Summer is here again, and that means it’s time for the Red Butte Garden Outdoor Concert Series. The garden has become known for hosting the best in all genres of world music and providing a unique outdoor experience. This summer will be no exception, as the lineup is as solid and diverse as ever.
The Indigo Girls (June 19)
Politics and activism have always been a part of The Indigo Girls’ nature. This summer, the duo is taking it to a whole new level by trading tickets to any fan that agrees to stick around and dispose of trash and recyclables after the concert. It may be a good way to get tickets since this show is already sold out.
Chick Corea & Bela Fleck (June 20)
With his group The Flecktones on hiatus, legendary banjoist Bela Fleck decided to spend his free time with influential jazz pianist/keyboardist Chick Corea creating the recently released “The Enchantment.” With 20 Grammy Awards and decades of performing experience between them, it’s not hard to see why this rare collaboration will make for a welcome departure from the average midweek evening.
Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder (July 8)
Now in his 36th year as a virtuoso of fiddle, guitar, banjo and mandolin, Ricky Skaggs and his backing band, Kentucky Thunder, are set to prove to the Red Butte regulars that Skaggs truly does deserve his title as Bluegrass’ official ambassador. Break out the belt buckles and blue ribbons.
The Neville Brothers (July 13)
Sixteen releases and still going strong, these four brothers thrive on mixing elements of funk, reggae, R&B and jazz courtesy of their New Orleans roots.
Chris Isaak (July 17)
Aside from The Indigo Girls, Chris Isaak is probably the most widely known artist performing at the Butte this summer. This will explain why tickets for his show have already sold out. Craigslist or eBay may be one’s only chance to experience Issak’s wicked game–hammocks not included.
Bettye Lavette and Mavis Staples (July 22)
Not wanting to leave the soul fandom out of the fun, these two golden girls promise to deliver everything one might expect from a woman who’s been belting out solid R&B records since the age of 16 and a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee.
Ryan Adams & The Cardinals (July 31)
One of country’s most enigmatic faces, Ryan Adams is touring in support of his forthcoming album, Easy Tiger. Expect a few new tunes and some old favorites as this anti-star shines.
Sierra Leone’s Refugee All-Stars (August 5)
Having escaped the decade-long civil war that plagued their homeland during the ’90s, the All-Stars united to liven the spirits of their refugee camp compatriots. Red Butte Garden will be graced by the eclectic mixture of roots reggae and traditional West African music that still brims with the war-weathered message of peace and love.
Keb’ Mo’ and Robert Cray (August 12)
Fans of innovative and entertaining blues music will be in for a treat as these seasoned veterans take the stage. The show is already sold out, but it’s well worth the effort to track down a ticket.
Bruce Hornsby (August 19)
Hornsby has played on more than 100 different records in his career, including stints with the Grateful Dead, Bonnie Raitt and Bob Dylan. He’s known for his largely improvisational shows, so be sure to come prepared with your favorite song request.
Son Volt (August 26)
Last but not least, alt-country standout Son Volt will bid the summer series farewell. Debuting fresh material from their latest offering, The Search, the Volt promise to send the series out with a twang.
More information about artists and tickets can be found at www.redbuttegarden.org/concerts.
The Sierra Leone All-Stars will be performing on August 5 at Red Butte Garden.