Part of the beauty of a good Florida festival is that it provides opportunities to discover acts that don't make many appearances way down here on the peninsula. This weekend, bands will be traveling from as far away as Philadelphia and Colorado in order to bring their goodness to Aura Fest up the road in St. Cloud.
Also though, the festival provides a platform for local and regional bands to throw down extra hard and show fans and newcomers alike what they've got.
The fest energy is conducive to big moments and magic breakthroughs. This weekend, a handful of South Florida's finest jam units are in position to blow it out for the big crowd.
While you pack your bags and coolers, pump these jams from our beloved locals. And be sure to make it to their sets throughout the fest to show support, and to enjoy!
Check out the schedule here.
The Resolvers
The Resolvers mix of New Orleans funk and roots reggae is unique. They call the sound Big Band Reggae, which is also the name of their just released album which charted number 5 on the Billboard Reggae Charts even before it was made available online.
On the heels of this release, the band is more energized than ever. The Resolvers are doing big things, and show no signs of slowing down. If you catch one local set this weekend, make it this one. They will be playing during sunset on Sunday. Perfect.
The Heavy Pets
The Pets have gained a sizable fan base in the jam world over the course of the last few years as a result of relentless touring and two well received studio albums. You'll have two chances to see these local big timers, as they will be playing a late night set on Friday night/Saturday morning and an early evening set Saturday. Each will have a different vibe, for sure, and both ought to be sweet.
The Funky Nuggets
These cats allow lots of space and spontaneity in their music, making for long, textured, organic jams. They will be one of the first acts to play on Friday, and they'll help you get in the right state of mind for the rest of the weekend.
Aquaphonics
Aquaphonics will be playing right after the Funky Nuggets. They are high energy, funky, and lots of fun. Another great kick off band.
Marc Paperscissor and Friends
In addition to being an astonishing visual artist responsible for the Aura logo and some other interesting work that will decorate the grounds, Marc jams out! He is quirky and soulful in all of his artistic endeavors, so whatever and whoever he brings to the stage will be worth checking out. He's got a daytime slot on Sunday. It'll be great hanging out in the sunshine with this dude and his friends on stage.
Aura Music Festival. Featuring Papadosio, Brothers Past, Zoogma, the Heavy Pets, Marc Paperscissor and Friends, Aquaphonics, Fusik, Resolvers, Ketchy Shuby, the Werks, Sonic Spank, Kung Fu, and more. March 9 to 11 in Saint Cloud, Florida. Tickets cost $90 to $115. Click here.
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