Philadelphia music festival features performances by XPoNential Music Festival, Alabama Shakes, and Eric Church
This week in the Philadelphia music scene promises a diverse lineup of events, from the XPoNential Music Festival in Camden to concerts featuring artists like Eric Church, Kali Uchis, Alabama Shakes, and The Lumineers. On Wednesday, the Sundown Music Series at Haddon Lake Park in South Jersey wraps up with Chuck Prophet and His Cumbia Shoes, blending San Francisco songwriter Chuck Prophet’s band Mission Express with California cumbia band ¡Qiensave! Songs from Prophet’s Wake The Dead album are set to delight audiences attending the free concert.
A melodic treat awaits punk rock enthusiasts at the Fillmore on the same night, with Canadian band Pup and Long Island artist Jeff Rosenstock sharing the stage. Both acts have collaborated previously, and their friendship shines through their music. The Courettes, a ’60s-era girl-group Wall of Sound band blend Brazilian singer-guitarist Flavia Couri and Danish drummer Martin Thorsen’s international backgrounds, offering a nostalgic yet fresh sound.
Alabama Shakes, known for their funk-soul-blues-rock blends, return to the stage after a hiatus since 2017, bringing new energy with their latest track “Another Life.” Back in Philadelphia, underground rapper Billy Woods has a mysterious aura, having lived in D.C. and Zimbabwe, and is set to perform at Underground Arts. On the same night, Philly’s own Bilal showcases his unique blend of jazz, R&B, and soul at City Winery.
Country outlaw Eric Church brings his Springsteen-inspired vibe to Xfinity Mobile Arena touring behind his album “Evangeline vs. the Machine” featuring a cover of Tom Waits’ “Clap Hands.” Musician Dougie Poole carves his niche with cosmic country tunes that resonate with audiences transcending genres. His show at PhilaMOCA promises to be a stripped-down, heartfelt experience for fans of authentic country music.
For fans of cosmic country music, the aptly named Daniel Donato’s band delivers a psychedelic and honky-tonk blend. Hailing from Nashville, the guitarist showcases his prowess over three consecutive nights at Ardmore Music Hall before appearing at the XPoNential Music Festival in Camden on Sunday. The festival put together by WXPN-FM promises a funky Friday with headline act War, serving as a testament to the diverse lineup curated for the event.
Across subsequent days, the festival features impressive talents like Sharon Van Etten, Richard Thompson, Molly Tuttle, and Courtney Barnett, who brings her Australian charm to the stage. Other noteworthy acts include Turnstile at the Mann Center’s Skyline Stage on Friday, and Kali Uchis’ signature tunes at Xfinity Mobile Arena on Saturday. Hayes Carll rounds off the weekend with a performance at Ardmore Music Hall, showcasing his laid-back approach to Texas-inspired tunes. The city’s music scene is abuzz with excitement and awaits music lovers of all tastes and preferences to revel in the diverse sounds on offer.