The Twilight Concert Series happens every year at Pioneer Park, and it is a fun way to spend a Thursday night listening to some good music, whether it’s well known or obscure.
The series opener will be Little Dragon on July 20. Little Dragon is a Swedish electronic music band with a distinct sound and some funky rhythms. Its music videos are somewhat psychedelic, and the band promises to be an interesting night.
Xenia Rubinos is a fluid artist who doesn’t have a specific genre, but she has a soulful sound with lovely vocals. She has performed in over 150 shows as both a headliner and as a supporting act. Safe to say she has something for everyone. She also performs on July 20.
The third act on July 20 is Angel Magic, a local band from Salt Lake City. Lauren Smith and Andrew Aguilera work together to build a sound that is soft synthpop. This band has a down to earth vibe perfect for jamming to on a hot summer night.
On July 27, Kurt Vile and the Violators take the stage. Vile set out to write songs that are real and vulnerable. The Twilight website calls him a “breath of fresh air.” His latest album was made in multiple locations all over the United States, and it seeks to unite people from the east to the west coast. His sound is airy with an undertone of meaning inviting the listener to come in and stay awhile.
On the same night as Kurt Vile and the Violators you can see Whitney. This band came together by chance during a cold Chicago winter. It chooses to record a little bit differently by using tapes. This hones its focus and helps it create memorable moments. Whitney’s music is light and fun, reflective of its early morning writing sessions.
On Aug. 3 Kamasi Washington is coming to play his jazz songs with his magical saxophone. He started training in high school after his father left a sax on the piano and Washington picked it up and started playing. His sound is jazzy and vibrantly alive like its brassy lead instrument.
Antibalas performs on Aug. 3 with its Afrobeat. This band is inspired by global uprisings and economic meltdowns. Antibalas takes these events and builds them into a unique sound perfect for swaying along to.
After Antibalas, Solange will grace Utah with her beautiful sound on Aug. 10. Her latest album, “A Seat at the Table,” topped charts at its release. It is a project on identity, grief, healing and empowerment. Her sound is gently soulful with lovely, impactful lyrics.
Kaytranada is a Haitian DJ who signed with XL records, and he will also perform on Aug. 10. He has remixed and co-produced with the best of them including Mick Jenkins, Mobb Deep, GoldLink, Syd and many more.
Cat Power will play Aug. 17. She started her first band in 1992. Raised in the south, primarily by her grandmother, her music has a drawling feel to it. Her sound is flowing and relentless.
On Aug. 24, Salt Lake City welcomes Andrew Bird. He is a vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, whistler and songwriter. His music is eclectic with honest lyrics. His style is one that invites the audience to feel included in an intimate moment of music.
One of the best known hip-hop groups, The Roots, will be at Twilight on Aug. 31. Named one of the greatest live bands by Rolling Stone, this Philly formed band knows how to perform.
In addition to The Roots, on Aug. 31 the Twilight series will close with some soul. Charles Bradley and his Extraordinaires bring this summer to a close in style.
Twilight is always a treat with a variety of different artists. Tickets are $7.50 now through the day before each concert and $50 for the season. General admission tickets at the door are $10. The VIP lounge is 21 and over, and although it is a little more pricey, it is certainly worth it as tickets are $30 in advance and $35 day of show. Tickets can be purchased at all Graywhale Entertainment locations and online at 24tix.com. Day of tickets can be purchased at the venue. For more information check out twilightconcerts.com.