Today, the torch-bearing Grateful Dead tribute act Dark Star Orchestra announces the lineup for their ninth annual Dark Star Jubilee music festival. Produced by All Good Presents, the event was created as a band-curated continuation of the ongoing celebration of the music of the Grateful Dead, the Dark Star Jubilee has become a Midwest tradition for kicking off the summer season with three-nights of music, camping and community.

Last weekend’s Railbird Festival which took place at Keeneland Horse Racing Course in Lexington, Kentucky, took some hard hits from the media as the first day seemed to be filled with long lines, high temperatures, and lots of thirsty concertgoers. It was the second time the festival has been held, after being forced to cancel the 2020 event due to the pandemic.

Magnolia Boulevard has started the new year on a high note by releasing the official music video for “Sister,” the powerful slow-burning standout from last summer’s New Illusion EP.

The Lexington, KY quintet, composed of lead vocalist Maggie Noelle, guitarist Gregg Erwin, keyboardist Ryan Allen, drummer Todd Copeland and bassist John Roberts, has been packing clubs for the past three years, along with an extensive tour supporting Blues Traveler in 2019. 

Magnolia Boulevard’s debut album, “New Illusion” is contagious with its bluesy, soulful flavor and grooves that jam effortlessly. I listened to the Kentucky quintet’s last track, “Sister” first. Maggie Noelle, lead vocalist, wrote the song in honor of her best friend. It’s the record’s standout. The gentle picking guitar and rumbling bass, that is almost meditative, initiates its heartfelt sentiments. The tribute is captivating both in its lyrics and accompanying instrumentals.

The Lexington, KY quintet, lead vocalist Maggie Noelle, guitarist Gregg Erwin, drummer Todd Copeland, keyboardist Ryan Allen, and bassist John Roberts, has been packing clubs for the past three years, along with an extensive tour supporting Blues Traveler in 2019. 

Between touring the festival circuit and putting the finishing touches on a forthcoming EP in July, the Lexington, KY-based Magnolia Boulevard was shaping up for a busy summer. Not to be deterred in the wake of Covid-19, the band decided to release a powerful live session of its new single, “Ride."

An upbeat expression with funk and soul influences, “Ride” explores the art of finding joy in little the little things.

Check out the premiere of the live performance video of “Ride” here: