Spring semester welcomes musical talent

Along with the start of the spring semester at Hope College comes another round of concerts, which students are sure to love. Four concerts are taking place over the entirety of January and February. With an ID, students can purchase tickets in Anderson-Werkman for $5.

For anyone who loves serene music while studying, Hiss Golden Messenger is a perfect fit. The band will be coming to the Knickerbocker Theatre on Jan. 27 at 8 p.m. MC Taylor comprises the one-man folk band. His music consists of calm acoustic guitar melodies coupled with a soulful voice, a hint of southern twang. Taylor comes from North Carolina and will be on tour through April, showcasing his latest album, “Heart like a Levee.” Taylor’s style is reminiscent of Langhorne Slim and occasionally Jack Johnson.

If alternative indie rock is more your style, Twin Peaks is right up your alley. The five- person band is terrific at bringing back the harsh vocals, fast-paced music and drum-heavy style that was popularized in the eighties. There is a nice variety of soft and heavy songs that cater to various music tastes among their albums. Holland is one of the couple national shows on their radar right now, accord- ing to the band page—most of their shows are in Europe. They will be performing at the Park Theatre 8 p.m. on Feb. 17. The theatre is located at 248 South River Ave., and doors open half an hour prior to start time.

The Japanese House is coming to the Park Theatre not long after, on Feb. 24 at 8 p.m. The music is mainly electronic with synthesized vocals. Amber Bain, a 20 year old from Buckingham- shire, England, makes up the band. Her music has a very soft and dreamy quality that has be- come popular among younger audiences. Betty Who and The Naked and Famous are other artists with similar characteristics within their songs. All artists, originated from the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand respectively, are con- tributing to this growing stylistic theme amongst musicians beyond the United States.

The final and most well- known show of the concert series features Josh Garrels and John Mark McMillan. Garrels is a folk singer who has been releasing albums since 2002. McMillan’s deep, rough vocals identify him amongst his guitar- driven, alternative rock melodies. Both artists have Christian elements to their songs and have been in the music industry the same amount of time. The con- cert takes place at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 27 in Dimnent Memorial Chapel. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.. Tickets will likely sell fast.

Take an affordable opportunity to see these musicians. Spreading across the musical spectrum, each artist has some- thing unique to offer. No two concerts will be alike, and there will surely be songs to dance to at every performance. Music is vital to student life at Hope, providing a gateway to thoughts beyond the confining lines of classes. Therefore, take a break from your study schedule and enjoy the music line-up that Hope has to offer.