Bands

Hot Like Mars

“From the furthest depths of the galaxy, Chicago-based funk phenomenon Hot Like Mars has been sending shockwaves across the music scene lately. Possessing a refined blend of soul, funk, and high-octane dance music, Hot Like Mars puts on a masterclass of musical patience, excellence, and enthusiasm, carefully curating their sounds into an explosive array of musical prowess. If the backbone of Motown and gospel met the psychedelic experience of the jam world, Hot Like Mars would emerge from the ashes to deliver the funk to all those fortunate enough to bear witness. While these cats have already become a cornerstone in the Chicago music scene, The Hot Like Mars experience continues to grow nationally and has become a can’t-miss act in venues across the country."

The People Brothers Band

“Drawing from the bands musically diverse influences, you’ll hear everything from The Tedeschi Trucks Band, Grateful Dead, Phish & Whitney Houston, to Gregg Allman & The Band in their original music. Coupled with a stage presence like Tina Turner, the ensemble displays genre-bending versatility and mesmerizing synchronicity during their energetic live shows. Their infectious stage presence is punctuated with heartfelt words of encouragement from lead vocalist, Teresa Marie, who emphasizes their overarching message of love and positivity. The band that surrounds her, frames her message, like a psychedelic kaleidoscope painting full of color, straight out of the 70’s. These friends lift their voices, keys, strings, horns, and drumsticks in love to create music on a higher vibration which transcends the auditory experience to rejuvenate the soul."

Rare Element

“Rare Element is a high-energy funk band based in Madison, Wisconsin, known for delivering electrifying live performances. Blending deep-pocket grooves, tight horn lines, soulful melodies, and vibrant solos, Rare Element delivers an infectious sound that’s rooted in classic funk traditions while pushing into modern territory. The group’s repertoire fuses elements of jazz, soul, and R&B with funk’s irresistible groove, creating music that is equally compelling for serious listeners and dance-floor devotees. Whether lighting up local festivals, club stages, or outdoor summer concerts, Rare Element has become a go-to act for audiences craving live funk with flavor. Their high-octane live performances are marked by a contagious sense of joy that radiates from the stage."

BAMM

“A musical force to be reckoned with, Bo Allen Messer Music (BAMM) is less of a house band and more of a band on course to become a household name. From its roots in Madison, Wisconsin in early 2024 to its debut-year tour through Colorado, Nebraska, and Wisconsin, BAMM has made a big impact in just one year on the music scene. Igniting every stage with passion, BAMM’s songs and performances blend rich roots music with touches of Southern rock and funk—brought to life through dynamic musicianship and high-energy improvisation. Their sound invites both deep listening and toe-tapping fun, drawing in fans from diverse musical backgrounds. Each musician in BAMM brings a wealth of experience that not only enriches the band’s versatility and sound but also ensures that each performance is uniquely tailored to create the perfect experience.”

Watt Millians

Watt Millians, aka Matt Williams, is the keyboard wiz behind the Madison, WI - based Creepfunk outfit, STEEZ. When not playing with steez, Purple Veins, or the Big Wu you may find him flying Han Solo with drum machines , synthesizers, and his copilot the Talkbox. Electro funk, hip hop, 80’s, drum n’ bass and wattevr else, turn down for Watt.

Earthlight

“Perhaps the most unexpected group on the lineup, Earthlight is poised to become one of those acts you instinctively carve time out for at your favorite festival. When deep-rooted musical academia collides with a fearless urge to color outside the lines, the result is a palpable chemistry that elevates every improvised moment—collective exploration guided by sharp instincts and deliberate, calculated interplay. Henry, hailing from Milwaukee, is a Jazz Piano Major at UW–Madison and brings both precision and fluidity to the keys. Brandon, the neuroscientist on upright and electric bass, approaches his instrument with a distinctive, almost guitar-like voice that reshapes the low end. Griffin is an absolute force behind the kit, with the kind of multi-genre command that makes itself known within moments. And Jack delivers unmatched technical prowess on guitar, pairing angularity with an unapologetic edge that’s as thrilling as it is unpredictable. Jazz fusion? Jam ensemble? Call it what you want—but whatever the label, Earthlight demands your attention."

Moonbadger

“The quintessential Wausau jam band that you didn’t know you needed. Moonbadger is a high-voltage jam band built on deep grooves, sharp musicianship, and an unstoppable live energy. Formed by four seasoned players with proven success in other regional acts, the group blends classic funk grit with modern soul swagger. Billy Bronsted leads with powerhouse vocals, guitar and magnetic stage presence, while Jordan Miles will absolutely blow you away with his prowess on the keys. On bass, Zach Soczka delivers tight, infectious lines that lock in perfectly with the crisp, driving rhythms of veteran drummer Eric Juvonen.”