Steph Strings is an Australian singer-songwriter and guitarist whose music bridges the gap between the intimate and the expansive. Known for her unique ability to tell stories through her instrument, Steph’s signature sound fuses intricate fingerstyle guitar, percussive rhythms, and earthy, organic textures with lyrics that balance vulnerability with strength.
Drawing on the traditional jazz heritage of their hometown of New Orleans, the Hot 8 Brass Band are renowned for including elements of funk, hip hop, rap, and its local variation, “bounce” in their music. The collective earned a win in the 64th Annual Grammy Awards 2022 for their feature on John Batiste’s ‘Album of The Year', following the nomination of their ‘The Life & Times Of…’ LP for ‘Best Regional Roots Album’ in 2013.
With a voice like worn leather and songs that hit straight to the soul, Ian Flanigan is a powerful presence in modern Country and Americana. A road-tested artist since the age of 17, Ian has spent years traveling the country, living on the road, and building a grassroots career grounded in authenticity and connection. After capturing national attention as a finalist on NBC’s The Voice (Team Blake, Season 19), he signed with Reviver Records and has continued touring relentlessly, releasing music consistently, and deepening his impact across the Country and Americana scenes.
Opener: Sam Gelband
The Ark 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, United StatesEsther Rose was on a long solo drive when she started writing the opening title track of Want, her stunning fifth album. At first, the words seemed almost like a joke, something to keep herself amused as the miles passed. “I want a puppy, but I don't want a mess. I want to know where I’m going without GPS,” she sang from behind the wheel. Soon, the idea snowballed into a list of desires that spanned existential, spiritual, and mundane; romantic to platonic to familial; at once wildly ambitious yet piercingly relatable; all set to a catchy melody that blends her pop instincts with country storytelling and the raw immediacy of a basement punk show. In other words, she was on her way to another classic Esther Rose song.
Handmade Moments is a duo based in New Orleans, LA. Anna Moss and Joel Ludford’s endearing personalities guide us through diverse musical flavors of American music. They serve up ornate instrumentation and simple yet sophisticated songcraft. Their live show offers a memorable mix of intoxicating vocals, bass clarinet, saxophone, sousaphone, guitar, upright bass, and tag team beatboxing.
Gregory Stovetop is a singer songwriter from Chelsea, Michigan blending cosmic folk, rock ’n’ roll grit, and heart-scorched soul. His music channels transformation, reverence, and mystic fire. Currently recording an acoustic record with Dominic John Davis ( Steppin in it /Jack White) will be released in the Summer of 2026, Stovetop’s sound is raw, radiant, and unmistakably his own.
It's hard to believe, because each show is fresh and new, but the RFD Boys have been delighting Michigan audiences since 1969 with their fabulous musicianship and sly, exquisitely timed between-song humor. They're legends of Michigan bluegrass, but they're more than that too. With an appearance on the cover of Bluegrass Unlimited, with songs recorded by the likes of the Country Gentlemen, and with performances alongside bluegrass greats like Bill Monroe and Ralph Stanley, the RFD Boys are a part of America's bluegrass tradition. Tickets available at the door. There are no advance tickets for this show.
Many know Matt Watroba as the voice of folk music in Michigan for his work producing and hosting shows for public radio. He has devoted his life and career to being a custodian of American folk and roots music. This has helped shape a repertoire and presentation that is unique on stages across the state and country.
Whether you're looking for your big break, want to perfect your live performance skills, or just want to perform live for the sheer fun of it, Open Stage nights offer supportive audiences and a terrific space. Performers have eight minutes (or two songs) each to do their thing. Doors open at 7:30, and names are drawn at 7:55 and 8:30. If your name isn't chosen, bring your raffle ticket with you next time, and you'll double your chances. Tickets at the door.
Holly Near has been singing for a more equitable world for well over 40 creative years. An insightful story teller and skilled performer, Holly is an outspoken ambassador for peace who brings to the stage a unique integration of world consciousness, spiritual discovery, and theatricality.
A songwriter, actor, vocalist, and theatre educator, with supreme soul. Unpredictable, yet fluid, and freely authentic. Blake creates experiences that reawaken our strong bonds to the earth and humanity.
Whether playing acoustic, mandolin, national steel, or screaming electric guitar, Davy Knowles has an unmistakable style. Since bursting on to the scene with his band Back Door Slam’s critically acclaimed album ‘Roll Away’ in 2007 (“I heard the spirit of Jimi Hendrix” Patrick McDonald - Seattle Times), Davy’s star has only risen. His sophomore release ‘Coming Up For Air’ was produced by the legendary Peter Frampton (“Davy already has a recognizable style. He’s definitely the gunslinger guitarist of the 21st century,’’- Peter Frampton).