Music: Gary Louris (of The Jayhawks)

Over the last three decades, singer, songwriter, guitarist and producer Gary Louris has built a deeply compelling body of music whose artistry and integrity has won the loyalty of an international audience and the respect of both critics and his peers. Best known for his seminal work with The Jayhawks, he is one of the most acclaimed musicians to come out of Minnesota’s vibrant rock scene.

Concurrent with his time in the Jayhawks, Louris has been a charter member of the part-time alt-rock supergroup Golden Smog, which at various times has in-cluded members of Soul Asylum, Wilco, the Replacements and Big Star. Louris also formed Au Pair with North Carolina artist Django Haskins in 2015 and re-leased an album that same year.

Along the way Louris has produced records by various artists, contributed songs to Grammy Award-winning albums by the Tedeschi/Trucks Band and The Dixie Chicks; and recorded with acts as diverse as the Black Crowes, Counting Crows, Uncle Tupelo, Joe Henry, John Hiatt, Lucinda Williams, Roger McGuinn, Maria McKee, Nickel Creek, Carrie Rodriguez, Tift Merritt and the Wallflowers.

Louris released his first solo album, Vagabonds, in 2008. His long awaited 2nd solo album, Jump For Joy, is scheduled for a June 2021 release. In January 2021, Louris launched a Patreon page, featuring weekly posts of new and old music, video content, commentary and more. Along with keeping the Jayhawks flame burning, Louris is currently looking to the future and is busier than ever – writing, performing, producing and exploring new collaborative opportunities.

Dave Fidler 

Dave Fidler is an accomplished British singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for his heartfelt lyrics and distinctive fingerstyle guitar playing. Emerging from Manchester’s vibrant music scene, Fidler’s sound is a rich blend of folk, blues, and acoustic rock, reminiscent of influences like Nick Drake and John Martyn.

Fidler’s debut album, ‘I’m Not Here’, released in 2014, garnered critical acclaim for its introspective storytelling and melodic depth. Over the years, he has captivated audiences with his soulful performances at numerous festivals and intimate venues across the UK and Europe. Apart from his solo career, Dave has collaborated with various artists and bands, further showcasing his versatility and passion for music. His commitment to his craft and his ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level make him a standout figure in the contemporary folk music landscape.