Mr. Blotto was born in Chicago as an off-night vehicle for musicians who loved each others playing but were in different bands at the time. The only rule was that they would only play what they loved. That philosophy continues today and has led Mr. Blotto into unique musical situations.

Mr. Blotto takes the Jam band asthetic into areas unfamiliar to the standard Jam Scene. They have been known to cover entire albums by Led Zeppelin and the Who as well as perform entire shows of Country and Reggae. Artists as diverse as the Grateful Dead, the Flaming Lips, Willie Nelson and The Velvet Underground have seen their material interpreted by Mr. Blotto in the 2000+ shows the band has performed in the last 15 years, yet covers only pepper the bands hefty catalog of original material stemming from five studio albums and other unreleased crowd favorites.

Haunting, emotional, honest, technical, heavy – all are words that can be applied to Grand Rapids hard rockers Life Size Ghost. Since the band’s formation in 2007, founding members Talitha Snowden (vocals/keyboards), Curtis Hendershott (guitar), Erik Ryden (lead guitar), Brian Thomas (drums), plus recently-added bassist Jeremy DeHaan (also of Lansing band Herd), have been wowing crowds in their hometown, in Michigan, and beyond.

Hailing from Hemlock Michigan Big Brother Smokes paints a musical sound scape with their unique blend of influences. The boys have been playing together for just a short time and have already had great success with their self titled debut EP. Big Brother Smokes plays music for the soul reason to have fun and allow others to join in the festivities. Big Brother Smokes has a dynamic sound headed up by lead vocalist Matt Wardin. Matt’s smooth smokey vocals remind many of the classic days of rock. Lead guitarist Travis Wardin brings a new edge to the bands sound with electric solos sweeping the mix. Holding down the backbone of the rhythm section you’ll find Joe Balbaugh on the bass guitar and Ross WIlkin on percussion. Together Big Brother Smokes unites to form a strong and diverse sound for all to enjoy.