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MUSICAL LINE UP

RISING APPALACHIA is an internationally touring folk ensemble steeped in the soul of the South. It is the brainchild of Atlanta-raised sisters Leah Song and Chloe Smith, rooted in the rich musical traditions of their family and their journey into song as performers, writers, and song catchers. They have that touch that only siblings can have.

Rising Appalachia makes music as a reflection of their times, blending Americana music with lyrics, rhythm and poetry of our times. The band’s unique sound was shaped by Leah and Chloe’s soulful vocals, simple instrumentation, and seamless harmonies, unique to siblings steeped in the multi-generational music of the South. They are joined by a host of incredible musicians who bring their own cultural influences, enriching the blend of Appalachian, Irish, Americana, Latin and world roots music that defines the smooth sound of Rising Appalachia.

Fronted by Leah and Chloe, and featuring full-time members David Brown(upright bass, baritone guitar), Duncan Wickel (fiddle, cello), and Biko Casini (drums and percussion), expect to be swooned into a tapestry of silky sounds. Their journey has taken them around the world, from sailboat tours across British Columbia to street theater festivals in Southern Italy, a full-time busking career in New Orleans, and traditional song studies in Ireland, Bulgaria, Latin America, and beyond.

They also continue to immerse in community building, cultural exchange programs, traditional folkloric studies, and music gathering everywhere that they go. Their dedication for nearly two decades to their craft has led them to acclaimed appearances (Telluride and Bluegrass Festival, Preservation Jazz Hall, Bob Boilen’sTiny Desk Concert, Red Rocks, and many more) and sold-out concerts at venues across the world. Through their music, Rising Appalachia bridges culture and stories, creating connections that resonate deeply with their audiences of all ages, shapes, and sizes. Expect a boot-stomping banjo tune alongside an acapella ballad… all mashed up with breathtaking cello, a flatpicking guitar medley, and undeniable groove. Website

PAINTED MANDOLIN is a plugged-in acoustic quartet of original compositions, reupholstered covers, and reimagined medleys. The concept of Painted Mandolin was born out of mutual love and direct affiliation to the musical leanings of Jerry Garcia. Featuring Joe Craven, who was percussionist and fiddler for Grisman/Garcia project, plus Matt Hartle, Larry Graff, and Dan Robbins. Instrumentals, high energy grooves, and vocals shared by all, the quartet features a backwoods toolbox of acoustic guitars, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, hand and mouth percussion, and upright and electric bass that create a sound of memories, traditions, and innovations all in a fresh jam that Jerry would like. We think you will too. Website

SARITAH Conscious roots songstress Saritah (sa-REE-ta) is on a worldwide musical mission to uplift, inspire and heal. Bursting with an organic sound that is a refreshing and uniquely feminine weave of reggae, soul and acoustic inspired flavors, Saritah has a relentless passion for inspiring people to live their purpose and to follow their dreams. Playfully powerful, Saritah’s live shows are colourful celebrations of life. A festival favourite with her infectious, beaming smile, Saritah has graced the stages of some of the world’s most renowned musical gatherings. Born in Seoul, South Korea, the country of her mother’s heritage, Saritah grew up by the Indian Ocean in the most isolated city in the world – Perth, Australia. A traveler from the time she was a few months old, however, she has always had a global perspective and has been exposed to and influenced by a diversity of music and culture from around the world.