Lexington, Kentucky's Magnolia Boulevard has emerged with a renewed sense of purpose, channeling what they call "Appalachian Soul": a rich blend of blues, soul, rock, and roots-driven storytelling. Formed by vocalist/guitarist Maggie Noelle and keyboardist Ryan Allen, the band draws deeply from their regional heritage, crafting songs that reflect lived experience, resilience, and emotional honesty. Their latest self-titled album, recorded with renowned Kentucky producer Duane Lundy, showcases eight songs steeped in blues and soul while freely traversing folk, rock, and Americana textures. Magnolia Boulevard's sound is defined by Noelle's powerhouse vocals, expressive musicianship, and an undeniable live chemistry that has earned them a reputation as a rising must-see act across Southern Appalachia and beyond. Rooted in community and driven by intention, Magnolia Boulevard is steadily breaking onto the national stage: on their own time, and on their own terms.

Multiple award-winning guitarist, vocalist, and bandleader Tommy Castro is a California-based blues and rock powerhouse. For over four decades, he has captivated audiences with soul-drenched vocals, searing guitar work, and high-energy live shows. As frontman of Tommy Castro & The Painkillers, he has released 17 albums spanning horn-driven R&B, hot-blooded soul, gritty rock, and electric blues. With his eighth Alligator Records release, Closer To The Bone, Castro returns to his roots with what he calls "a real blues record, the way they would have made them back in the day." Produced by Christoffer 'Kid' Andersen at Greaseland Studio, it is his rawest and most direct blues effort to date. A ten-time Blues Music Award winner and four-time B.B. King Entertainer of the Year, Castro is renowned for his no-frills, 150-shows-a-year approach and fiercely loyal fanbase. Joe Bonamassa calls him "top of the heap among blues guitar players."