They’ve always defied and stretched genres, equal parts singer/songwriters and rock band. Thinking man’s Americana. Pop for philosophers? Country for the curious? Rock for the recluse? Whatever you call them, Annagail weave heartache and hope for the disillusioned. “Its not uncommon for me to listen to The Cure and Steve Earl back to back…before breakfast,” Jared has said of their fluid style.
8 albums deep, a blend of courage and frailty are embraced and they’re proud of both. 2021 brought two new albums, ‘Home’ and “Baby, It’s You.” As the world entered the pandemic, Annagail embraced the dread of the unknown and paradox of studio solace afforded by quarantine. From lush strings, pianos, searing guitar solos and vocals fit to weep over – to a lonely harmonica accompanied by delicate fingerpicking and accordion.
A live abum, recorded at the famed listening room, Seven Steps Up drops soon and they recently released a 40 minute documentary chronicling their last 2 decades as a band and making of the album ‘Home.’
Their EP, The Cabin Sessions, produced and recorded with Nashville hit-maker Keith Follese’ (Lady Antebellum, Faith Hill, Katy Perry, Emerson Drive) is a glimpse into the influences of their songs. Electronic flourishes meet undeniable rootsy hooks. On numerous compilations and even a feature film soundtrack (‘Decision’ starring CCM vocalist Natalie Grant and country artist, Billy Dean) they’re an established act having weathered records deals, touring, airplay as well as playing all over West Michigan. Opening for YAM Haus, Plumb, Pillar, Bleach, Superhero, Jason Ingram, Satellite Soul, The Appleseed Cast, Waterdeep, Christopher Williams, Jennifer Knapp, Ellery, VOTA, Valentiger and many others.
Annagail desire to create meaningful moments. “The gig doesn’t validate us,” says Jennifer. “Sharing what we’re compelled to do and what makes us feel alive is the motivation.”
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Billy Blanchard is an original songwriter with a unique sound of fingerstyle/folk guitar. His songs communicate reflections and inspirations drawn from life's day-to-day moments and the larger themes of Being.
He's had the joy of creating and performing as a member of the swamp-folk trio WETLANDS and the old-me DIY trio Peg & Awl. The music is a mix of guitar, clawhammer banjo, voices and songs that are as much a part of the long tradition of folk music as they are music of today.
Billy lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan and is currently at work producing the HomeField Recordings podcast; a gentle meandering patchwork of songs and sounds recorded in nature and his surroundings.
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In addition to our craft beer, coffee and wine selection, our kitchen will be open serving our full dinner menu until 9pm! Get here early to snag your favorite seat and grab a bite to eat before the show begins. This show is free to attend, but you can support artists through tips.
The Stray is a listening room style venue and cafe, where performers are front and center, not background entertainment. We frequently ask attendees to silence their phones and keep conversations low out of respect to performers and other audience members.
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