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Phoning It In From The Cellar: A Conversation With Keller Williams March 14, 2021 17:53

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Interview by Jordan Kirkland: Live & Listen
Photo by Craig Baird: Home Team Photography
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Believe it or not, we are fast approaching the one year anniversary of the entire world being put on pause. In March of 2020, life as we know it changed in a way that we never could have expected. As cases of COVID-19 began to sweep across America, we were suddenly given strict orders to stay at home and avoid public interaction at all costs.
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While so many industries were seriously affected from this very moment, none felt the wrath of this global pandemic more than the world of live music. When you're expected to avoid crowds and maintain a six foot distance from others at all times, concerts are nearly impossible. Music venues, bars, and restaurants were the first to be shut down, and many are still waiting to reopen their doors a year later.
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As we look on the past year, we're catching up with a number of our favorite musicians to learn more about their COVID journey. I've been fortunate enough to call myself a Keller Williams fan for twenty years now, so it was only fitting to continue this interview series with the mad scientist himself. Check out the full conversation below, and make sure to tune into Keller's latest "studio release," Cell, which is now available on all major streaming outlets. And for those wondering where they can catch Keller in 2021, simply head over to his official website.
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I appreciate you taking the time to chat today, Keller. So, you're down in Florida this week, right?
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Keller: Correct. I'm playing down in St. Petersburg on Friday, and then Del Ray Beach on Sunday.
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These will be outdoor, socially distanced shows?
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Keller: Absolutely. This is all outside with reduced capacity and table seating. We're taking the whole thing very, very seriously and trying to create an experience while being as safe as possible. 
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That's great to hear. We're all keeping our fingers crossed for more progress. I'm much more encouraged as these vaccines continue to roll out. 
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Keller: Absolutely. I am as well.
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Well I know you're a Fredericksbug, VA guy. I was curious to know a little more about your musical background, and what led you to pursuing a career in music?
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Keller: Well, I guess it all started with Hee Haw. Roy Clark and Buck Owen's pickin' and a grinnin'. It was an old TV show. I remember watching as a toddler. I was probably three or four. I remember watching the guys play guitar, and I would pretend to play with a tennis racket. I finally got a little starter guitar. I'm right-handed, but with no strap, as a little kid, I kind of held the neck with the right hand, so I could pretend to play it.
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When I was about ten, and I actually took my first lesson, they were like, "Well, we need to string your guitar differently, or you need to turn it around." From there, they were teaching me scales and the basic learning tools of guitar. I was on the baseball team and swim team at that point, and I kind of left it for a while. Then when I was about fourteen, someone showed me "Smoke on the Water." I kind of went with that, and later on, another friend showed me the basic cowboy chords. Everything you can do on the first couple of frets. The C's, D's, E's, G's, and things like that. 
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It turns out that once I had G, C, and D, I could play so many songs off the radio. I think at age 16, I had my first paid gig doing just that. Sitting on a stool playing covers during happy hour for dinner and tips. I did that a few times. This was 1986, I guess. I moved on to college at Virginia Wesleyan and played in a few bands. One band in particular stayed together for a little bit. Everyone had day jobs, and everyone wanted to put our gig money towards making a record. I had to put the money towards rent and bills. 
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I did have a few random jobs. I worked for a temporary construction agency. I would show up in the morning, and they sent me out to do grunt work that other construction workers didn't want to do. One in particular was taking a piece of cinder block, smashing it, and then taking a piece of the smashed cinder block and scraping mortar out of the cracks of walls of a school being built. Eight hours in long pants, boots, and a hard hat in the middle of the Virginia summer. 
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Back then, minimum wage was maybe $3.50 an hour. It might have been hard enough work that I was paid $4.50 an hour. After sitting on a stool playing covers for two hours and making as much as I did for eight hours of scraping mortar, that's kind of what led me to pursue this unrealistic career of being paid to sing and make up songs. 
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Skip ahead to about 1992, that's when I gave up on school and ideas of "real jobs." I was totally focused on making money playing music. Around that time, there was a lot of Mondays in Fredericksburg, Tuesday/Wedesnday in Virginia Beach, Thursday night somewhere else, maybe Richmond. On the weekends, I'd try to open up for bigger bands as a solo act. It's pretty much all of the gigs that my band was getting. Once we split up, I could go back to those venues and get a solo gig for the same amount of money, which was about $250. 
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I was raking it in, you know? It just kind of went from there. I guess my style kind of came about from those gigs. Those were a dude in the corner of a restaurant. Move the tables around. I'd bring in my little PA, and I would play. These were places that people weren't coming to see live music, but there just happened to be live music there. No one was really paying attention, so after a while, I stopped paying attention to them. I was focusing on this music, and out of that came my style, I guess.
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I had a lot of influences, the obvious being the Grateful Dead, Jerry Garcia, and Bob Weir. Their styles of rhythm and lead, and well as Phil Lesh's obscure bass lines, and of course the improvisation. There was also Michael Hedges, who had a huge influence on me. I was probably about eighteen when I got turned onto him. I'd just gotten into the Grateful Dead and experimenting with all kinds of things. 
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Along comes Michael Hedges, who is this solo acoustic guitarist, and he's up there demanding the stage of the audience. His tuning and playing style all hit me. Mostly, it was the way he would do cover songs. He would do them in different tunings, different keys, and make them his own while staying true to the original. I took a lot of that from him as well. That's kind of the long shot there. 
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That's interesting. I wasn't aware of Michael Hedges. Was he one to incorporate multiple instruments as well? When did you start to tap in the world of looping?
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Keller: Right. Well, that came from hours and hours of playing in places where people weren't paying attention. I needed a different avenue to make it more interesting for myself. So, without being able to afford humans to do it...there's nothing more expensive than human beings. Their pay, food, lodging, gas, and all of that. There was no way I could afford a band, but I needed more musically. That's kind of where the looping came in. It basically started with voice and guitar. I think I incorporated the bass in maybe '99? Once the bass is in that loop, and the air started to move, people started to dance and pay more attention. Then in 2000-2001, I actually started selling tickets and playing places where people came to see the music. 
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Very cool. So, at this point you're well established in Virigina. I know you ultimately made your way out to Colorado and linked up with The String Cheese Incident. I really got thrown into both of y'all's music around 2002. Tell me a little about that experience and going out on the road with those guys.
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Keller: Yeah...String Cheese was originally more of an acoustic four-piece. They're obviously a six-piece powerhouse now. When I first met them, it was Keith Moseley on electric bass, Bill Nershi on acoustic guitar, Mike Kang on acoustic mandolin and fiddle, and Michael Travis on drums and percussion. Really what got me from the get-go was Michael Travis playing kick drum and snare with one foot and hand, while playing hi-hat and percussion with the other. This was all at the same time, like a two person beat that was always happening. 
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I guess this was in a basement in Telluride. They were playing an after show for the Telluride Bluegrass Festival of 1995. I had just moved out to Colorado. I was 25 years old with no real address. I saw them for the first time, and I had a few gigs lined up, but I would go see them at different mountain bars. I saw them play three or four times before I actually met them, which was in a small bar in Colorado Springs. I met Keith first, then Travis next.
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The next year, I was living in Steamboat Springs, and String Cheese was playing a free show in the town park there, maybe opening for Maceo Parker. I was doing a Wednesday night gig across the street, and we had met briefly. By the end of the night. I had everyone plugged in to my little PA on a stick. That was really cool, and I think it was maybe spring of 1997 that I did a tour with them. We started on the West Coast and made our way out east.
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That was my first trip to the West Coast. My first gig out west was the Great American Music Hall in San Francisco. I'll never forget that. As a kid, I always wanted to play the West Coast and California specifically. 
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Watch Keller Williams perform "Best Feeling" with The String Cheese Incident here:
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So was it shortly after that tour that the idea came to take them into the studio and record the Breathe album?
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Keller: Right. Yeah, so when was the Breathe album recorded again? I know it was released in '99, but I think we recorded it at the end of '98. I'm not sure. But yeah, we had played together on stage several times. I would sit in for encores. They're always really generous with their opening acts. We did that a lot, and we were really comfortable. I remember sending them all of the songs on a cassette tape that I recorded in my motor home that was plugged into campground power. 
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I remember this super low hum that went throughout the whole tape. Somehow, they learned all of the songs from that. I think we spent a week in the Colorado Sound Studio outside of Denver. We put that thing out, and that was just such a cool experience working with those guys. I think we might have played all of the songs together at the same time, and maybe kept the drum track and kind of built it from there. That was an amazing experience, and even more amazing to play all of those songs at Red Rocks for the album's 20th anniversary. 
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Oh yeah. I remember watching the live stream of that set. Breathe and Laugh are both incredibly nostalgic albums for me. Those albums that stayed in the cd player when you got your driver's license. It's crazy to think about that being 20 years ago, but here we are.
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I know a lot has happened between now and then. You've had quite a few projects: The WMDs, More than a Little, and countless performances with Grateful Grass and Grateful Gospel. We don't have to go into detail on all of them, but I was curious to know more about the origin of Grateful Gospel. Was this project born through LOCKN' Festival?
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Keller: So, with More than a Little, when we first started, there were three members who were paid to play churches on Sunday. There was one guy who did two churches. So, the gospel element was kind of in place. I was using these amazing players and teaching them my weird, funky songs. They would incorporate what they've learned playing gospel, which is amazing. It's very different from any other group of musicians that I've played with. 
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Their way to pay attention, improvise, and put chords and harmonies together was amazing. So, with More than a Little, the gospel element was already there. I got on the bill at LOCKN', and I think I played with the Keels on the first year. We were struggling to get confirmed on the bill again, so we put together this idea for Sunday morning gospel and Grateful Dead tunes. 
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LOCKN' is very Grateful Dead oriented, you know? Pete Shapiro has a huge connection with the band. He definitely focuses on that type of vibe. That's where it went from there. They allowed me to do the three days of Grateful Grass at 11AM on this little stage in the woods. I felt that three sets of Grateful Grass was maybe a little too much. I had this band that was steeped in gospel. Maybe I could teach them some of these obvious spiritual songs that Jerry and the Dead played and incorporate it into the morning gospel. It just kind of took off from there, you know? 
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Watch Keller Williams' Grateful Gospel perform "Mighty High" at LOCKN' 2015 here:
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I know it has quickly become one of the highlights of the year for so many people. I've been fortunate enough to see Grateful Gospel once and Grateful Grass a few times. I look forward to more of those sets.
 
Keller: Well, thank you so much.
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Before we wrap this up, I wanted to touch on what this last year has been like for you specifically. We're coming up on the one-year mark of everything shutting down. I wanted to see if you could tell me about what was happening and where you were as the reality starting setting in last year.
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Keller: Yeah, it's been an interesting year, to say the least. I was on the road getting ready to play Memphis, Little Rock, and Oklahoma City. It was a Thursday, Friday, Saturday run. I think it was March 12th, and I had just finished soundcheck. My management team (Madison House) and booking agency (Paradigm), the wonderful people who take care of me, were getting pressure to cancel the show. I suggested we check with the other venues we were playing that weekend. The folks in Little Rock and Oklahoma City were like, "Fuck it. Come on!" So, I talked everyone into letting me play the Memphis show on Thursday, and I was back home by 4:00PM the next day. So, March 12th in Memphis was the last gig.
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Those first couple of weeks, I didn't take it very well. I was definitely concerned about my financial future. I didn't have much of a backup plan for making money. Now, if I had my fingers chopped off, I have insurance. (laughs). I'd be good for a couple of years. But this is something totally different. There was a lot of anger and a lot of brush clearing with a machete. Making a path that I've been wanting to make for forever. I made a path down to the river, and I got into fishing. Never really caught anything. I didn't have a whole lot of other hobbies.
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There were a whole lot of weird, interesting ideas going off in my head. By that time, I was looking to the future and had to embrace the live streaming idea. We got on it pretty quick, and we were able to establish this really interesting community called "The Cellar Dwellers." I'm very fortunate to have a large basement with all of my show posters, and there is a great vibe to it. I was able to start up pretty quickly. Doing a very basic, one microphone / one camera type of thing. I incorporated taking a bunch of requests. It's done on StageIt.com, which is a streaming service where you pay $5 to see the show, and you can tip more if you want.
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Everyone was doing Facebook live, which I respect, but it's all free, and you can choose to tip if you want. After a few months of that, I think people just stop tipping. I would imagine, after doing it for months and months, it becomes difficult. But, you know, we did this thing in the basement, and people from all over the country came for every show. People would meet up online on Wednesday nights. We hit it hard at first. We ended up going with Wednesday nights at 9:00PM EST. I think we've now done 62 episodes. It's an amazing thing. 
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That, in itself, helped me play songs to their entirety. If I'm not in front of an audience, or no one's listening, I'll play a song and stop in the middle. That's not good. You can really get lazy like that, and that whole time, there is nowhere to go. I'm out on the back porch late at night, improvising with different tunings. I came up with a whole bunch of those and sent them to this guy named Bobby West, who is a DJ/producer out of Denver. He goes by the name Erothyme. He took all of these tracks, ran them through a system, created these songs, and out comes this record called Cell. All of my tracks, which were guitar, piano, vibraphone, and vocal, were recorded on my cellphone. 
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I wasn't going anywhere. There weren't any available studios. This was the pandemic quarantine shutdown. So, I just recorded everything on my cellphone. I'd record the vocals in a closet, so they couldn't hear the air conditioning or the kids screaming. I was really surprised by the quality of the product when it finally came out. A lot of people don't know that unless you tell them. You can tell with the guitar. It sounds like there is not a quality microphone on the guitar. The vocals, I thought, were just like normal studio vocals. I recorded them on a voice memo.
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That is innovation at its finest. 
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Keller: My joke is that I'm very proud of that album, but I literally phoned it in.
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I love that. I'm sure there will be some more Cellar streams to come. I saw just today that Suwannee Rising announced a socially distanced festival today. It seems like things are certainly heading in the right direction with vaccine distribution. The light at the end of the tunnel doesn't seem so far away.
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Keller: I agree. I'm actually playing down there at the end of this month. It's a spring fest / golf cart / drive-in type thing. They're pulling it off. I'm doing a solo set and a set with Travis Book from The Infamous Stringdusters on bass.
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Man, I know that's got to be exciting. You're one of the last legit concerts I saw in late December of 2019. Can't wait for the next opportunity, whenever that may be. Thanks so much, once again, for your time today. 
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Keller: Absolutely. This has been really enjoyable. I appreciate you hanging with me all these years, Jordan.
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Listen to Keller Williams' new album, Cell, via Spotify here:
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10 Reasons Not to Miss SweetWater 420 Festival April 18, 2019 01:33

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Words by Jordan Kirkland: Live & Listen
Photo by Craig Baird: Home Team Photography
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Let's be honest. We've reached that point in the week where all we can think about is the music that lies ahead. Over the last three years, SweetWater 420 Festival has become arguably my favorite annual tradition. I'm sure I'm not alone when I say that the anticipation is more than a distraction today. Many of you reading this will join me in feeling like a kid on Christmas Eve tonight.
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This festival will once again offer one of the strongest lineups of the year, featuring countless genres from across the musical spectrum. We'll likely witness some special collaborations, such as that blazing "Statesboro Blues" from Tedeschi Trucks Band and Brandon "Taz" Niederauer last year.
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As a method of burning the time and preparing for what's ahead, I put together a list of ten reasons why you just don't want to miss out on this festival. Check out the full rundown below and make sure be smart, stay hydrated, and be kind to those around you this weekend!
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1. Two nights of Widespread Panic. Need we say more?

  • Let's face it. This festival is in the heart of Panic country, and there is not a more prime candidate to close out the festival on Saturday and Sunday night. The band's history in Atlanta is well documented, most recently completing a three-night New Year's run at The Fox Theatre that we're still trying to comprehend. Being back in Georgia always seems to bring out the best in the band, and if anyone understands the level of expectation for these four sets, it's these guys right here.
  • In case you missed it, Panic's last 420 Fest performance fell on Sunday, April 23rd in 2017. The show kicked off in powerful fashion with "Disco" > "Arleen" and made for one of the hottest festival shows in recent years. I think it's safe to assume there will be much more where that came from this weekend.

2. Joe Russo's Almost Dead: There are tribute bands, and then there's JRAD.

  • Prepare to hear the music of the Grateful Dead like you've never heard it before. If you've had a chance to catch this band before, you know to expect the unexpected. These guys use the Dead's catalog as a launching pad into another dimension, and there's no telling where they'll take a jam at any given moment. Friday night will be dominated by the two-and-a-half hour set from Joe Russo's Almost Dead.
  • The all-star cast features Joe Russo (drums/vocals), Marco Benevento (keys/vocals), Tom Hamilton (guitar/vocals), Scott Metzger (guitar/vocals), and Dave Dreiwitz (bass/vocals). 

3. Stay in tune with the jam scene's hottest rising acts.

  • While the lineup is consistently diverse, you can always count on 420 Fest to feature several of the jam scene's hottest rising acts. Take a look at this year's lineup, and you'll see exactly what we mean. 
  • Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Billy Strings, Big Something, & Turkuaz  are absolutely "can't miss acts" this year. There is a reason that you continue to see these names rise on festival billings each year. You can also find them packing out venues across the country, while releasing new, original material that we're all singing along with in no time. 
  • Surely you're familiar with the mad scientist known as Keller Williams. Have you heard about Grateful Grass though? This set is appropriately scheduled for 12:00 PM on Easter Sunday. Bring your bible, 'cause Keller's gonna take us all to church.
  • Everyone Orchestra will feature a fully improvised set from members of Umphrey's McGee, Trey Anastasio Band, Jane's Addition, Greensky Bluegrass, and more on Saturday at 2:30 PM. 

4. This lineup offers a beautiful variety that any music fan can enjoy. 

  • It's a challenge to even begin keeping up with the amount of annual music festivals in 2019. While many of the these lineups are designed to cater to a specific fan base, such as jam bands or bluegrass, 420 Fest steps outside the box. While there's plenty of jam over the weekend, major national acts such as The Avett Brothers, Moon Taxi, Jason Isbell & the 400 Unit, Rebelution, and Iration

5. THE BEER: Who could forget about the beer?

  • You'd be hard pressed to find a brewery with tastier options from top to bottom. This brewery's impact on the city of Atlanta, our beloved music scene, and the entire Southeast, really, can't be overstated. 
  • Prepare to see the following SweetWater brews across the festival 420 Pale Ale, IPA, 420 Strain G-13 IPA, 420 Strain Mango Kush Wheat Ale, Peach Love & Happiness, and Guide Beer: A Lager.
  • Have you heard about the artist collaboration brews? This year you will find the Pigeons Playing Ping Pong's IPPPA, Iration's Already Gold, and Fruition's "Fruition's Fire." 
  • Take a break from the sun and stop by the SweetWater Experience Tent, a weekend-long craft beer centric event where you can taste your way through 25 unique styles of SweetWater beers. Enjoy presentations a wide variety of topics. We've included the schedule for the SweetWater experience below.

6. Sustainability: SweetWater 420 Fest's eco-friendly focus grows stronger each year.

  • Did you know that 420 Fest started as an Earth Day celebration in 2005? Festival organizers continue to go the extra mile each year with so many ways you can contribute. 
  • Make sure to purchase your refillable Steelys cup to do your part and protect the environment this weekend.
  • Make sure to stop by the Planet 420 Eco-Village, where the majority of environmental workers spend the weekend raising awareness for Mother Earth. Hands-on workshops engage attendees and educate them on how to become more eco-friendly in their day-to-day lives. 
  • The festival offers a heap of transportation options, such as MARTA and Atlanta Bicycle Coalition, which allow for eco-friendly choices to avoid the hassle of parking downtown. 
  • To date, 420 Fest has donated over $120,000 to various neighborhood organizations including CPNO, Park Pride, and Friends of Candler Park (where the festival was previously held).

7. You never know what you'll find in the artist + craft vendor market.

  • There's more to SweetWater 420 Fest than just music and beer. Each year, dozens of artists and craft vendors from across the country are showcased at the 420 Fest Artist Market. You never know what you might stumble across amongst your artist village at a major music festival. Arrive a little early or maybe even take a break from the music and check out the entire festival grounds this year. 

8. Lyrics & Laughter Stage will put a smile on your face.

  • While the SweetWater Stage and 420 Strain Stage get the majority of the attention, one of our favorite elements of 420 Fest is the Lyrics & Laughter Stage, which is presented by Aisle 5. This stage hosts a mix of both local, up-and-coming bands, as well as a handful of nationally touring acts. We're especially excited for Cory Wong of Vulfpeck (Friday), SunSquabi (Saturday), Zach Deputy & The Yankees (Sunday), Hedonistas (Saturday),  Flow Tribe (Friday), Travers Brothership (Friday), Voodoo Visionary (Sunday), and The Orange Constant (Sunday). 
  • You don't want to miss out on Joe Pettis and Andrew Michael either. These two stand up comedians will perform on each day in between various sets on the Lyrics & Laughter stage. Click here to check out the schedule. 

9.  Got a minute to give? Don't miss the 4:19 Auctions.

  • The 420 Fest band charity auction will benefit each participating artists charity of choice. Participating artists include Widespread Panic (Tunes for Tots), The Avett Brothers (Press On), Joe Russo's Almost Dead (Atlanta Community Food Bank), Rebelution (Atlanta Music Project), Moon Taxi (We're Hear For You), Claypool Lennon Delirium (Atlanta Community Food Bank), Pigeons Playing Ping Pong (Music In The Park), SunSquabi (Can'd Aid Foundation), Billy Strings (Nicholas House), Cory Wong (Conscious Allience), BIG Something (Atlanta Music Project), Fruition (Atlanta Music Project), Pink Talking Fish (Positive Legacy), and Turkuaz (Positive Legacy)...just to name a few.
  • Auction items include concert tickets, signed memorabilia, photos, meet & greets, and more. Mobile bidding began on April 16th and lasts through the end of the weekend. CLICK HERE to register for online bidding.

10. There's some serious after shows to choose from. Killer late night sets across the city.

  • Not quite ready to call it a night after the headliner? No problem. The afterparties surrounding this year's festival are as strong as you'll find anywhere. Terminal West will host Ghost Light on Friday night and Billy Strings on Saturday. Aisle 5 will host Voodoo Visionary on Thursday, Higher Learning on Friday, SunSquabi on Saturday, and Knower + Nate Wood Four on Sunday. Additional afters shows we're keeping an eye on include Bird Dog Jubilee Schema at Cotton Club (downstairs at the Tabernacle) on Friday and Runaway Gin "Make Phish Evil Again" at The Loft on Friday.

Here's a quick video recap from the 2018 festival:

    Check out the full weekend schedule and map out your weekend below!


    Candler Park Music & Food Festival Reveals 2018 Lineup April 3, 2018 19:02

    Candler Park Music & Food Festival is all set for June 1st - 2nd at Atlanta's Candler Park, and festival organizers revealed yet another amazing lineup earlier today. This year will feature the likes of Gov't Mule, Lettuce, Keller Williams' PettyGrass ft. The HillBendersTwiddle, SUSTO, Larkin Poe, Busty and the Bass & more. Tier 1 ticket prices are on sale now until April 15. General Admission tickets for both days are available for just $25, while VIP (21+ only) are available for both days for just $60. Click here to secure your tickets today, and stay tuned for further preview coverage of one of our favorite annual festivals. 

    The best festival value in the Southeast is brewed by Terrapin Beer Co. with special thanks to the sponsors: Old 4th Distillery | Virgil Kaine | Fontis Water | Sweet Auburn BBQ. Candler Park Music & Food Festival is produced by Rival Entertainment.

    Check out the 2017 festival recap here:


    Keller Williams Announces Fall Tour Dates July 12, 2017 09:14

     

    Genre hopping multi-instrumentalist Keller Williams will return to the road this fall with a solo tour, featuring his signature live looping performances. Williams will also play a select number of dates with his Grateful Dead-inspired bluegrass group, Grateful Grass over Halloween weekend. See tour dates below. 
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    With a career spanning more than two decades, and just as many releases, Keller Williams has built a reputation for his dynamic and unpredictable live shows. Performing both original songs and select covers, Williams creates samples on the fly using a special looping effect live on stage. Nothing is pre-recorded and no two shows are alike, making for a completely unique experience of sonically infused alt-folk and groovy electronica. To get a sense of the magic in Williams’ improvisational style, check out his recent OurVinyl session HERE
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    Williams will also be taking his celebrated Grateful Grass project on the road for a select number of shows. Grateful Grass performs loose interpretations of Grateful Dead songs in a psychedelic bluegrass style, and features a rotating lineup that has included members of String Cheese Incident, The Infamous Stringdusters, Yonder Mountain String Band and Leftover Salmon. Keller Williams’ Grateful Grass will make stops in New Orleans, Houston and Austin over Halloween weekend, with Wood & Wire joining as support for the last two shows. 
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    Earlier this year Keller Williams released Sync, the debut from his latest project KWahtro. Led by Williams on guitar and vocals, KWahtro makes Acoustic Dance Music by infusing reggae, folk, jazz, afrobeat and dance rhythms into new, and innovative arrangements with help from bassist Danton Boller (Jazz Mandolin Project, Roy Hargrove), guitarist and longtime Williams’ collaborator Gibb Droll (Brandi Carlisle, Bruce Hornsby) and drummer Rodney Holmes (Carlos Santana, Steve Kimock). And as if one new album wasn't enough, Williams also released Raw, a 10-song collection of solo acoustic material that simply showcases the artist and his instrument. These straightforward performances are not enhanced by any of his looping, and Acoustic Guitarsaid "Raw may just be the perfect Keller Williams album." Hear the stripped-down track "Ticks When Told" viaDaytrotter HERE.
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    Watch Keller Williams' Paste Session here:
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    For information about Keller Williams’ projects, click HERE.
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    Keller Williams 2017 Tour
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    September 28 – New Haven, CT – Toad’s Place
    September 29 – Bouckville, NY – BBQ Joint
    September 30 – Ocala, FL – Oktoberfest
    October 6 – Plymouth, NH – The Flying Monkey
    October 7 – Portland, ME – Aura
    October 8 – Stratton Mountain, VT – Summer Concert Series *
    October 13 – Eureka Springs, AR – Hillberry Harvest Moon Festival  
    October 14 – St. Louis, MO – Old Rock House
    October 20 – Ft. Collins, CO – Aggie Theatre
    October 21 – Denver, CO – Cervantes’ 
    October 26 – New Orleans, LA – Joy Theater *
    October 27 – Houston, TX – Warehouse Live *
    October 28 – Austin, TX – Stubb’s BBQ *
    November 2 – Knoxville, TN – The Concourse at The International
    November 3 – Louisville, KY – Mercury Ballroom
    November 4 – Memphis, TN – Buckman Performing Arts Center
    November 9 – Morgantown, WV – 123 Pleasant Street
    November 10 – State College, PA – State Theatre
    November 11 – Asbury Park, NJ – The Stone Pony
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    * = Grateful Grass
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    MORE DATES TBA!

    High Sierra Music Festival Adds Major Lineup Additions February 10, 2017 16:39

    High Sierra Music Festival has confirmed one of the most impressive lineups of 2017 thus far, with performers such as Trey Anastasio Band, Ween, STS9, Snarky Puppy, Galactic, Mike Gordon, The Greyboy Allstars, The Infamous Stringdusters, Corey Heny & The Funk Apostles, Keller Williams, Fruition, Dopapod, The Werks, and many more.  Tickets and weekend passes are available now via the High Sierra official website. See below for a complete list of 2017 performers.

    High Sierra Music Festival is a multi-day music festival held in Quincy, California, a mountainous area about 80 miles northwest of Reno, Nevada.The festival is held each year the weekend of July 4. The four-day festival features an eclectic mix of some of the most famous national and international names in jamband, newgrass and funk. Other represented genres include bluegrass, roots rock, electronica, reggae, jazz and afrobeat.

    Away from the music stages, patrons can attend films and movement playshops - yoga, pilates, etc., shop for arts and crafts, or enjoy a wide variety of gourmet food and drink. It's a family friendly and community oriented event with an expanding Family Area full of activities and certified nannies available throughout the weekend.

    The first High Sierra Music Festival was in 1991, and was the genesis of High Sierra Music, of Berkeley, California. The organization has also produced festivals and concerts elsewhere in California, and in Maryland, Nevada, Georgia, Massachusetts, and Missouri.

    Watch Greensky Bluegrass perform "Windshield" at High Sierra 2016 here:


    LOCKN' Festival Reveals First Artists For 2017 Festival December 8, 2016 11:17

    LOCKN' Festival has begun revealing plans for the 2017 festival this morning, announcing that Widespread Panic, Phil Lesh, The String Cheese Incident, The Avett Brothers, Umphrey's McGee, Gov't Mule, moe.Joe Russo's Almost DeadKeller Williams, JJ Grey & Mofro, Eric Krasno BandJohn Butler Trio, Brandi Carlile, Pigeons Playing Ping PongTAUKThe RevivalistsMarcus King BandThe SuffersLos Colognesand Margo Price will all be on next year's lineup.  LOCKN' 2017 is scheduled for August 24th-27th at Oak Ridge Farm in Arrington, VA.  It appears that the festival is reverting back to it's original method of artist announcements by releasing them periodic increments, so stay tuned as we expect more lineup additions to be announced in the future.  For more details and ticketing options, click here.

    Watch Joe Russo's Almost Dead's entire set from LOCKN' 2016 (08.25.16) here:


    Initial Lineup For Wanee Festival Leaked A Few Days Early November 30, 2016 12:07

    Multiple outlets are reporting the unofficial release of the 2017 Wanee Festival initial lineup, which was not scheduled for release until Monday, December 5th at 10AM.  The festival is scheduled for April 20th - 22nd at Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park in Live Oak, FL.  Headliners include Bob Weir & The Campfire Boys, Widespread Panic, and the Trey Anastasio Band. Additional performers include Gov’t Mule, Dark Star Orchestra, JJ Grey & Mofro, Les Brers (ft. Butch Trucks & Jaimoe), Jaimoe’s Jasssz Band, Leftover Salmon (performing the music of Neil Young), The Greyboy Allstars, Blackberry Smoke, Matisyahu, Keller Williams’ Grateful Grass, Papadosio, Turkuaz, Pink Talking Fu – Music of David Bowie & Prince, DJ Logic, Kung Fu, Pink Talking Fish, Bobby Lee Rodgers Trio, The Marcus King Band, The Yeti Trio and Brothers and Sister Band.  

    Ticketing info is expected to be released in the near future.  Stay tuned for future updates on the 2017 Wanee Festival!


    Looking Back On LOCKN': A Weekend In Review September 4, 2016 14:20

    Words by Jordan Kirkland: Live & Listen
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    Photos by Keith Griner: Phierce Photography
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    Now that I have had nearly seven full days to digest what I witnessed last weekend, it only seems appropriate to attempt to explain my LOCKN' experience.  This was something I planned to do earlier in the week, before coming down with a mild case of what many have called the "wook flu."  My friends and I set out out on the journey from Alabama to Virginia just before sunrise on Thursday, August 25th, slightly apprehensive and anxious about a four day festival in the heat of summer.  With arguably the best lineup of bands I've ever seen (extra stess on "arguably," as it's all relative), excitement was certainly abound.  Luckily, some friends hooked us up with a few extra forest camping passes, which proved to be a total game changer.  We managed to set up camp just in time to head to the concert grounds for Vulfpeck's opening set, which served as a perfect intro to the epic weekend ahead.

    Vulfpeck has been one of the hottest bands in the festival scene for nearly two years, and their live show speaks for itself.  What you see is what you get with Vulfpeck. They keep it as simple as possible, playing real instruments with essentially no effects. This making for a a very raw, natural outcome.  This set was highlighted by several of their hits, such as "Funky Duck," "1612," and "Put It In My Back Pocket," as well as a cover of Steely Dan's "Peg" that nearly lit the crowd on fire.  As they finished up, the massive crowd had its first glimpse at the infamous "turntable stage," which Umphrey's McGee took full advantage of.  Within three seconds of Vulfpeck stopping, Umphreys cranked into full effect with "Nipple Trix" as the stage rotated, which quickly segued into one of my personal favorites, "1348."  

    The set continued with "Attachments" and "The Triple Wide," one of the bands biggest jam vehicles.  The "2x2" > "Speak Up" > "2x2" sequence moved swiftly into a raging take on "Puppet String," ultimately leading into "Roctopus."  At this time, Brendan Bayliss called upon none other than Gene Ween, who performed an entire set with Umphrey's last summer known as "God Boner."  Being that ole Gene has an uncanny resemblance to Billy Joel these days, the decision to cover Joel's "The Stranger" was well received.  With little time to spare, the band then segued back into "Puppet String," before "All In Time" closed things out in powerful fashion.   

    Watch Umphrey's perform "The Stranger" with Gene Ween here:
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    Next to take the stage was Ween, who was slated for the evening's headlining set.  It was clear early on that many in attendance did not know what to expect from these guys; myself included.  While I've casually listened to Ween over the last fifteen years, I never dove in deep, and I'd never had a chance to see them live.  While their were some very bizarre moments, I loved every minute of it.  These guys managed to pump out 26 total songs, including many I was familiar with such as "Transdermal Celebration," "Mister, Would You Please Help My Pony," "How High Can You Fly," "Beacon Light, "Baby Bitch," "Boys Club," "Fat Lenny," "Push The Little Daisies," "Ocean Man," and "Zoloft."  We've made it a full week since this set, and I'm still talkin' bout "Boys Club."  I can't help but think that Dean and Gene must be somehow related to Trey Parker and Matt Stone (creators of South Park), and last weekend further affirmed that assumption.  

    After a truly exhausting two hours with Ween, there was just enough time for the first of many cool down sessions back at the car.  These sessions were critical, as we had a chance to turn up the A/C, charge the cell phone, and collect our completely scattered thoughts.  There wasn't much time to waste though, as Joe Russo's Almost Dead was up next at the Blue Ridge Bowl.  This was arguably my most highly anticipated performance of the weekend.  Like many others, I had been dying to see this band since its inception three years ago, but they don't tour extensively.  So, this was my first opportunity to catch their set, and I'll just say this.  JRAD uses the catalog of the Grateful Dead as a launching pad into something that is totally its own.  

    I was absolutely blown away by my first JRAD experience, which kicked off with "Space" > "Truckin'," before moving into an absolute monster "St. Stephen."  "The Eleven" and "Brown Eyed Women" would follow, before "The Wheel" opened up another insane improv section.  The set continued with powerful takes on "Estimated Prophet," "Tennessee Jed," and "Viola Lee Blues," and a beautiful take on "He's Gone" would follow.  Right around 3:15 AM, the band busted into "Terrapin Station," and you better believe we got the full Terrapin Suite.  This was easily the best late night set I'd experienced at this point, and one of the best Dead sets I've ever witnessed.  Keep in mind that I'm a child of the late 80's.  

    Watch JRAD perform "He's Gone" > "Terrapin Station" here:
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    While it was already nearly 90 degrees upon waking up on Friday, the lineup ahead of us demanded our full effort and attention.  Turkuaz was scheduled for a 12:30 PM power funk lunch session, and that's something you just can't miss out on.  This is one of the most entertaining, high-energy bands in the festival circuit, and they've only scratched the surface.   These guys are incredibly tight, and the level of choreography that goes into each set can't go unnoticed.  The set ultimately closed with an amazing rendition of The Band's "Shape I'm In," to which the stage rotated with Vulfpeck in full effect.

    As much as I hated to walk away from Vulfpeck, I knew that my next move was arguably my most critical decision of the weekend, and the "Infinity Downs" area had a live video stream of the main stage.  I made my way over to the almighty Vida-Flo RV, which treated me to an incredibly pleasant experience.  The fine folks at Vida-Flo spent their majority of time at LOCKN' helping others rehydrate and obtain a much needed second wind to fight through the outrageously hot and humid weekend.  "The LOCKN' Special" put me exactly where I needed to be, and I was able to enjoy Vulfpeck's covers of "Boogie On Reggae Woman" and "Tell Me Somethin' Good" during the procress.  I can't say enough about Jamey, Katie, and the rest of the Vida-Flo team for the service they provided to so many at LOCKN'.

    The remainder of Friday afternoon was highlighted by performances from White Denim, Charles Bradley & His Extraordinaires, and Peter Wolf (of the J Geils Band).  With my new found energy and hydration, I made it back to the concert grounds and enjoyed a seriously rockin' set from White Denim, who I'd been looking forward to seeing for several years.  While I definitely haven't given White Denim the attention they deserve over the years, I have loved everything I've heard from these guys.  Songs like "Ha Ha Ha Ha (Yeah)" and "At Night In Dreams" have been staples in my regular rotation for some time, and the entire Corsica Lemonade album is simply brilliant.  

    One lifesaving factor to my LOCKN' experience that I have failed to mention thus far is the hospitality that we experienced at Starr Hill Brewery tent, which was located at the back of the concert grounds.  Starr Hill, a craft brewery based in Crozet, VA, is the official beer sponsor of LOCKN', and I'm not sure how we would've survived without it.  Fortunately, a longtime childhood friend works for the brewery and granted us access to the tent the entire weekend.  Shade, fans with mist, cool beer, and most importantly water, were made available to all of Starr Hill's patrons this weekend, as well as a distant view of the main stage.  The luxury of watching White Denim and part of Charles Bradley's set from the Starr Hill tent was a perfect way to continue the afternoon.  Star Hill Brewery probably saved our lives last weekend.

    As the sun began to set, Ween returned to the stage for it's second set of the weekend.  While this set was closer to 80-90 minutes, it was an absolute scorcher.  One of my top highlights from the weekend came in the form of "Roses Are Free" > "Your Party" > "Bananas and Blow" > "Voodoo Lady."  Several other classics, including "Mutilated Lips," "Spinal Meningitis," "Piss Up A Rope," and "Buckingham Green" helped make this set one that I'll never forget.  

    The stage was now set for a moment that so many were waiting for.  Phish was slated for two full sets as the Friday night headliner.  While the 90-minute break in music felt like an eternity, this was soon forgotten as the band took the stage and ripped into the opening notes of "Wilson."  Despite a few miscues in "Wilson," as well as the intro to "Down With Disease," this set was off to a really hot start.  "Free" and "Wolfman's Brother" would follow, before we were treated to a "Tube" which featured that extended jam that has been somewhat rare in recent years.  Next up was "555," which even went further than it typically does with a next outtro jam.  

    "It's Ice" was probably the highlight of the first set for me, as it's just one of those songs that I tend to miss by one show.  "Wingsuit," which may be the most underrated song in the Phish catalog, slowed the pace and ultimately led into one of the most beautiful jams of the weekend.  The transition into "Simple" pumped a new life into the massive crowd, and just when you thought the set was over, the lights shifted to one particular mic stand, indicating an acapella performance.  I was lucky enough to witness the debut of David Bowie's "Space Oddity" at Wrigley Field in June, and I was elated to hear it again on Friday night.  There's nothing quite like their spin on that classic tune.

    After a brief intermission, Trey wasted no time busting into "Punch You In The Eye," and he didn't let off the gas once.  "Blaze On" and "Fuego" were perfectly executed, and the "Ghost" that followed was easily the biggest jam of the night.  The segue into "Bathtub Gin" was seemless, and "Backwards Down The Number Line" provided an amazing, nostalgic sing-a-long, as it always does.  Any set that ends with "You Enjoy Myself" is a treat, and this was the case on Friday.  The trampolines came out, and Trey even gave us a little break dancing expo during Mike's solo.  The "Ass Handed" tease during the eventual vocal jam was icing on the cake.  You can only do so much with an encore after "YEM," and this was a night where "Character Zero" was the perfect choice.  Just like that, Phish's first LOCKN' set was over, and we couldn't have asked for much more.

    I won't get too repetitive when discussing the second late night set from JRAD, but goodness gracious, it was amazing.  Just the fact that our evening included Ween > Phish > JRAD was hard to believe.  "Good Lovin" kicked off the set, and "Shakedown Street," "China Cat Sunflower," and "I Know You Rider" would follow.  The band welcomed Nicole Adkins to the stage to add a little Donna Jean flare to "Dancin' In The Streets," "The Music Never Stopped," and "Turn On Your Lovelight."  I was not familiar with Adkins prior to this set, but wow...she's got some serious pipes.  Her involvement in this set was something that will always stand out when thinking back on this one.  Fortunately, she stuck around for harmony vocals on the "Franklin's Tower," "Thowing Stones," and "Not Fade Away" which closed out night two at LOCKN'.  Joe Russo's ability to command and lead this band from behind the drum kit is absolutely remarkable, and I've never seen anything like it.  We are talking about one of the most talented drummers on the planet though, so I guess no one should be surprised.

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    We were now halfway through our LOCKN' experience, and waking up knowing that there were two more days of this madness was hard to believe.  Just like every other day, the lineup was slam packed full of "must see" bands, starting with Keller Williams' Grateful Grass at the Blue Ridge Bowl, or at least what was left of it from the two nights of JRAD destruction.  The Grateful Grass experience features a rotating cast of bluegrass musicians.  It's gotten to the point that Keller looks at the Dead's catalog as it's own genre, similar to jazz, as musicians can simply jump on stage with very little experience playing with one another and just roll with it.  I'd highly recommend reading Live Music Daily's interview with Keller from LOCKN', where he goes in depth on the evolution of the Grateful Grass concept.  

    Listen to the entire Grateful Gospel set here:
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    Moon Taxi was first up on the main stage, and they had the farm rocking at an early hour.  It's been a true pleasure watching this band progress from the college bar scene to touring across the country playing many of the most prestigious venues.  Their ability to find a balance between jam and mainstream rock is brilliant, and I can only imagine the dividends that it is paying.  Twiddle was up next, and I can't say enough about this band.  I feel like I haven't stopped listening to Twiddle all summer, and I've been fortunate to attend two summer festivals (LOCKN' and The Werk Out) which featured two sets of Twiddle.  "Jamflowman" and "When It Rains It Pours" gave me my two favorite Twiddle originals, and Keller Williams' sit-in on "Best Feeling" was likely the top spontaneous collaboration of the weekend.  

    Watch Twiddle and Keller Williams perform "Best Feeling" here:
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    Thanks to the champions at SiriusXM JamOn, nearly every major set at LOCKN' was broadcasted live, which you wouldn't think would impact those of us at the festival.  You have to take a break at some point though, especially amidst the extreme heat and humidity last weekend.  While I didn't watch the Galactic set with Lee Oskar, I was able to listen live from my car, which was a major luxury.  Galactic has been an anchor in the jam/festival scene for as long as I can remember, and they delivered once again.  Hard Working Americans were next on stage, providing me with my first chance to see this super group in person.  

    While I've been a huge Widespread Panic fan for 15+ years, my eyes were glued to Neal Casal's guitar playing.  This guy is one of the best in the business, and easily one of the "hardest working" musicians around.  He was easily the MVP of the weekend, performing with HWA, Chris Robinson Brotherhood, Phil Lesh & Friends, and Circles Around The Sun.  Todd Snider's unique stage presence and style was a treat to watch, and it was a lot of fun watching Dave Schools and Duane Trucks jamming together with these guys.  

    Saturday's Phil & Friends lineup was easily one of the most hyped moments of the weekend, and how could it not have been?  Who would have ever thought we would see Phil Lesh, Page McConnell, Jon Fishman, Joe Russo, Anders Osborne, and The Infamous Stringdusters play an entire set together?  How about adding Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi for two songs ("Mr Charlie" > "Sugaree")?  That is absolutely ridiculous, and yes, it really happened.  Seeing the stage rotate with this cast, while they busted into "Scarlet Begonias," was a memory I will always cherish.  I know I'll be listening to their renditions of "Dire Wolf," "Uncle John's Band," "Shakedown Street," and "Terrapin Station" (even if it wasn't the full Terrapin Suite) for the rest of my life.  

    Most festivals would have probably featured that type of set as the night's headliner, but we weren't even close to that point.  The world class Tedeschi Trucks Band was up next for a super soulful ride into the evening.  Each night as the sun would go down, the crowd was able to breathe a little easier without the brutal sun beating down on us, and Tedeschi Trucks was a perfect way to ease into the night.  Joe Cocker's "The Letter", "Keep On Growing," and "Let Me Get By" rounded out this killer performance, setting the stage for the set that everyone is still talking about.

    My Morning Jacket is no stranger to the festival scene, and it's no secret that they are one of the greatest rock-and-roll bands of our era.  That being said, I don't think anyone realized how dynamic this headlining set would be.  MMJ started in familiar territory with "Victory Dance," which flowed perfectly into a sequence of "Compound Fracture" > "Off The Record."  Next up was "Steam Engine," before a cover of Burt Bacharch's "What The World Needs Now" that had some true magic to it.  "I'm Amazed," "Spring," "Phone Went West, and Bob Marley's "Could You Be Loved" would follow and keep this set alive.  "Magheeta" would precede another epic moment, as James led the band through a well executed cover of Prince's "Purple Rain."  The set's closing sequence of "Wordless Chorus" > "Touch Me I'm Going To Scream (Pt.2)," David Bowie's "Rebel, Rebel" and "One Big Holiday" couldn't have been written up any better.  MMJ was headlining the jam scene's biggest festival of the summer, and they dialed up a list of songs that reflected that.  The hype surrounding this set is absolutely justified, and anyone who had already seen this band perform wasn't surprised in the least.  Is there a bigger modern rock star than Jim James?  

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    Saturday's late night at Blue Ridge Bowl provided a much needed dose of funk as Lettuce took control of the party.  It's always a special occasion when Nigel Hall (keys/vocals) is on stage, adding an extra vocal element and opening up so many different options for this insanely talented group.  Prior to the set, drummer Adam Deitch and guitarist Adam “Shmeeans” Smirnoff promised fans the most psychedelic set of their career, and they delivered just that.  This set was specially crafted for LOCKN', and you can't help but tip your cap to these guys for such an appropriate approach.

    For many, Sunday started off with a much needed church session, and luckily, Keller Williams was slated for his annual "Grateful Gospel" set.  Joining Keller on lead guitar was none other than John Kadlecick, who's known for co-founding Dark Star Orchestra in 1997, as well as joining Furthur in 2009. The female backing vocalists truly added a church-like gospel feel throughout the set, but I highly recommending watching the performance of "We Bid You Goodnight" below.  I can't imagine a better way to start your day at a festival than 90-minutes of Keller's Grateful Gospel.

    Watch the "Moonlight Midnight" > "We Bid You Goodnight" sequence from Keller's Grateful Gospel here:
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    I was unable to make it to the main stage for the afternoon's first two performers, The Dharma Initiative and Doobie Decibel System, but there was definitely a buzz about both performances.  As amazing as this year's lineup was, it can be painful when deciding which sets you have to take a break during.  Fortunately, our campsite was within listening distance for even these sets that weren't streamed live via JamOn.  I knew I couldn't miss Twiddle's encore performance.  It's amazing to watch this band continue to flourish and reel in new fans on the biggest stage.  Sunday's set started off with "Blunderbus, "Daydream Farmer," and "Beehop," before "Lost In The Cold" seemed to have the entire farm singing in unison.  "Carte Candlestick" and "Frankenfoote" ultimately closed out the short set, as the band was again slotted for just 60-minutes.  While most any band would kill for 60-minutes at LOCKN', you just want so much more once this band gets going.  I'll be shocked if we don't see these guys back on Oak Ridge Farm in 2017.

    Watch Twiddle perform "Daydream Farmer" at LOCKN' here:
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    Every music festival could use a nice dose of reggae, and who better to provide that than the band who taught us about this genre, The Wailers.  These seasoned vets took the stage and laid down literally every Bob Marley / Wailers hit that you've ever heard.  This music always generates a notable energy amongst a crowd, but it was something really special on Sunday afternoon. You've got to love the planning and attention to detail with the placement of each band on this lineup.  There is absolutely a science to it, and Peter Shapiro knows it as well as anyone in the game.

    Chris Robinson Brotherhood took the stage fairly late in the afternoon, and they had their work cut out for them.  Not only were they slated for 90-minutes of originals, but they would then join Phil Lesh for the weekend's second set of Phil & Friends.  The CRB set was highlighted by originals such as "Leave My Guitar Alone," "Forever As The Moon," "New Cannonball Rag," and "Ain't Hard But Fair," while Jackie Moore's "Precious, Precious" and Bob Dylan's "It's All Over Now, Baby Blue" rounded things out.  The band's latest hit single, "Narcissistic and Soaking Wet" would ultimately close things out.

    Watch Chris Robinson Brotherhood perform "Narcissistic Soaking Wet" at LOCKN' here:
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    While Saturday's Phil & Friends lineup featured the sexier lineup on paper, I personally thought Sunday's set had the true feel of a Dead set.  Perhaps it was presence of weekend MVP Neal Casal, who just knows how to play it like Jerry.  I've always been a fan of Robinson's vocals, and he really delivered for this one.  Just as the stage began to rotate, Phil, the boys from CRB, and Gary Clark Jr. began ripping into "Samson & Delilah."  "Good Morning Little School Girl" and "Wang Dang Doodle" were perfect choices, and the decision to play The Dead's version of Otis Redding's "Hard To Handle" was one of my favorite moments of the weekend.  This song might be the most commonly covered song in rock-and-roll, but hearing Chris Robinson sing it to The Dead's tempo was a fucking treat.  Do yourself a favor and watch the video footage below and see for yourself.  "Fire On The Mountain" and "New Speedway Boogie" opened things up for yet another monster "St. Stephen," and "The Wheel" wasn't going to slow down.  There aren't many songs in the Dead catalog better suited for a party than "Turn On Your Lovelight" (Bobby Bland), and Robinson crushed every note.  It was refreshing and reassuring to see Phil having such a great time, surrounded by so many world class musicians at LOCKN'  

    Watch Phil Lesh & Friends perform "Hard to Handle" here:
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    Gary Clark Jr. might have been the most intriguing act on the lineup entering the weekend.  While I've heard "Bright Lights" and "Don't Owe You a Thing" as many times as I can remember on JamOn, I just haven't given this guy the attention he deserves. I've been well aware of his reputation and status across the scene in general, but I was way past due for a Gary Clark Jr. set.  He and his band came out swinging as they opened with "Bright Lights," and swiftly moved into "Travis County," "Next Door Neighbor Blues," "Cold Blooded," and "BYOB."  The crowd continued filling in, and the set eventually closed out with "Don't Owe You A Thing," "You Saved Me," and "Shake.  The sound that this guy has is out of this world.  There are moments where My Morning Jacket, Kings of Leon, Jimi Hendrix, and White Denim all come to mind, except that Clark compliments the heavy riffs with one of the most soulful voices you've ever heard. 

    Watch Gary Clark Jr. perform "Bright Lights" at LOCKN' here:
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    The stage was now set for one final time, and you couldn't help but stand up and look around at the scene that awaited.  The energy at Oak Ridge Farm on Sunday night was impalpable, with 30,000+ fans riding high on four days of music with two more sets of Phish to come.  Each day as the sun would set, we experienced significant release as the temperature seemed to instantly drop fifteen degrees, and this held true once again on Sunday.  Phish took the stage right around 8:30 PM, and "Sample In A Jar" was first up to the plate.  Page then cued the now infamous vocal tracking of "Martian Monster," much to the approval of the LOCKN' faithful.  I really wish they would jam this one out more than they do now, and it feels like more appropriate in the second set (Ex: Atlanta, GA - July 31st, 2015), they're typically throwing it in early and keeping it fairly tamed.

     

    The first set stayed super hot with "Axilla" and "The Moma Dance," before "Halley's Comet" provided that absurd, silly sing-a-long that very few are capable of pulling off.  We were then given a double-dose of the band's 1986 cassette tape release The White Tape with "AC/DC Bag" > "Fuck Your Face."  The sequence of "Fuck Your Face" > "46 Days" is about as heavy rock-and-roll as you can ask for from Phish.  "The Line" was a bit of a curveball, as it tends to be, but "Limb By Limb," "Possum," and "First Tube" would follow and wrap up a very, very solid first yet.  

    There were high expectations for a wave of heavy hitters in set two, and they were exceeded, as usual.  "Carini" lit a fire across the farm and flowed nicely into the "Chalkdust Torture" that you knew was coming as some point.  "Twist" seems to be one of the jams of 2016, and I don't think anyone is complaining.  I've been a sucker for "Light" since the release of Joy in 2009, as this tune has become one of the bigger jam vehicles of the Phish 3.0 era.  The "Light" jam ultimately landed into "Tweezer," prompting a mildly concerning glow stick war on Oak Ridge Farm.  Led Zeppelin's "No Quarter" was next, prompting McConnell to guide us through the classic cover.  I'm assuming the guy next to me promised his friends that he would do a headstand if Phish was to play "No Quarter," because he went ballistic during the opening notes, and his friends proceeded to lift his feet to the sky as he hit the deck.  Truly remarkable.

    From here, we went into full "space jam" mode, as Fishman dropped into the opening beat of "Also Sprach Zarathustra," aka "2001 (Space Odyssey)."  That's a dance party that never gets old.  It was apparently Fishman's moment, as he then dropped into the opening notes of "Harry Hood," which seemed to be a likely place for the set to end.  As I've said before...just when you think you know, this band proves you wrong.  They tacked on a "Tweezer Reprise" just for safe measure and made sure that this crowd was still on it's toes.  After a brief exit, the band returned and broke into The Rolling Stones' "Loving Cup" and closed out the festival with everyone screaming "What a beautiful buzz!"  While it might not have been a shocking encore selection, it felt extremely appropriate.  

    Sitting down and reliving this unforgettable experience over the past few days has allowed me to fully comprehend the remarkable journey we took just a week ago.  It's easy to get caught up in the fatigue, anxiety, and pressure to "get back into a normal" rhythm after these huge musical weekends, but it's equally important to reflect and cherish the moment.  As much fun as it was, it certainly wasn't easy.  I've never dealt with that type of heat, humidity, and pure exhaustion without access to "going inside."  In the long run, that makes the experience that much more unique, and it definitely makes for better story-telling.  There were twelve different bands on this lineup that I have travelled to see play on their own, and some on multiple occasions.  Top that off with the fact that this marked my 30th show with my favorite band: Phish.  What's left to say?  My ability to continue embarking on these musical adventures with so many of the world's greatest friends is an element of life that I'll never take for granted.  Until next time, LOCKN'...

    Special thanks to Keith Griner of Phierce Photography for capturing this weekend for us and allowing us to share it with you all.


    Keller Williams Reveals 2016 Fall Tour Dates July 19, 2016 11:28

    Photo by Craig Baird: Live & Listen

    Today, Keller Williams announces his 2016 Fall Tour dates. This Fall finds Keller focusing on both his Solo project and his latest band, KWahtro, featuring Gibb Droll, Danton Boller and Rodney Holmes. Zach Deputy will also be on the road with Keller as support for most of the Fall KWahtro dates. The 18-show Fall Tour starts in mid-October in the Southeast and includes stops in Montana, Colorado, California and wraps up with a weekend in Texas. KWahtro will get back together in early January 2017 for a three night run in the Pacific Northwest.

    Between festival dates this summer, Williams has been busy in the studio. His newest EP, entitled Bluhm, was released on June 28th. Bluhm is a 5 track recording of songs written by musician Tim Bluhm (of The Mother Hips) that features Jackie Greene, Reed Mathis, Jason Crosby and the Keels. 100% of the net proceeds from Bluhm sales will go to assist with medical bills for the fellow-musician after his speed flying accident last year. Williams is also busy working on a KWahtro album, which will be his 21st official release, scheduled to drop in the late fall.

    Summer is still in full force with many festival appearances and club shows to come. Be sure to check out what project Keller has coming your way and as always, stay tuned for more exciting Fall Tour dates to be announced!

    Just Announced Fall 2016 Tour Dates:

    10/13 Terra Fermata | Stuart, FL | Keller Williams Solo

    10/14 Jessie’s Lounge | Winter Haven, FL | Keller Williams Solo

    10/15 Magnolia Fest | St. Augustine, FL | Keller Williams Solo

    10/20 Charleston Pour House | Charleston, SC | Keller Williams Solo

    10/21 Charleston Pour House | Charleston, SC | KWahtro

    10/22 The Georgia Theatre | Athens, GA | KWahtro with special guest Zach Deputy

    10/27 The Eagles Ballroom | Bozeman, MT | Keller Williams Solo

    10/28 The Top Hat| Missoula, MT | Keller Williams Solo

    10/29 The Fillmore Auditorium | Denver, CO | Keller Williams’ Grateful Grass ft. The Infamous Stringdusters

    11/03 Saint Rocke | Hermosa Beach, CA | KWahtro with special guest Zach Deputy

    11/04 Belly Up | San Diego, CA | KWahtro with special guest Zach Deputy

    11/05 Marquee | Tempe, AZ | KWahtro with special guest Zach Deputy

    11/10 Music Farm | Columbia, SC | KWahtro with special guest Zach Deputy

    11/11 The Neighborhood Theatre | Charlotte, NC | KWahtro with special guest Zach Deputy

    11/12 The Orange Peel | Asheville, NC | KWahtro with special guest TBA

    11/17 White Oak | Houston, TX | KWahtro with special guest Zach Deputy

    11/18 Granada Theater | Dallas, TX | KWahtro with special guest Zach Deputy

    11/19 Scoot Inn | Austin, TX | KWahtro with special guest Zach Deputy

    01/19/17 WoW Hall | Eugene, OR | Keller Williams KWahtro

    01/20/17 Wonder Ballroom | Portland, OR | Keller Williams KWahtro

    01/21/17 Nectar Lounge| Seattle, WA | Keller Williams KWahtro

    Complete Tour Dates

    7/21 Jerry Jam Music Festival | Bath, NY | Keller Williams Solo

    7/22 Be Kind Gathering | Harrodsburg, KY | Keller Williams Solo

    7/23 Live from the Underground | McMinnville, TN | Keller Williams Solo w/ special guest Zach Deputy

    7/30-31 Floyd Fest | Floyd, VA | Keller Williams Solo, Keller & The Keels, More Than A Little

    8/04 The Peace Center for the Performing Arts | Greenville, SC | Keller Williams Solo

    8/05 Brooklyn Performing Arts Center | Wilmington, NC | Keller Williams Solo

    8/06 Levon Helm Studios | Woodstock, NY | Keller Williams Solo

    8/07 Jonathan Edwards Winery | North Stonington, CT | Keller Williams Solo 8/20 Camp Barefoot | Elkins, WV | Keller Williams Solo & Keller Loves Canon

    8/27-28 LOCKN’ Festival | Arrington, VA | Keller Williams’ Grateful Grass & Keller Williams’ Grateful Gospel

    9/02 Bell’s Brewery | Kalamazoo, WI | More Than A Little

    9/02-04 Shoe Fest | Manteno, IL | More Than A Little

    9/04 The Bootleg | St. Louis, MO | More Than A Little

    9/08 Jackson Hole Center for the Arts | Jackson Hole, WY | Shut the Folk Up & Listen ft. Leo Kottke

    9/09 The Mishawaka Amphitheatre | Bellvue, CO | Keller Williams Solo, Keller & his Compadres ft. Jeff Austin, Jay Starling, Bridget Law and Keith Moseley w/ special guest Trout Steak Revival

    9/10 The Mishawaka Amphitheatre | Bellvue, CO | More Than A Little with special guest Andy Frasco

    9/16 Cosmic Charlie’s | Lexington, KY | Keller Williams Solo

    9/16-18 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion | Bristol, TN | Keller Williams Solo

    9/22-24 Resonance Music & Arts Festival | Thornville, OH | Keller Williams and special guests

    9/23-25 Catskill Chill | Lakewood, PA | Keller Williams’ Grateful Grass

    10/13 Terra Fermata | Stuart, FL | Keller Williams Solo

    10/14 Jessie’s Lounge | Winter Haven, FL | Keller Williams Solo

    10/15 Magnolia Fest | St. Augustine, FL | Keller Williams Solo

    10/20 Charleston Pour House | Charleston, SC | Keller Williams Solo

    10/21 Charleston Pour House | Charleston, SC | KWahtro

    10/22 The Georgia Theatre | Athens, GA | KWahtro with special guest Zach Deputy

    10/27 The Eagles Ballroom | Bozeman, MT | Keller Williams Solo

    10/28 The Top Hat| Missoula, MT | Keller Williams Solo

    10/29 The Fillmore Auditorium | Denver, CO | Keller Williams’ Grateful Grass ft. The Infamous Stringdusters

    11/03 Saint Rocke | Hermosa Beach, CA | KWahtro with special guest Zach Deputy

    11/04 Belly Up | San Diego, CA | KWahtro with special guest Zach Deputy

    11/05 Marquee | Tempe, AZ | KWahtro with special guest Zach Deputy

    11/10 Music Farm | Columbia, SC | KWahtro with special guest Zach Deputy

    11/11 The Neighborhood Theatre | Charlotte, NC | KWahtro with special guest Zach Deputy

    11/12 The Orange Peel | Asheville, NC | KWahtro with special guest TBA

    11/17 White Oak | Houston, TX | KWahtro with special guest Zach Deputy

    11/18 Granada Theater | Dallas, TX | KWahtro with special guest Zach Deputy


    Keller Williams Releases New Five-Song EP Benefitting Tim Bluhm June 28, 2016 09:59

    Photo by Craig Baird: Live & Listen

    Today, independent recording artist Keller Williams releases Bluhm, a five track EP benefitting fellow musician Tim Bluhm of The Mother Hips who, in the fall of 2015, was severely injured in a speed flying accident. Since his accident, Tim has undergone a number of surgeries incurring upwards of $50,000 in uninsured medical expenses. Keller has been a longtime fan of Tim Bluhm, whom he describes as “the epitome of a west coast songwriter.” Inspired by Tim’s plight, Keller wanted to support Tim and his music by releasing Bluhm and giving 100% of the net proceeds to Tim Bluhm’s medical fund.

    For the Bluhm recording, Keller rallied an all-star west coast crew of musicians and some old time friends to collaborate on this five track EP. Bluhm features performances by Jackie Greene, Reed Mathis, Jason Crosby, and Larry and Jenny Keel. “I looked at it as a perfect excuse to record five of my favorite Tim Bluhm songs with all the proceeds going to help him get back on his foot,” says Williams. Bluhm is available for digital download through livedownloads.com and iTunes.

    As always, Keller is a busy man this summer. In addition to recording Bluhm, he is travelling the country hitting many festivals with some of his fan-favorite projects and working on a new KWahtro record to be released in the coming months. You can catch Keller Williams at the shows listed below and stay tuned for a Fall Tour announcement coming in July!

    Bluhm Track Listing:

    Smoke (Jackie Greene, banjitar & vocals / Reed Mathis bass / Keller Williams, guitar & vocals)

    Spotless As You (Reed Mathis, bass / Keller Williams, guitar & vocals)

    Esmerelda (Jackie Greene, dobro & vocals / Reed Mathis, bass / Keller Williams, guitar & vocals)

    Gold Plated (Reed Mathis, bass / Keller Williams, guitar & vocals)

    Do it on the Strings (Larry Keel, guitar & vocals / Jenny Keel, bass & vocals / Jason Crosby, fiddle / Keller Williams, mandola & vocals)

    Click Here: Purchase Your Digital Copy of Bluhm Today!

    Keller Williams Tour Dates:

    6/30 Party in the Park | Rochester, NY | More Than A Little

    7/01 Grateful Fest | Garrettsville, OH | More Than A Little

    7/02 Paradise on the Point | Cincinnati, OH | Keller Williams Solo

    7/03 Highberry Music Festival | Ozark, AR | Keller Williams Solo

    7/09 Blissfest | Harbor Springs, MI | Keller Williams Solo

    7/15 Terrapin Crossroads | San Rafael, CA | Keller Williams Solo

    7/16-17 Northwest String Summit | North Plains, OR | More Than A Little & Keller Williams’ Grateful Gospel

    7/21 Jerry Jam Music Festival | Bath, NY | Keller Williams Solo

    7/22 Be Kind Gathering | Harrodsburg, KY | Keller Williams Solo

    7/23 Live from the Underground | McMinnville, TN | Keller Williams Solo w/ special guest Zach Deputy

    7/30-31 Floyd Fest | Floyd, VA | Keller Williams Solo, Keller & The Keels, More Than A Little

    8/04 The Peace Center for the Performing Arts | Greenville, SC | Keller Williams Solo

    8/05 Brooklyn Performing Arts Center | Wilmington, NC | Keller Williams Solo

    8/06 Levon Helm Studios | Woodstock, NY | Keller Williams Solo

    8/07 Jonathan Edwards Winery | North Stonington, CT | Keller Williams Solo 8/20 Camp Barefoot | Elkins, WV | Keller Williams Solo & Keller Loves Canon

    8/27-28 LOCKN’ Festival | Arrington, VA | Keller Williams’ Grateful Grass & Keller Williams’ Grateful Gospel

    9/02 Bell’s Brewery | Kalamazoo, WI | More Than A Little

    9/02-04 Shoe Fest | Manteno, IL | More Than A Little

    9/04 The Bootleg | St. Louis, MO | More Than A Little

    9/08 Jackson Hole Center for the Arts | Jackson Hole, WY | Shut the Folk Up & Listen ft. Leo Kottke

    9/09 The Mishawaka Amphitheatre | Bellvue, CO | Keller Williams Solo, Keller & his Compadres ft. Jeff Austin, Jay Starling, Bridget Law and Keith Moseley w/ special guest Trout Steak Revival

    9/10 The Mishawaka Amphitheatre | Bellvue, CO | More Than A Little with special guest Andy Frasco

    9/16-18 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion | Bristol, TN | Keller Williams Solo

    9/22-24 Resonance Music & Arts Festival | Thornville, OH | Keller Williams and special guests

    9/23-25 Catskill Chill | Lakewood, PA | Keller Williams’ Grateful Grass

    10/22 The Georgia Theatre | Athens, GA | KWahtro with special guest Zach Deputy

    11/12 The Orange Peel | Asheville, NC | KWahtro with special guest TBA

    12/09-13 Strings & Sol | Puerto Morelos, Mexico | Keller Williams’ Grateful Grass, Keller & the Keels


    Five Reasons You Don't Want To Miss SliceFest 2016 June 10, 2016 09:50

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    Photo by Jordan Kirkland: Live & Listen
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    SliceFest, Birmingham’s biggest music and food and block party returns this weekend, featuring sounds from all over the South with it's 2016 lineup.  This year's event will feature The RevivalistsThe Soul Rebels, Keller Williams,  The Weeks, Vallejo, Break ScienceMuddy MagnoliasRiley Green, and Bailey Ingle on Saturday, June 11th.  SliceFest is held in the Lakeview District on 29th Street South, with the stage in the street towards Slice Pizza & Brewhouse and Moe's Original BBQ.
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    “We are excited to be celebrating with the great Lakeview and Birmingham communities as we bring you year five of SliceFest,” stated Jason Bajalieh, co-owner & bro-founder of Slice Pizza & Brewhouse. “The lineup is a solid collaboration of festival to funk and we will top it all off with a grand fireworks show at the end of the night.”
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    While we are looking forward to everything that SliceFest has to offer on Saturday, we've narrowed that list down to five reasons that you don't want to miss out on our favorite annual block party.  
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    1.  SliceFest 2016 delivers fun family activities for all ages from 1pm to 4pm, followed by a full lineup of musical artists playing sets throughout the evening. A few of this year’s family-friendly activities include giant connect four and chess, face painting, balloon art and the chance to hang out and be photographed with the Marvel Superheroes.  Children ages 12 and under are admitted for free.
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    2.   Community is what SliceFest is all about, not just a celebration of those that support Slice Pizza & Brewhouse, but a way to give back to the community. SliceFest has donated over $30,000 to Birmingham-based non-profits. This year SliceFest is partnering with The Suki Foundation, a not-for-profit organization created by Brian & Marie Bateh, in honor of their daughter Sarah Katherine Bateh, affectionately known as Suki, following her diagnosis of Rett Syndrome at age two. In efforts to raise awareness and assist children in reaching their potential through early intervention services, SUKI Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of those affected with Rett Syndrome and other neurological disorders. With early detection and diagnosis, the life of a child with Rett Syndrome can greatly be improved.   We are obviously big believers in the concept of making a difference through the power of music.  Anytime we can support other groups who believe in this concept, we're all about it. 
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    3.  The Revivalists, one of the hottest bands to surface out of the Southeast in years, is the headlining act.  This is a band we have had the privilege of watching grow for several years now.  Last November, The Revivalists headlined one of our events, The Blueberry Jam at Weeks Bay Plantation, and they blew us away (in 30 degree weather).   In rock ‘n’ roll, you’ve got to walk the well-trodden path of the genre’s forefathers one step at a time. Each gig under your belt makes for another fan, while every record serves as the next totem for your legacy. It’s a proverbial rite of passage, and there’s no skipping to the end. The Revivalists didn’t take any shortcuts.  You may have read their recent feature in Rolling Stone magazine, or maybe you saw them perform live on The Today Show.  This band brings an energy and passion like no other, and you'll see it for yourself on Saturday night.
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    Watch The Revivalists perform "Wish I Knew You" at Tipitina's here:
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    4.  Keller Williams is coming to the party.  If you're familiar with the man they call "K-Dub", that's really all you need to know.  Keller has been bringing his "acoustic dance music" to venues and festivals across the United States since the mid-90's, performing on stage with bands such as The String Cheese Incident.   Williams' music combines elements of bluegrass, folkalternative rock, reggae, electronica/dance, jazz, funk, and other assorted genres. He is often described as a 'one-man jam-band' due to his frequent use of live phrase looping with multiple instruments.  Look out for a Grateful Dead cover on Saturday, as it's a rare occasion when Keller doesn't dig up something from the Dead catalog.
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    Watch Keller Williams perform "Freeker By The Speaker" here:
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    5.  There's going to be a late night Break Science set.  Break Science features one of the baddest drummers on the planet, Adam Deitch, with acclaimed producer Borahm Lee.  Some may know Deitch as the drummer of funk powerhouse Lettuce.  This duo creates a refreshingly original take on electronic music. The live show transcends expectations with Lee's seasoned trip-hop/dub/jazz vibes on keyboards and Ableton Live and Deitch's thunderous breakbeat style on drums.   Last Summer, Break Science electrified the festival circuit with packed dates across the country, including huge plays at Bonnaroo, Summer Set, Pemberton, Summercamp, Wakarusa, & Sonic Bloom Music Festivals. Lee and Deitch also brought their captivating style to Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado 5/31 (w/ Bassnectar).  Those looking to party on Saturday night definitely want to stick around after The Revivalists and the fireworks show.
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    Watch Break Science's performance at Toad's Place (New Haven, CT) from December 2015 here:
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    SliceFest To Feature The Revivalists, The Soul Rebels, Keller Williams, Break Science, + More May 18, 2016 11:39

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    Photo by Jordan Kirkland: Live & Listen
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    SliceFest, Birmingham’s biggest music and food block party returns for year five featuring sounds from all over the South with it's 2016 lineup.  This year's event will feature The RevivalistsThe Soul RebelsKeller WilliamsThe WeeksVallejoBreak ScienceMuddy MagnoliasRiley Green, and Bailey Ingle on Saturday, June 11th.  SliceFest is held in the Lakeview District on 29th Street South, with the stage in the street towards Slice Pizza & Brewhouse and Moe's Original BBQ.
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    “We are excited to be celebrating with the great Lakeview and Birmingham communities as we bring you year five of SliceFest,” stated Jason Bajalieh, co-owner & bro-founder of Slice Pizza & Brewhouse. “The lineup is a solid collaboration of festival to funk and we will top it all off with a grand fireworks show at the end of the night.”

    SliceFest 2016 delivers fun family activities for all ages from 1pm to 4pm, followed by a full lineup of musical artists playing sets throughout the evening. A few of this year’s family-friendly activities include giant connect four and chess, face painting, balloon art and the chance to hang out and be photographed with the Marvel Superheroes!
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    SliceFest 2016 celebrates its fifth anniversary on Saturday, June 11 as Birmingham's largest food & music block party hosted by Slice Pizza & Brewhouse. Over the past four years, the event has grown into a full-blown festival bringing in local and regional music talent paired with local craft beer and specialty pizzas. Slice Pizza & Brewhouse hosts the event to celebrate the restaurant’s anniversary and thank the Birmingham community for their continuous support. As with previous years, SliceFest is expected to welcome a SOLD OUT crowd on this fifth anniversary with patrons from Birmingham and across the Southeast. Community is what SliceFest is all about, not just a celebration of those that support Slice Pizza & Brewhouse, but a way to give back to the community. SliceFest has donated over $30,000 to Birmingham-based non-profits.
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    Win Two Weekend Passes to Aiken Bluegrass Festival 2016 April 19, 2016 18:51

    Live & Listen and The Mischief Collective are offering you the chance to win two weekend passes to Aiken Bluegrass Festival.  Fill out all areas below to enter.  You may re-enter once per day, so keep coming back to increase your chances to win.  We will select one lucky winner on May 4th!

    Celebrating 12 years of The Aiken Bluegrass Festival
    Friday, May 13th & Saturday, May 14th, 2016  

     

    WHAT MAKES A FESTIVAL SPECIAL? THAT’S A QUESTION WE HAVE ASKED OURSELVES MANY TIMES AT THE AIKEN BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL.

    ULTIMATELY WE HAVE DECIDED THAT WHAT MAKES OUR FESTIVAL SPECIAL IS THE FOCUS WE HAVE AN OUR ARTISTS, ALWAYS TRYING TO BOOK BANDS THAT WE KNOW HAVE A HISTORY TOGETHER THUS ENSURING THAT WE PROVIDE OUR PATRONS WITH A ONE OF A KIND EXPERIENCE. THIS YEAR WE ARE TAKING THAT CONCEPT ONE STEP FURTHER. INSTEAD OF JUST BOOKING BANDS, WE HAVE WORKED WITH INDIVIDUAL ARTISTS, HAND PICKING MUSICIANS TO PLAY TOGETHER. AND WE WILL HAVE SOME BANDS TOO! THIS WAY WE CAN GUARANTEE YOU WILL HAVE A ONE OF A KIND EXPERIENCE AT THE 2016 AIKEN BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL WHERE YOU WILL FIND MANY OF THE FINEST NAMES IN NEW-GRASS AND BLUEGRASS ALL SHARING OUR STAGE. WE HOPE THAT YOU WILL SHARE IN OUR EXCITEMENT AND THAT YOU WILL JOIN US AT 13TH AND 14TH, 2016!

    AIKEN BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL SCHEDULE & LINEUP

    FRIDAY, MAY 13TH – GATES OPEN AT 4:00 PM

    • Larry Keel Experience – 8:10pm
    • Josh Daniel & Mark Schimick Project – 7:15pm
    • Mountain Express Band (reunion show!) – 10:30am
    • Doug and the Henrys – 6:00pm
    • Blackwater Deep – 4:30pm

    SATURDAY, MAY 14TH – GATES OPEN AT 11:00 AM

    • Phoffman & Anders Beck Quartet – 8:00pm
    • Paul Hoffman (Greensky Bluegrass)
    • Anders Beck (Greensky Bluegrass)
    • Travis Book
    • Jay Cobb Anderson (Fruition)
    • Keller (Williams) and the Keels – 4:00pm
    • Larry Keel’s Aiken Experience / Super Jam – 6:00pm
    • Larry & Jenny Keel
    • Keller Williams
    • Vince Herman (Leftover Salmon)
    • Paul Hoffman (Greensky Bluegrass)
    • Mimi Naja (Fruition)
    • Fruition – 10:00pm
    • Greg Burns and Friends – 2:30pm
    • Gipsy Moon Band – 1:00pm

    Celebrate Keller Williams' Birthday With Our Top 10 K-Dub Jams February 4, 2016 15:53

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    When it comes to innovation and creativity, few modern musician have taken their musical craft to the level of Keller Williams.  Keller, known by many as "K-Dub," began performing live in the early 1990s, quite often with his friends in The String Cheese Incident.  Williams' music combines elements of bluegrassfolkalternative rockreggaeelectronica/dance, jazzfunk, and other assorted genres. He is often described as a 'one-man jam-band' due to his frequent use of live phrase looping with multiple instruments.
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    We've been fortunate enough to catch Keller's live show on many occasions over the past decade and a half, and he never ceases to amaze his fans.  In celebration of the "mad scientist's" 46th birthday, we have compiled ten of our favorite K-Dub jams for your viewing pleasure.  
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    Happy Birthday Keller!
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    Watch Keller & More Than A Little perform "Lets Jam" on 04.20.13
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    Watch Keller perform "Kidney In A Cooler" with The String Cheese Incident on 12/31/00:
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    Watch Keller perform "Best Feeling" at the 2012 Gathering of the Vibes festival:
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    Watch Keller & More Than A Little perform the Talking Head's "Once In A Lifetime on 04.20.13:
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    Watch Keller perform "Doobie In My Pocket" at the 2007 Harvest Fest in Ozark, AR:
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    Listen to "My Sisters & Brothers" from Keller Williams' Grateful Gospel at Lock'n 2014:
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    Watch Keller perform "Freshies" from inside of the ski lift for the Gondola Sessions:
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    Keller covering the Grateful Dead's "Brown Eyed Women" as part of JamBase's "Song's of their Own" series:
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    Watch Keller & The Travelin' McCourys perform "Pumped Up Kicks":
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    No Keller Williams list would be complete without "Freeker By The Speaker":
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    Keller Williams Announces New Years Eve in Telluride September 2, 2015 11:55

    Photo via Benjamin Wallen

    Today, prolific singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Keller Williams announces he’ll spend New Year’s Eve in Telluride, Colorado with his 7-piece funk outfit More Than A Little. Dubbed “Tofunkuride” featuring Keller Williams and More Than A Little, tickets to this intimate show are available now to members of the fan club, and on sale to the general public on Friday, September 9.  A limited number of VIP packages also available. Visit http://www.kellerwilliams.net/shows for tickets and info.
     
    Find Keller on tour throughout the fall, bringing a variety of his projects - including Keller Solo, More Than a Little, Keller and The Keels, and his brand new Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes  - to stages across the country. 
     
    Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman (bass-RatDog) and Rodney Holmes (drums-Santana/Steve Kimock) debuted this past weekend to rave reviews.  The players in the newly-formed trio greased their chops playing re-imagined versions of originals from throughout Keller’s career and some choice covers live onstage during three shows in the Midwest.  The excitement in the room, and onstage, was palpable. Anticipation is high to watch how these guys hone in and develop as they spend the next few months bouncing around the country.  Look for the Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes throughout the Midwest in September and again in November, in Colorado in late October, and in select East Coast markets in late September, October and Early December. 
     
    Over Thanksgiving weekend, Keller hosts “Thanksforgrassgiving” with an all-star lineup of bluegrass buddies: Travis Book and Chris Pandolfi (The Infamous Stringdusters), Larry Keel, Jason Carter (Del McCoury Band) and Jay Starling (Love Cannon).  Catch Thanksforgrassgiving at The National in Richmond, VA on November 27 and the 9:30 Club in D.C. on November 28.
     
    See below for the complete list of currently confirmed tour dates. Tickets and information on all shows available at www.kellerwilliams.net.


     
    The complete list of Keller Williams confirmed tour dates is as follows:

    Friday, September 4 Backwoods Music Festival Stroud OK Keller Solo

    Saturday, September 5 Strawberry Music Festival Tuolumne,CA Keller Williams’ Grateful Grass ft. members of The Infamous Strindusters and Michael Kang

    Sunday, September 6 US National Whitewater Center Charlotte NC Keller Williams with More
    Than a Little

    Sunday, September 13 Lockn' Festival Arrington VA Keller Williams' Grateful Gospel ft. John
    Kadlecik

    Thursday, September 17 Lafayette's Music Room Memphis TN Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob
    Wasserman and Rodney Holmes

    Friday, September 18 Old Rock House St. Louis MO Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob
    Wasserman and Rodney Holmes

    Saturday, September 19 The Vogue Indianapolis IN Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob
    Wasserman and Rodney Holmes

    Thursday, September 24 - Friday, September 25 Resonance Festival Thornville OH Keller Solo

    Saturday, September 26 The Tralf Buffalo NY Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and
    Rodney Holmes

    Saturday, October 3 Homegrown Music Festival Mebane NC Keller Solo

    Sunday, October 4 Luna Light Festival Darlington MD Keller & The Keels

    Thursday, October 8 Holston River Brewery Bristol TN Keller Solo

    Friday, October 9 Creatures of the Night Music & Arts Festival Adams TN (Keller Solo)

    Saturday, October 10 Mustang Music Festival Corolla NC Keller Williams with More Than a Little

    Sunday, October 18 Magnolia Music Festival Live Oak FL Keller Williams' Grateful Gospel
    featuring Stu Allen

    Friday, October 23 Aggie Theatre Fort Collins CO Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman
    and Rodney Holmes /  Cabinet 

    Saturday, October 24 Cervantes' Masterpiece Ballroom Denver CO Keller Williams Trio
    featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes / Cabinet 

    Sunday, October 25 eTown Hall Boulder CO Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and 
    Rodney Holmes

    Thursday, October 29 Boulton Center Bayshore NY Keller Solo

    Friday, October 30 Musikfest Café at SteelStacks Bethlehem PA Keller Solo

    Thursday, November 5 Redstone Room Davenport IA Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob
    Wasserman and Rodney Holmes  / Old Shoe

    Friday, November 6 The Waiting Room Lounge Omaha NE Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob
    Wasserman and Rodney Holmes / Old Shoe

    Saturday, November 7 DG'S Tap House Ames IA Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman
    and Rodney Holmes  / Old Shoe

    Thursday, November 12 Warehouse Live Houston TX An Evening with Keller Williams and EOTO

    Friday, November 13 Trees Dallas TX An Evening with Keller Williams and EOTO

    Saturday, November 14 Scoot Inn Austin TX An Evening with Keller Williams and EOTO

    Friday, November 27 The National Richmond VA “Thanksforgrassgiving” with Travis Book, Chris
    Pandolfi, Larry Keel, Jason Carter, and Jay Starling / Cabinet 

    Saturday, November 28 9:30 Club Washington D.C. “Thanksforgrassgiving” with Travis Book,
    Chris Pandolfi, Larry Keel, Jason Carter, and Jay Starling / Cabinet 

    Thursday, December 3 V-Club Huntington WV Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and
    Rodney Holmes

    Friday, December 4 State Theatre State College PA  Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob
    Wasserman and Rodney Holmes

    Saturday, December 5 Mr. Small's Theatre Pittsburgh PA  Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob
    Wasserman and Rodney Holmes

    Thursday, December 31 Telluride Conference Center Telluride CO “Tofunkuride” with Keller Williams and More Than A Little

    Wednesday, January 6 - Wednesday, March 11 Jam Cruise Keller Williams with More Than a
    Little 

    Additional dates to be announced.

    Earlier this year, Keller Williams released his 20th official album, Vape.  The release hits during Keller’s 20thyear of making music. On Vape, Keller offers up 10 original tracks - some road tested and some brand new.  With a hugely successful career spanning two decades under his belt, the music on Vape somehow finds Keller more confident delivering his signature, often off-the-wall storytelling. Backed by a variety of fellow musicians including Samson Grisman/bass, John Kadlecik/guitar, Ronnie McCoury/mandolin, Rob McCoury/banjo, Alan Bartram/bass, Jason Carter/fiddle and others - Keller’s playing has never been more precise and versatile.

    www.kellerwilliams.net
    Keller Williams on Facebook
    Keller Williams on Twitter


    Keller Williams Announces 2015 Fall Tour Dates July 15, 2015 14:05

    Press Release via LiveLoud

    Today, singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Keller Williams announces his Fall 2015 tour plans, bringing a variety of his projects - including Keller Solo, More Than a Little, Keller and The Keels, and the debut of his new Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes  - to stages across the country. 
     
    Keller starts his 2015 Fall Tour on August 27 at the CEFCU Center Stage in Peoria, Indiana, debuting his new project, Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes. The Keller Williams Trio spends the next few months bouncing around the country – with stops throughout the Midwest in September and November, in Colorado in late October, and in select East Coast markets in late September, October and Early December. 
     
    In between shows with Keller Williams Trio, find Keller and The Keels, Keller Williams’ Grateful Gospel, or his funk outfit Keller Williams with More Than A Little at various U.S. festivals including Lockn’ Festival, Luna Light, Magnolia Fest and others; and Keller solo headlining select clubs along the way.
     
    Over Thanksgiving weekend, Keller hosts “Thanksforgrassgiving” with an all-star lineup of bluegrass buddies: Travis Book and Chris Pandolfi (The Infamous Stringdusters), Larry Keel, Jason Carter (Del McCoury Band) and Jay Starling (Love Cannon).  Catch Thanksforgrassgiving at The National in Richmond, VA on November 27 and the 9:30 Club in D.C. on November 28.
     
    See below for the complete list of currently confirmed tour dates. Tickets and information all shows available at the brand new www.kellerwilliams.net.

    The complete list of Keller Williams confirmed tour dates is as follows:
    -
    Friday, July 17 Northwest String Summit Northern Plains OR Keller Williams with The Travelin' McCourys and Keller Williams' Grateful Grass 
    Thursday, July 23 Floydfest Floyd VA Keller Williams' Grateful Grass, Keller & The Keels, Keller Williams Solo 
    Saturday, July 25 Farm Fest Buena Vista NJ Keller Solo
    Saturday, August 8 Grand Targhee Bluegrass Festival Alta WY Keller Williams' Grateful Grass
    Sunday, August 16 Peach Fest Scranton PA Grateful Gospel ft. John Kadlecik
    Friday, August 21 SPACE Evanston IL Keller Solo
    Saturday, August 22 Bell’s Beer Garden Kalamazoo MI, Keller Williams Solo Plus Keller Williams' Grateful Grass Featuring Special Guests 
    Thursday, August 27 CEFCU Center Stage Peoria IN Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes / Old Shoe
    Friday, August 28 Majestic Live Madison WI Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes / The Accidentals
    Saturday, August 29 Cabooze Minneapolis MN Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes / The Accidentals
    Saturday, September 5 Backwoods Music Festival Stroud OK 
    Sunday, September 6 US National Whitewater Center Charlotte NC Keller Williams with More Than a Little
    Sunday, September 13 Lockn' Festival Arrington VA Keller Williams' Grateful Gospel ft. John Kadlecik
    Thursday, September 17 Lafayette's Music Room Memphis TN Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes
    Friday, September 18 Old Rock House St. Louis MO Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes
    Saturday, September 19 The Vogue Indianapolis IN Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes
    Thursday, September 24 - Friday, September 25 Resonance Festival Pataskala OH Keller Solo
    Saturday, September 26 The Tralf Buffalo NY Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes
    Saturday, October 3 Homegrown Music Festival Mebane NC Keller Solo
    Sunday, October 4 Luna Light Festival Darlington MD Keller & The Keels
    Thursday, October 8 Holston River Brewery Bristol TN Keller Solo
    Friday, October 9 Creatures of the Night Music & Arts Festival Adams TN 
    Saturday, October 10 Mustang Music Festival Corolla NC Keller Williams with More Than a Little
    Sunday, October 18 Magnolia Music Festival Live Oak FL Keller Williams' Grateful Gospel featuring Stu Allen
    Friday, October 23 Aggie Theatre Fort Collins CO Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes /  Cabinet 
    Saturday, October 24 Cervantes' Masterpiece Ballroom Denver CO Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes / Cabinet 
    Thursday, October 29 Boulton Center Bayshore NY Keller Solo
    Thursday, November 5 Redstone Room Davenport IA Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes  / Old Shoe
    Friday, November 6 The Waiting Room Lounge Omaha NE Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes / Old Shoe
    Saturday, November 7 DG'S Tap House Ames IA Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes  / Old Shoe
    Thursday, November 12 Warehouse Live Houston TX An Evening with Keller Williams and EOTO
    Friday, November 13 Trees  Dallas TX An Evening with Keller Williams and EOTO
    Saturday, November 14 Scoot Inn Austin TX An Evening with Keller Williams and EOTO
    Friday, November 27 The National Richmond VA “Thanksforgrassgiving” with Travis Book, Chris Pandolfi, Larry Keel, Jason Carter, and Jay Starling / Cabinet 
    Saturday, November 28 9:30 Club Washington D.C. “Thanksforgrassgiving” with Travis Book, Chris Pandolfi, Larry Keel, Jason Carter, and Jay Starling / Cabinet 
    Thursday, December 3 V-Club Huntington WV Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes
    Friday, December 4 State Theatre State College PA  Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes
    Saturday, December 5 Mr. Small's Theatre Pittsburgh PA  Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes
    Wednesday, January 6 - Wednesday, March 11 Jam Cruise Keller Williams with More Than a Little 
     
     Additional dates to be announced.

    Earlier this year, Keller Williams released his 20th official album, Vape.  The release hits during Keller’s 20th year of making music. On Vape, Keller offers up 10 original tracks - some road tested and some brand new.  With a hugely successful career spanning two decades under his belt, the music on Vapesomehow finds Keller more confident delivering his signature, often off-the-wall storytelling. Backed by a variety of fellow musicians including Samson Grisman/bass, John Kadlecik/guitar, Ronnie McCoury/mandolin, Rob McCoury/banjo, Alan Bartram/bass, Jason Carter/fiddle and others - Keller’s playing has never been more precise and versatile.
     

    New Album Release: Keller Williams - "Vape" - In Stores Today April 20, 2015 07:34

    Looking for some brand new music this week?  Keller Williams has you covered.  Today marks the official release for Keller's 20th album, Vape.  The record includes contributions from bassist Samson Grisman, guitarist John Kadlecik, mandolinist Ronnie McCoury, banjoist Rob McCoury, bassist Alan Bartram and fiddle player Jason Carter. Vape features 10 original Williams tracks, including some that have never been played live. 

    Keller Williams Official Store: Purchase Vape Today!

    Keller's latest single, "Mantra," can be streamed or downloaded by clicking below:

    For all of the latest Keller news, check him out on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter!

    Keller Williams: Facebook

    Keller Williams: Instagram

    Keller Williams: Twitter

     

    Keller Williams 2015 Tour Dates:

    3/27 – Chattanooga, TN @ Track 29 - Wild South Tour 
    3/28 – Asheville, NC @ The Orange Peel - Wild South Tour 
    4/3 & 4 – Girdwood, AK @ Alyseka Resort @ The Sitzmark Bar & Grille 
    4/17 – Mill Valley, CA @ Sweetwater Music Hall 
    4/18 &19 – Three Rivers, CA @ Earth Jam - Keller Williams Solo + Keller &
    The Keels
    4/20 – San Rafael, CA @ Terrapin Crossroads - With Phil & Friends
    4/23 & 24 – Charleston, SC @ Pour House
    4/25 – Athens, GA @ Georgia Theatre 
    5/1 - 5/3 – Republic New Orleans LA Voodoo Dead - 50th Anniversary of the Grateful Dead with Steve Kimock, Bill Kreutzmann, Jeff Chimenti, George Porter Jr.,
    5/9 – Virginia Beach VA @ Chics Beach Festival
    5/22 – Chillicothe, IL @ Summer Camp - Keller Williams’ Grateful Grass and Keller Williams Solo late night
    5/23 – Thornville, OH @ Dark Star Jubilee @ Legend Valley - Keller & The Keels 
    6/5 – Minden, WV @ Mountain Music Festival
    6/14 – Ontario, CA @ Huck Finn Jubilee - Keller Williams’ Grateful Grass
    7/1 – Milwaukee, WI @ Summerfest - Keller Williams Solo
    7/4 – Ozark, AK @ Highberry US Festival
    7/11 – Summit Point, WV @ All Good Music Festival 
    7/12 – Felton, CA @ Santa Cruz Mountain Sol Festival - Keller Williams’ Grateful Grass featuring Michael Kang & Keith Moseley
    7/17 – Northern Plains, OR @ Northwest String Summit - Keller Williams with The Travelin' McCourys and Keller Williams Grateful Grass 
    7/23 – Floyd, VA @ Floydfest - Keller Williams Solo, Keller & The Keels, and Keller Williams’ Grateful Grass 
    8/8 – Alta, WY @ Grand Targhee Bluegrass Festival - Keller Williams’ Grateful Grass
    8/16 – Scranton, PA @ Peach Fest - Keller Williams’ Grateful Gospel featuring John Kadlecik
    9/5 – Stroud, OK @ Backwoods Music Festival 
    9/13 – Arrington, VA @ Lockn' - Grateful Gospel
    10/3 – Mebane, NC @ Homegrown Music Festival 
    10/4 – Darlington, MD @ Luna Light Festival - Keller & The Keels