Last month we told you that Lightning 100 and Marathon Music Works would be teaming up to keep their spring tradition alive, with another edition of the epic Marathon Village Block Party to be held on April 30. Just like previous versions of this event, there will be an “indie Nash” spring market, full of locally owned, known, and loved venders and food trucks. Of course, a massive lineup of (mostly) local talent is also a great selling point, but we’ll get to that in just a minute. The music for this 18+ endeavor starts at Marathon Music Works at 4 pm (doors 3 pm). General admission tickets are just $15, or you can splurge for VIP (includes a VIP bar and side stage viewing area) for $55. However, if you are feeling lucky, you can enter to win a pair of VIP tickets below. Learn all about the five band bonanza and enter our contest after the jump!
KALEO
Winding south on their huge North American tour, Icelandic four-piece Kaleo will be a welcome addition to the block party. They formed in 2012 and developed a strong following in their native land, but soon began playing all across Europe. Their successful 2013 self titled debut showed the world that they were ready for prime time. A unique, multi-layered and multi-dimensional sound, they are tough to pin down into one genre, crossing into Bon Iver territory on one song, before dropping a Coldplay inspired anthem on the next. Many would call it “indie pop meets folk rock,” but we call it a kick ass choice of headliner. We’re also looking forward to hearing what they’ve been working since their last release, since they seem due for a new record. Have a sample below and see them live at Marathon.
ROOTS OF A REBELLION
Featuring two of the founders of Dub Cellar Records, a local reggae leaning indie label, Roots of a Rebellion have been performing around town since the genesis of the Tennessee reggae movement. Usually called ROAR for short, they were voted best local band in the Nashville Scene Readers’ Poll 2015, and recently crowned the champions of Tennessee’s statewide Road to Roo contest (earning them a spot in the Bonnaroo 2016 line-up). They’ve also toured the country in the warm-up spot for other high profile bands like Slightly Stoopid, moe., Trombone Shorty, North Mississippi Allstars, and The Wailers. Taking all this into account, it’s a save bet that these guys are ready to blow up, so catch them locally while you can, before they’re headlining across the country.
FUTURE THIEVES
With their blistering full length entitled Horizon Line officially available for mass consumption, local indie blues/Americana rockers Future Thieves are a band we have been keeping an eye on. Ever since they nearly tore the roof off our Acme showcase last summer, we’ve been huge fans, and after seeing them live, you’ll understand why. They are easily one of the top-10 bands currently based in Nashville, so get there on time for every minute of their set.
SIMO
Local ‘60s inspired blues/psych rock trio SIMO is sonically adventurous in the most delicious ways. Frontman JD Simo has been blowing minds at Robert’s Western World on Lower Broadway for years with another OG local collective, the Don Kelley Band. Bassist Frank Swart is a well-established producer in town, and drummer Adam Abrashoff? Also amazing. Together they make it look easy, while still packing a wallop. Don’t miss them!
MATT WALBERG AND THE LIVING SITUATION
Yet another alum from our No Country Presents showcase at Acme, Matt Walberg and the Living Situation bring the big Americana rock ’n’ roll sounds. Front man and highly skilled guitarist Matt may have a similar sound to bands like Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, but, with his skill level and aptitude to shred, the comparisons only go so far. Be there to enjoy the afternoon sun during their set, when they kick off yet another awesome locally inspired event.
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ENTER TO WIN TICKETS
Enter to win tickets by filling out the form below. Must be 18+ to enter. After you have entered, there will be the option to share this contest via social media. For each person that you refer to the contest, you will receive an additional entry. If you experience any trouble with the contest widget, or have any questions, feel free to email us at [email protected].
Winner will be announced Thursday, April 28 CDT, and will receive one pair of VIP tickets. Good luck!
[contesthopper contest=”72679″]
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Kaleo, Roots of a Rebellion, Future Thieves, SIMO, and Matt Walberg & the Living Situation will perform Friday, April 30 at Marathon Music Works as part of the Marathon Village Block Party. The show is 18+, begins at 4 p.m. (doors at 3 p.m.), and tickets options range from $15-$55.