Well friends, the time has officially come for the Marathon Village Block Party, presented by Lightning 100 and Marathon Music Works. Get there early to check out the “Indie Nash” spring market, full of locally owned, known, and loved venders, food trucks and a massive lineup of musical talent. This year’s musical performances will kick off at 4 p.m. (doors open at 3 pm), and general admission tickets are still available for just $15. Ready to party? Read all about the kick ass line-up 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 safe 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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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.
