Mo Grass
Born in the foothills of North Carolina, Mo-Grass is a brand-new collaboration of two beloved NC-based bands—Big Daddy Love and The Deluge. They have joined forces with some of the state’s finest soul musicians to create a project that reimagines the Motown songbook and history through a bluegrass lens. At its core, Mo-Grass is about joy, feel, and connection. The band takes timeless soul hits and dresses them in banjo rolls, tight vocal harmonies, and funky, danceable grooves. It’s Motown with a twang, bluegrass with a deep heartbeat, and your favorite soul music that never forgets where it came from. Mo-Grass draws from a legendary catalog that includes both Motown and Stax artists, such as: Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, Otis Redding, The Isley Brothers, Sam Cooke, Marvin Gaye, Dusty Springfield, Bill Withers, and Jackie Wilson, among many others. Each song is treated with reverence and creativity—honoring the originals while carving out something entirely new. Mo-Grass has been officially confirmed for major 2026 festival appearances, including MerleFest, Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, and FloydFest—a strong signal that this project has struck a chord across genres and generations.The band consists of Brandon Knox and Molly McGinn on vocals, Matteo “Joey” Recchio on guitar and vocals, Kelly Linville on drums, Ashley Sutton on bass, and Brian Swenk on banjo.Don’t miss Mo-Grass as it makes waves across the southeastern music scene—bridging soul and string music with heart, groove, and undeniable spirit.
The Collective ft. Jeff Sipe, Carson Moore, Isaac Hadden, Ava Ramsey, Asher Hill, + Daniel Combs
Irata (album release show) with Gray Young and Nathan Arizona and the New Mexicans
Since its 2007 genesis at the hands of founding members Jon Case and Jason Ward, Irata has mutated relentlessly. Through four previous records, the band has never sat idly in any specific style, while maintaining a signature mesmerizing, grinding pulse between bass and drums that permeates an enigmatic vision of heavy rock. After releasing ‘Tower’ in 2019 as a four-piece, Irata is once again a trio, and continues to push forward into new sonic territories. On ‘Human,’ the band is building on the structures that have created some of its enduring favorites — namely, thundering bass riffs, hypnotic drums, and grandiose choruses. They do not sacrifice expression for refinement, but manage to have it both ways. Their progression is evident in the patience with which “Altar” leads off, a melodic confidence that overarches the eight included songs, and the atmospheres in pieces like “Slipped” (see “pulse…” above) and the expansive finale “Daystar,” but none of ‘Human’ is so overblown as to give up its organically dynamic nature. And perhaps in an era marked by the advent of machine-made art, ‘Human’ can be as much a statement of purpose as a declaration of self. In any case, with this collection of songs, Irata’s focus on vocal melody and intricate riffing distinguish them from a crowded underground sphere. The record moves as two sides of one image, opening with reflections of a final chapter, and closing with reflections of a new beginning through transformation; a story being told as it’s lived. What could be more human than that? ‘Human’ was recorded with longtime friends Hunter Allen and Adam Joyce of The Bronzed Chorus at Amplified Acres in Liberty, NC, and mixed by J. Robbins at The Magpie Cage in Baltimore, MD.
A Tribute to Dr. Ralph Stanley by Nathan Stanley and Constant Sorrow
Born on August 16, 1992, in the hills of Southwestern Virginia, Nathan Edmond Stanley was destined for music greatness. As the grandson of the legendary Dr. Ralph Stanley, Nathan inherited a rich bluegrass heritage that shaped his remarkable career. At just two years old, Nathan made his stage debut at the Grand Ole Opry, playing spoons alongside his grandfather and the famed Clinch Mountain Boys. By 2007, he had become the group’s lead singer and rhythm guitarist, stepping into a role once held by many of bluegrass and country music’s finest. Nathan has remained committed to originality, saying, “If it’s been done, I don’t think I’ll do it that way.”His sound blends his bluegrass roots with influences from Elvis Presley, George Jones, and more, showcasing both tradition and individuality.
Imani and Josh present Feelings Like These
Imani Pressley is a Grammy-Nominated multi- talented music producer, songwriter, musician, engineer and artist who has been making waves in the music industry with her innovative sound and creative prowess since the age of nine. Known for her versatility and ability to seamlessly blend genres, Imani has worked with a diverse range of artists, contributing to projects that span pop, R&B, hip-hop, gospel and more.
William Hinson + Sarah Gross
Chill Extreme Presents Thomas Nicholas w/ Corporate Fandango and William Nesmith
Dance From Above featuring Mr. O’Neil w/ Niervash and Rahl
Days are heating up and so is the DFA Dance floor this month as another notable NC selector takes to our decks on June 20th! Galbert O’Neil, better known as Mr. O’Neil, DJing has always been about people as much as records. Rooted in the foundational sounds of Chicago house, New York house, and Detroit techno, his sets reflect more than two decades of dedication to music that connects, uplifts, and moves. Originally from the Dominican Republic, his perspective was deeply shaped by the 17 years he spent in New York City, where the underground scene transformed his understanding of the dance floor into a space where strangers become community. From his early radio show Visionario On Radio in the Dominican Republic to his online series Moods, Soundscapes and Grooves on SoundCloud and Twitch, and his label Labour Of Love, Mr. O’Neil continues to create environments where music feels intentional, inclusive, and rooted in something real. Residents Niervash and Rahl will be holding it down for the remainder of the night and as always, we all thrive when you spread the word and bring a friend along. Community is what we are all about and we love seeing familiar faces join us every month. Join the family and we will see you on June 20th!
Dr Shug w/ Brandon Tenney
Dr.Shug and Brandon Tenney are two locals from GSO! They are sharing the night at the Flat Iron July 30th. With Tenney’s spaced out story telling and Dr.Shug with their psychedelic jam groove sweetness! This is a night you definitely don’t want to miss.
Leilani Kilgore w/ Joel Henry Trio
Leilani Kilgore delivers fiery, blues-infused rock with a raw, unapologetic edge. Armed with searing guitar riffs, sultry vocals, and a stage presence that commands attention, she blends classic grit with modern aggression.