Arts festival brings more than just art

Friday, June 6

Joan ArmatradingReggae, soul, funk and jazz blended together – that’s… Friday, June 6

Joan ArmatradingReggae, soul, funk and jazz blended together – that’s the music of Joan Armatrading. The British singer/songwriter has almost three musical decades behind her, and she’s still going strong. Curiously, she was more successful in the United States than she was in her native England, where she only produced one top 10 single, “Love and Affection.” She sounds like a cross between folk singer Joni Mitchell and the modern day songster Tracy Chapman. Twice nominated for Best Female Vocalist at the Grammys, Armatrading brings her signature sounds for all of Pittsburgh to hear.-Katie Mavrich, A ‘ E Editor

Saturday, June 7

Kathleen EdwardsRiding on the success of her 2002 debut, Failer, Canadian rising star Kathleen Edwards is slowly becoming one of America’s favorite folk icons. After spending the majority of the past few years touring around the country, Edwards has crooned and strummed her way into the hearts of an ever-growing fan base. Earlier this year, Rolling Stone magazine pegged Edwards as an “artist to watch.” The hype is certainly deserved, as Edwards’ brand of honest folk never fails to enrapture. Be sure to make it out for her set this Saturday.-Clinton Doggett, senior staff writer

Sunday, June 8

Delbert McClintonBefore he sang country and blues ballads, Delbert McClinton played the harmonica. He began playing the instrument as a teenager, and moved on to play background music for Howlin’ Wolf, Jimmy Reed and Sonny Boy Williamson II. The Texan was the first white man to be played on KNOK, a Fort Worth radio station, in 1962, with his cover of “Wake Up Baby,” originally by Williamson. Not one to forget his musical roots, the harmonica is one of the key ingredients in McClinton’s bluesy tunes.-Katie Mavrich, A ‘ E Editor

Monday, June 9

The Nego Gato EnsembleBrazilian culture has been influenced in many ways by African culture. 30 years ago Nego Gato was formed in Brazil, and the troupe fuses African and Brazilian dance with international dance music. The result is a twisting, acrobatic performance that is sure to stun both the eyes and ears of the onlooking audience. Elaborate costumes further accessorize the Afro-Brazilian music and dance, making this a performance to remember.-Katie Mavrich, A ‘ E Editor

Tuesday, June 10

Little FeatFile this one under “Concerts to See with Your Parents.” Celebrated as one of the longest-lasting Southern rock bands of the last century, Little Feat’s mixture of country, R’B, rock and blues has garnered a cult following that has been growing for more than 30 years. Last year, the band re-released their classic live album, Waiting for Columbus, along with another live album, Live at the Rams Head. The surplus of Little Feat live albums can speak only for the band’s audacious performances, which have entertained the masses for years and have yet to disappoint.-Clinton Doggett, senior staff writer

All shows begin at 7:30 p.m. on the WYEP Festival Stage. For more information visit www.artsfestival.net.