and the follow-up to 2017’s critically acclaimed Trophy. Co-produced by beloved Texas musician and larger-than-life personality Paul Cauthen and the Texas Gentlemen’s multi-hyphenate Beau Bedford, Married Alone is Sweeney’s finest work yet, bringing together confessional songwriting, image-rich narratives and no shortage of sonic surprises for a loosely conceptual album about loss and healing.
Married Alone began as most of Sweeney’s projects do: with a visit to her deep vault of unreleased songs. Since debuting with Heartbreaker’s Hall of Fame in 2006, Sweeney has been a prolific writer, writing whatever is on her heart rather than with a particular project in mind. That habit afforded her a rich well of material for Married Alone, some of which is over a decade old.
“I have a lot of older songs that still make the cut of like, ‘Am I gonna put this on a record?’ And I always start with those songs, songs that have been important to me for whatever reason. And then I try to build around that. It doesn’t necessarily have to be around a theme, but sometimes it turns out to be that there is one.”
White Iron shows combine lyrical accessibility and explosive musicianship to produce a rich experience for the head, heart, and legs.
Originally formed in Ely, MN, the heart of Minnesota’s northern Iron Range, by frontman Matt Pudas, keyboardist Eddie Juntunen,and guitarist Sammy Weyandt. Backed by a driving rhythm section with Jeff Underhill on drums and bass guitarist Andy Ferkinhoff , slide guitar and rhythm/lead from Gregg “Cheech” Hall accompanied by the tear in your beer undertones of Lee “Big Country” Martin on Pedal Steel guitar. The White Iron Band embodies the triumphs and struggles of the everyday man.
With songs ranging from tales of love, pain, jail, work and whiskey. White Iron has always found a way into heart. Now based in the greater Minneapolis area, the group has established a passionate and equally as rowdy fan-base throughout the Midwest and has traveled further to spread their unique mix of blues, country and Americana roots music.
White Iron Band has released their 7th studio album “Homebrew” (3/17/2018) on both digital and LP formats. “Homebrew” is produced and mixed by legendary Minnesota producer, singer/songwriter Rich Mattson and recorded at Sparta Sound.
After some fine tuning and new additions that have never before been heard on any previous album, “Homebrew” is sure to impress even the most loyal fan. Sticking with their roots and some classic White Iron sound, there is the flare and soul of blues/rock that is implemented intensely throughout this new album. Even if you think you know and have heard White Iron Band, “Homebrew” is guaranteed to leave you asking for and wanting more. You will not want to miss a single show from White Iron Band and their new album “Homebrew”.
The White Iron Band has supported and shared the stage with such acts as Lynyrd Skynyrd, David Allen Coe, Warren Haynes, The Wood Brothers, Derek Trucks, North Mississippi Allstars, Shooter Jennings, Charlie Daniels, Trampled By Turtles and many more.
Hello, I’m a musician from the Upper Midwest, I have a blue collar background, I was a full-time carpenter before I changed my focus to music production, writing and performing. I absolutely love American music ranging from punk rock to early blues, rock n roll, soul, and country. I grew up in the 90’s listening to Beck, Everclear and Nirvana. As my writing and life perspective grew I started unearthing and studying the history of American music. Some of my favorites are Howlin’ Wolf, Chuck Berry, The Sonics, Wilson Picket, The Stooges, DEVO, James Brown and Link Wray. My goals for ’23 are to continue directing and editing solid videos for my fans to enjoy and start touring regularly as a solo act. Eventually I hope to go on the road frequently with my six piece band. I hope you dig what you hear, if you do turn it up! – AC
Joe Stamm Band’s newest country-rock album is as brutally authentic as the Midwestern plains and people that inspire these songs. A year-round working musician, Stamm has become something of an anthropologist of the tiny towns dotting middle America. Thanks to his fondness for this so-called flyover country, and his crew of down-home troubadours, Stamm has created the soundtrack to the heart of America: Midwest Town.
JSB, established in 2013, offers distinct storytelling mixed with a signature Black Dirt Country Rock sound – a sound that Stamm defines as “a nod to our Midwestern roots, as well as the Red Dirt music scene, which has had a big influence on our music.” Fans can expect the fearless Black Dirt Country Rock sound from Dave Glover’s inventive lead guitar, Bruce Moser’s fortifying bass, and Tim Fiers’ heart-pounding drums on the new album.
Cutting his teeth playing in middle-of-nowhere dives, Stamm earned the stage presence and grit it would take to support artists like Chris Knight, Blackberry Smoke, Sunny Sweeney, Tyler Childers, Whiskey Myers, Jamey Johnson, and more. It’s the same blue-collar outlaw spirit from his early days that Stamm brings to any stage and every audience today.
The Mae Simpson Band blurs the lines between a wide range of influences. From the depth and energy of funk and rock, down the the melodic edge of R&B and folk. Led by Mae Simpson who’s ‘…voice is larger than life — but not as large as her uncontainable energy that radiates from the stage.” Helen Teague – Minnesota Public Radio.
Known for their Intense and exciting live shows, the band has an immediate impact that favors the human connection between the musicians and the audience. Opening up for acts like Dermot Kennedy, Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe and more. Playing many notable stages across the Midwest like First ave main room, The Fillmore MPLS, Basilica Block Party, and Blue Ox. If you are a fan of artists such as Alabama Shakes, Lake Street Dive and Bruce
Springsteen, Mae Simpson is right up your alley.
“Mae’s powerful voice has remnants of Janis Joplin and Ella Fitzgerald, tied together with a rasp of Joan Jett. Brought together by an extremely talented and passionate band, Mae Simpson Music is a ticking time bomb for breaking into the national array of local artists to make it “big.” – Music in Minnesota, Richard Dollarhide
With roots in the church and a solid foundation of musical education, Joyann Parker found her authentic voice later in life and created her own blend of roots music that combines soul, R&B, gospel, jazz and traditional blues styles. Parker has been a steadily rising star on the Midwest music scene and now brings her full range of talent as an accomplished singer, pianist, guitarist and songwriter to national and international stages. Joyann’s rootsy, genre-blending sequel, “Out of the Dark,” was released on February 12, 2021 and debuted at #11 on the Billboard Blues Chart and #1 on the NACC Radio chart. Joyann’s new album, “Roots” is planned for a June 3, 2023 release.
Straight from the great Mill City comes the Pistol Whippin Party Penguins. Don’t let the name fool you! This is not a violent group of flightless aquatic birds looking for a party, but rather 6 self proclaimed gentlemen, 2 guitars, a mandolin, a bucket of fiddles, bass, wheatstick drums, and a 4 part vocal harmony that will make a grown man cry. As they celebrate their 4th studio album, this group from Minneapolis strives to maintain the original spirit of traditional american music while continuing to play new original music and creative cover songs. The combination of folk, rock, blues, bluegrass, and the occasional stage banter will create an experience that anyone can enjoy!
MoeDeLL is an American singer-songwriter. His guitar picking style, poetic lyrics, and unique voice are the foundation. His foot stomping, down home melodies, tell tales from light to dark and from silliness to the endearing.
MoeDeLL grew up in southern Virginia, and it’s apparent in his songs, with country, bluegrass, and old-time music influencing his sound and storytelling.
Over the years, the Country Americana powerhouse has performed his “down home music” for crowds of every size. Engaging in a breakneck schedule of 250 shows a year, MoeDeLL holds court everywhere from listening rooms, to farmer’s markets, bars, winery’s, and festivals alike.
Back when he first started making music for a living, MoeDeLL received a sage piece of advice: “Play the same in front of 5 people as you would in front of 5000.
Maygen & The Birdwatcher are a six-piece Americana band from Minnesota led by singers and guitarists Maygen Lacey and Noah Neumann. The folk duo-turned-band draws on Maygen and Noah’s diverse musical influences and vocal styles to bring their songs to fruition. With a spirit of adventure that makes it clear their fusion of country, folk, blues, bluegrass and rock ‘n’ roll is always fresh, Maygen & The Birdwatcher have released a debut full-length 2021’s Moonshine, and a companion EP, 2022’s Bootleggin’ at the Flower Shoppe. They’ve shared their music all over the Midwest, and they earned Midwest Country Music nominations for both releases, with Bootleggin’ getting the 2023 nominations for Americana Artist of the Year and Album of the Year.
Drew Peterson is an independent Americana singer-songwriter who has captivated fans across the Midwest for over 15 years. Since fronting the Minnesota-based group Forty Watt Bulb, Peterson has spawned two other successful Roots projects;the twangy,upbeat Dead Pigeons and bluegrass-influenced Boxstore Bird.
Peterson comes from a long line of musically inept Norwegian Farmers (unless you count Grandpa Pops, the town drunk,who played the harmonica and the concertina for booze).Peterson was not born with musical talent. Mom bought him a guitar at a church rummage sale for five dollars and it was then he decided he wanted to become a musician. Growing up on a farm in rural Minnesota, he tackled this endeavor the way he had been taught – hard work and lots of practice. And practice is what he’s been doing for 20 years. His passion has always been crafting lyrics and songwriting.
Peterson has built a unique brand that transcends the genre. With clever, dry humor and thought- provoking lyrics, Peterson’s music is like oil over gravel. Drawing on influences from John Prine, Tom Waits, Cat Stevens, Van Morrison, among others, Peterson offers the world upbeat tunes with a soft- spoken gravitas that belies his years.
With a performance style that can transform from intimate listening room to rowdy festivals and bars, Peterson always gives his heart and soul to the stage. And with each new performance, he works to connect with the audience through storytelling.
Gregg Hall and the Wrecking Ball originates from the historic river town and musical destination LaCrosse, WI. Gregg Hall, the founder of Deece Productions, has been a staple in the Midwest music scene for over a decade with his bands Mitgee Evers, Smokin’ Bandits, Nicholas David and the Feelin’ Band, and outlaw country Minnesota legends the White Iron Band.
Gregg Hall and the Wrecking Ball is his first solo project getting back to his country life style roots and backwoods upbringing. This band features some of the best musicians southwestern WI has to offer featuring: Gregg Hall (guitar, vocals), Laun Braithwiate (guitar, vocals), Corey Minor (drums), Dedrick Benz (bass), Dan Kimpel (pedal steel), and Lisa Freedlund (keyboards). GHWB is just good Ol’ American country music. Check out the new album “True Story” below.
The well oiled machine that is Doug Otto and the Getaways has been likened to the timeless sounds of Robert Johnson, Waylon Jennings, Hank Williams, Muddy Waters and Buddy Guy.
Doug Otto and the Getaways are known for playing the classic country and blues music of the old greats as well as their own compositions. They began to take root in 2005 within the Minneapolis music scene, and gained a steady following in the greater Midwest. The Getaways possess a wide-ranging repertoire with a sound that is introspective and melancholy, as well as upbeat, danceable and celebratory.
The band has been featured on regional radio shows, including KFAI public radio in Minneapolis. They have played for audiences throughout the Midwest, including 10K Lakes Festival, The Cabooze and The Dakota Jazz Club. Several hometown Minneapolis venues have welcomed The Getaways to please patrons with weekly residencies including the nordeast staples, Nye’s Polonaise, Dusty’s Bar, Mayslacks Music Lounge, and The Bulldog N.E. restaurant. In 2009 they released an independent self-titled album. In 2014 they released Nine Trick Pony, also independently produced, capturing a more telecaster-heavy sound. Their latest release is Waltz Of Pain, recorded at The Pearl in Minneapolis with Zach Hollander.
Nashville Rock and Roll found a new home for fans up in northern Minnesota!! Christopher David Hanson and his eclectic 3 piece band play a wonderful mix of all original roots rock with a twist of throw back country, big band swing, beautifully penned stories, three part harmonies, and choruses you’ll be singing before the end of each song. The road steady band is known for shows that bring out the dancers, fellow musicians, and live music lovers of all ages.
A Nashville recording artist himself, Christopher David Hanson fronts the group with his soulful vocals, guitar playing, and songwriting that hits you right in the heart. The rock solid rhythms and song oriented drumming of Jim Pietila, paired with the chest thumping low end of James Christian on bass guitar, round out this vibrant trifecta and invite folks to get up and gravitate to the dance floor.
The band has been touring strong for 10 years with a long list of notable accomplishments including recordings of his music with members of Wynonna Judd’s and Carrie Underwood’s bands, 5 songs placed in Motion Pictures, numerous PBS TV specials, and a list of shared stages with some of nations top groups including; Black Hawk, Trampled by Turtles, Charlie Parr, Gin Blossoms, Black Oak Arkansas, Fuel, Live, Kid Rock’s Shannon Curfman, Cory Chisel, Sister Hazel, and many more.
Dellwood is a duo of young musicians with enough skill and talent to entertain for hours and a repertoire that’s bound to capture the hearts of music lovers of all ages.
They have an energetic and diverse stage presence with songs ranging from originals and Americana to their spin on an assortment of your favorite songs.
A hybrid of Minnesota and Wisconsin (with a severe cheese dependency), comedian Mary Mack is a favorite on radio shows and podcasts around the country including, Marc Maron’s WTF Podcast, The Bob and Tom Show, and The Grand Ole Opry. Mary co-stars as Jesse in the Hulu cartoon Solar Opposites by the creators of Rick and Morty. She’s appeared in Montreal’s Just For Laughs Festival, HBO’s Andy Kaufman Awards, San Francisco’s Sketchfest, and the Dry Bar comedy series. Mack’s television credits include Comedy Central’s Live at Gotham, TBS’ Conan, Adult Swim’s Aqua Teen Hunger Force, Fox’s Golan the Insatiable, and NBC’s Last Comic Standing, Last Call with Carson Daly, and The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon. When not touring, Mary spends way too much time and money working on her vintage camper in the woods of Northern Wisconsin. To see where Mack will be next, browse her comedy albums or check out www.marymackcomedy.com.
We present live, improvisational, all-analog light shows. With no digital tweaking, we revive the old-school light show from the halcyon days of the 60s. Available for hire for concerts of all types, shows, raves, parties, and events.
Performing in the Pavilion all weekend