"On The List" at Zola Jesus

Zola Jesus

 1/19/15 

The Loving Touch 

as viewed by Joe La Grassa for MCB

Wisconsin's Nika Roza Danilova better known to many as Zola Jesus unleashed out a solid set at Ferndale's Loving Touch on a frigid Winter's night. An eager crowd gathered to witness the beautiful darling belt out many songs from her new album Taiga, out on Mute Records. She  appeared from beyond the curtains  and misty stage gracing  us with her presence  along with her three piece band. The synths buzzed and chimed and the live percussionist along with a trombone player crafted beautiful and dancy sounds that she flawlessly sang, crooned and screamed over. Her voice is solid, strong, comanding, angelic, smoky, sexy and sultry all at once. I felt as if I was the only one in the room and she was singing only to me. Everyone else disappeared as she cut through many tracks from Tiaga. The few people I saw in my perpherial vision were jumping, dancing, and popping around along with singing or mouthing the words and waving their hands in the air trying to catch her beautiful voice to keep with them always. 

Several highlight songs included Dangerous Days, Dust, Hunger and Lawless all off Tiaga. At one point she belted out the beginning of a song in an accopella style. It was so cutting that everyone went quiet all the way to the back of the building. So strong that she could give any current pop princess or American Idol a run for their money. Zola Jesus was operatically trained as a child, which clearly shows. At first listen, I thought she sounded like Siouxsie Sioux, Liz Frasier and Nico all at once. Her songs are often etheral, gloomy, and shimmering. She along with her band blazed through a set of electronic bliss that enraptured the audience until the very end. They came out for a one song encore and disappeared back behind the smoky curtain.  Several shows on the tour were sold out. She made it quite clear that she is very found of Detroit, so I hope to see her back soon, hopefully selling out a much larger venue. Angel Deradoorian (Dirty Projectors member) opened the show with a fine set as well. 

photos by Mikel O.D.

of Most People Are DJs

Check out some shots from Perfect Ten- a fundraiser for Michigan Humane Society

Perfect Ten

1/17/2015

a fundraiser for Michigan Humane Society

&

celebrating 10 years of MCB

photos by Paul Hitz 

http://www.unitedphotoworks.com

ART EXHIBIT: 2015 WSU Graduating Seniors Exhibition

"Hey MCB, here is our upcoming exhibition at the Art Department Gallery, Wayne State University, Detroit.

2015 Graduating Seniors Exhibition

The James Pearson Duffy Department of Art & Art History is pleased to present its 2015 Graduating Seniors Exhibition, January 23 through February 13. 

 

The opening reception will be held on Friday, January 23, 5-8PM. 

 

This exhibition features approximately 60 outstanding works by students who will graduate during the 2014/15 academic year from the department's Art, Art History, and Design areas."

PopUp Dinner created by Chef Matthew Baldridge and Latin Jazz All-Stars/ Friday, January 23rd/ Jazz Café

PopUp Dinner and Latin Jazz All-Stars/ Friday, January 23^rd/ Jazz Café

Join us for a pre-show special Pop-Up Dinner created by Chef Matthew Baldridge 

Matt's been a chef in the city of Detroit for 15 years including executive chef of Cliff Bells, chef de cuisine at Rattlesnake Club, and executive chef at Seldom Blues.

He also worked side by side with James Beard award winning chef Jimmy Schmidt at The Rattlesnake Club.

James has developed a special menu as pre-glow offering before the show.

Remember to add the dinner when buying tickets!

 

LATIN JAZZ ALL STARS!!

They're back!!! The group is celebrating 14 years of making great music. This years ensemble includes: Steve Turre (trombone), Yosvanny Terry (tenor sax), Pete Escovedo (timbales), Elio Villa Franca (piano), Chembo Corniel (congas) , Diego Lopez (drums) & Yuinor Terry (bass)

 

Call Music Hall Box Office 313 887-8501  for tickets to PopUp Dinner and Jazz | January 23, Dinner at 6:00 Show at 8:00 - Tickets  $85. Dinner and ticket

 

Jazz Café

350 Madison

Detroit, MI 48226

(313) 887-8501

www.musichall.org

www.jazzcafedetroit.com

 

THIS SAT: Devotional Images of the Prophet Muhammed in Islamic Traditions @ DIA

The Praiseworthy One:

Devotional Images of the Prophet Muhammed in Islamic Traditions

Christiane Gruber

Associate Professor of Islamic Art and Director of Graduate Studies, 

Department of the History of Art, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Saturday, January 31, 2015, 2pm

Detroit Institute of Arts

5200 Woodward Ave • Detroit, Michigan

Paintings of the Prophet Muhammad produced in Persian and Turkish lands from the 14th to the 16th century represent Muhammad’s individual traits, ancient luminosity and veiled essence, while their pictorial elements reveal artists engaged in abstract thought, turning to symbolic motifs in order to convey Muhammad’s origins and prophetic standing.

Sponsored by Friends of Asian Arts and Cultures.

Image Credit: The Prophet Muhammad’s Ascension over Three Sufis, from Sa‘di’s Bustan (Fruit Orchard), detail, text dated 920/1514, painting added ca. 1550 in Bukhara. Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, 1974.294.2

Dirty Show Tickets Now On Sale—Feb 12-15, 20-21 2015

DIRTY SHOW 16 International Erotic Art Exhibition February 12-20, 2015 • Detroit Russell Exhibition Center 1600 Clay St. Detroit, MI 48211 Located just north of I-94 off I-75 MAP Advance tickets are on sale online now.   Dirty Show 16 - International Erotic Art ExhibitionThe Dirty Show has proven to be a world-class contemporary art event and as it prepares for it’s 16th year with the inclusion of the taboo-breaking and perversely brilliant Writer/Filmmaker and Artist,John Waters as this years Special Guest Artist whose provocative takes on film, Broadway and social commentary perfectly mirrors the Dirty Show aesthetic. John Waters will appear in a special engagement, live on stage featuring his one-man show “This Filthy World- Filthier and Dirtier”on Preview Thursday, February 12th. John will also have art in the show. Last years Dirty Show® was the first public event in the 36,000 square foot Russell Industrial Exhibition Center.  The space is two stories high with catwalks spanning the length of the room, it is the 6th venue to house the exhibition.   This year’s curator for Dirty Show 16 "Feature Exhibit" is Genevive  Zacconi who brings back Artist, Glenn Barr and other world renown artists, Colin Christian, Shawn Barber, H.R. Giger, and many, many more artists from around the globe. The Dirty Show has become more than a yearly Erotic Art event, it's now a major Detroit cultural event as well as a rite of passage for more than a generation. 21 & Over with Valid Photo ID. (Except where noted) No Cameras or Video Cameras Allowed. For more details visit www.dirtyshow.org

EXHIBITION SCHEDULE: February 12, Thursday Evening PREVIEW featuring Live on stage JOHN WATERS 7:00pm - 1:00am 21 & Over Adv. Tickets  $30 February 13, Friday Evening OPENING NIGHT 7:00pm - 2:00am 21 & Over Advance Tickets $30 February 14, Saturday Evening Valentines Night 7:00pm - 2:00am 21 & Over Advance Tickets $30 February 15, Sunday DAYTIME Exhibit Only 1:00pm - 5:00pm 18 & Over $15 at Door Only February 20, Friday Evening 7:00pm - 12:00am 21 & Over Advance Tickets $30 February 21, Saturday Evening Closing Night 7:00pm - 2:00am 21 & Over Advance Tickets $30 *Age Restrictions apply Valid Photo ID is required to enter BUY TICKETS NOW

Barrence Whitfield and The Savages TONIGHT at PJ's Lager House

A force to be reckoned with, Boston's Barrence Whitfield will play one of my favorite music venue/bars in Detroit, PJ's Lager House. Performing the 80s, The Savages took a break, reforming with two of the orginalband members Peter Greenburg and Phil Lenker,Whifield announced that the band will tour The Sonics. But before the band trekked their way to the Motor City, I spoke with Barrence and witnessed a Barrence Whitfield and The Savages performance in Cincinnati, Ohio. Taking a break from recording their latest record, which is due sometime this fall, Barrence schooled me on the current state of rock and roll, Led Zeppelin, and just how he started singing.


Motor City Blog: Where and when did you first begins singing? I watched a radio performance of "I'm Sad About It", my personal favorite song, and you make it seem so effortless.

Barrence Whitfield: It started in my Baptist church in New Jersey at the at seven years old, singing in the choir,  I wanted to be like James Brown or Otis Redding. I started performing with local guys on the street and gradually developed.  I never took a singing lesson in my life.  It was sheer dedication and love.

MCB: Are the women you speak of in your songs, specifically in "I'm Sad About It" and "Sugar" from real life experiences?

BW: I've been married for over 20 years. It's about long lost loves, people being lonely, drinking because they lost their love ones.Our songs are stories. It's sad because his friend was lusting after his girlfriend (in "I'm Sad About It"), and to see that happen before his eyes, it's a shock.

MCB: What do you think of the current state of rock and roll compared to when the band first started?

BW: Is there really any rock and roll today? It's a different generation of music fans. I feel rock and roll is diluted. I don't want to understand what people are grabbing at. It's a little different than it was.

MCB: What're you currently listening to?

BW: When I was your age, I was probably listening to Sam Cooke and Little Richard. It hasn't lost its flavor. Right now, I have Isaac Hayes playing in the background, but I listen to everything. I'm not listening to the latest Taylor Swift album.

Beginning their set with the energetic "Bip Bop Bip", there wasn't a still person in The Woodward in Cincinnati. Dancing during each powerful song,occasionally taking his hat off the wipe the sweat, Barrence and The Savages went in song after song seemingly without flinching. Maybe it was the original savage, Peter Greenburg's power stance, or Tom Quartulli's one man saxophone section that sounded as if there were seven, or announcing before playing "Bloody Mary", that it was their favorite song, or Barrence's declaration, "We've been asked, the band, to do a national tour with a group called The Sonics. I want to announce that the The Sonics and The Savages will be performing right here.  Remember that, if some fool didn't already tweet it.  This place is gonna look like madness". Good musicians play good music without the crutch of gimmicks or fake stage personalities, and Barrence Whitfield and The Savages is the perfect example.

Barrence and The Savages plays PJ's Lager House TONIGHT with support from Detroit's own Danny Kroha, and The Complainers (formerly Baranek). Tickets are $16 and available at the door. Be prepared to dance.

PRESALE: nerve presents The Heights, April 17-18

THE HEIGHTS

Cathy & Heathcliff, lovers in life and beyond . . .

In April 2015, Gallery 17 hosts nerve's passionate recreation of Emily Brontë’s masterwork, a dark dream of love, jealousy, and spiritual revenge. The ends of the earth, the depths of desire: 

THE HEIGHTS.

Steve Xander Carson, Marisa Dluge, and Rachael Harbert.

Music: Matthew Deneka

Adapted by Kathe Koja

Tickets available here.

UPCOMING: The Mountain Goats 17 April @ Majestic

The categories of "bands that are still performing" and "bands I haven't yet seen but want to" have very little overlap. I'm happy to say, that little sliver is about to get even smaller, after I see the Mountain Goats this spring. This band is like a personal anthem machine: everyone I know who has heard them has (at least) one song that speaks to them so personally, they'd swear they could have written it themselves...if they were as talented. For me, there's one standout that was on a loop in my head through a very tough transition a decade ago; a song I could never have predicted I'd even like, it's so different from what I usually listen to; a song that will still make me misty in a way that's difficult to explain to anyone who "wasn't there."

The Mountain Goats

Friday, Apr 17, 2015


Majestic Theatre

4140 Woodward Ave • Detroit, MI

$20 Cover | All Ages | GET TIX HERE

Let's start with this. The Mountain Goats are releasing a new album. The name of this album is Beat the Champ. It is, as any fan of the band will expect, a heartbreaking and heartreviving album about imperfect people described perfectly, with melodies that will stay with you for days. There are also things about it that even longtime fans will not expect. That's all true.

The Mountain Goats, if you are not a longtime fan, is an itinerant, pseudomystical motorcycle cult that raises money through a regional chain of discount furniture outlets and the occasional musical release in order to fund their mysterious rituals and sacrifices enacted upon the highways and backroads of America.

That's true as well.

 

FREE VINYL FRIDAY: Dig Thy Savage Soul - Barrence Whitfield and the Savages Live in Detroit Saturday 1/24/15

Barrence Whitfield and the Savages Live in Detroit Saturday 1/24/15!

Pj's Lager House Date: Saturday 1/24/15 | Time: 9:00 PM Tickets: $16 | Ages: 21+   In late 2013, Boston-based Barrence Whitfield and the Savages released their Bloodshot Records debut full-length album and first US release in 20 years, Dig Thy Savage Soul.  They are currently working on the follow-up to that album. Thanks to our pals over Bloodshot, MCB has been rushed a couple copies of this slick vinyl platter ready to roll out to you for Free Vinyl Friday! Email motorcityblog@earthlink.net for your chance to win this golden nugget and be sure to catch the live show tomorrow night over at Lager House. MCB's Bree Henry will be catching up with the boys for an interview tonight before the live show blows the doors off the Woodward Theatre in Cincinnati!  IN SHORT: Dig Thy Savage Soul is a wealth of atomic-powered, sock it to me R&B and rock & roll hoodoo. Barrence, possessing otherworldly pipes that range from a low feral growl rumbling the nether regions to a scream that would make Little Richard blush, belts out originals and crate-diver covers with the formidable and aptly-named Savages. They keep his back with a punk rock grit and blues ferocity that lives in the frets between Chuck Berry and Jack White. Together, Barrence and the Savages lay down a groovy racket that’s so thick and greasy, you need moist towelettes near the hi-fi. Barrence Whitfield and the Savages shot out of Boston in the mid-‘80s with the force of a cannonball. Through their sweaty dance party shows and love of primal soul, they were to R&B what the Cramps were to rockabilly--a gateway musical drug for nascent underground roots mavens. Along with original Savages guitarist Peter Greenberg (The Lyres, DMZ) and bassist Phil Lenker, they released several records on Rounder, became a favorite of BBC DJ Andy Kershaw, toured with the likes of Bo Diddley, Tina Turner, and George Thorogood, and won seven Boston Music Awards. They re-united in 2011 with Savages Andy Jody on drums and Tom Quartulli on sax. Get more info here https://www.bloodshotrecords.com/album/dig-thy-savage-soul

Tomorrow Night! DEREK GRANT W/LEATHER KINGS + TIMMY REYNOLDS at The Magic Stick

By now you're probably familiar with the name Alkaline Trio, the pop-punk stalwarts who have built a defined rock legacy over the past 20 years. But you may not be familiar with Derek Grant. I'll give you a hint, he's the drummer. And he's way more than just the drummer, he's an accomplished multi-instrumentalist who just released his debut solo album. Breakdown, out now on Red Scare Insudtries is a bit of a departure from the high-energy of Alkaline Trio, but it's just an personal and immediate.

You can catch Derek live at the Magic Stick Lounge tomorrow night in a rare intimate solo performance. Opening the show are Leather Kings and Timmy Reynolds.

Check out the first single from Breakdown, "Love Is A Bad Dream."

Doors open at 8pm.

Grab your tickets right here.

Join Black Jake & the Carnies celebrate "Winter Sucks Day" at the Ark Ann Arbor Sunday 1/25/15 7:30pm

 

The indomitable Black Jake & the Carnies are set to shovel a path through your winter blues this Sunday, January 25th, at the Ark in Ann Arbor!  While some few individuals actually enjoy the disastrous effects of the Earth's ill-considered seasonal tilt away from the sun, we and 90% of nature hold no such illusions!  But we must press on to the thaw, and what better way than by that most ancient of survival mechanisms known as "good cheer?"  So join us this Sunday and warm your faces by our characteristic bright lights, fast music, and lively games, won't you?  *spoiler alert* Jake will be wearing tights!  Don't miss it!  Click on the link below for ticket information! Buy tickets now

Meridian Winter Blast presented by Quicken Loans at Campus Martius in downtown Detroit, Friday, February 6 - Sunday, February 8 2015

 

 

 

               

2015 MERIDIAN WINTER BLAST PRESENTED BY QUICKEN LOANS BRINGS

"THRILLS" AND A WARM UP OF "CHILLS" TO DOWNTOWN DETROIT, FEBRUARY 6-8

 

Fun and excitement take center stage as the Snow Slide returns thanks to generous title sponsor,

Meridian Health Plan; plus zip lining on Woodward and special Tim Hortons' "Warm Up"

with free coffee and hot chocolate!

 

DETROIT, Jan. 22, 2015 – Detroit's premier winter festival, Meridian Winter Blast presented by Quicken Loans returns to Campus Martius Park, Friday, February 6 - Sunday, February 8. The wildly popular Snow Slide returns courtesy of Meridian Health Plan and the Bedrock Zip Line Adventure makes its debut on Woodward Avenue, putting the thrill into the downtown winter chill at the 11^th annual festival!

 

Towering more than 30 feet high, the Meridian Snow Slide will continue its tradition as a festival favorite thanks to the sponsorship of Meridian Health Plan. With three lanes delivering an exhilarating 200 foot ride in seven seconds, the Meridian Snow Slide will again be a main attraction not to be missed!

"The Snow Slide has always been such a big part of Winter Blast and we're pleased to be able to make the return of this family favorite a reality," said Jon Cotton, President and Chief Operating Officer of Meridian Health Plan.

 

Meridian Winter Blast will also launch the Bedrock Zip Line Adventure in 2015, providing daredevil festivalgoers the coolest 20 seconds of their lives with the first zip line EVER in downtown Detroit. Thrill-seekers will be lining up to experience the ultimate rush of flying 300 feet across the sky -- the length of a football field!  This new festival feature is the longest, fastest mobile zip line available and allows two people to zip simultaneously on two lines 34 feet in the air.  

 

 

"The Bedrock Zip Line is an exciting new addition to the Winter Blast, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors to the city's urban core each year," said Bill Emerson, CEO of presenting sponsor Quicken Loans. "Whether its zip lining, ice skating, dining or shopping, there is something for the entire family in the city during this festival weekend."

 

Guests will also enjoy marshmallow roasting, a weekend of free ice skating, a variety of food choices, live music and plenty of other "cool" winter activities. Meridian Winter Blast hours are Friday 11 a.m.–11 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. –11 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 

 

AN "EVEN-ODD" FREE WARM UP WITH TIM HORTONS

All festivalgoers will be able to get something for FREE courtesy of Meridian Winter Blast's new event partner as they "Warm Up with Tim Hortons."  Complimentary hot chocolate and regular coffee sampling will take place each afternoon, with hot chocolate served for free at noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., and coffee on the odd hours of 1p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.  More than 2,500 free cups of warm beverages will be available each hour on a first-come, first-served basis inside of two Tim Hortons Comfort Zones. 

 

The warmth and giveaways continue after the festival! Each guest will receive a guaranteed-to-win RRRoll Up The Rim To Win cup when exiting the festival. RRRoll Up The Rim To Win runs at Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop restaurants across the United States starting February 2, 2015 and will run throughout the month, or until cup supplies last. Prizes include coffee, cars, gift cards and more!!! Every Cup handed out at Winter Blast is a winning cup!

 

Finding warmth will be no problem at the festival with Tim Hortons Comfort Zones providing heat every 150 feet along with a variety of cuisine, music and kids' activities. These respites insulated from the winter chill will include the Compuware Building Atrium and large tents on Monroe Street and Cadillac Square that both feature great food and live music.

 

KIDS STAGE, SCIENCE PROGRAM AND MORE

All family fun and activities will unfold inside the Compuware lobby. New this year is the science-themed "Winter Fun Lab" presented by the General Motors Foundation. Organized by Meridian Winter Blast and The Michigan Science Center, activities will include "Frostology," LIVE dramatic demonstrations on the Kids Stage of how different materials react to extremely low temperatures; hands-on activity stations with slime; science of sound; static electricity demonstrations; and more, with giveaway offers including family four-packs to the Michigan Science Center.

 

FLAGSTAR BANK SPIRIT OF DETROIT CONTEST

Flagstar Bank is providing a brand new opportunity to win some downtown winter fun with the Spirit of Detroit Contest. One lucky winner will receive a prize package of Detroit delights including a two-night stay at the Westin Book Cadillac, four tickets to see a Detroit Red Wings regular season home game, a dinner certificate for four at Santorini and Fountain Bistro and a party for 20 at Bookies Bar & Grille.

 

Contestants can enter online at www.winterblast.com or in person during the Meridian Winter Blast at any of the festival information booths. Rules and information are available at www.winterblast.com

 

MERIDIAN WINTER BLAST INTERACTIVE ACTIVITIES

It's all fun and games at the Meridian Winter Blast – free fun! Festival patrons can ice skate for free at Campus Martius Park for the entire festival weekend courtesy of St. John Providence Health System. Once again, Meridian Winter Blast is the only weekend all year long when visitors can skate for free. Attendees can also watch live skating demos at the Skating Exhibitions presented by WH Canon from synchronized ice-skating teams to up-and-coming couples. Five distinct ice skating clubs, including the legendary Detroit Skating Club, will perform and entertain crowds at Campus Martius Park throughout the entire weekend. The hockey competition is back: the Meridian Winter Blast is once again challenging festivalgoers with a Hockey Shot competition, presented by Great Expressions Dental Centers. Throughout the weekend, attendees will have a chance to shoot and score cool prizes from Great Expressions, the Meridian Winter Blast and Detroit Red Wings. The grand prize winner will get a choice of a free set of braces or a dental care package from Great Expressions Dental Centers valued at $5000. Each person who participates in the competition, taking place on the ice rink on Friday and Saturday at 6 p.m. and Sunday at 4 p.m., will receive a GEDC t-shirt and smile bag for all their mouth-care needs.

 

The Flagstar Bank Ice Garden will once again present a variety of expertly crafted and lighted ice sculptures including a large rendition of "The Spirit of Detroit" statue, always a crowd favorite. On-site ice carving demonstrations will take place during festival hours on Friday. Patrons can also visit the iced Eskimo family exhibit as well as take pictures posing in any of the four open faces. Also, interactive and great for photos will be ice chairs and an ice bar. Among many of the one-of-a-kind sculptures on display will be wildlife and aquatic scenes, as well as hockey players sculpted in honor of the Detroit Red Wings.

 

Snowmaking also returns to Meridian Winter Blast with special snow cannons from Shanty Creek Resort and Huron-Clinton Metroparks that will add to the festive winter environment already in place due to this season's snowfall. There will be plenty of snow created to ensure Snowshoeing and Dogsledding Exhibitions will again be a part of the fun. Sponsored by Meridian Health Plan, guests will enjoy snowshoeing and can grab a pair of snowshoes and step into winter fun with the entire family at no charge. Snowshoes are available in a variety of sizes for both adults and children. Visitors will be able to get up, get moving and get fit in the festival's winter wonderland of snow.

 

Dog Sledding Exhibitions presented by US Park will once again give a firsthand look at the challenging winter sport of dog sled racing with scheduled demonstrations. Presentations will be led by professional sled dog racer and Michigan native Amanda Vogel and her Snomad Racing Sled Dogs, making their sixth appearance at the festival. With more than 10 years training and racing sled dogs, Vogel is one of the top competitors in mid-distance sled dog racing in the lower 48. The Snomad Racing Sled Dogs travel throughout the U.S. and Canada to compete against other teams and will be participating in the upcoming UP200 Sled Dog Race on Feb. 12 in Marquette, Michigan. 

 

Warm up with your family at one of the many roasting stations situated throughout the festival.  For a toasty treat, marshmallow and s'more kits will be available for purchase. 

 

MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT

Meridian Winter Blast is pleased to announce its best ever music lineup on three different stages. The voices and beat of music from many genres, including country, rock, blues, pop,

acoustic, Americana, funk and soul, will resonate from three stages located in the Compuware Lobby and throughout the festival in the Tim Hortons Comfort Zones, which provide a warm and cozy environment for listening enjoyment.

 

Popular bands slated to perform are The Reefermen, Stone Clover, and Orbitsuns along with Detroit jazz legend Thornetta Davis. Also scheduled to take the stage is the Pop R&B group Hot Sauce, high energy band Persuasion, Ska band 1592, and many others.

 

CHOW DOWN AND THAW OUT WITH GREAT TASTES

A wide variety of tummy-warming foods and thirst-quenching drinks will be featured from local restaurants, eateries and caterers at locations throughout the Meridian Winter Blast grounds.

 

New to the lineup this year will be: The Whitney, famous for its contemporary tastes and award-winning cuisine; and Detroit Seafood Market, known for its seafood delicacies and more. Other newcomers include Golden Fleece, Andiamo Italia/Ren Cen and Mystic Kettle. Returning eateries include: Mercurio Foods, Jackson's Five Star Catering, The Almond Hut, Bed Rock Turkey Legs and more.

 

SPEND A NIGHT IN THE CITY

With all of the excitement of Meridian Winter Blast festivities, why go home? Organizers are offering festival patrons the opportunity to "Spend the Night in the City" at Westin Book Cadillac Hotel Detroit at special Meridian Winter Blast, discounted weekend rates. Located just two blocks from all the Meridian Winter Blast excitement, the iconic Westin Book Cadillac provides a warm and refreshing retreat after a long day of festivities. In addition to the convenience of a mini-vacation downtown, the hotel indulges the senses with amenities such as contemporary rooms, flat screen TVs, guest room services, valet parking, indoor pool fitness center and spa. The Westin Book Cadillac Hotel stays are $149 and include complimentary overnight valet parking for one car.  Festivalgoers must book by January 31, 2015 to receive this special rate.

 

FESTIVAL ADMISSION AND CHARITABLE GIVING

For the sixth consecutive year, Meridian Winter Blast has teamed with Matrix Human Services to help those in need during the winter. Admission to the 2015 Meridian Winter Blast is $2, three canned goods/non-perishable items or a children's book, which will go toward helping to fight hunger in metro Detroit and continue the festival's commitment to fostering literacy.

 

************************************************************************************

 

With a lineup featuring some of the hottest local music artists to quality family entertainment including new LIVE science demonstrations, there will be something for everyone at the 2015 Meridian Winter Blast presented by Quicken Loans at Campus Martius in downtown Detroit, Friday, February 6 - Sunday, February 8.

 

Once again the festival brings another strong music mix of diversified genres to entertain festival guests on three different stages in the Tim Hortons Comfort Zones, which provide a warm and cozy environment for listening enjoyment.  From stages located  throughout the festival, music for all tastes will resonate with country, rock, blues, pop, R & B, acoustic, Americana, gospel, and more!

 

Both located inside of heated tents, The Michigan Lottery Stage and The Greektown Casino Stage will spotlight local high-caliber musical talent including new and returning local festival favorites. The Quicken Loans Kids Stage inside the Quicken Loans Compuware Lobby will provide family entertainment throughout the weekend with magic, music, juggling and new LIVE science shows. All together more than 75 performances will entertain crowds throughout the weekend at Winter Blast.

 

The full schedule of artists is as follows:

 

MUSIC SCHEDULE IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE

2015 Meridian Winter Blast Music Schedule

 

Michigan Lottery Stage

Friday, February 6

11:30 to 12:15 p.m.	Carly Bins	Acoustic
12:45 to 1:30 p.m.	KayLyn Pace	Country
2:00 to 3:00 p.m.	Chris Emmerson	Rock, Pop
3:30 to 4:30 p.m.	The Kung Fu Lovers	Rock & Roll
5:00 to 6:00 p.m.	Bill Grogan's Goat	Celtic Rock
6:30 to 7:30 p.m.	Austin Scott	Country
8:00 to 9:00 p.m.	Bobby Murray Band	Blues Rock
9:30 to 11:00 p.m.	Stone Clover	Irish Rock & Roll

 

Saturday, February 7

11:30 to 12:15 p.m.	James & June	Folk Acoustic
12:45 to 1:30 p.m.	Johnyce	R&B Pop
2:00 to 3:00 p.m.	The Sugarees	Folk Pop
3:30 to 4:30 p.m.	Telco	Alt. Indie
5:00 to 6:00 p.m.	The Zydeco Hepcats	Zydeco
6:30 to 7:30 p.m.	The Social Bandits	Blues Rock
8:00 to 9:00 p.m.	The Ruiners	Garage Rock
9:30 to 11:00 p.m.	The Reefermen	Rock & Soul

 

Sunday, February 8

11:15 a.m. to noon	Candace Sosa	Singer/Songwriter
12:30 to 1:15 p.m.	Sarah Bella	Country
1:45 to 2:45 p.m.	1592	Ska
3:15 to 4:15 p.m.	Alan Turner & The Steel Horse Band		Country
4:45 to 5:45 p.m.	Half Light Music	Alt. Rock
6:15 to 7:15 p.m.	Shotgun Soul	Funk & Soul
7:45 to 9:00 p.m.	Persuasion	Straight-up Party!

 

 

Greektown Casino Stage

Friday, February 6

11:30 to 12:15 p.m.	Marissa Guzman	Electro Pop
12:45 to 1:30 p.m.	Shay Lewis	R&B
2:00 to 3:00 p.m.	The Blue Cat Band	Blues Rock
3:30 to 4:30 p.m.	Bulletproof Snow	Rock
5:00 to 6:00 p.m.	Ryan Dillaha & The Miracle Men	Rock & Roll
6:30 to 7:30 p.m.	Soul Divide	Funk Rock
8:00 to 9:00 p.m.	Amp Fiddler	Rock & Roll
9:30 to 11:00 p.m.	Thornetta Davis	R&B Blues

 

Saturday, February 7

11:30 to 12:15 p.m.	Lilly MacPhee	Alt. Indie
12:45 to 1:30 p.m.	Jibs Brown	Acoustic
2:00 to 3:00 p.m.	Teddy Richards	Singer Songwriter
3:30 to 4:30 p.m.	Joe Jaber & The Last Divide	Blues Rock
5:00 to 6:00 p.m.	Lightning Bugs	Alternative
6:30 to 7:30 p.m.	Big Poppa and The Machine	Blues Rock
8:00 to 9:00 p.m.	Inohs Sivad	Rock & Soul
9:30 to 11:00 p.m.	Larry Lee & Back in The Day	Old School Funk & R&B

 

 

Sunday, February 8

11:15 a.m. to noon	Amanda Morgan	Acoustic
12:30 to 1:15 p.m.	Blessed Generation	Gospel
1:45 to 2:45 p.m.	Feral Ground	Living Hip Hop
3:15 to 4:15 p.m.	The Stereo Sound	Punk Rock
4:45 to 5:45 p.m.	Taken Aces	Rock
6:15 to 7:15 p.m.	Orbitsuns	Outlaw Country
7:45 to 9:00 p.m.	Hotsauce	Pop R&B

 

 

Quicken Loans Kids Stage

Friday, February 6:

1:30 p.m.                                 Frostology                                              Michigan Science Center Kids Presentation

4:00 p.m.                                 Frostology                                              Michigan Science Center Kids Presentation

4:45 p.m.                                 Laugh It Up with Rosco                                                   Kids Show

5:15 p.m.                                 Juggler – Tim Salisbury                           Kids Show

5:45 p.m.                                 Magic with Jason Abbott                         Kids Show

6:30 p.m.                                 Frostology                                              Michigan Science Center Kids Presentation

7:15 p.m.                                 Laugh It Up with Rosco                                       Kids Show

 

Saturday, February 7:

12:00 p.m.                               Frostology                                             Michigan Science Center Kids Presentation

12:45 p.m.                               Cool Tricks & Funny Stuff                                   Kids Show

1:15 p.m.                                 Kevin Devine Concert                             Kids Show

1:45 p.m.                                 Magic with Randy                                              Kids Show

2:30 p.m.                                 Frostology                                             Michigan Science Center Kids Presentation

3:15 p.m.                                 Magic with Randy                                              Kids Show

3:45 p.m.                                 Kevin Devine Concert                             Kids Show

4:15 p.m.                                 Pure Imagination Magic                          Kids Show

5:00 p.m.                                 Frostology                                             Michigan Science Center Kids Presentation

5:45 p.m.                                 Magic with Randy                                              Kids Show

6:15 p.m.                                 Kevin Devine Concert                             Kids Show

6:45 p.m.                                 Cool Tricks & Funny Stuff                                   Kids Show

7:30 p.m.                                 Frostology                                             Michigan Science Center Kids Presentation

 

 

Sunday, February 8:

12:30 p.m.                               Frostology                                             Michigan Science Center Kids Presentation

1:15 p.m.                                 Juggler – Tim Salisbury                          Kids Show

1:45 p.m.                                 Kevin Devine Concert                             Kids Show

2:15 p.m.                                 Cool Tricks & Funny Stuff                                   Kids Show

3:00 p.m.                                 Frostology                                             Michigan Science Center Kids Presentation

3:45 p.m.                                 Juggler – Tim Salisbury                          Kids Show

4:15 p.m.                                 Kevin Devine Concert                             Kids Show

4:45 p.m.                                 Cool Tricks & Funny Stuff                                   Kids Show

5:30 p.m.                                 Frostology                                             Michigan Science Center Kids Presentation

 

 

 

All weekend entertainment schedules and any additional information can be found online at www.winterblast.com.  Meridian Winter Blast is produced by Jonathan Witz, president of Jonathan Witz & Associates.

 

Meridian Winter Blast could not happen without the generous support of its sponsors which include Meridian Health Plan, Quicken Loans, Bedrock Real Estate Services, DEGC/Detroit DDA, Flagstar Bank, General Motors Foundation, Michigan Lottery, Tim Hortons, MetroPCS, Greektown Casino, St. John Providence Health System, Great Expressions, Great Lakes Beverage, Ilitch Holdings, Marketing Associates, Penske Corporation, Pepsi, Redico, DTE Energy, National Vision, Westin Book Cadillac, Food Should Taste Good, US Park, Cricket

Wireless, American Laser, University of Phoenix, Buffalo Wild Wings, Sachse Construction, Made In Detroit, Tito's Vodka, Bagger Dave's, EJ Gallo, Olga's Kitchen, Airea Studio, Huron- Clinton Metroparks and WH Canon.

 

Winter Blast is Detroit's celebration of winter experiences, dining, music and family fun to be held in downtown Detroit's Campus Martius Park from, Friday, Feb. 6 - Sunday, Feb 8. Originally created as the backdrop for Super Bowl XL, the festival attracted more than 75,000 people last year. Festival hours are Friday 11 a.m.–11 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m –11 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m.–9 p.m. For additional information, visit www.winterblast.com or call (248) 541-7550.