Calendar of Events
Upcoming events and things to do in Asheville, NC. Below is a list of events for festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, group meetups and more.
Interested in adding an event to our calendar? Please click the green “Post Your Event” button below.
– 5PM DOORS / 6PM SHOW
– ALL AGES
– OUTDOOR PATIO SHOW
– LIMITED PATIO SEATING IS FIRST COME FIRST SERVED
COVID-19 POLICY: The Grey Eagle requires all patrons attending performances to provide proof of vaccination or negative test within 48 hours prior to the event. We strongly suggest you mask up while indoors and interacting with TGE staff. Patrons will need to provide physical or digital documentation of COVID-19 vaccination or negative test. Professional negative test results must be dated no more than 48 hours prior to the event. At-home testing will not be accepted.
“Tina & Her Pony deliver a gentle folk music that inexorably swells into a powerful wave. The songs themselves carry a gentle wisdom that invigorates the listener. Tina & Her Pony truly commit to a kind of chamber folk that feels as timeless as it does timely.” – Rachel Cholst, NO DEPRESSION
In a soundscape rich in folk and americana offerings Tina and Her Pony (Tina Collins and a rotating cast of band members) stand out with their clarity and freshness. Harmonies, arrangements, lyrics and captivating vocals combine to create something greater than the sum of the pieces which, taken individually, are deceptively straightforward. Their talents are honed sharper on their latest release, “Champion” (2017), which chronicles complex emotional landscapes with the kind of wisdom and honesty required from roots music in its most distilled and cherished forms.
But Tina has been upending expectations and convention from early on. Her distinctive vocals and songwriting are the product of both a conservatory education and her singular taste in female folk artists like Gillian Welch, Joni Mitchell and Kate Wolf. The pandemic brought much change and loss to Tina’s world, and these are reflected in her new songs, a collection of songs that will comprise her upcoming record, “Marigolds”.
“Even within the world of folk, Tina & Her Pony’s sound can’t be defined within a single culture or concept. What is undeniable, however, is the soul-stirring power of the music itself”. – Andria Brown, Folk All Y’all
Identifying as queer also plays an important role in how Tina approaches her unique blend of old time folk, newgrass, americana, and her essential musical and personal expression. In recordings as well as live performances, Tina always strives to provide the listener with a deep oceanic counterpoint to her earthy, time-honored musical approach. It’s an apt metaphor for the dark and the light of life, for the transformation of life’s joys and sorrows into songs that Tina & her Pony has strived to create since 2010. Tina counts through-hiking the Appalachian Trail as a formative musical and human experience, deepening her connection to that place and its musical traditions while also relishing places of fluidity in both art and expression and is constantly inverting expectations. Live performances weave a fascinating web of sound and intention that draws the audience in. Listening to Tina & Her Pony offers a window into an interior landscape that begs to be explored.
Live music returns to the Old Rock Cafe with our new music series: Playing for our Partners. Come enjoy an evening of good food and good music on the deck overlooking the Rocky Broad River and support a good cause, too. A percentage of proceeds from each event in the series will benefit one of our local non-profit partners. The July event will feature musician Walter Finley and will support the Chimney Rock Village CDA.
*This event is at the Old Rock Cafe, not inside the Park*
The ticket price includes admission to the music event as well as food! We will be serving heavy hors d’oeuvres, and there will be a cash bar for those who would want to purchase drinks.
Once the event is over, proceeds will go directly to the American Brain Tumor Association! That said, purchasing a ticket is not considered a direct donation, therefore it is not tax-deductible. If you would like to make a stand-alone donation in addition to your ticket purchase, you can do so by going to www.abta.org! You can find the link to donate here!
A little about the ABTA:
Founded in 1973, the American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) was the first national nonprofit advocacy organization committed to funding brain tumor research and providing education and information across all tumor types and ages.
From event organizer, Mark Rorie:
Glioblastoma is the most common form of primary malignant tumor(cancer)to affect the brain. About 15,000 Americans are affected by this disease yearly. It’s typically devastating and a tremendous burden on both patients and their families and caregivers. There is no cure. Current “standard of care” treatment results in only small improvements in survival. The standard treatment regimen has not changed in a number of years. The likelihood of living more than 3 years with this diagnosis is only 5%, 1 year approximately 25%. As a Glioblastoma patient and a physician, I fully realize the implications. I’ve been fortunate thus far now 15 months since my diagnosis. I’ve been fortunate to partner with the American Brain Tumor Association as a volunteer and mentor. There is a desperate need for more funding to support research to develop better treatments and support patients and caregivers in need. We are partnering with Isis Music Hall in Asheville and The Bourbon Brothers out of Atlanta to put on a fundraising event this summer. I would encourage everyone to support this important cause by donating and attending this event. I’m more than happy to share my story with anyone interested. I can be reached by email at [email protected]
What to know about this event:
The ticket price includes admission to the music event as well as food! We will be serving heavy hors d’oeuvres, and there will be a cash bar for those who would want to purchase drinks.
Once the event is over, proceeds will go directly to the American Brain Tumor Association! That said, purchasing a ticket is not considered a direct donation, therefore it is not tax-deductible. If you would like to make a stand-alone donation in addition to your ticket purchase, you can do so by going to www.abta.org! You can find the link to donate here!
A little about the ABTA:
Founded in 1973, the American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) was the first national nonprofit advocacy organization committed to funding brain tumor research and providing education and information across all tumor types and ages.
From event organizer, Mark Rorie:
Glioblastoma is the most common form of primary malignant tumor(cancer)to affect the brain. About 15,000 Americans are affected by this disease yearly. It’s typically devastating and a tremendous burden on both patients and their families and caregivers. There is no cure. Current “standard of care” treatment results in only small improvements in survival. The standard treatment regimen has not changed in a number of years. The likelihood of living more than 3 years with this diagnosis is only 5%, 1 year approximately 25%. As a Glioblastoma patient and a physician, I fully realize the implications. I’ve been fortunate thus far now 15 months since my diagnosis. I’ve been fortunate to partner with the American Brain Tumor Association as a volunteer and mentor. There is a desperate need for more funding to support research to develop better treatments and support patients and caregivers in need. We are partnering with Isis Music Hall in Asheville and The Bourbon Brothers out of Atlanta to put on a fundraising event this summer. I would encourage everyone to support this important cause by donating and attending this event. I’m more than happy to share my story with anyone interested. I can be reached by email at [email protected]
Bring your instruments, families, friends, lawn chairs and blankets and join us for good times at the Bascom Lamar Lunsford Stage. In 2022 Shindig on the Green, which features a stage show and informal jam sessions around the park, continues at its original location — formerly known as City County Plaza, now transformed into the new Pack Square Park. Locals and visitors alike come together downtown “along about sundown,” or at 7:00pm for those who wear a watch, until 10:00p.m. Concessions are available. Come experience the beautiful music and dance traditions of Southern Appalachia on a summer evening in the mountains.
Eats and Treats: Concessions are provided by The Hop Ice Cream Cafe, and there are plenty of other establishments nearby for food and drinks.
Parking: Parking is available in marked and metered spaces throughout downtown Asheville (free after 6pm) and the city’s municipal decks (evening rates vary). Very convenient to Shindig, Buncombe County’s Charlotte Street Parking Deck is directly across College Street from Pack Square Park and the Buncombe County Courthouse. Parking for buses is available at the Asheville Public Works Building parking lot at 161 S. Charlotte Street. This lot is vacant on Saturday nights. It is recommended that passengers unload at Pack Square Park before the bus is parked in the lot.
Dogs or Other Pets: Please leave your pets at home (unless it’s a service animal). The City of Asheville restricts pets from being present at outdoor special events. Pets, even the best behaved ones, are not allowed at Pack Square Park during Shindig.
Public Transit: There is a major transfer point on College St. for public transit. Check www.ridetheart.com for maps and schedules.. Route E1 provides Saturday evening service to and from the ART Station.
PROGRAM 2
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Oboe Quartet in F major, K.370
Ludwig van Beethoven String Trio in C minor, Opus 9 No. 3
Alyssa Morris Four Personalities for oboe and piano
Antonin Dvorak Piano Trio No. 4 in E minor, Op. 90 ‘Dumky’
July 16 – Warren Wilson College, 7:30 pm
PROGRAM 3
Grażyna Bacewicz String Quartet No. 4
Franz Liszt Romance Oubliee for viola and piano
Bela Bartok Romanian Folk Dances for viola and piano
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart String Quintet No. 3 in C major, K. 515
July 23 – Warren Wilson College, 7:30 pm
PROGRAM 4
Joseph Haydn String Quartet in D major, Op. 71 No. 2
Frederic Chopin Nocturne for solo piano Op.48 no.1
Frederic Chopin Polonaise Brilliante Op.3 for cello and piano
Ludwig van Beethoven Quintet for Two Violins, Viola and Two Cellos
July 30 – Warren Wilson College, 7:30 pm
HART’s Main Stage
Directed by Candice Dickinson
There is trouble in River City, Iowa when con artist Harold Hill rolls into town. Hill poses as a boys’ band organizer and sells uniforms and instruments to the naive midwestern folk, planning to leave town before he ever has to teach a single music lesson. But those plans are turned on their head when Harold Hill meets the clever town Librarian, Marian Paroo. One of the most universally cherished treasures of American musical theater, The Music Man was an instant smash hit when it premiered on Broadway in 1957, winning five Tony Awards, and going on to a long career of revivals, tours, and regional performances. The Smithsonian Institution ranks The Music Man as one of the “great glories” of American popular culture. Don’t miss this summer smash hit!
Suitable for all audiences.
Imagine a Sultan’s bride winning his heart and saving her life by telling fantastical stories. Delight in the exotic melodies and pure sensory pleasure of the most popular symphonic works, Rimsky-Korsakov’s masterfully orchestrated Scheherazade. International piano sensation Zee Zee makes her long-awaited Brevard debut in Liszt’s dazzling Piano Concerto No. 1.
PERFORMANCE & ARTIST DETAILS
Brevard Music Center Orchestra
Tito Muñoz, conductor
Zee Zee, piano
FRANZ LISZT Piano Concerto No. 1
NIKOLAI RIMSKY-KORSAKOV Scheherazade
Auditorium seating is reserved. Lawn seating is general admission.
The Balalaika and Domra Association of America (BDAA) annual Festival Concert brings together musicians from around the world to perform Slavic folk music on traditional instruments, including Ukrainian, Eastern European, Romani, and Klezmer tunes. The performance will feature an 80-piece folk orchestra with virtuoso soloists on balalaika, domra, and mandolin. This is the first time the BDAA will be performing in Asheville and is for one night only!
We are joined by balalaika soloist Tetiana Khomenko from Kyiv, The Alexandrov-Skliar Duo on domra/mandolin, and Dr. Alexander Tentser as the orchestra conductor.
Ticket Prices:
Adults: $25
Students: $18
Children 12 & Under: Free
Message us for Group Rates!
A portion of the concert proceeds will be donated to Ukrainian relief efforts. We will also collect additional donations to support Ukraine during the performance.
Masks and vaccinations are highly encouraged for the safety of our performers and guests. Please be advised that this policy is subject to change to reflect local policies and recommendations at the time of the concert.
DJ Morphonic and multi-instrumentalist Kevin Spears the KalimbaMan present ECSTATIC DANCE: World Edition, an ecstatic dance experience like no other featuring a DJ dance party with live musical artistry within a guided intentional experience.
Tickets $15 ADV & $20 Day of the show
Asheville’s own DJ Morphonic has become a highly sought-after Ecstatic Dance DJ due to his eclectic yet transformative mix of music from around the world.. In the Asheville area and around the south-east DJ Morphonic is widely known for rocking the crowd with his diverse and dance provoking song selections. In addition, DJ Morphonic (Maurice Legendre) is known far and wide for his beautiful and incredible sacred art concert backdrops that must be seen to be believed. DJ Morphonic is truly a gifted soul in the field of transformative and regenerative art and music..
Kevin Spears the KalimbaMan is an internationally renowned kalimba player and one-man ensemble who designs and uses electronic musical gadgets to create a literal one-man ensemble right before your eyes and ears. He has performed extensively in the U.S and abroad and has done what was once thought impossible on the kalimba, the traditional African instrument he has studied and played since the age of 10. Along with the kalimba, Spears masterfully uses iPads and pocket synths to play piano, strings, horns and world percussiion that is both mesmerizing and incredible to see.
Experience the music of these phenomenal artists as they come together for the first time for a night to remember..
Rumours is the country’s premier Fleetwood Mac tribute band. Based in Atlanta, GA, Rumours captures the energy of Fleetwood Mac at the height of their career by blending perfect harmonies, precise instrumentation, and a visually engaging stage show.
Rumours’ dedication to recreating the Fleetwood Mac experience has skyrocketed their popularity, garnering a loyal fan base. Playing to sold out audiences and packed houses at private engagements and major venues across the country including House of Blues, the legendary Daryl Hall’s Club, and a one week residency at Epcot for Disney’s wildly popular Sounds Like Summer concert series, Rumours has earned its place as one of the top tribute bands around today.
Do you believe in miracles? Do you believe in the ways of magic? Rumours does!
The number one requested musical from our 2019 show survey: you asked for it, you got it! From the first notes to the final breath, West Side Story is one of the most memorable musicals and greatest love stories of all time. Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is transported to modern-day New York City as two young, idealistic lovers find themselves caught between warring street gangs, the ‘American’ Jets and the Puerto Rican Sharks. Their struggle to survive in a world of fear, violence, and prejudice remains one of the most innovative, heart-wrenching, and relevant musical dramas of our time. With a score by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, West Side Story is widely regarded as among the best musicals ever written.
Pink Beds is a cerebral indie pop band formed in 2020 at the cusp of the initial lockdowns. Composed of four friends from Asheville, NC, they’ve cultivated a strong bond through a shared passion for lush soundscapes, artfully crafted tunes, and rhythms you can’t help but be moved by. The mélange of dream pop, new wave, lounge, and disco aims to create an ethereal listening experience with a combination of low-end groove, velvety guitar, silky keys, gritty synth, and catchy melodies.
Pink Beds comprises Aaron Aiken (Vocals & Guitar), Jackson Van Horn (Keys & Guitar), Ryan Sargent (Drums & Percussion), and Logan Hall (Bass).
Making good use of isolation, the group combined their songwriting abilities and production chops to manifest a lush, warm, and evocative sonic environment with their December 2020 debut LP, All I Have. From tracking and production to mixing and mastering, each stage of the process was kept entirely within the group.
Since the release of this album, along with two singles in 2021, the band has grown into a vital act to catch in a live setting, bringing their laser-focus and authentically crafted songs to a multitude of different regions across the US. The essence of Pink Beds, like its namesake, should be enjoyed with your own senses and a group of good friends.
“What started out as a casual jam to entertain a keg party has morphed itself into one of the most intriguing new musical acts in Western North Carolina.
Aiken, a Brevard native, now fronts an Asheville group that stands at the intersection of indie rock, psychedelic folk and cerebral pop. It’s a seamless blend, more so a vibrant flow, that harkens back to the sounds of early 2000s indie icons The Strokes and Keane, with a thick thread leading to the melodic camps of Tame Impala and Snow Patrol.”
— Garret K. Woodward, Rolling Stone Contributing Writer
Hustle Souls is an Asheville, NC-based soul band who blend dust-covered-vinyl nostalgia with modern sensibility; recently named a Music Connection Magazine Hot 100 Live Unsigned Artists & Bands. Hustle Souls music has been called a “generation-jumping mashup of new school second line funk with old school vintage soul.” American Blues Scene and “intimate soul… with a Curtis Mayfield like warmth.” Bluestown Music. Roaring B3 organ, jubilant brass and ripping electric guitar are balanced with 3-part vocal harmony and a lust for songwriting that earned them spot in the 2020 International Songwriting Competition semi-finals and has been praised as “worthy of being included in that brilliant soul music canon, a heritage that features some of the greatest performers and writers that have ever graced this earth…” Aldora Britian Records. With relentless touring, sold out shows and major festival appearances it is no wonder why the band has earned a reputation as one of the East Coast’s most promising acts.
The Snozzberries are reviving their “Psychedelic Circus” show this summer on July 16th at Asheville Music Hall. The concert will be an immersive audiovisual experience, featuring projections, performers, interactive exhibits, and more fun surprises. The evening’s music will be provided by two Asheville bands, psychedelic warriors The Snozzberries and Appalachian funk-rockers Dr. Bacon. This interactive performance is not to be missed!
A limited number of discounted early-bird ticket will be available from Asheville Music Hall.
Poster artwork by Josh Levy.
THE SNOZZBERRIES
Combining hi-energy psychedelia, progressive rock, and deep-fried funk, The Snozzberries deliver a powerhouse, genre-bending sonic journey. The band is currently hard at work on their second full length studio album, “Return” with Grammy-nominated engineer Josh Blake at Asheville’s legendary Echo Mountain Recording. The album will also feature artwork by Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame inductee Josh Levy.
DR. BACON
Dr. Bacon is a 6 Piece touring Appalachian Funk, Grass and Rock & Roll band. Blending incredibly diverse instrumentation with broad, deep musical influences, allows the band to perform a plethora of widely accessible, danceable music. The Dr. Bacon Live Experience is truly a spectacle to behold, bringing the audience on a musical journey that lulls and spikes in energy, caressing ears with lush beauty and whipping crowds into a tribal romp, shaking booties and shedding inhibitions. This manic versatility ensures that no matter what genre of music you identify with most, you will hear something that resonates.
Tags
Ethno is JM International’s program for folk, world and traditional music. Founded in 1990, it is aimed at young musicians (up to the age of 30) with a mission to revive and keep alive global cultural heritage.
Present today in over 40 countries and on all 6 continents, Ethno engages young people through a series of annual international music camps as well as workshops, concerts and tours, working together with schools, conservatories and other groups of youth to promote peace, tolerance and understanding.
Applications are open for the second edition of Ethno USA, from October 11-23 in beautiful Black Mountain, NC. We are so excited to be back there, and we hope you’ll join us.
We expect to welcome up to 40 musicians. Will you be one of them? Apply now!!
The artistic mentors are:
Anh Phung — Flute, Vocal (Canada)
Dal’Suhu Not-Afraid — Voice, Guitar, Drums(Hopi Nation, USA)
Helen Forsythe — Accordion, Banjo (USA)
Justin Golden — Guitar, Voice (USA)
Fifth mentor TBA!
Sign up! Applications are approved on a rolling basis!
The Autumn at Oz Festival is the largest Oz festival in the world! A combination of your standard festival with arts & craft, handmade trinkets, memorabilia, & food vendors, it also includes a completely immersive theatrical experience where guests are engulfed into the classic story as you travel into the Gale Kansas Farm, through the tornado experience, and down the yellow brick road to the Emerald City. Along the way, meet all of your favorite characters for photo opportunities, see many live performances, and shop for your favorite Wizard of Oz Memorabilia.
The park will be debuting several new components to its immersive walkthrough theatre experience at this year’s Autumn at Oz event including:
Brand new costumes for all main cast members curated by Project Runway Season 1 runner-up, Austin Scarlett.
A restoration of the original 1970s psychedelic artwork inside the interactive “Kansas Twister” scene.
8 enchanting performances along the Yellow Brick Road
The recently-developed Over The Rainbow overlook, showcasing a breathtaking 5-state view.
The refurbishing of one of the park’s original metal balloon set pieces which serves as the park’s only ride.
Guests can also anticipate:
Photos & autographs with characters
Extraordinary sets, including a hand-implemented poppy field, adorned with over 4,000 fake poppies
Live performances by veteran actors
Face painting
Food vendors
Merchandise
Jazz Sunday at One World Brewing West is a modern jazz jam held every Sunday afternoon from 1-4pm. Previously known as Jazz Monday, the jam has been running non stop since July, 2018 at the West Asheville brewery and is hosted weekly by The Fully Vaccinated Jazz Trio, consisting of Ray Ring on guitar, Jason DeCristofaro on drums, piano and vibraphone, and Connor Law on bass. Jazz Sunday typically features a guest artist for a short set and then welcomes jazz musicians of all levels to sit in for the remainder of the afternoon on One World’s spacious outdoor stage.
The number one requested musical from our 2019 show survey: you asked for it, you got it! From the first notes to the final breath, West Side Story is one of the most memorable musicals and greatest love stories of all time. Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is transported to modern-day New York City as two young, idealistic lovers find themselves caught between warring street gangs, the ‘American’ Jets and the Puerto Rican Sharks. Their struggle to survive in a world of fear, violence, and prejudice remains one of the most innovative, heart-wrenching, and relevant musical dramas of our time. With a score by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, West Side Story is widely regarded as among the best musicals ever written.
Jack of the Wood : Sunday-Irish Session
Sundays
1 till who knows when?
Traditional Irish music is kept alive at Jack of the Wood with our unplugged Sunday session.
Jack of the Wood
95 Patton ave
Asheville, NC 28801
(828) 252.5445
2021 Avery Fisher Career Grant recipient Geneva Lewis performs Mozart’s fifth violin concerto, nicknamed the “Turkish”. Hear a rare performance of Franck’s Symphony in D minor, one of the most significant late 19th Century French symphonic works.
Geneva is the recipient of a 2021 Avery Fisher Career Grant
PERFORMANCE & ARTIST DETAILS
Brevard Concert Orchestra
Ken Lam, conductor
Geneva Lewis, violin
WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART Violin Concerto No. 5
CÉSAR FRANCK Symphony in D minor
Auditorium seating is reserved. Lawn seating is general admission.
Bob Sinclair and the Big Deals is a unique ensemble in the age of “already been done” acoustic bands. Showcasing their original songs, the group merges Southern story-telling, chamber music sensibilities and jazz-influenced melodies to create an original musical sound – elegant, but feisty and unfiltered. This band definitely distinguishes itself in the crowed acoustic music scene. The Big Deals have demonstrated that they are equally comfortable on the big festival stages of Merlefest and Possumfest or the intimacy of the listening rooms and theaters of the US.
Tickets on Sale now – Please Call the Venue
:Reserved Tickets for the Lounge are available with dinner reservations only :::: There is a $20 minimum in food and beverage purchases per person with your dinner reservation :: Seating will be limited :: You MUST call venue (828-575-2737) to make a dinner reservation and purchase your tickets.
Where the desert meets the forest is the land Haunted Summer inhabits – called by many things, the chaparral biome is the lush arid landscape of Los Angeles, that may have given rise to a rare musical harmony. Mixing LA-trademark harmonious psych-rock with an even more decadent stream of acoustic dream pop, song sorcerers & husband-and-wife Bridgette Moody & John Seasons create rapturously organic tracks from the truth of the heart.
Hailed internationally, their debut full-length Spirit Guides helped push a band with lots of momentum to the next level. The album accentuates the underwater qualities that blossom within their sound palette – a true shoegaze expedition through beautifully ambient lands. “Sour Grapes” is a blissful treasure of the rarest form, as are even some of the fuzzier & heavier tracks such as “Every Step” – amplifying the heat but keeping the air & pressure cool.
Haunted Summer’s 2nd LP “Whole”, recorded with producer Be Hussey, discovered a chillness & a lightness that breaks into a new realm of palatability. It is as peaceful as the quaintest dwelling, yet harmonically challenging & interesting in the abstract elevated moods that can entrance & take you over. The tones on “Whole” create a space that a folk orchestra would produce inside of a wooden dome, the resonate sounds of Topanga acts like Spirit, Linda Perhacs, America, Simon & Garfunkel & always some Brian Wilson percussion & arrangements. A pantheon of pure aesthetic melancholy, meant to harmonize the chaos.
“Whole” (due out in early 2022 via label LaunchLeft) was inspired by friends and fans the band had met while touring, and also by growth and loss. The title song “Whole (A Song for Taylor)” is about Bridgette Moody’s formative friend and former band mate who passed away in 2018. The album is a concept of reaching one’s full capacity through pain, loss and love, something that became even more relevant in the current climate we find ourselves in.
General Admission Tickets only. Seating in the balcony is first come, first serve. Dinner reservations can be made prior to the show by calling Isis Music Hall at 828-575-2737
We shed old skin in order to evolve and move forward. We let go of who we were in the past and embrace who we’re meant to be now. The Deslondes have taken such steps as not only bandmates, but as brothers. The New Orleans quintet—Dan Cutler, Sam Doores, Riley Downing, Cameron Snyder, and John James Tourville—have weathered ups, downs, and everything in between only to strengthen the bond between them.
Infusing everything from saxophone, flute, and synth to string arrangements and a full drum kit for the first time, the group naturally progress and evolve in real-time on their third full-length offering, Ways & Means . “The title reminds me of being young, getting into the music business, going through everything, and coming out of it,” Riley observes. “We’re taking a look right, left, and back at ourselves.”
“We were letting go of a bunch of old dynamics that left us burnt out,” adds John James. “However, we’re focused on being productive and on the other side.” The “other side” might just be their brightest yet. The Deslondes revealed their self-titled debut to widespread tastemaker applause during 2015. However, they really hit their stride on Hurry Home in 2017. Right out of the gate, Noisey proclaimed, “The Deslondes have found a comfortable sound to create art in, and it serves them well,” while Rolling Stone noted, “The Deslondes’ take on country relies on a gritty, grimy mix of early rock ‘n’ roll and lo-fi R&B.” In addition to praise from American Songwriter, Paste, The Boot, and more, the record closed out the year on Uncut’s “Favorite Albums of 2017.”
Then, the musicians opted to quietly take a break. In the meantime, Sam shared his self-titled debut as Riley also served up his solo album, Start It Over. Maybe it was something in the air, but 2021 seemed like the perfect moment for the boys to pick up where they left off. “I reached out to everybody individually,” recalls John James. “Dan’s got kids, and I’ve got kids. We’d been touring for a long time. Once I called, it seemed like everyone was really into it. We were excited about doing it again.”
“I was in Lawrence, KS visiting my folks at the height of the Pandemic,” Sam remembers. “I was walking down Massachusetts Avenue on a Sunday morning and wondering what I had left to give the world. Perhaps, I was experiencing a mild existential crisis from living off unemployment and facing the cancellation of my album release tours. Luckily, my phone rang. John James asked how I’d feel about making another Deslondes record with so much genuine enthusiasm it was contagious. We all owe it to him. Instinctually, a resounding ‘Hell Yes’ came out of my mouth.”
Missing the camaraderie, the guys congregated at old haunt The Tigermen Den. Together, they worked out the songs before they entered the Bomb Shelter with longtime producer Andrija Tokic. This time around, members brought in a host of ideas and agreed upon the process before recording.
“We came to some personal agreements about how everything was going to go down in advance,” Dan elaborates. “From experience, we realized what we liked and who was good at what. In terms of the studio, it was probably the easiest album we’ve ever made. Usually, we’re too busy touring to put a lot of thought into pre-production and ideas. This was definitely the most prepared we’ve ever been beforehand.”
The preparation shines on the likes of the first single “South Dakota Wild One.” On the track, harmonica wails over acoustic strumming. Simultaneously, Riley’s grizzled and gruff delivery simmers above a slow burning beat punctuated by a soulful lead.
“It’s a nostalgic song about getting into music, traveling, and running into the special people who were around then, but aren’t around now,” notes Riley. Elsewhere, the opener “Good To Go” saunters on airy electric piano towards a heavenly and hummable saxophone solo.
“If ‘South Dakota Wild One’ was the beginning of traveling and playing music, ‘Good To Go’ is where we’re at now,” Riley continues. “We’re still out here. We’re still good to go. The songs bookend each other.”
Then, there’s “Dunes.” A twang-y riff underscores a fifties-style melody as guitar echoes. “It’s about the arc of a love affair—a relationship that went wrong eventually,” Dan says. “It explores the symmetry of a relationship and how things come full circle in our life.” The dreamy “Five Year Plan” nods to Harry Nilsson with its dusty bliss, plinking keys, and cinematic orchestration. Album closer “Hero” takes flight on soaring slide guitar and wistful vocal delivery.
“I grew up in a real tight-knit family in the country,” Riley goes in. “We all pitched in to take care of my grandmother at the end of her life. We’re our own heroes to our families and friends. I needed to write the song to remind myself you can be your own hero. If it helps me, maybe it will help someone else.”
In the end, The Deslondes draw on their own familial union to forge a similar connection with listeners. “To us, this is family,” John James leaves off. “It’s a part of our lives. When you hear our music, I hope you feel like you’re hanging out with us. The band’s back together now, and it just feels good.”
“Riley, JJ, Dan, and Cam are my brothers,” Sam concurs. “We’ve all been through so much together. I don’t think any of us will have that experience with another group of people again in our lives. Sometimes, we drive each other crazy of course, but we’re family. I’d take a bullet for any of those geezers.”
Ethno is JM International’s program for folk, world and traditional music. Founded in 1990, it is aimed at young musicians (up to the age of 30) with a mission to revive and keep alive global cultural heritage.
Present today in over 40 countries and on all 6 continents, Ethno engages young people through a series of annual international music camps as well as workshops, concerts and tours, working together with schools, conservatories and other groups of youth to promote peace, tolerance and understanding.
Applications are open for the second edition of Ethno USA, from October 11-23 in beautiful Black Mountain, NC. We are so excited to be back there, and we hope you’ll join us.
We expect to welcome up to 40 musicians. Will you be one of them? Apply now!!
The artistic mentors are:
Anh Phung — Flute, Vocal (Canada)
Dal’Suhu Not-Afraid — Voice, Guitar, Drums(Hopi Nation, USA)
Helen Forsythe — Accordion, Banjo (USA)
Justin Golden — Guitar, Voice (USA)
Fifth mentor TBA!
Sign up! Applications are approved on a rolling basis!
The Autumn at Oz Festival is the largest Oz festival in the world! A combination of your standard festival with arts & craft, handmade trinkets, memorabilia, & food vendors, it also includes a completely immersive theatrical experience where guests are engulfed into the classic story as you travel into the Gale Kansas Farm, through the tornado experience, and down the yellow brick road to the Emerald City. Along the way, meet all of your favorite characters for photo opportunities, see many live performances, and shop for your favorite Wizard of Oz Memorabilia.
The park will be debuting several new components to its immersive walkthrough theatre experience at this year’s Autumn at Oz event including:
Brand new costumes for all main cast members curated by Project Runway Season 1 runner-up, Austin Scarlett.
A restoration of the original 1970s psychedelic artwork inside the interactive “Kansas Twister” scene.
8 enchanting performances along the Yellow Brick Road
The recently-developed Over The Rainbow overlook, showcasing a breathtaking 5-state view.
The refurbishing of one of the park’s original metal balloon set pieces which serves as the park’s only ride.
Guests can also anticipate:
Photos & autographs with characters
Extraordinary sets, including a hand-implemented poppy field, adorned with over 4,000 fake poppies
Live performances by veteran actors
Face painting
Food vendors
Merchandise
Local Live, Jay Brown w/guests The Candellers and Mike Esposito,
Local Live, hosted by Jay Brown, features the best in up and coming talent. Usually two performers each week with an additional set from Jay. You can say “saw them when”
The Street Dances have been a tradition for over 100 years in Downtown Hendersonville! They began in 1918, at the end of World War I, when the city welcomed home its soldiers from the War by celebrating in the streets. The Street Dances feature bluegrass music, square dancing and demonstrations of clogging, a traditional southern Appalachian style of dance.
Enjoy the fresh air, bring a chair and delight in the one-of-a-kind experience you’ll get from this fun event!
This week, enjoy the music of Hightop Mountain Harmony, a four-piece band that plays a mix of bluegrass, country and gospel music. This week’s clogging performance will be the Southern Connection Cloggers!
In case of inclement weather, the concert will be postponed until 8pm. If the weather does not improve by 8 pm the performance will be canceled.
This Concert Series is sponsored by Burger King, Kathy Watkins of Preferred Realty, Firehouse Subs, Blue Ridge Hospitality and Mast General. This event is hosted by the Henderson County Tourism Development Authority.
HANDEL_HALVORSEN Passacaglia
Geneva Lewis, violin
Gabriel Martins, cello
BEACH Theme and Variations for flute and string quartet
Amy Porter, flute
Karen Strittmater Galvin, violin I
Margaret Karp, violin II
Margaret Snyder, viola
Brian Snow, cello
BRAHMS String Sextet No. 1 in B-flat major, Op. 18
Geneva Lewis, violin I
Corinne Stillwell, violin II
Erika Eckert, viola I
Jenny Snyder Kozoroz, viola II
Gabriel Martins, cello I
Alistair MacRae, cello II
Auditorium seating is reserved.
Ethno is JM International’s program for folk, world and traditional music. Founded in 1990, it is aimed at young musicians (up to the age of 30) with a mission to revive and keep alive global cultural heritage.
Present today in over 40 countries and on all 6 continents, Ethno engages young people through a series of annual international music camps as well as workshops, concerts and tours, working together with schools, conservatories and other groups of youth to promote peace, tolerance and understanding.
Applications are open for the second edition of Ethno USA, from October 11-23 in beautiful Black Mountain, NC. We are so excited to be back there, and we hope you’ll join us.
We expect to welcome up to 40 musicians. Will you be one of them? Apply now!!
The artistic mentors are:
Anh Phung — Flute, Vocal (Canada)
Dal’Suhu Not-Afraid — Voice, Guitar, Drums(Hopi Nation, USA)
Helen Forsythe — Accordion, Banjo (USA)
Justin Golden — Guitar, Voice (USA)
Fifth mentor TBA!
Sign up! Applications are approved on a rolling basis!
The final block party is held in conjunction with the Brevard Police Department and Transylvania County Sheriff’s Department’s National Night Out Celebration.
Attendees can expect a lineup of live music, delicious local food and children’s activities, creating a fun community gathering for all. The June events feature LEAF Global Arts and the July and August events feature our beloved Old Time Street Dances. Block parties will be held weekly from 6-8pm on East Main Street. Many downtown retail businesses and restaurants will also be open for the block party.
HOB and LEAF Global Arts invites everyone to experience a world without borders! From dance, to drumming to arts & crafts, LEAF’s performing artists will bring a new lineup of cultural art experiences and live music to the June block parties. Each week will feature a different band and the LEAF Easel Rider, a mobile arts & crafts lab.
LEAF performances will feature an eclectic mix of music that is different each week, ranging from blues and rock toNew Orleans style jazz.
LEAF resident artist Melissa McKinney kicks off the series on June 14th. “We are so excited to bring the energy of LEAF Global to downtown Brevard,” shares McKinney, “connecting community is part of our mission and we believe downtown Brevard holds the same values. Music is the best way to bring people together.”
Old Time Street Dances, a long-time community favorite, returns to the Heart of Brevard at our July 5th block party. The dances offer free, family-friendly fun that celebrates our Appalachian heritage and is sure to move your feet.
Old Time Street Dances in downtown Brevard are an 80-year tradition. This summer, Whitewater Bluegrass Co. returns to the stage as the host band to lead the crowds in a collection of square dance and contra-style dancing. Evenings will include classic songs, a chance for clogging and traditional Appalachian-called dance. Old Time Street Dances are geared toward participation at every age and skill level.
The Tuesday Night Block Parties are free and open to the public. For more information about LEAF, Old Time Street Dances and other upcoming events, follow Heart of Brevard on Facebook and Instagram and subscribe to their newsletter here.
###
Heart of Brevard 501(c)(3) is a North Carolina Main Street Community, designated by the NC Department of Commerce and Main Street & Rural Planning Center. Heart of Brevard is a recognized leading program among the national network of more than 1,200 neighborhoods and communities who share both a commitment to creating high-quality places and to building stronger communities through preservation-based economic development. All Main Street America™ programs meet a set of National Accreditation Standards of Performance as outlined by the National Main Street Center.