April is about new growth and moving forward. And although we may want to discover new artists and bands, it doesn’t mean we can’t go back to the classics. Who doesn’t want to be transported back to the 1990s while listening to “Fancy” by Reba McEntire? There is nothing like music to bring the nostalgia back. And although some of the artists visiting Harrisburg this month aren’t as classic as Reba, the mid-2010s are still nostalgic for some.
Reba McEntire, 4/16, Giant Center, 6:30 p.m.
Reba wasn’t named “The Queen of Country” for no reason. The singer started her career in 1975 and is still rocking the stage in 2023. Country artist Red Steagall discovered her at a rodeo where she was performing then helped get her signed to PolyGram/Mercury Records. Her career really took off in 1991 after the release of her album, “For My Broken Heart.” McEntire wrote the album after eight of her band members tragically died in a plane crash. That album is one of her bestselling to this day. After establishing her music career, Reba appeared in TV, film and on Broadway. The beloved singer has a classic country voice that never seems to get old. Her smooth vocals have barely changed over the years, making this show a must-see.
Houndmouth, 4/20, XL LIVE, 8 p.m.
This alternative blues band got its start in 2011 in Indiana, recording a self-titled EP. Shortly after, the Guardian named them “Band of the Week.” Houndmouth’s sound is rustic, roots and rock all mixed together, the slow and soulful music tugging at your heartstrings. One of Houndmouth’s top songs is “Sedona,” which was released in their 2015 album, “Little Neon Limelight.” Since then, the band has released two more albums, “Golden Age,” in 2018, and “Good For You,” in 2021. With over 2.1 million monthly listeners on Spotify, the band has certainly made a name for itself.
Father John Misty, 4/27, The Forum Auditorium, 8 p.m.
After leaving the band Fleet Foxes in 2012, Joshua Michael Tillman ventured out on his own and assumed the stage name of Father John Misty. He released his first album, “Fear Fun,” later that year. Since the start of his solo career, he has released five albums. In addition, the indie-folk singer has contributed to the albums of other artists, such as Post Malone, Lady Gaga, Kid Cudi and even Beyonce. Tillman’s most notable song may be the single, “Real Love Baby,” released in 2016. In contrast to the many slow and sad melodies that Fleet Foxes performed, Father John Misty keeps his music more upbeat and fun, along with a folk-rock twist.
Mentionables
- Hiss Golden Messenger, April 4, H*MAC
- Snarky Puppy, April 15, H*MAC
- Natalie Grant, April 16, Christian Life Assembly
- Joywave, April 18, XL Live
- The Last Ten Seconds of Life, April 18, Lovedraft’s Brewing Co.
- Easton Corbin, April 22, PA Farm Show Complex & Expo Center
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