Festival Watch is a Tomorrow’s Verse feature where we break down festival news into the facts you need to know.
Peoria Blues & Heritage Festival – September 1-2
Headliners To Watch
Dr. John – New Orleans “Night Tripper” Dr. John will bring his funky, voodoo style to the festival for a set sure to impress. Infectious and endlessly influential, Dr. John’s style is perfect for a headlining festival set.
John Butler Trio – A band that truly shines in the live setting, John Butler Trio will bring their heady, roots-influenced acoustic music to the festival, offering a younger pull than the other headlining acts.
John Mayall – Amongst the most influential blues musicians of the last half-century, guitarist John Mayall has the background and discography to bring an eccentric and rocking live show to the Peoria festival.
The Undercards
Keller Williams – Looping master Keller Williams is the perfect festival performer, blending genres and sounds into an eclectic show that’s always fun to watch.
Rebirth Brass Band – New Orleans jazz band Rebirth Brass Band bring the fun of Mardi Gras to every show they play. With bright horns and funky rhythms, its an infectious show that pairs perfectly with Dr. John’s headlining spot.
George Porter Jr. – Meters bassist George Porter Jr. is keeping the funk alive with an always-talented backing band, perfect for an outdoor festival.
Local Flavor
Steady Flow – A power-funk outfit from Peoria, Steady Flow brings an energetic live show made for the festival stage.
Matthew Curry – A blues guitarist from Bloomington, Illinois, Curry will grace the stage near his hometown for another blues offering on this stacked lineup.
Sun Stereo – Blending funk and jazz with a heavy electronic influence, Urbana, Illinois’s Sun Stereo are amongst the more interesting bands on this lineup.
You Need To Know
Tickets for the two-day festival are $65, and it takes place at a park on the town’s riverfront. A number of food and drink vendors are set up, and there are plenty of bars and restaurants in the area.
The Bottom Line
With a low ticket price and great lineup, it’s worth the trip to Peoria for this festival. The emphasis on local, Midwestern acts offers the opportunity to discover new music, while the headliners are the undeniable draw.
