Col. Bruce Hampton headlines 3-day music fest

Calling all music lovers, the front porch of the Blue Ridge Mountains will again come alive on Labor Day weekend, Aug. 31 to Sept. 3. Now in their ninth year, Front Porch Fest organizers are stoked to announce the 2017 initial line-up of musical acts to perform at Spirithaven Farm in Stuart.

Acts hitting the Porch this year include legendary Col. Bruce Hampton, “Atlanta’s Grand-daddy of all things jam,” recognized by not only his substantial solo career, but also his work with projects such as The Aquarium Rescue Unit. Major roots/jam musicians have felt his influence near and far.

Brother Joscephus & the Love Revolution will bring a love revival enriched with the powerful rhythms of New Orleans, combining the music and the message with a one-of-a-kind, high-energy stage spectacle.

Front Porch also welcomes returning family favorites: Dangermuffin, hot off the release of their new album Heritage; Big Daddy Love, with a rare 2017 performance; and Erin & the Wildfire, pairing sultry melodies and a melting pot of rock, soul, funk and blues.

Local staple and blues favorite, Slick Jr & the Reactors join Rinaldi Flying Circus, Righteous Friendz Band, The Elovaters and Oh Brother, Where am I? Rounding out the roster are Front Porch newcomers Forlorn Strangers, Urban Soil, Of Tomorrow, and Dar Stellabotta.

Front Porch is a family-friendly event with children’s activities, on-site field and woods camping, and food and merchandise vendors. Tickets are $75 for a three-day adult pass, camping included; and $225 for the Thursday VIP night plus 3 days of VIP camping, meals and beverages.

RVs/pull-behind campers are $75 (does not include admission price). Children 12 and younger are admitted free. Festival proceeds are donated to the Patrick County Food Bank and Caring Hearts Free Clinic.

Tickets and additional information is available at frontporchfest.com.