Dreamfest:Friday-Sunday, May 16th-18th

Although the line-up for this year’s Dreamfest Weekend hasn’t been released yet, the event has more than earned our trust at this point. This marks the 14th (!!) iteration of the 3-day weekend fest, which is all about promoting Memphis music and artist collaboration. Arguably the best annual showcase of the Bluff City’s R&B and hip-hop artists, Dreamfest weekend always brings the vibes and just gets better every year. Stay tuned for more information at https://www.dreamfestweekend.com/.

New Breed Brass Band ft. Trombone Shorty: Saturday, May 31st

As a former resident of the Big Easy, it’s hard for me to overstate my deep love of New Orleans brass bands and second line culture, which very well may be the most fun music ever created. New Breed Brass Band, a group of young and fiercely talented New Orleanians steeped in the tradition, will be joined by the great Trombone Shorty. Incorporating elements of Caribbean music, Cash Money-era NOLA rap, and Anderson Paak-esque R&B, New Breed Brass Band is the new wave in Crescent City brass.

Corey Lou & Da Village + Savannah Brister: Saturday, June 7th

You know we had to give some love to the home team, right? This summer’s season features several great homegrown acts that we plan on catching, including performances from Mak Ro and the Stax Music Academy, but we’ve got this unexpected co-headlining pairing of soul-funk band Corey Lou & Da Village and former The Voice contestant Savannah Brister. If you’re looking for an excuse to break out your dancing shoes, look no further.

Eddie 9V:Thursday, June 12th

Eddie 9V’s brand of soulful blues is undeniably retro, yet his sharp observations of modern America place him solidly within the current moment. Although the Georgia-born bandleader has yet to reach the age of thirty, he’s already a seasoned veteran who has earned favorable comparisons to blues greats such as Freddie King.

Alejandro Escovedo-Friday, June 20th

NPR Music recently referred to Alejandro Escovedo’s career as “one of the most fascinating paths in music,” and once you’ve read over his biography, it’s certainly hard to disagree. Beginning as a notable figure in NYC’s ‘70s punk scene, Escovedo went on to play an important role in the development of roots rock (the True Believers) and alt-country (Rank & File) and is now a living legend in his hometown of Austin, TX. Whether or not you’ve heard his name, Escovedo is one of the greatest musical chameleons of his generation.

Eggy-Thursday, June 26th

If you can get past their exceedingly goofy band name, then Connecticut jam band Eggy really does have a lot to offer. Known for their electric live shows, the quartet has mastered the art of creating fun, funky feel-good music perfect for the summer. Think Phish with a few more contemporary influences as you’ll be close to capturing Eggy’s unique sound.

For more information about this summer’s Orion Financial Free Concert Series, visit https://overtonparkshell.org/calendar.

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