The genre-bending Jon Stickley Trio brings their own unique flair to City Plaza. They have been making waves with the independent and fan-funded release of their second album, Lost at Last, which they released this past October. The originality and sheer energy of this ensemble is rooted in gypsy jazz, bluegrass, and hip-hop, which they combine in an “exhilarating all-acoustic swirl” (Acoustic Guitar Magazine). Jon Stickley Trio combines Stickley’s rapid-fire flatpicking guitar with the sultry and wild yet refined melodies of Lyndsay Pruett on violin and the deep groove of Patrick Armitage on drums. These musicians fuse their collective styles into a repertoire of exciting and innovative original music along with some captivating covers.
The Midatlantic is a crew of eclectic musicians hailing from the Cape Fear coast of North Carolina. Setting sail with a crew of five, The Midatlantic is an exciting and refreshing brand of folk rock that excites audiences, leaving them wanting more. With a unique blend of progressive folk, Americana, and bluegrass, and a hint of rock and jazz, The Midatlantic produces their unique brand of modern folk rock. Don’t be fooled by the montage of acoustic instruments. They always deliver a wide range of dynamics, energy, and melodic harmonies through songs that are sincere to love, emotions, and life experiences.
Raleigh folk musician Eric Scholz, Pickin’ in the Plaza’s musician-in-residence this year, will kick off the evening. Scholz wanted to be a rock star. After hearing an English singer-songwriter by the name of Nick Drake, music meant something more to him entirely. He cites Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty, John Prine, and Bob Dylan as other musicians who have influenced his music.
