The calendar said fall had arrived, but the weather was still hot and dry. Benton Harbor had traded beach towels and flip-flops for pumpkins and ghosts. The Livery embraced the spirit of harvest time, putting away the light pilsners and bringing out the Märzen. Brendan Bayliss headed to Benton Harbor knowing The Livery had great food, fantastic beer, and an energetic crowd that knew how to enjoy both.

Spring is upon us, and the world is emerging from its winter sleep. Nearly ten years ago, Despina Peters and Cassie Lynn Wright formed Fox Crossing Stringband as an all‑female four‑piece bluegrass ensemble. Recently, the band has undergone a rebirth—expanding into a five‑piece lineup with three new members. While retaining its signature female perspective, Fox Crossing now presents a stronger, more polished sound, clearly poised for the next level.

Them Coulee Boys, composed of brothers Soren Staff (lead guitar) and Jens Staff (mandolin), Beau Janke (banjo), Neil Krause (bass), and Stas Hable (drums), have made a name for themselves as innovators in funky bluegrass music. Tonight, they're at The Livery promoting their new album, "No Fun in the Chrysalis," and fans have come from far (Chicago) and near (Fairplain) to hear these storied musicians.

I love the Dead. I could listen to "Brown Eyed Women," "Bertha," or "Jack Straw" every day for the rest of my life and be happy. But there comes a time to ask: "What would Jerry do?" Thinking about that question, the answer is right in front of us—he and all the other members of the Grateful Dead would have (and, in fact, did) make new and interesting music.