2023 Oak Harbor Music Festival Guide

SEPTEMBER 1-3, 2023

With Special Guest TYLER BRYANT & THE SHAKEDOWN

Living on an island in the Pacific Northwest sets a mood and a mindset. The music Desolation Sound makes together has a unique sound that the band likes to call “Salish Rock.” “I’m fascinated with that beautiful place where the Salish Sea meets the shore of our island. It’s a mysterious, shifting boundary, and I often draw deeper meaning from my experiences there,” says Daniel, the band’s primary lyricist. The band is made up of Friday Harbor locals Scott Sluis (Drums & Vocals), Darvis Taylor (Bass & Vocals), Blake Night (Lead Guitar), and Daniel Day (Lead Vocals & Rhythm Guitar). The band is produced by Adam Kasper, assisted by Jon Auer. Desolation Sound have released two EPs and, in 2022, their debut LP, Salish Rock, on Robo Jack Records. They are currently putting the finishing touches on their new LP, Miasma Theory.

Friday, Sept. 1, 6pm • Peoples Bank Stage

THE GOTHARD SISTERS

The Gothard Sisters are a dynamic supergroup of three American sisters who play contemporary Celtic music. Through over 14 years of performing, touring, and writing music together, the optimistic style of their music and performances continue to resonate with their fans, building a loyal international following. Their latest album, Dragonfly, features the sisters playing an assortment of acoustic instruments and vocals combined with modern production to create music exploring themes of resilience and adventure. Blending Celtic, folk, classical, and new age musical influences, the Gothard Sisters bring songs to life with violin, acoustic guitar, mandolin, bodhran, djembe, whistle, and vocal harmonies, creating music that is “vivid, inspirational and captivating.”

–Tim Carroll, Folk Words Review 2018

Friday, Sept. 1, 6:15pm • Island Thrift Stage

SNACKS AT MIDNIGHT

A SNACK at Midnight could be thought of in two categories: one, as a pre-packaged quick bite and the second, as an improvised meal using ingredients that don’t traditionally go together, but, boy, does it taste and feel good. The latter is where Spokane, Washington-based indie rock, pop, funk band, Snacks at Midnight, takes its inspiration for their sound. With comparisons drawn to Hippo Campus, Backseat Lovers, Half Alive, and even the classics, Red Hot Chili Peppers or Grateful Dead, it is clear the band gets its individuality from many different genres and artists. The band’s origin is a classic one. High school friends Rory Babin, Giovani Covarrubias, and Nickolaus Harner started jamming together. Once the trio figured out how to play their instruments, they started writing music. The first song was written in the 10th grade, “Asking All the Questions,” the third track off their debut album, Mom’s Proud, released in November, 2021. In 2018, the group added Rory’s younger brother, Bill Babin, on keys, and after sifting through eight different drummers, Austin Davis joined the group in March of 2022, adding that final touch to create the band we all know and love today, Snacks at Midnight.

SAVE THE DATE

Penn

Saturday,

Friday, Sept. 1, 7:30pm

Peoples Bank Stage

JOHN PRIMER AND THE REAL DEAL BLUES BAND

Two-time Grammy-nominated artist and American blues legend John Primer was the bandleader and guitarist for Muddy Waters, Willie Dixon, and Magic Slim & The Teardrops. Having played or recorded with a who’s who of blues greats, including Junior Wells, Gary Clark, Jr., Derek Trucks, Johnny Winter, The Rolling Stones, and Buddy Guy, to name a few, John Primer’s personal accolades, including a Lifetime Achievement Award, reflect his countless contributions to the history of Chicago blues. There are very few fans, critics, or musicians who will deny the fact that John Primer is the real deal. You can’t paint the Blues without the Primer!

Friday, Sept. 1, 7:45pm • Island Thrift Stage

BRIAN JAMES WAS HERE

Born and raised on a farm in the small logging community of Montesano, Washington, Brian is at home on the stage where his larger-than-life personality comes out with witty commentary and raw energy. From a young age, Brian knew that he wanted to pursue music, and in 2005 he moved to Nashville, Tennessee, where he wrote songs for the Surefire Music Company. Brian penned songs for TV, film, and commercial projects and artists such as Taylor Hicks and High Road Three. Brian’s music received a CCMA nomination for Single of the Year in 2013. In the following year, his song, “Angel at the Crossroads,” was nominated for Gospel Single of the Year. In 2013, Brian formed the TSDC Music Group, a publishing company where his songs were featured in car commercials for Cadillac and Dodge as well various TV and film placements. Today, Brian lives in the Pacific Northwest, where he regularly performs both covers and originals—solo as well as with his band. His showmanship and modern sound has drawn a diverse audience of all ages with tastes in music from multiple genres and eras.

Friday, Sept. 1, 9pm • Peoples Bank Stage

JANIE CRIBBS & THE T.RUST BAND

Second Chance is their new release after over a year of lockdown in a world-wide pandemic. They had the time to really give this album their heartfelt attention and a measure of grace as well as dipping their toes into some rootsy blues and gritty true stories, both rockin’ your soul and making you want to dance! They hope you can give it a listen and feel the connection we all have with each other’s hearts and this blue-green ball we call home.

Friday, Sept. 1, 9:15pm • Island Thrift Stage

SCHMID AND GUEST

Cayley Schmid and Aaron Guest met at the Bellingham Farmers Market in 2009. Desperately jealous of each other’s busking success, they neutralized the competition and started a band together. This was the beginning of a decade-long musical partnership that descended into marriage. After the retirement of their band, Polecat, in 2020, Aaron and Cayley suddenly found themselves musically unsupervised by their bandmates for the first time. Together they play instrumental Celtic music on fiddle and piano. Tunes range from lively reels and jigs to sweeping airs and waltzes, drawing from Scottish, Cape Breton, and Irish traditions.

Saturday, Sept. 2, 11am • Island Thrift Stage

LONELY TOGETHER

Lonely Together is a Pop/R&B band based in Bellingham, Washington, that reaches listeners with their catchy melodies, genre-blending sound, and all-inclusive message. Lonely Together was started by couple/duo SAFE TRVLS (Zach Cook) and Rosie Matsumoto after they met at Western Washington University and began producing in their home studio. SAFE TRVLS is the lead vocalist & producer/engineer of the group, Rosie is the keyboardist, songwriter & vocalist, and Tyler Teuber is their electric guitar player who joins them for live shows. Lonely Together produces, writes, records, and engineers almost all of their own music and are influenced by many different genres but tend to favor pop, R&B, and hiphop. The main goal of Lonely Together is to reach listeners of all ages, interests, and walks of life through their relatable lyrics and danceable melodies.

Saturday, Sept. 2, 11am • Peoples Bank Stage

JESS CLEMONS

Jess Clemons’ experience as a traveler, former island dweller, and small-town girl have influenced her folksy, homegrown musical style. Raised in Vermont, she attended music school in Nova Scotia, where she was a side and front woman for various bands, touring around Canada in the summers. A big leap took her to Nantucket, working as a gardener and musician, rowing to and from a houseboat she called home for several years. After finding Baja in 2010 and subsequently the wind-loving community of Hood River, Jess now calls the Gorge home. Playing guitar and piano on stages around the northwest and in Baja in the winters, she has become known for her powerhouse vocals, intimate originals, and tasteful covers of folks like Patty Griffin, Brandi Carlile, and Lori Mckenna, all of whom she has been compared to. Coming out of the woodwork after a couple of years of limited shows, Jess is excited to be back on the road.

Saturday, Sept. 2, 12pm • Island Thrift Stage

OUTSIDE THE LINES

Outside the Lines is an acoustic vocal trio that features tight vocal harmonies and unique twists on a range of well-known songs. The group takes inspiration from many different musical genres: classic rock, great singer/songwriters, country, pop, and even metal. Although many well-known songs are included in their repertoire, they also like to wander “outside the lines” by switching genres or adding a new spin to make a song unique. An acoustic ballad version of a popular metal song? Bluegrass version of a modern pop song? Outside the Lines provides a fun mix that offers something for any audience. Colette (vocals/percussion) has been an avid vocalist for many years, fronting rock, country, and acoustic groups. She’s “a little bit country and a little bit rock and roll,” bringing a vocal style to the group that is always fun and entertaining. Jason (guitar/vocals) has been writing, performing, recording, and producing for over 12 years. He has performed in several local groups on guitar, bass, keyboards, and vocals, with styles ranging from metal to indie. His unique perspective and interpretation help shape the sound and arrangements for the group. Michael (guitar/vocals) has extensive experience performing in a number of cover bands as guitarist and lead vocalist. Genres have ranged from blues to classic rock to funk to acoustic ballads. He began his musical career on the east coast before moving to the northwest and joining the local music community.

Saturday, Sept. 2, 12:30pm • Peoples Bank Stage

DEADWOOD REVIVAL

Kim and Jason have come full circle, returning to their roots with the unmistakable sound that made a huge splash in the old-time, bluegrass, folk, and even jam band scene years ago. Their powerful and impeccable harmonies, coupled with Jason’s unique clawhammer banjo style and Kim’s driving rhythm guitar, creates a sound that is much fuller than you would expect from a duo. Both multi-instrumentalists, they switch things up from time to time with Kim on bass and Jason on guitar. No matter the instrumentation, their music is described as “rootsy with an edge.” Deadwood Revival serves up a tasty soup of new old-time and folk rock spiced with a bit of classic country. From foot-stomping hoe-downs to pin-dropping tunes, their original songs have been deemed “superbly crafted.” You can tell from the first note that they are crowd-pleasers. They’re fun, adventurous and yet true to their roots. Kim and Jason’s infectious spirits and pure joy in making music together is woven through every tune they play. Whether performing in a cozy pub or for a thousand festival fans, the honest and uplifting music of Deadwood Revival lingers long after the lights come up.

Saturday, Sept. 2, 1:15pm Island Thrift Stage

PORCH BROTHERS

Porch Brothers deliver a sound distilled from music rooted in West Texas folk and country and west coast Americana. The South Whidbey trio brings strong vocals and harmonies to tell the stories they share, both original and select covers. Songwriter Russel Clepper and Rob Harris join with bass player Ron Rossel to create the distinctive Porch Brothers’ fusion of these two regional styles.

Saturday, Sept. 2, 2:30pm • Peoples Bank Stage

troll caught albacore

Offering custom canned Troll Caught Albacore caught one at a time in the beautiful waters of the North Pacific. Each can is

raw packed and cooked only once. This is sushi grade albacore in a can, the finest you will find anywhere in the world!

e Store with the Big Hear t

Every year, proceeds from Island Thrift go to a variety of community projects in the form of one-time grants. We also provide continuous funding to the following Island County Organizations:

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Island County

Boys and Girls Clubs - Oak Harbor & Coupeville

CADA • Compass Health

Crisis Pregnancy Center

North Whidbey Help House

Oak Harbor Senior Center

Toddler Learning Center

WELCOME TO THE OAK HARBOR MUSIC FESTIVAL

OUR MISSION

Inspire our community with the power of music.

Our festival is in its eleventh year of providing three days of free music every Labor Day weekend. You’ll find good food, friendly people, and over 30 acts performing on three stages. People of all ages and tastes – everyone who loves music – will find something to love here!

GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY

Our community’s financial support through grants and donations enables us – along with bringing you free music – to help local students bring their musical passions to life. In our first 10 years, we awarded over $60,000 in scholarships to Whidbey’s graduating seniors. In 2023, we introduced a new fund to support our community’s young musicians.

QUARTER NOTE FUND

Created in memory of Oak Harbor musician Gregory Johnson, who passed away suddenly in 2020, the Quarter Note Fund for Young Musicians funds access to musical instruments, reducing barriers to success for students in financial need.

2023 Award:

$10,000 presented to Island County schools

ED BRIDGES MEMORIAL MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP

Given in honor of Ed Bridges, Oak Harbor High’s music director in the 1970s who inspired many young musicians to make music their careers.

DONATE

In addition to organizing a musical extravaganza for all to enjoy, one of the Festival’s overriding goals is to provide Whidbey Island music students with scholarships, and we are always grateful for donations toward this cause and toward the festival overall.

As a 501(c)(3), Oak Harbor Music Festival is a nonprofit organization, so all donations are taxdeductible (EIN 46-1637770). We are sincerely thankful for any amount you are able to share. Donations may be sent to: Oak Harbor Music Festival, P.O. Box 987, Oak Harbor, WA 98277. Or visit www.oakharborfestival.com.

2023 Recipients:

Abigail Paul, Oak Harbor High School

Natalie Stone, Oak Harbor High School

BRUCE

LANTZ MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP

Given in honor of Oak Harbor High School’s Bruce Lantz, who retired in 2015 after 31 years of teaching music.

2023 Recipient: Joseph Barrett, Oak Harbor High School

BROKEN BANJO

The Whidbey Island band, Broken Banjo, could be described as a folk/Americana vocal group, but that would not begin to describe the range of what this exciting trio delivers. Each member brings something special from their diverse backgrounds and influences. In the span of a few songs, Broken Banjo can move from a soulful ballad or jazz standard to a classic blues song. What makes them intriguing is their unique arrangements with three-part harmony. With Larry Mason on rhythm guitar, Kevin Johnson on lead acoustic and electric, and Deirdre Fairfax on guitar and lead vocals, the three creatively collaborate from their own perspectives and strengths to put a “Broken Banjo stamp” on each song. Their name was adopted from Deirdre’s father’s music and coffee house in the small town of Millington, Illinois, in the mid-60s. It seemed like a perfect namesake for the band that loves to share songs that span across genres and time.

Saturday, Sept. 2, 2:45pm • Island Thrift Stage

BURIED BLONDE

Buried Blonde is a rock band formed in Shoreline, Washington, in 2020 by vocalist, rhythm-guitarist, and songwriter Lauren Flynn. After playing numerous livestreams to support Seattle venues during lockdown, they responded to requests for more music by recording their debut 4-song EP, What Now? at Robert Lang’s studio in Seattle. Originally released in September 2022, they re-released it in February 2023, remastered by Tad Doyle. The EP was promoted through regional live shows and met with success, receiving airplay across the country and on Little Stevens Underground Garage on Sirius XM. Their sound has been described as “a perfect representation of how to capture the spirit of early 90’s rock without sounding like a carbon copy or cliche.” The group is comprised of four seasoned musicians who all met in Seattle: Lauren is an accomplished songwriter and rhythm guitarist who has recorded and led projects all over the west coast, lead guitarist Nick Kurtz has played with national and touring acts throughout Knoxville and Seattle, bassist Aniela Marie Perry studied under Wrecking Crew legend Carol Kaye and has been known to sit in on cello, and drummer Jeff Nelson rounds out the line-up with experience in rock and punk bands from Seattle to Anacortes. They have quickly gained a regional following through performances promoting the EP and are currently recording their first full length album, with the first single, “Perfect Machine,” out now. They deliver a high-energy show with Lauren’s soaring vocals set against screaming lead guitar, throbbing distorted basslines, and galloping drum beats.

Call L I V E Y O U R B E S T L I F E ! 1 0 4 0 S W K I M B A L L D R I V E , O A K H A R B O R W A 9 8 2 7 7

Independent Living-Assisted Living Memory Care-Respite Care 360-279-0933 W W W R E G E N C Y W H I D B E Y C O M WHIDBEY NEWSGROUP THE BEST OF WHIDBEY READERS CHOICE AWARDS

Saturday, Sept. 2, 3:30pm

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ISLAND VACATION? YES PLEASE!!

STREELIGHT CADENCE

The power trio of songwriters Jonathon Franklin, Ben Chai, and Clara Stegall have emerged as fresh faces in the world of folk rock, bringing frenetic energy and intimate storytelling reminiscent of their busking roots. From living rooms to club shows to 12-hour street-performing marathons, their music inspires and unites the foreign and familiar. With Jon’s fiddling captivating TikTok, Ben’s banjo picking driving melodies into progressive territory, and Clara’s silky vocals enrapturing audiences new and old, Streetlight Cadence delivers a kind of entertainment unprecedented and especially unexpected upon first glance. Winners of two Nā Hōkū (Hawaiian Grammy) Awards, the band continues to connect artist and audience through song and story, with plans to release a new record in 2023 as well as the second season of their Emmy-nominated television series, Will Play For Food.

Saturday, Sept. 2, 4:15pm • Island Thrift Stage

MILLER CAMPBELL

BLAKE NOBLE BAND

“The term ‘percussive guitar’ isn’t really strong enough for what Blake Noble does. ... But since ‘attack guitar’ isn’t really a recognized genre and you’ve got to call it something, ‘percussive guitar’ will have to do. But this is not a guy doing a bit of strumming while keeping rhythm by hitting the guitar with his thumb. This is a guy playing his guitar like a drum-kit, and it sounds fantastic.” –Pat Muir, On Magazine

“...[H]e weaves funk, blues, and rock into songs, devouring influences for fuel. Blake plays the whole damn guitar too, bending notes until you’re sure a string will pop, tapping, hammering on, and bending the fretboard until you’re sure the neck will crack, and relentlessly drumming on the body of his guitar. Blake’s music has that good kind of unrefined, though, there is a subsistence—it surrounds you with sounds and knocks you down.” –Sean Jewell, The Stranger

Saturday, Sept. 2, 5pm

Peoples Bank Stage

Billboard-charting Americana artist, Miller Campbell, highlights her southern roots (Miller is part of the legendary Glen Campbell family) with a special new show. With praise from outlets like American Songwriter Magazine, she’s setting music alight, with notes that singe like embers flying up from Johnny Cash’s famed and fiery ring. Campbell has been named an American Songwriter “Daily Discovery” featured artist and a “Next Women of Country” by Women of Country, and she has garnered a Billboard “Heatseekers” award. She has a dedicated social media following of nearly 40,000 fans, is streaming in 19 countries, and has seen her Spotify numbers grow nearly 1000% since her latest record’s release. Miller is poised and determined to add her own hits to the traditional American canon; from festivals and rodeos to country bars and honkytonks, fans are giving themselves over to an act that writes from the heart and sings from the soul.

Saturday, Sept. 2, 5:45pm Island Thrift Stage

CORY VINCENT & THE ELECTRIC BAND

Founded in early 2023, The Electric Band is quickly becoming one of the “must see” bands of the greater PNW area. Their blend of hard-hitting rock riffs, soulful vocals, and catchy songwriting is reminiscent of bands like Stone Temple Pilots, Soundgarden, The Killers, and Rival Sons. Cory Vincent (guitar & vocals), Phil Carter (drums), and Charlie Krengel (bass) have created a fresh, yet familiar, sound that is made even more powerful by the quality of their songs. If you are someone who thinks music should be experienced and not just listened to, then Cory Vincent & The Electric Band is definitely for you.

Saturday, Sept. 2, 6:30pm • Peoples Bank Stage

LEROY BELL & HIS ONLY FRIENDS

Following his appearance on the XFactor USA with airing in 120 countries, LeRoy Bell gained fans all over the world who fell in love with his soulful vocal sounds and timeless style. He is one of the most distinguished artists to evolve out of the reality TV music/entertainment world. In the years preceding the pandemic, LeRoy Bell and His Only Friends could be found touring with Huey Lewis and the News or Steve Miller up and down the west coast. They have had the pleasure of performing with Van Morrison, Fitz and the Tantrums, Train, Sheryl Crow, B.B. King, Etta James, Beth Hart, Joe Cocker, Al Green, Idina Menzel, Sharon Jones & The Dap King, Paolo Nutini, India.Arie, Erykah Badu, LeAnne Rimes, Joan Osborne, Michael McDonald, Suzanne Vega, Colin Hay, Mavis Staples, Keb Mo, Taj Mahal, Leon Russell, Charlie Musselwhite, and Los Lobos.

Saturday, Sept. 2, 7:15pm • Island Thrift Stage

HARD MAYBE

Hard Maybe is a 7-piece soul infusion hailing from Seattle with a sound that’s been described as “a fusion style completely their own.” With three-part harmony punctuated by horns, they seamlessly blend ingredients from back-beat driven funk, soul, and more to create an effortlessly cohesive and rich sound. The band formed in 2017, its members drawn together by a shared love of experimenting with harmonies, rhythm, and layers of sound. Since their formation, Hard Maybe has become a staple in the Seattle music scene, performing at some of the city’s biggest events including the Capitol Hill Block Party, Bite of Seattle, and Belltown Bloom. Hard Maybe’s unique sound is marked by powerful vocals and an explosive horn section with an infectious presence that’s sure to draw in any listener.

Explore a beautiful coastal island, full of history, forests, prairies, and beautiful beaches. Discover small charming towns, quaint shops, and delicious cuisine. Grab your gear and hop on board – IT’S FREE!

Saturday, Sept. 2, 8pm Peoples Bank Stage

Each bus is equipped with a bike rack and can safely accommodate two wheelchairs or mobility devices.

EDEN

Eden is a rock/blues/pop band from the Pacific Northwest, fronted by the powerhouse vocals of Savanna Woods, a recent Top 20 artist on NBC’s The Voice. Savanna’s unique voice is paired with these incredibly talented musicians to create an impactful and energetic sound: Aaron Hiebert on electric guitar, Jason Edwards on drums, and Ethan Gibbons on bass. They play a dynamic range of original music, paired with covers from the ‘60s through today. From Fleetwood Mac to AC/DC to Stevie Ray Vaughan, they are guaranteed to get you grooving.

Saturday, Sept. 2, 9:15pm • Island Thrift Stage

ASTERHOUSE

A deep love for the music of Jim Morrison was the seed that blossomed into Seattle alt-rock trio, Asterhouse. Earliest memories for brothers John and Russel Thornburg are of their mother playing The Doors records at home. Older brother, John, developed a reputation for belting out “adult-themed”

Doors songs at children’s parties before his parents decided drum lessons would be a better way to challenge his growing love of music. Four years younger than John, Russ Thornburg got his first guitar at age 5 and the two have been making music together ever since. Today, making music with Julio Posada, the third member of Asterhouse, is a joyful experience for the Thornburgs. For John, this joy is especially precious because it comes after a 10-year struggle with depression and OCD. During these years, John felt like he was in a coma. There were times when Russ wondered if continuing to perform was good for John, but he realized that it was the music that was carrying him through. It is this firsthand experience with darkness that drives much of John’s songwriting. He wants people who may be experiencing their own version of this hell to understand that he has been where they are and he has survived. Some songs are desolate, revisiting the experience and others are more hopeful–an invitation to enjoy life again. Their collective experience has delivered Asterhouse to a place where they make music on their own terms. They also don’t take themselves too seriously even though their songs invite deep exploration of painful places. Most of all, Asterhouse offers an invitation: come with us. Everything is going to be ok. Eventually.

Saturday, Sept. 2, 9:30pm Peoples Bank Stage

ARTS & CRAFTS VENDORS

3 SISTERS AND ME

ABSOLUTELY NUTS! LLC

AUBA MAES DESIGNS

BLANKET CREATIONS BY MARY

CHULEL CRYSTALS AND CREATIONS

CLEMENTINE THE AMAZING FACE

PAINTING AND KIND KING CLOTHING

DANCING DYES

ERICA HALLIMAN CREATIONS

FOCC

GEM ESSENTIALS

GYPSY SOUL

HARBOR ACRES GOAT MILK SOAP

HALSET STUDIO LLC

HIVE JIVE

LA LUZ

LIGHTSTORM PHOTOGRAPHY

LOVELY-DESIGN BY HEATHER

MISHAL ROWLEY DESIGNS

OAK HARBOR GARRY OAK SOCIETY

PAIN RELEAF PRODUCTS

PNW VIBES MARKET

PURRSISTENCE WORKS

RAGAMUFFIN’S ROCK ART

RAINBOW CRAFTS

ROCKIN’ RYNO AIRBRUSH TATTOOS

SETH CAMPBELL ARTISTRY

SPIN CAFÉ

SPOONS TO RINGS AND THINGS

SUNNY DAY DULCIMERS

TRILBY’S BBQ SAUCE AND SPICES

TRIPPY WHIDBEY

WASHINGTON STATE JERKY

ANDRE FERIANTE

With four decades of performing and recording, award-winning virtuoso guitarist Andre Feriante has left his musical mark on the classical, neo-flamenco, world music, and fusion scenes. A cross-over artist in the vein of Yo Yo Ma or Sting, his performance program represents a bold but fluid musical fusion, featuring music from Bach to Leonard Cohen, flamenco improvisation to jazz standards, Americana to world music, and even poetry. Born in Naples, Italy, Feriante is a world renowned virtuoso musician who plays 43 instruments, among them the Spanish guitar, harp guitar, ukulele, harp ukulele, nylon string banjo, charango, oud, saz, shamisen, ruan, and sitar. He has studied with great artists and has performed all over the world. In addition to his busy performance schedule, Feriante has released 14 albums, has hosted La Guitarra, on Classic King FM 98.1, has presented on the TEDx stage, and directs the Whidbey Island Guitar Festival and Seattle Guitar Night.

Sunday, Sept. 3, 11am Peoples Bank Stage

IAN GEORGE

Ian George delivers the sort of concert you’ll dance, sway, sing, laugh and probably cry, too. The performance teems with whimsicality, clever arrangements - interrupted by triumphant tangents - and outlandish solos grounded by George’s emotive and gauzy voice and by the simple strength of a good song. Expect an engaging and dynamic string of gentle and not so gentle folk-rock adventures.

Sunday, Sept. 3, 11am • Island Thrift Stage

TEEN TALENT SHOWCASE

KICK-BRASS

Kick-Brass is a teen brass band from here in Oak Harbor that specializes in high-energy and electrifying brass music. Made up of just a few high school students, Kick-Brass has played locally at restaurants, public events, parades, and even roller skating rinks, all in just a single year! Members include; Colton on the sousaphone, Ethan on the baritone sax, Jake on the trumpet, Mya on the drums, and Oliver on the tenor sax. They are beginning to gain traction off island and are stoked to be back on stage once again for the festival this year! Be sure to keep updated on their socials like YouTube and Instagram (@kickbrass_official) because who knows? They may be coming to you next!

GRACE ZHAO

Grace Zhao is 14 years old. She’s been playing piano since she was 4, and since then has had many opportunities to play, such as in Whidbey Has Talent and more. She’s very grateful to be playing in this year’s music festival!

DANIKA KLOEWER

Danika Kloewer is a 15-year-old local music artist and a rising sophomore at Oak Harbor High School. Danika has performed for Oak Harbor Music

GIDEON FREUDMANN

Gideon Freudmann is a cellist and composer who has redefined the role of the instrument for over three decades. He is perhaps best known for adapting the amplified cello to craft the distinct ‘CelloBop’ sound, consisting of a unique blend of classical, jazz, folk, rock, blues and funk. Using foot-operated effect pedals, he has brought cello playing into new territories of looping, soaring, multi-layering and improvisation. His music is complex, nuanced, creative and compelling.

Sunday, Sept. 3, 12:30pm

Peoples Bank Stage

BABES IN CANYON

Eloquently blending big-pine folk, indie-pop, and sweet vocal harmonies, Babes In Canyon crafts music that is eminently engaging and very much of the moment. Born of a spontaneous writing session during a blackout, their debut EP, Second Cities, unfolds with an easy grace that belies the relative newness of the endeavor. Nuanced, expertly arranged, yet profoundly catchy, Babes In Canyon stands ready to soundtrack your adventures (spontaneous or otherwise).

Sunday, Sept. 3, 2:15pm

Island Thrift Stage

NATHANIEL TALBOT TRIO

Nathaniel Talbot began learning piano at age seven, started a punk rock band at thirteen, and quickly thereafter began steeping himself in the guitar-driven sounds of Kelly Joe Phelps, Elliott Smith, Bill Frisell, and other Pacific Northwest heroes. Over the next 15 years, Talbot honed an approach to songwriting and storytelling, driven by his complex, yet delicate, fingerstyle guitar work, which earned him a distinct place in the northwest folk scene. With a full band and a broader, more experimental sonic palette, the newest album, The Fabric and the Weave never ventures too far from the grounding force of Talbot’s clear voice, affecting storytelling, and distinctive guitar lines. Talbot currently performs both as an acoustic duo with bassist Keegan Harshman and as an electric trio with the addition of Mickey Grimm on drums.

Sunday, Sept. 3, 2pm • Peoples Bank Stage

PACIFIC GRACE TAX & ACCOUNTING CENTER STAGE

SATURDAY, SEPT. 2

1:00 pm JR Russell - Magic

2:00 pm Wren - Juggling, Comedy

3:00 pm Al Hirsch - Folk singer and story teller

4:15 pm Trained Human - Master of the unnecessary

SUNDAY, SEPT. 3

1:00 pm Mario Lorenz - Funny Man

2:00 pm Linda Severt - Music, Juggling, Puppetry

3:00 pm Big Bubble Show

4:15 pm Wren - Juggling, Comedy

PIONEER TREE SERVICES BUSKERS COVE

SATURDAY, SEPT. 2

11:30 am Barb Henry-Kahawai

1:00 pm Erik Christensen

2:30 pm Singer Tina

4:00 pm Deadwood Revival

5:30 pm Chimacum Creek

7:00 pm Simon Evans

SUNDAY, SEPT. 3

11:30 am Walk the Line

1:00 pm Simon Evans

2:30 pm Eric Kosarot

3:45 pm Rosahlee

5:00 pm Kick-Brass

UNDER THE LAKE

The year 2023 marks 30 years since keyboard player Jayson Tipp founded Under The Lake. Over the past three decades, Under The Lake has released six albums, including Dive In (1993), Up For Air (1996), People Together (2007), Jazz, Groove & Attitude (2018), Your Horizon Too (2020), and their most recent release Old Friends, New Grooves (2021). The band’s credits include live performances with a “who’s who” list of jazz artists such as Joe Sample, Billy Cobham, Keiko Matsui, Stanley Jordan, and others with appearances at venerated clubs and venues throughout North America. Tipp is currently enjoying the success of his first solo release, Groove Together, co-written and produced by smooth jazz all-star saxophonist Darren Rahn, while Tipp’s bandmate, saxophonist Quintin Gerard W. is enjoying his second solo track in the Billboard Top 10 over the past year.

Sunday, Sept. 3, 3:30pm • Peoples Bank Stage

THE TALBOTT BROTHERS

The Talbott Brothers were born and raised in Imperial, Nebraska, a rural Midwest town, home to two thousand people. Siblings Nick and Ty started writing songs at a young age after discovering their dad’s old guitar and vinyl collection. Their song, “We Got Love” (2017), brought them national attention as they toured across the U.S. in an old van they found on Craigslist. Their albums, Ghost Talker (2019) and Letters (2022), garnered attention from Rolling Stone and Billboard, who called them “cinematic” with “captivating blood harmonies.”

Sunday, Sept. 3, 3:45pm • Island Thrift Stage

GINO ROSARIO

Gino Rosaria, born and raised in Curaçao and now residing in Florida, has made his debut into the contemporary jazz scene with a Billboard charting album, Still Waters Run Deep. His CD release was a sold-out show which left the crowd asking for more! Gino has performed for years with artists such as Adam Hawley, Julian Vaughn, Althea Rene, Karen Briggs, Kim Scott, Cindy Bradley, Jackiem Joyner, and many more. Gino has won several competitions and awards such as the Akademia Music Award for best funk/fusion with his Groove Symphony project. Gino has also performed numerous times on national television and at major jazz festivals. Gino’s music is charting on the Top 20 Billboard chart and can be heard on jazz stations all over the world, including Sirius XM Radio and iHeart Radio. Gino has performed at many jazz festivals and jazz venues all over the USA, Caribbean, and Europe.

Sunday, Sept. 3, 5pm • Peoples Bank Stage

TYLER BRYANT AND THE SHAKEDOWN

There’s something Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown learned from the huge shows they’ve played supporting the likes of AC/DC and Guns N’ Roses over the past few years. It’s what guitar prodigy Bryant calls “the cannonball approach.” “I’m gonna run out like a bullet from a gun and let everyone know I’m here to give ’em all I’ve got,” he says. And that’s precisely what The Shakedown do on their incendiary third album. Truth and Lies is a taut and thrilling record, exploring Bryant’s blues heritage (“Ride”), blistering heavy rock (“Shock and Awe”), heartfelt balladry (“Out There”), southern roots (“Trouble”), love of the ‘90s rock and roll movement (“Eye to Eye”), and more. They wanted the album to sound raw and visceral, not careful and labored. They did that, but without sacrificing skill and nuance; it’s a brilliant rock ‘n’ roll record that allows the ghosts of the past into the grooves whilst living firmly in the present.

There’s also a new level of depth to Bryant’s writing, inspired by his realization that, while there’s no shortage of quality singers and guitarists in the world, skill means nothing without great songs. So rather than being content with instrumental pyrotechnics, he set about writing compositions that had meaning to him–and that the kids in the audience would be able to relate to. “I’ve never really spoken about this, but I deal with extreme anxiety and panic attacks,” he says. “It’s a vicious cycle that I think a lot of people find themselves in. Music’s always been my outlet to seek out healing and find the confidence and the power within myself. So (new album track) ‘Panic Button’ is me fighting against that cycle that I refuse to let control me.

“For me, there are a few different elements of The Shakedown,” Bryant says. “There’s the energetic, raw, jump-out-of-your-skin live version of us. Every night when we run on stage, I get such an adrenaline rush that I feel like my heart and soul are going to come busting out of my skin. And then there’s this other side, which is a little more sensitive, a little more insecure and hopeful.”

Upcoming Events In Downtown Oak Harbor

September 1-3 • Oak Harbor Music Festival

September 9 & 10 • Hydros for Heroes

September 16 • Military Appreciation Picnic

September 23 • Art & Chalk Walk

September 30 • Garden Club 100 Year Celebration

October 1 • Adopt A Toy Soldier

October 7 • Hispanic Heritage Celebration

October 31 • No Tricks Safe Treats

Nov. 1-Dec 15 • Green Ticket Cash Giveaway

November 11 • Veterans Day Parade

Nov. 24-Dec. 15 • Vote For Your Favorite Toy Soldier

November 24 • Plaid Friday

November 25 • Small Business Saturday

November 26 • Shop Small Sunday

December 2 • Home for the Holidays:

Holiday Open House 11am-4pm

Santa Parade 4pm • Tree Lighting 5:30pm

December 31 • Fireworks

Buskers on the Corner

By The Harbor Market

No Tricks Safe Treats

Home for the Holidays Sasquatch Walk