LAKE are 20 year vets of the PNW indie rock scene. They’ve been a little bit on the back burner in recent years but are coming back strong with a new album, “Bucolic Gone,” and a big tour. It’s quiet indie rock that nonetheless burns with an unusual intensity. They’re stopping by the Odd Fellows Temple Room at the Orion on Wednesday, May 14 for a show that also features locals Sylvania Moons and Bellflower.
Winnipeg’s Cara Luft was one of the founding members of the Wailin’ Jennies and the duo The Small Glories, both popular and influential acts in the folk/Americana scene. She’ll bring her powerful original songs to a solo show at the New Prospect Theatre on Thursday, May 15. (I wouldn’t say this if her music wasn’t good, but now is also the time to give our full support to any Canadian musicians who still make the effort to come to the U.S.)
There may not be any original members left from when The Blind Boys of Alabama were founded, all the way back in 1939, but that just means that they’re an institution at this point. The current members seem well capable of carrying on their incredible legacy of heartfelt gospel harmonizing. They’re performing at the Lincoln Theatre on Friday, May 16.
The La Conner Guitar Festival, taking place from Friday, May 16 to Sunday, May 18, is an annual gathering of some of the best luthiers and acoustic guitarists in the world. If you’re in the market for a handcrafted acoustic guitar, this is the place to be, but it also has a lot to offer if you just want to listen. I’ve included the big concerts in this week’s calendar (they’re the ones at the Swinomish Yacht Club), but there are also a ton of smaller performances and workshops, so check their website for all the details.
Jesse Stanton’s music column, The Beat Goes On, appears weekly. Reach him at jsbhammusic@gmail.com; @JSBhamMusic. Check with individual venues to make sure events are still taking place as scheduled. Live music events in Whatcom County: http://www.cascadiadaily.com/category/living/arts-and-entertainment/music/music-calendar
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