Rock the Folk OUT

Regent Media announced today the return of Out magazine’s partnership with here! Tunes to present the “Rock the Folk OUT” music tour. Capitalizing on the success of December’s East Coast tour, “Rock the Folk OUT” heads West between April 22nd and May 12th. The multi-city concert tour showcases incredible, live music from three gifted, gay singer/songwriters. The bill includes here! Tunes recording artist Stewart Lewis, Los Angeles scene favorite Jake Walden, and acoustic performer Tom Goss. Each artist brings a unique flavor with their varied performance styles, but they are unified by an exceptional level of talent and poignant songwriting skills.

Eric Sosa of The Zipper Factory Theater in New York City, where the tour played in December, noted: "The Zipper Factory was thrilled to host the first leg of the ‘Rock the Folk OUT’ tour in December of 2008. The immensely gifted Jake Walden, Stewart Lewis and Tom Goss played to a nearly sold-out crowd and brought a uniqueness to The Zipper that was both relevant and enchanting. In a genre that is mostly known for female singer-songwriters, ‘Rock the Folk OUT’ is truly an important showcase of some of the country's up-and-coming male voices."

Read more after the jump.


Tim Neary, owner of Club Q in Missoula, Montana, where the tour will be on April 25th said, “We here in Montana feel privileged to have the opportunity to host a national LGBT music tour. Missoula and Club Q are buzzing with excitement as we anticipate the arrival and performances of three very accomplished, talented musicians to our community.”

The dates for the “Rock the Folk OUT” tour are as follows:

04/22/2009 7:00 PM - Rock and Soul Cafe - Boulder, CO
04/23/2009 8:00 PM - Walnut Room - Denver, CO
04/24/2009 6:30 PM - SLC Pride Center - Salt Lake City, UT
04/25/2009 8:30 PM - Club Q - Missoula, MT
04/26/2009 7:30 PM - Dempsey’s Brass Rail - Spokane, WA
04/27/2009 7:00 PM - JewelBox Theatre - Seattle, WA
04/28/2009 8:30 PM - Mississippi Pizza - Portland, OR
04/29/2009 8:30 PM - Sam Bond’s Garage - Eugene, OR
05/01/2009 9:30 PM - Aunty Mo's - Eureka, CA
05/02/2009 3:30 PM - North Lights Books & Cafe - Cotati, CA
05/03/2009 6:30 PM - Brainwash Cafe - San Francisco, CA
05/04/2009 7:30 PM - Hotel Cafe - Los Angeles, California
05/05/2009 7:30 PM - Zoey's Cafe - Ventura, CA
05/06/2009 8:30 PM - Lestats - San Diego, CA
05/07/2009 7:30 PM - Upright Cabaret @ Ace Hotel - Palm Springs, CA
05/09/2009 6:30 PM - Beauty Bar - Las Vegas, NV
05/10/2009 8:00 PM - The Door - Phoenix, Arizona
05/12/2009 8:00 PM - Green Room - Flagstaff, AZ

For more information on tour dates, venue information, and exclusive behind-the-scenes footage of the performers on the road, log on to Myspace.com/RockTheFolkOUT. Additionally, keep an eye out for tour info on Advocate.com, Out.com, and GayWired.com, as well as other Regent Media websites.

These intimate performances treat fans to the toe-tapping, head-bopping acoustic melodies of Tom Goss, whose recent offering, “Rise,” has been recognized by DC Acoustic Underground as “easily one of the best releases this year.” Jake Walden’s piano-driven, bittersweet ballads provide equally pleasing melodies of a more somber tone. Walden’s elegant growl and rasp has earned the raw performer comparisons to Tom Waits. Jake states, "I can't wait to get back on the road with Tom and Stewart who are both inspiring and brilliant songwriters. I have so many fans in cities I will visit for the first time. I look forward to meeting some of them, and playing for new ones as well. When on the road I'm constantly reminded of why I do what I do...there is nothing that makes me feel more alive.”

Stewart Lewis, the signature recording artist of the here! Tunes label, also looks forward to the dynamic tour. Lewis’ latest album, “In Formation,” inspired Gay.com to laud him as “the feel good artist of the millennium.”

“The East Coast leg of the ‘Rock the Folk OUT’ tour proved an incredible success. These three inspiring talents played to enthusiastic and supportive crowds and had some fun in their own right,” said Brian Goldman, General Manager of here! Tunes. “Initiating a second leg of the tour on the West Coast seemed a no brainer.”

For more information on “The Rock the Folk OUT” tour visit Myspace.com/rockthefolkout or Out.com. You can find information on the “Rock the Folk OUT” artists on the web at: Myspace.com/stewartlewis, Myspace.com/jakewalden, and Myspace.com/tomgossmusic2.





Rock the Folk OUT rocked the Walnut Room last night

The Rock the Folk OUT Tour features openly gay recording artists Tom Goss, Jake Walden, and Stewart Lewis and came to Denver, Colorado's Walnut Room last night and was awesome.

The Rock the Folk OUT Tour is sponsored by Out Magazine and here! Tunes.

Free music download: Tom Goss

Tom Goss, of the Rock the Folk OUT Tour that came to Denver a few months ago, is offering up one of his earliest songs for free download at ReverbNation.com.

Tom says, "'Go' is the first song that I ever committed to recording in 2000 (in my room in Warrensburg, MO no less). Although you can tell it’s early in my songwriting and recording experience I have always been happy with what I captured."

Check it out and, if you missed it the first time around, check out the Rock the Folk OUT boys performing an exquisite rendition of Coldplay's 'Yellow' at The Walnut Room.

Jake Walden comes to Pride in the Park

Just heard that dreamboat Jake Walden will be performing at Fort Collins Pride in the Park this year.

He's really a talented musician so be sure to check him - and Pride in the Park - out.

Jake, Tom Goss, and Stewart Lewis recently came through Denver with their Rock the Folk OUT tour and it really was a great show.

Below, the Rock the Folk OUT boys perform a cover of Coldplay's 'Yellow' at the Walnut Room.

Rock the Folk OUT tonight at The Walnut Room

The Rock the Folk OUT Tour featuring Reed Foehl, Stewart Lewis, Jake Walden and Tom Goss comes to Denver's Walnut Room tonight and me and my boy Matt Kailey will be there talking to the fellas and taking plenty of pics and videos. Tickets are still available so be sure to come check it out.

America's largest Earth Day celebration comes to Denver

The initial musical line-up has been announced for eight major Earth Day events by Earth Day Network and Green Apple Festival presented by Chase. Across the country on Sunday April 20th, an eclectic line-up of artists will perform in landmark parks in eight cities. The events will combine environmental addresses by prominent speakers and educational displays with music and entertainment, on the theme of environmental awareness. The line-up ranges from blues legends to Latin powerhouse pop stars, reggae greats, jam band favorites, conscientious hip-hop artists, R&B icons, rock bands and singer/songwriters during "America's largest Earth Day celebration." A forthcoming announcement will reveal the "Green Apple Venues" - a list of participating venues and performers in each city who will employ environmentally-friendly practices throughout Earth Day Weekend.

The all-inclusive, interactive and free public events will occur in New York City (Central Park), Chicago IL (Lincoln Park Zoo), Miami FL (Bicentennial Park), Denver CO (City Park), Dallas TX (Fair Park), San Francisco CA (Golden Gate Park) and Los Angeles CA (Santa Monica Pier). The flagship event will be Earth Day 2008 on the National Mall in Washington, DC.

The combined efforts of Earth Day Network (the nonprofit organization created by the founders of the original Earth Day in 1970) and Green Apple Festival has resulted in plans for a nationwide gathering that will get Americans out of their homes and under the trees to celebrate Earth Day 2008.

"We're combining music with compelling speech to raise awareness of the problem of global warming and inspire people to action," said Kathleen Rogers, President of Earth Day Network. ."Earth Day 2008 will bring major talent and leaders together to empower people to become environmentally active."

"We're thrilled to announce this line-up and will reveal more names in the days to come," says GreenApple Festival founder and Executive Producer, Peter Shapiro. "Artists from every genre have raised their hands to participate in America's largest Earth Day celebration, spread out across the country in public parks for everyone to attend. We owe endless thanks to the artists and their teams who care enough to underscore the urgency and message of this mission."

2008 Earth Day Network/Green Apple Festival Free Line-up

NEW YORK
Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder (Grammy Award winning Country & Bluegrass Legend)
Big Head Todd and the Monsters (Indie pop)
Vusi Mahlasela ("South Africa's Bob Dylan")
Vienna Teng ("Chamber folk" singer-songwriter)

WASHINGTON DC "Earth Day 2008 on the National Mall"
The Roots & Friends ("friends" to be announced)
Gov't Mule
Toots and the Maytals (Reggae and ska pioneers)
Thievery Corp - DJ set (Internationally acclaimed DJs/producers)
Warren Haynes - solo acoustic set (The Allman Brothers Band, Gov't Mule)
Umphreys McGee (Scene leading Progressive rock/jam band)
DC Boys Choir
City Dance

CHICAGO
Derek Trucks Band
Dirty Dozen Brass Band (Iconic New Orleans brass ensemble)
Meshell Ndegeocello (Soul music singer-songwriter & multi-instrumentalist)
Chicago Afrobeat Orchestra (Hometown jazz/funk/afrobeat favorites)
Miss Lori Holton Nash (Children's Act from PBS Kids)
The Gwalla Gwallas (Environmentally active local teen/HS band)
Event MC- Kyle Orton - Chicago Bears

MIAMI
Menudo (Latin super group)
Arrested Development (Grammy Award winning hip-hop artists)
Baby Loves Salsa (Family focused salsa dance party)
Caravan of Thieves

DALLAS
Los Lonely Boys (hometown heroes)
Martin Sexton
Junior Brown (Texas country/rock crossover sensation)
Cas Haley (Rock, roots, reggae)
The Steps
George Stanford

DENVER
The Neville Brothers (the First Family of Funk and R&B)
The Benevento/Russo Duo (Progressive jazz/funk favorites)
Rose Hill Drive (Boulder's own rock power trio)

SAN FRANCISCO
Mickey Hart (The Grateful Dead & friends)
Yonder Mountain String Band (Progressive Bluegrass stars)
Brett Dennen (Pop/folk singer-songwriter)

LOS ANGELES
Taj Mahal (Blues icon)
Ziggy Marley solo acoustic (Reggae Superstar)
Juliette and the Licks (female fronted power rock)
School of Rock Hollywood Allstars
The Frequency (LA indie rockers)
Coby Brown

Rock the Folk OUT

Just got back from seeing the Rock the Folk OUT boys Jake and Tom (above) and Stewart (left) at the Walnut Room. It was an awesome show and I had an awesome time. It's late and I'm ready to hit the sack but I'll have plenty of great pics and videos posted up for ya bright and early tomorrow.

This is MileHighGayGuy: Jake Walden and Tom Goss of the Rock the Folk OUT Tour

They are Jake Walden and Tom Goss from the Rock the Folk OUT Tour and this, of course, is MileHighGayGuy.com.

Rufus Wainwright returns with Out Of The Game

Rufus Wainwright returns to the pop foray with his eagerly anticipated new album, Out of the Game, to be released May 1st on Decca.  Produced by the celebrated Mark Ronson, this is the seventh studio album from one of the most accomplished, contemporary singer-songwriters today. 

 

A labor of love for both Wainwright and Ronson, Rufus calls Out of the Game, “the most pop album I’ve ever made,” while Ronson recently stated, “it’s the best work of my career.”  Recorded in New York in the fall of 2011, the twelve songs are hook-laden, memorably arranged tracks reminiscent of Rufus’ early work, following 2010’s more quietly intimate outing, Songs For Lulu. 

 

From the uptempo opening chords of the title track and first single, to the gospel tinged rock of ‘Jericho,’ through the beauty of ‘Sometimes You Need’ and the emotional pull of ‘Candles,’ this new disc ranks alongside Rufus Wainwright’s very best. 

 

Musicians on the album include the Dap-Kings who Mark used for the groundbreaking Amy Winehouse Back To Black album and his own ‘Record Collection’; Wilco’s Nels Cline; Nick Zinner of Yeah Yeah Yeahs; Andrew Wyatt from Miike Snow; Sean Lennon and Martha Wainwright.

 

Influences, as ever, were all encompassing. Mark says Out of the Game “has a real 70’s, Laurel Canyon spirit” while Rufus cites “all the greats- Elton, Freddie Mercury, David Bowie - basically the brash and beautiful. It’s also very Rufus.”

 

Affectionately referred to by Elton John as "the greatest songwriter on the planet" and praised by The New York Times for his “genuine originality,” Grammy nominee Rufus Wainwright has established himself as one of the great male vocalists and songwriters of his generation.  He is the son of folk singers Loudon Wainwright III and Kate McGarrigle, and brother of Martha Wainwright, but Rufus has achieved his success by carving out his own singular sound in the worlds of rock, opera, theater, dance and film. 

The MileHighGayGuy Guide to 2013’s Top Albums Featuring Drake, Pet Shop Boys, Lorde, and More!

By John Hill

If someone asks you about music in 2013 and you think of Miley Cyrus, chances are you weren’t paying close enough attention because a LOT of quality music came out over the past 12 months. Pop, rock, hip hop, dance, country…a lot of genres had great records to talk about and listen to. Here are ten of those albums in no particular order that are worthy of being considered the best of the best.

Drake/Nothing Was the Same
The impressive thing about Drake is that he is still considered legit by the hip-hop community while courting a large mainstream fan base that loves his more pop-leaning tracks. 2013 saw Drake maintain that dichotomy by first releasing the back to basics “Started from the Bottom” which debuted the night he won a Grammy for Best Rap Album for 2011’s Take Care. “Started” peaked at number six on the Billboard Hot 100, followed by the even bigger pop hit “Hold On, We’re Going Home,” which made it up to number four. The way that Drake brags about his prowess in business, on the mic and in bed while still maintaining a level of accessibility and vulnerability that keeps him edgy and relatable is impressive, and that dynamic that will keep his fans coming back for more. Highlights: “Started From the Bottom,” “Hold On, We’re Going Home,” “The Language”

Sara Bareilles/The Blessed Unrest

Pretty much everyone in the industry was caught off guard when Sara Bareilles garnered an Album of the Year Grammy nomination for The Blessed Unrest at the 2014 Awards. That surprise fell into two categories: those who hadn’t paid attention to the album, and those who had but figured it didn’t stand a chance. Count me amongst the latter…on her fourth full-length studio album, Bareilles expanded her musical palette outward from her piano-driven pop to a more eclectic collection, but the album seemed overshadowed by higher profile releases like Taylor Swift and Justin Timberlake. Now that her name is up for consideration, she may actually have a chance if the Grammy voters are in an underdog kind of mood. No matter which direction that vote goes, check out The Blessed Unrest and its diverse body of work, including the instant gay marriage anthem “I Choose You.” Highlights: “Brave,” “Manhattan,” “I Choose You”

Lady Gaga/ARTPOP
When hype overwhelms art, there is no way that art can be taken at face value. Such is the dilemma that Lady Gaga experienced upon releasing ARTPOP. Gaga created such an enigma around her latest disc that even a classic album like Thriller wouldn’t live up to that much hype. That’s a shame, because ARTPOP is a solid album filled with the Lady’s trademark anthemic hooks. “Applause” grabbed my attention on first listen and I instantly declared it the winner in the Gaga vs. Katy Perry showdown. However, the big surprise on this record was the inclusion of a duet with none other than R. Kelly on “Do What U Want.” Crazy thing is that it’s not a stunt: it works! Highlights: “Applause,” “Do What U Want,” “Gypsy”

Haim/Days Are Gone
What is it about sibling trios recording solid pop/rock music? Hanson, the Jonas Brothers (I heard your eyes roll), the Bee Gees…whatever your opinion, these groups had catchy songs combined with tight harmonies. In 2013, music lovers all over the globe added Haim to that list. In fact, their album debuted at number one in the UK, preventing the second edition of Justin Timberlake’s 20/20 Experience from hitting the top of the chart. Haim are part 80s dance pop, part 80s yacht rock, and 100% grounded in the present with tight harmonies and great studio production. Highlights: “The Wire,” “Falling,” “Forever”

Kacey Musgraves/Same Trailer Different Park
“Make lots of noise/kiss lots of boys/or kiss lots of girls if that’s something you’re into.” That was potentially the most talked about lyric in Nashville this year, thanks to singer/songwriter Kacey Musgraves. Upon first listen, radio programmers said “we love it, but we’ll never play it.” True to their word and despite a well-received performance by Musgraves on the Country Music Awards in November, the single stalled at Country radio. However, let that serve as a great reason to dig in to the rest of her album. Kacey mixes traditional country instrumentation with modern takes and circumstances to deliver an album both country lovers and non-believers can relate to. It might be seen as crude by some, but the picture Musgraves paints is vividly real. Highlights: “Follow Your Arrow,” “Merry Go Round,” “I Miss You”
 
Pet Shop Boys/Electric
How do you criticize a band that’s been blazing trails for over 25 years and is beloved within the gay community? It’s tough, but the Pet Shop Boys earned some of that criticism with their last album (Elysium) that was uneven at best. Fortunately, Neil and Chris decided to dedicate their newest album to the dance floor and brought in producer extraordinaire Stuart Price to helm the project. The resulting album is Electric, and it is easily their best album since Very back in the early 90s. From the anthemic “Love is a Bourgeois Construct” to the modern “Thursday” with rap interlude included, the Boys sound like they’re having fun, and it’s great to hear that. But it is album closer “Vocal” that really struck home. “I like the people/I like the song/This is my kind of music/They play it all night long” That’s the club I want to be at, and Electric is the soundtrack I want to hear. Highlights: “Vocal,” “Thursday,” “Love is a Bourgeois Construct”

Lorde/Pure Heroine

Normally when a song spends nine weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, I get to a point where I can’t bear to hear the song for a good month. That didn’t happen with “Royals,” which I still can’t get enough of. There is something so unique and fresh about the song and Pure Heroine that keeps it from getting stale, and the singles that have followed (“Team,” “Tennis Court”) have kept Lorde’s momentum rolling. Pure Heroine ended up being one of the best debuts of 2013, even if the Grammys neglected to nominate Lorde for Best New Artist. Highlights: “Royals,” “Team,” “Tennis Court”


St Lucia/When the Night
I’ve spent the better part of 2013 raving about St. Lucia based on seeing them open for Ellie Goulding back in February. As the buzz around them built, the release of their first full-length album When the Night became something to get excited for. Fortunately, the record dropped and was even better than you could expect from a debut. St Lucia’s sound is very reminiscent of the 80s New Romantic/New Wave sound of groups like Spandau Ballet, Thompson Twins and even Peter Gabriel and his most commercial point. Lead single “Elevate” is a joyous party, “Closer Than This” is synthtastic, and “All Eyes On You” has that awesome end of a John Hughes film vibe to it. Best played on repeat over and over. Highlights: “Elevate,” “All Eyes On You,” “The Way You Remember Me”

Jason Isbell/Southeastern
Somewhere between Country music and Folk music lays Alt-Country or Americana, and the sub-genre was responsible for some of the best music to come out in 2013. The Mavericks, Kelly Willis & Bruce Robison, Emmylou Harris & Rodney Crowell…all of these folks released stellar albums, but none could surpass the emotional depth and passion that Jason Isbell captured on Southeastern. Frank, raw tracks like “Traveling Alone” and the heart-wrenching “Elephant” are musical stories of the finest kind. Highlights: “Traveling Alone,” “Elephant,” “Cover Me Up”

Jessie Ware/Devotion  
One of the most promising artists on the rise in 2012 was Jessie Ware, and she delivered in spades this year when she finally released her Devotion album here in the US. Songs that we had already heard last year like “Wildest Moments” and “Running” were paired with new gems like the disco-tastic “Imagine It Was Us” to make her US debut a memorable one. Here’s hoping that her record company hangs in there with promotion so more of America gets to hear her amazing voice. Highlights: “Wildest Moments,” “Running,” “Imagine It Was Us”

I hope you all have an amazing New Year filled with new experiences and amazing music. I will be kicking off the New Year by counting down my Top Songs of 2013 over at Pop Music Notes.



While his full-time job is in education, John Hill also writes a successful music blog titled Pop Music Notes. He is also active on Twitter @popmusicnotes and lives in Denver with his partners in crime James and Bruiser.

Inspiration + Adventure Await This Summer at Denver’s Mile High Attractions

Craftsmanship and curation combine for an unparalleled season of offerings in Denver this summer, rich with top athletes and musicians, history’s best artists and most notable work, and an incredible variety of craft beer and on-trend restaurants. 

“The Mile High City is an active, adventurous place, so it’s no wonder it attracts travelers intentionally seeking the outdoor and cultural offerings we provide on a daily basis,” said Richard Scharf, president and CEO, VISIT DENVER.  “Denver really is a four-season destination, but if I had to pick a favorite time of year, looking at how much is happening in our great city over the next few months, right now I would say summer.  Ask me again this fall when there’s a new season of sports, beer brewers promoting their craft, and artists are showcasing their creations.”

Check out some of Denver's summer attractions after the jump.

Travel: A hot, hot, hot summer for LGBT travelers to Philly

Photo by A. Sinagoga for VISIT PHILADELPHIA^®

Earning a perfect score on the Human Right Campaign’s Municipality Index for three years running, Philadelphia continues to prove that it’s still one of the best destinations for LGBT travelers to get their history straight and their nightlife gay.

In 2015, Philadelphia marks the 50th Anniversary of the Gay Rights Movement with a year of commemorative exhibitions at major institutions and a Fourth of July weekend full of special events, including a re-enactment of the first “Annual Reminder,” which took place in front of Independence Hall on July 4, 1965.

Add to that landmark celebration a calendar of weekly parties, annual gay pride events, eye-popping art exhibitions and celebrity-studded film and theater festivals. Take a look at some big events in May, June and July 2015 after the jump.

It's a jam band type of summer here in Denver

If you’re a jam band fanatic, Denver is the place to be this summer, with must-see concerts from Phish, Dave Matthews Band, Widespread Panic and many more. Of course, the scene is nothing new here. Ever since The Grateful Dead (the original jam band) started playing the famed Red Rocks Amphitheatre in the late 1970s, the Denver area has been a hotspot for great music and great times. From homegrown heroes like String Cheese Incident to Furthur (the supergroup featuring the Dead’s Bob Weir and Phil Lesh), this summer in The Mile High City is shaping up to be one long, strange – and fun – trip.

Be sure to check out visitdenver.com/jambands2013 for a playlist featuring some of these great artists coming to Denver this summer:

Umphrey’s McGee, June 7, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

Fans who have followed Umphrey's McGee for any period of time know that there are only two guarantees: you never know what you’re going to get and Umphrey’s always delivers. The group returns in 2013 to headline Red Rocks for the fourth consecutive year, in celebration of their 15-year anniversary as a band.

Rocky Mountain Grateful Dead Revue, June 21, Fox Theatre

Rocky Mountain Grateful Dead Revue was formed in 2005 from the top players of the foremost Grateful Dead tribute bands in the Rocky Mountain region. The band's forte lies in its faithful rendering of Grateful Dead material, both originals and covers, and the Grateful Dead's trademark style of improvisation.

O.A.R., June 22, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

Touring powerhouse O.A.R. brings its tight live show back to Red Rocks, where the band recorded their live 2012 CD and DVD, Live on Red Rocks.

Widespread Panic, June 27-30, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

After a year-long hiatus, jam fan favorites Widespread Panic return to the road – and of course, their home away from home, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre for four consecutive nights. Widespread Panic holds the record for sold out performances at Red Rocks with 38 shows (three nights in 2011 sold out in seven minutes).   

Blues Traveler / moe., July 4, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

A Fourth of July tradition! Blues Traveler has been playing Independence Day concerts at Red Rocks for more than a decade now, bringing their rootsy, harmonica-fueled jams to America’s premier outdoor music venue.

Railroad Earth with Galactic & Greensky Bluegrass, July 12, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

The members of Railroad Earth aren’t losing any sleep about what “kind” of music they play – they just play it. And they play it amazingly well, bringing a bluegrass feel to the jam band style.

Bruce Hornsby & the Noisemakers, July 18, Denver Botanic Gardens

World famous pianist/songwriter Bruce Hornsby is still, blissfully, making joyful noise after more than a quarter century in the limelight. A close collaborator with the Grateful Dead in the early 90s, Hornsby’s live sets are unpredictable, exciting and imaginative. Don’t miss him in the beautiful setting of the Denver Botanic Gardens.

The String Cheese Incident, July 26-27, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

Hailing from Telluride and Crested Butte, The String Cheese Incident represent Colorado’s vibrant jam band scene, blending elements of folk, jazz, rock and bluegrass into a thoroughly enjoyable musical stew. The band took a few years off during the last decade, but it’s no coincidence that in 2010 they chose Red Rocks as the site of their triumphant return.

Jerry Garcia Symphonic Celebration featuring Warren Haynes and the Colorado Symphony Orchestra, July 30, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

This groundbreaking orchestral adventure features the late great Jerry Garcia's storied original compositions as well as classic interpretations of timeless standards that were hallmarks of Garcia and the Grateful Dead’s shows. 

Dave Matthews Band, August 23-24, Dick’s Sporting Goods Park

Dave is back! The Dave Matthews Band has sold a collective 37 million CDs and DVDs combined and ranked the biggest ticket seller worldwide of the past decade and has sold more than 18 million tickets since its inception. There will be no better place to catch them than Denver this summer during this epic two-night stand.

Phish, August 30-September 1, Dick’s Sporting Goods Park

Denver’s got one of the most popular jam bands in the world for three nights this summer. Phish have earned a wildly devoted following over the past 20 years, thanks to the guitar heroics of Trey Anastasio, an always-unpredictable live show and unparalleled instrumental interplay.

Furthur, September 19-22, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

Following their successful summer tour, former Grateful Dead members Phil Lesh & Bob Weir, with their band Furthur, return to Colorado to begin their much anticipated Fall Tour 2013. The legendary group will return to the iconic Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater in Morrison, CO, for four magical nights on September 19, 20, 21 & 22.

Shakedown Street, all summer long, various locations

Not as good as the real thing – but close! One of the world’s best Grateful Dead tribute bands calls the Rocky Mountain Front Range home, and you can find them jamming the night away at various venues throughout the area all summer long.

Check Out Some of Colorado's Best Film and Music Festivals This Summer!

The weather is warming, the days are getting longer and Colorado is gearing up for the sights and sounds of festival season. Colorado is a popular destination for film buffs and music goers alike with events set against gorgeous backdrops from the Telluride Film Festival to Denver’s Underground Music Showcase. 

Check out a sampling of film and music festivals happening throughout the state this summer and fall after the jump!

 

Travel: British Columbia

Prince George Braces for Coldsnap 2008: There are many ways to bundle up against the cold weather months. Roaring fires. An extra blanket. A snuggle with a loved one. But in Northern BC’s bustling community of Prince George, you’re best to throw on a scarf and settle in for the Coldsnap – particularly when it boasts a symphony of musicians and plenty of incentive to shake off the chill. Positioned to play January 26 – February 2, 2008, this is one music festival which celebrates quality of artistry, thanks to an offering of jazz, contemporary and traditional folk, roots, celtic, rockabilly, modern rock and more – all considered to be among the best in the biz. This devotion to showcasing some of the world’s finest musicians is the brainchild of the Prince George Folkfest Society, the same chorus of dedicated souls who brought four years of stellar music to the summer stage during the city’s Folkfest celebrations - an event heralded as one of the country’s finest music fests. Coldsnap promises to follow in these footsteps with eight days of play in a host of venues throughout the city. Mainstage draws will round up the masses; you won’t be anywhere near your seats thanks to the infectious beat of Spirit of the West; the Ben Harper-style funk and pop sounds of Seattle's Leroy Bell Band are sure to be a show stopper; and charismatic Brit artist Martyn Joseph will have you clamouring as a newbie fan. Aboriginal award winning artist Leela Gilday will be joined by her band of skilled musicians, while Afro Cuban jazz from Zapato Negro, and Hot Club of France 20s and 30s jazz from Van Django both promise an experience out of this world (or at least, not of this country). To round out the acts, former Wailin' Jenny member Cara Luft, and the power-pop sounds of Maurice (who have just finished their first cd produced by David Foster) will ensure Mom, Dad and even the little ones take in a bit of toe tappin’. And for those seeking a bit of musical inspiration, along with a strum of instruction, a series of Saturday workshops awaits at Art Space from 10am-4pm. Point your compass north, and take in the cool sounds and righteous riffs during this Coldsnap. www.coldsnapfestival.com

BC’s Kootenay Rockies Region Provides the Backdrop to Stoke It Up: For some, a winter adventure requires a little torque. And maybe a fuzzy toque. In BC’s Kootenay Rockies region, plan (and pack) for both. Glacier House and Resort, just north of Revelstoke, is all about winter, and certainly about winter fun. That means snowmobiling (or sledding) directly from the resort’s picturesque lodge onto celebrated snowy surfaces dubbed Frisby Ridge, Boulder Mountain and Turtle. Bring your own winter steed, or saddle up with one of the resort’s premier sleds, provided by Great Canadian Snowmobile Tours. With an annual snowfall of 16 to 20 metres (50 to 60 feet) within the Columbia Mountain range, that’s plenty of powder guaranteed, at least until mid-May. And with moderate temperatures, an extensive network of groomed mountain trails and endless alpine meadows and deep powder bowls, this is one outing which promises to be a class above the rest. Prefer a more hands-on experience? The resort’s full service shop provides fuel for snowmobiles, the aforementioned rentals, workshops, trail information, as well as guides and sled tours. There’s even night riding complete with a barbeque for those looking for something a bit off the trail. Hands off? Take the trail map…and just ride. Back at the resort, park your sled and shelf the horsepower for the night amid the destination’s array of snug, hand-crafted log chalets and cabins. If you can tear yourself away from the crackle of the fire and unobstructed views of Begbie Glacier and Mount Revelstoke National Park, an indoor pool, multiple hot tubs, bistro menus and a full-service spa might just provide the ideal respite. Friends, family…bring ‘em all. Time to get back in the saddle. www.glacierhouse.com

Colorado Springs PrideFest 2009

There's lots in store for Colorado Springs Pride 2009:

Beer Garden - Enjoy your favorite Miller and Miller Lite brews, or add a little adventure with our all-new Vodka Mixers! More excitement? Check out the all-new Beer Garden Casino!
Entertainment - This year, enjoy your favorite music on 2, that's right, 2 stages! From hip-hop and rock, to country and folk, and from drag queens and kings to the hottest dance, Colorado Springs PrideFest has something for you! Plus, save the date for our Inagural PrideFest Entertainment Showcase on Saturday, May 9th! Be part of PrideFest in the making!

Pride Weddings - Check out Colorado's mass lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and allied wedding, anniversary and commitment ceremony. Plus, don't miss our all-new wedding packages for the newly weds!

Theme - 1969 Stonewall Revival!
Celebrating 40 Years of Progress since the Stonewall Rebellion! Time to dig out your peace signs, rainbow tie-dye and all of your favorite hippy gear.

HealthFest - You're out having a good time with community, might as well get checked out!

Family Fun Day - Of course, Colorado Springs PrideFest has something for all ages, and remains one of the region's most family-friendly events. But, if you'd like something just for the family and the kids, be sure to check out the games and ice cream for Pride Family Fun Day on Saturday, July 18th. Details to follow!

And So Much More!
Stay tuned to find out what else is poppin' at Springs Pride 2009!

Jake Walden in the running to win Myspace record deal. Vote now!

I posted up a little Tom Goss news the other day and now one of the other cuties from the recent Rock the Folk OUT tour has got some exciting stuff going on.

Jake Walden (left, barefoot and backstage at The Walnut Room) is in the running to win a record deal on Myspace.

Check out the link below to listen to some of Jake's music. If you like what you hear then give the man your vote!

The Gay Vegans: Make Leap Day donation to the non-profit of your choice!

By Dan Hanley

Being gay and vegan, we have several different kinds of non-profits that we donate money to. Some are making the world a better place for animals, some for LGBTQ folk, and some for people with HIV or AIDS. All of them love getting donations in February.

Most non-profits get tons of donations in the last couple of months of the year. This make sense for people giving money, as they are feeling a little more generous and/or making donations for tax purposes. For the groups making the world a better place for all living beings, a donation in December is great. The same donation earlier in the year, when giving is low and needs remain the same (and for most groups we support the need is always rising), means even more.

As much as we try to be a voice for the voiceless every day, and as many actions as we might take to support animals being tortured and humans being discriminated against, there are many groups out there that are rocking it for the voiceless. Some of them are linked from our blog. Check them out. Look to see if it might be a convenient time to donate to one of these groups, or a group local to you making a difference.

Then donate. Give them the much needed funds they need to continue to rock it for the voiceless.

And don't think for a second that your donation of $10 or $25 is too small to make a difference. It all adds up, and every donation is important to the organizations out there making the world a better place for all living beings.

This post originally appeared on Dan Hanley's website The Gay Vegans. Republished with permission.

Tegan & Sara Cover The Advocate's 40 Under 40 Issue

The Advocate proudly presents its fifth annual list of the up-and-coming LGBT leaders in politics, science, the arts, and more and musicians Tegan & Sara, with their seventh album, Heartthrob, and a decade-plus experience under their belts, lead the pack of accomplished leaders in politics, sports, science, religion, and the arts. The dynamic pair recently sat with The Advocate’s editor in chief Matthew Breen to talk about their skyrocketing careers, the struggles on whether they should come out publicly, and separating their music and politics.

 

Tegan & Sara, gay twin sisters from Western Canada, are seasoned professionals at the age of 32. Known to many queer and folk/indie rock fans for over a decade, Tegan & Sara have been writing music for a full half of their lives. They were signed to a record deal at the tender age of 19. Almost immediately upon signing with Vapor Records, the label run by Neil Young’s manager, Elliot Roberts, they saw press requests flooding in and they had to contend with being out publicly. That is when the pair had an illuminating conversation with Roberts that would shape the trajectory of their career.

 

“We were almost asking for permission from him, like, ‘Is it OK? Are we going to hurt our career?’” Tegan told The Advocate about the possibility of being openly gay in their professional lives. “It’s so significant to me now to look back at that moment because what Elliot said to us could have steered us in a very different direction. He just said, ‘Be yourselves. If you’re gay, you should be comfortable, you should talk about yourselves. These are your experience and your stories and your songs. And being authentic and being transparent with people is what’s going to connect them to you.’ And so off we went…I’m so glad that Elliot said that, because if he had said, ‘Let’s play that down let’s get you on dates with Tobey Maguire and Leonardo DiCaprio,’ I actually probably would have been straight then, if he’d said that.”

 

Since making that decision, Tegan & Sara have been constantly bombarded by journalists looking to interview them about being gay, and they are more than happy to field those questions. “I want to be able to be gay and be a girl, and this shouldn’t mean that I’m marginalized. I should be able to be a universal musician and appeal to both men and women, straight and gay.”

 

And with LGBT news and current events dominating the headlines, Tegan & Sara still believe that the stage is for music and that they do not have a political agenda when performing. “As a political person who makes popular music that has nothing to do with politics,” Sara says. “I think it’s important to be visible and have my politics be visible in appropriate ways offstage. I don’t want to make a political record, but I’m going to leave a political record offstage. That’s the world I want to live in. I don’t do it all the time and I would never be reckless about my opinions, and we don’t necessarily give ourselves rules, but when something’s important to us, we talk about it.”

'Till the End - Tom Goss

''Til the End', the latest from musician Tom Goss - who brought the Rock the Folk Out tour to Denver earlier this year - has reached the number one spot on Logo's music charts. Enjoy!