We want to take a moment and thank each and every one of you who came out and supported the McDowell Mountain Music Festival this year. We appreciate your understanding while the event goes through some interesting changes, and feel that the weekend was an absolute success! On Friday, Ruthie Foster served up an enormous helping of soul, delightfully washed down by over eight different microbrews that were available this year. John Brown’s Body brought the reggae rock, and Assembly of Dust gave a solid performance inside the Compound Friday evening.

Saturday began with a nod to some of the best local musicians Phoenix has to offer, with EastonAshe, Dirty Lingo and the firecracker group Hot Birds & The Chili Sauce. Saturday evening Robert Randolph brought a steady pedal-steeled performance with favorites like “I Need More Love” and really got the crowd moving. Steve Kimock and Crazy Engine showed us first-hand what a true world-renowned guitarist plays like… backed by his twenty year-old son on drums that hit every beat.

Sunday was the day for female powerhouses. Beginning with The Sugar Thieves and featuring the blues of Mikel Lander & Meridith Moore, Emma Pew and the boys from Black Carl, and the amazing Grace Potter bringing her usual mix of siren and vintage rocker to close out the weekend. At a mere twenty-three years old, Trombone Shorty has established himself of one of the best musicians in his genre.

There were more families than ever, kids being exposed to a true music culture – participating in a drum circle and making their own music! Everyone came together to support a few great causes that are shaping the children of our community:  Phoenix Day Child & Family Learning Center, and Ear Candy Charity. We left the weekend with a pretty good feeling, and hope you did to.