It’s All About the Bands: Spring Block Party!

Dig out your dancing shoes because Federal Hill Main Street is gearing up for the Spring Block Party! With all the great bands that will be there to help us celebrate the warmer weather, how can you not be excited about this great event?

It’s Sunday, April 28, 11 am to 7 pm on Cross Street in Federal Hill (north side of Cross Street Market). There will be lots of food & drink and arts & crafts, too! Info: www.historicfederalhill.org

The Cheaters: Hailed by WBALTV as one of the top 40 Emerging Maryland Bands in 2012, The Cheaters describe themselves as “whiskey-fueled, home-fried rock and roll” and have played with bands from Lynyrd Skynyrd to Blue Oyster Cult. You can find their singles “Blow My Mind” and “Locked and Loaded” on YouTube.

Segway: Representing Baltimore’ electronica scene, Segway is guaranteed to get the audience up on their feet and dancing away. Segway has played at local and regional music festivals including Starscape, Camp Barefoot and Muddy River Jam Festival. 

J Pope and Funk Friday: A mash up of hip-hop, funk, and soul, J Pope and Funk Friday has played at the 8x10, Rams Head Live, and Now Child Soundstage. Lead by J Pope who has been described as “an artist who doesn’t shy away from political, social, and religious issues,” the band has been circulating its powerful messages since 2010.

Uncle Jack Band: This “Funk, Disco and Motown band with a difference” is made up of professional musicians who have shared the stage with bands like Hootie and the Blowfish and Styx. The band performs iconic dance anthems, which always leave its audience wanting more.

The Reserves: According to their website, The Reserves “play working class punk rock and roll, and that’s all you need to know.” The band is constantly recording, writing, performing, and growing their loyal fan base. With performances at the 8x10, The Lion’s Den in New York City, and The Rock and Roll Hotel in Washington, D.C., this band is one to watch.

Cara Kelly and the Tell Tale: With a “funky, bluesy, rock ‘n roll” feel, Cara Kelly and the Tell Tale formed in mid-2012 and has been hailed for their energy and tight harmonies. Though focused mostly in blues, the band branches out to funk and rock too. They have played shows at venues like the 8x10 and Recher Theater.

Bravenoise: A modern pop-rock trio, Bravenoise is an eclectic mix of soulful grooves and infectious melodies with a hint of Caribbean and Latin influence. The group draws its inspiration from bands like The Police, Radiohead, and Antonio Carlos Jobim. Bravenoise is quickly making its way into the DC music scene and beyond.

The Evokatones: Self-described as “Baltimore Reggae goodness and Soul Ska,” The Evokatones formed in the summer of 2011. Consisting of an eight-piece female and male band, The Evokatones have been performing all across the Mid-Atlantic and are currently in the process of recording their debut album.

Rufus Roundtree and da B'more Brass Factory: This brass band takes Baltimore music and mixes it with New Orleans, and Mardi Gras elements. Rufus Roundtree and da B’more Brass Factory reimagine R&B and hip-hop tunes by adding soul, jazz, and funk details. As their Facebook page says, “this is not the traditional band, this is truly an invigorating experience.”

We’ve got an exciting line up of bands this year! With so many different genres, any music lover can find a band to love!

Elizabeth Nelson, Intern