Win Tickets to the Scythian CD Release Show at Lincoln Theatre

Dance-inducing Celtic rock and American folk band, Scythian, will once again bring the party to Lincoln Theatre and we're giving away two free tickets to the show.  To enter, head over to our Twitter and Facebook pages to retweet and share for your chance to win.  

Saturday, July 15th at 9pm Scythian will be doing an ALL-AGES CD Release of their new album "Dance All Night." The album is a "best of" but features previously unreleased tunes which will be performed that night. "Named after Ukrainian nomads, Scythian merges Irish, gypsy, and Americana with thunderous energy, technical zest, and soulful songwriting, beckoning crowds into a barn-dance rock concert experience."  

For those of you who are new to Scythian, you can expect a show that has you up on your feet dancing while hoisting glasses. Scythian headlined First Night Raleigh a couple of years ago, has rocked the Bluegrass Fest, and is a perennial favorite at the MerleFest Dance Tent. Head over to the Lincoln Theatre website to get your tickets. Check out the 60-second preview below: 

Don't Miss the Wide Open Bluegrass Street Fest

IBMA's Wide Open Bluegrass Festival is in town and the weekend has an extensive lineup for free music at the Street Fest.  With five stages and a dance tent, banjos will be playing through the streets of downtown Raleigh from 11 a.m. through 11 p.m.  The best part?  The Street Fest is free. Throughout Friday and Saturday, catch bluegrass greats such as Balsam Range, Flatt Lonesome, The Honey Dewdrops and more.  Check out the extensive stage lineup here.

For those that really like to get moving, check out the full schedule for the dance tent. This stage will feature cloggers, square dancing, and open dancing all day until 11 each night.  Closing out Friday will be the ever enchanting Ellis Dyson and the Shambles.  This band knows how to get a tent rockin' with their unique mix of folk and swing.  On Saturday, dance tent masters Scythian will close out the night with their barn-stomping Celtic folk-rock.


Don't forget that tickets can still be purchased for the Wide Open Bluegrass main stage.  This stage features artists such as Ricky Skaggs, The Nitty Gritty Band, and The Steep Canyon Rangers.  Take a look at the complete schedule and purchase tickets at the official IBMA website.

MerleFest Moments 2016

Merlefest 2016 was filled with some bipolar weather, but rain and chill will never get in the way of unforgettable music and a family-friendly atmosphere. For those who have been, they know that MerleFest isn't just a festival, it's a feeling, a happy memory, a piece of family that lingers even after May has arrived. There were several highlights of the weekend, both with music fans and well-known artists.  Here are a few of our favorite MerleFest moments.

Classic storyteller John Prine closed out night one of MerleFest.  Clad in a dark suit and tie, Prine spun his web of words intricately, with ease and wit between each carefully crafted tune.  Each song shared tales of his youth, adulthood mistakes, and life's lessons. Prine ended his set with memories of the late great Merle Haggard with the legend's "Ramblin' Fever."  All of MerleFest stopped to listen to these wise words as the stars shined and fans sunk into the euphoria that is MerleFest.

 Photo Courtesy of Dr. Gordon Burns

The Wood Brothers rocked the Hillside Stage with fans spanning all ages from 4-74.  The brothers provided a range of melodies with both acoustic and electric songs.  They joked that people wouldn't take them seriously when plugged in, but they couldn't resist the urge to rock - and rock they did.  Sharing hits from "Luckiest Man" to "The Muse," the set had fans feeling sentimental in one second and dancing the next.


For those who have been to MerleFest in recent years, the Dance Tent has become synonymous with the Celtic roots band, Scythian.  That's not to say that other amazing bands don't play in the Dance Tent, but Scythian was made to rock that pavilion.  A Scythian show is filled with foot-stompin' music that hails from the band's Celtic heritage.  Scythian brings a fresh vibe to MerleFest while staying true to its family-friendly roots.  Excitement surges through the tent causing dancing, crowd-surfing, and pure happiness.  This group is a must-see, unless of course you're allergic to fun.

An exciting new discovery on the Americana Stage was the Canadian bluegrass band, Slocan Ramblers.  This group shared their very genuinely written tunes from their latest album, Coffee Creek.  Their show expressed thoughtfully written songs that evoked excitement, emotion, and energy.  Perhaps it was their youth, or the fact that they hail from Canada, but they seemed to bring something fresh to the bluegrass table that was genuinely welcomed by the entertained crowd.


There were so many stand-out moments and acts of MerleFest 2016 that 2017 is already being highly anticipated.  The vibe of this fest cannot be duplicated; the focus on family and exposure of new artists is unparallelled in this world of unlimited music festivals.  With this thought, we are looking forward to seeing what new acts will be discovered next year.

MerleFest 2016 Is Almost Here

With only one week until the start of MerleFest 2016, presented by Window World, the town of Wilkesboro, N.C. is buzzing with activity. Starting next Thursday, April 28, at 2:30 p.m., and running through Sunday, May 1, approximately 75,000 participants will gather at this annual homecoming of musicians and music lovers at Wilkes Community College for the nation’s largest celebration of American roots music.

With over 100 artists on 13 stages throughout the college, participants at MerleFest know to expect the unexpected. Late night jam sessions, band competitions, special guests onstage, impromptu dance parties and one-time-only musical collaborations are all a part of the fabric of MerleFest – and a testament to the enduring vision of Doc Watson and the Watson family. A key part of this vision is Doc’s idea of “traditional plus” music. Taking traditional Appalachian music as the base, “traditional plus” incorporates the many forms of American music that came from Appalachian roots and expanding to include blues, country, Americana, rock and bluegrass. Today this “traditional plus” spirit means that Americana star Jason Isbell will rub shoulders with young bluegrass visionary Sierra Hull or John Oates of famed rock duo Hall & Oates can jam with “newgrass” pioneer Sam Bush. As the nation’s largest roots and Americana festival, MerleFest has room for all those who treasure the American traditions.

“In addition to the spectrum of genres offered at MerleFest, this year’s lineup speaks to the quality of music offered at the festival,” said Steve Johnson, artist relations manager for MerleFest. “On our stages we’ll have many Grammy Award-winners or multi-Grammy Award-winners, Americana Music Award winners, Country Music Association winners, and International Bluegrass Music Association Award (IBMA) winners, among many other local, regional, songwriting and instrument awards. I know that awards are only one way of recognizing outstanding talent, but these associations and their members invest a lot in considering artists to select the best of the best each year.”

Grammy Award Winners

Jason Isbell, John Prine, Old Crow Medicine Show, Jerry Douglas, Jim Lauderdale, Tim O’Brien and Steep Canyon Rangers

Americana Music Association Winners

Jason Isbell, Old Crow Medicine Show, Jerry Douglas, and Gillian Welch and Dave Rawlings, who also won the AMA Lifetime Achievement Award

Country Music Association Award Winners

Gillian Welch, Old Crow Medicine Show, Jerry Douglas, John Prine, and Sam Bush

IBMA Award Winner

Steep Canyon Rangers, Jerry Douglas, Amanda Smith, Becky Buller, Junior Sisk, Tim O’Brien, Karl Shiflett, Bryan Sutton, Alison Brown, Peter Rowan, Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas, Scott Vestal, Kenny Smith

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

John Oates

Like many performers at MerleFest, Dan Fedoryka, a founding member of the MerleFest fan favorite band Scythian, knows that performing at this festival is a chance to pay homage to the greats who came before. "We play festivals all over the country ranging from Celtic to roots festivals, and I can say that MerleFest holds a special place in our hearts,” Fedoryka said. “It’s here that our eyes were opened to the living tradition in music: we got to actually meet the greats that up until then had been beyond reach, almost mythical. There are many things that give you a sense of accomplishment in a musical career, but to meet the greats, to shake the hands of Doc Watson, Levon Helm and others is something that stays with you and makes a difference in how you move forward as a musician. This respect for tradition is palpable and seeps into the audience. After eight years at MerleFest, we can say that we feel like family with the attendees and have seen many children grow up before our eyes, a truly unique environment that just can't be found anywhere else."

The complete lineup and stage schedules are posted at merlefest.org/lineup and available on the MerleFest mobile app; festival updates are delivered via Twitter (@MerleFest) and Facebook. Use hashtag #MerleFest to connect with other festivalgoers on social media, and be sure to take a picture with Flattop, MerleFest’s raccoon mascot.

MerleFest Spotlight: Scythian

It's time to start gearing up for North Carolina's most coveted celebration of music: MerleFest 2016. This homage to bluegrass, Americana and folk music will take place from April 28 to May 1 on the campus of Wilkes Community College in Wilkesboro, N.C., where artists such as John Prine, Old Crow Medicine Show, Jason Isbell, Brandi Carlile, The Wood Brothers, and The Steep Canyon Rangers will perform.

Dance-inducing Celtic rock and American folk band, Scythian, will once again bring the party to MerleFest.  "Named after Ukrainian nomads, Scythian merges Irish, gypsy, and Americana with thunderous energy, technical zest, and soulful songwriting, beckoning crowds into a barn-dance rock concert experience."  

Performing Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at the festival, Scythian promises to deliver an exciting set on each stage, including the dance tent.  The band is highly anticipating their return to MerleFest; guitarist and vocalist Dan Fedoryka states, "...we're looking forward to coming back to the fest we feel is a second home to us in a state we love. We have to say, it's also a fest where we feel the love. We've never experienced such positive interactions with attendees and every year we leave reinvigorated and convinced that we're musically on the right path. What can I say, there's no place like MerleFest!"

Scythian has spent the last year touring in support of their latest album, Old Tin Can. In April, ahead of MerleFest, the band will release their album in the land that inspired them, Ireland.  They take touring to a whole new level by inviting 180 of their fans to join them while performing at various Irish hot spots for eight days of barn-stomping fun. To learn more about this traveling party, visit Scythian's website.  

Scythian's next North Carolina show will be played at Blind Tiger in Greensboro on March 11.  This is just in time to celebrate St. Patrick's day with a band immersed in authentic Irish tradition.  

We'll keep you posted on specific play times and locations for Scythian as MerleFest gets closer.  Visit the festival's website to purchase tickets and for lineup details.     

The Music Freak's Guide to NYE

Just like all big decisions in life, choosing where to ring in 2016 should be based on music.  Raleigh has plenty to offer this New Year's Eve, the tough part will be deciding which acts to see.  Check out our top picks for the most amazing start to 2016.

The Ritz

Thankfully, The Ritz and Live Nation have finally brought EDM to the Triangle.  Disco Donnie presents Brillz to ring in 2016.  We had the great fortune of catching Brillz in Charlotte last month and the show is nothing short of spectacular.  If you're looking for a hype night with electrifying beats, the place to be is The Ritz.  Brillz brings an energy to his performance that will undoubtedly surge through the crowd and will welcome 2016 in an unforgettable way.  The party starts at 8 at the very affordable cost of $20.

The Pour House

The Pour House has done an amazing job of creating a lineup to please all lovers of live music.  With The Love Language, Zack Mexico, Faults, and DJ Clickdat, it's pretty near impossible to not have a memorable night filled with singing, dancing, and great company.  This mixture of unique artists offers an evening of indie rock hits and psych pop beats.  Of course, it wouldn't be a New Year's Eve party without a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door.  The music begins at 9, doors at 8.

Kings

Kings always knows how to throw together a fun lineup and New Year's Eve is no exception.  The highly creative and energetic TOW3RS will be joined by garage psych band WOOL and Heads on Sticks, creating the perfect recipe for shoulder-poppin' dance moves.  $12 at the door will also get you a champagne toast at midnight.  Doors open at 9 with music starting at 9:30.

 

Lincoln Theatre

Bring in 2016 with a great fusion of funk, rock, and pop with Big Something and Groove Fetish.  Named Best Rising Artist of 2014 by Live Music Daily, Big Something meshes guitar riffs, synths, and horns to provide a party with every song played.  Tickets are $25 and the fun begings at 9.

First Night Raleigh 2016

 
Artsplosure has assembled a great mixture of activities and music for people of all ages for this year's First Night.  The music acts include Johnny Folsom 4, Jonathan Byrd and Sea Gulls.  TOW3RS will also make an appearance at the Vintage Church at 9:30.  Bluegrass punksters Scythian will play both the early countdown from 6-7 and the classic acorn drop at midnight.  There's a lot happening at this event, so be sure to check out the complete schedule at the First Night website. 


Now all you need to worry about is who to kiss at midnight...choose wisely.  Happy start to 2016, folks!

Back Porch Music on the Lawn With Scythian

Our favorite Celtic rock band, Scythian will once again be visiting the Triangle.  This time, they are a part of the Back Porch Music on the Lawn series at the American Tobacco Campus in Durham. This is a free event focused on fun, friends, and the love of great music. 

Scythian will be performing on Thursday, May 28 at 6.  You might have caught them in recent months at Lincoln Theatre or rockin' the dance tent at the Bluegrass Festival, but their foot-stompin' shows never get boring.  Scythian has an overwhelming talent for getting every audience member up on his feet for a night filled with energetic dancing.  Sometimes, they're even known to break out into a rap mash-up of 90's hits. Check out their newest album, Old Tin Can, which is a special tribute to the legendary Doc Watson. 


Grab your chairs, blankets, coolers, and friends and join us for a fun evening in the sun.   To learn more about the Back Porch Music on the Lawn Series and Scythian, check out their websites.  Take a look at our past coverage of Scythian by clicking on the links below:

• Scythian's MerleFest Spotlight

• Scythian Interview

• Scythian at Lincoln Theatre

 

MerleFest 2015 Highlights

 There were certainly plenty of clouds covering MerleFest 2015, but that couldn't dampen the genuine love of music that makes this festival a success year after year. This family-friendly event provided non-stop music, delicious food, and a variety of crafts for four straight days.


There were several spectacular musical moments, but one that stood out was the Saturday night performance by the Avett Brothers on the Watson Stage.  The brothers returned home and as usual, gave credit to Doc Watson and MerleFest for impacting their careers.  Scott Avett also credited Peter Rowan of Old & In The Way with influencing his passion for music and was later joined by Rowan on stage to perform, "'Til the End of the World Rolls 'Round."

On Friday night, Celtic folk-rock band Scythian got the dance tent rockin'.  They played some of their traditional party songs and shared some new tunes from their latest album, Old Tin Can, which was released at MerleFest.  Dan from the band led the crowd in a mash-up of old-school classics that included Biz Markie's hit, "Just a Friend."  Scythian ended the night with their rendition of Kenny Rogers' "The Gambler."  The crowd, both young and old, sang and swayed to this familiar classic. 

 
The always anticipated Midnight Jam gathered several talented musicians all on one stage.  The jam was hosted by the Steel Wheels who were joined by The Gibson Brothers, Jim Lauderdale, Mipso, The Honey Dewdrops, The Moore Brothers, just to name a few. 


The David Mayfield Parade put on an incredible performance at the Americana Stage.  Mayfield has an energy and enthusiasm that some MerleFest attendees might not have been ready for, but the crowd found him highly entertaining and refreshing.  How often do you see a performer jump into the crowd to sing with the audience and return to the stage by doing a belly-flop and the worm?  Not very often and that's why we fell in love with David Mayfield at MerleFest.

MerleFest '15 was one unforgettable weekend that was hard to leave.  This is the type of festival where the audience can meet and connect with the artists they admire.  The artists themselves turn into fans of the their fellow musicians, experiencing as many performances as possible.  To get more details of the events and to keep track of MerleFest 2016, visit their website.  To live (or relive) the festival, check out the photos of some of our favorite performances. 

MerleFest Spotlight: Scythian

Dance-inducing Celtic rock and American folk band, Scythian, will once again bring the party to MerleFest.  "Named after Ukrainian nomads, Scythian merges Irish, gypsy, and Americana with thunderous energy, technical zest, and soulful songwriting, beckoning crowds into a barn-dance rock concert experience."  Performing on four different stages at the festival, Scythian promises to deliver a different set on each stage.  In addition to watching their energetic and charismatic shows, Scythian will be available on Thursday at 8 and Friday at 6 for signing appearances.  



The attendees of MerleFest are in for a special treat because Scythian will be releasing their new album, Old Tin Can, which is a tribute to the band's roots.  As stated in a press release:

'Old Tin Can' is the companion album of 2014 release 'Jump at the Sun', which was funded entirely by Scythian fans. As a ‘thank you” for the generous funding of the album, Old Tin Can is Scythian’s tip of the cap to the tradition that inspired them. The album features Scythian’s take on favorite Celtic and Americana tunes that helped form their musical palette. Featuring stirring ballads made known by the likes of Doc Watson, the Carter Family and Christie Moore, spirited jigs, soulful waltzes and even a Ukrainian Kozak love song, Old Tin Can reveals the roots of the tree that is now Scythian. With one listen to this eclectic album one can one can trace the outlines of a show which transcends musical and ethnic boundaries.

Scythian will also be playing on May 28 as a part of WUNC's Music on the Lawn Series.  This event takes place at the American Tobacco District in Durham and is free to the public.