Concerts for the music lover’s soul

ALL SONS AND DAUGHTERS — Last April, the acoustic band, All Sons and Daughters, led their audience in worship during their concert. (Annah Duffey)

Every person passionate about music should be pumped for the concert line-up this semester at Hope College, which will include a wide range of incredibly talented musicians. The Concert Series, hosted by the Student Activities Committee, consistently brings in artists that both cater to what students are interested in and challenge the music students are accustomed to. The lineup includes Gallant, Wild Child, All Sons and Daughters, Ra Ra Riot and Judah and the Lion.

Gallant is coming on Sept. 10 with Eryn Allen Kane. He’s performing at the Knickerbocker as part of his “The Ology” tour. His music has a soothing, alternative edge that is easy on the ears. The Facebook page states that “Ology” is his debut album, but he sings with an experienced ease that is sure to win Hope students over.

Wild Child is stopping by the following week on Sept. 16 at the Knickerbocker with SUSTO. The band has a soft, indie sound driven by piano and percussion. Other classic instruments are incorporated, such as the trumpet and cello. Alexander Beggins and Kelsey Wilson are the lead vocalists, whose voices complement each other’s nicely. This band from Austin, Texas has the potential to become Hope’s new favorite act.

All Sons and Daughters brought in a large audience last semester, filling Dimnent chapel to the brim. They also visited our weekly chapel service .

It appears they could not stay away from Hope for more than six months and will be returning on Oct. 17 to put on another undoubtedly crowded performance. The duo is known for singing passionate, religious songs, many of which are sung during weekly chapel sessions at Hope. As such, it only makes sense that they should return to play on campus.

Ra Ra Riot will be at Hope Nov. 5 at Dimnent. Anyone who enjoyed San Fermin last year is sure to love them, as they are an indie rock band that carries the same baroque pop genre, which is a style that combines classic and contemporary instruments. The lead vocalist, Wes Miles, has a calming voice, similar to Nicholas Petricca of Walk the Moon. Students who are more interested in pop and electronic sounds can appreciate Ra Ra Riot.

The final concert of the semester is Judah and the Lion on Nov. 12. This band separates itself from the rest of the line-up, with an alternative rock sound. Guitars and drums drive the music, more like a normal rock band, with choppier vocals that have an authentic tone. Judah and the Lion will also be performing in Dimnent and their energetic sound is sure to keep Hope anxiously anticipating next semester’s artists.

Rock, indie, religious music or baroque-pop—there is something for all tastes within this semester’s Concert Series. Every band has something different to offer and it will certainly be beneficial to check out every artist on the list.

Tickets can be bought with an ID at Anderson Werkman for $10 per student and $15 per staff member. This is the perfect opportunity to expand one’s musical library, and who knows; maybe your new favorite band will be coming to Hope within the next couple months.