LOCALadk Magazine

LOCALadk 20 Music Diversity and Connections One of the festival's defining traits is its ability to surprise and delight. People might come in with a love for bluegrass and folk and leave with an appre- ciation for Afrobeat or jazz. This cross-pollination of musical tastes is one of the festival's greatest strengths, fostering a deeper appreciation for dif- ferent cultures and styles among attendees. "It's fun to offer bands with clashing genres back- to-back," says Munley. "It creates a fun and unique experience for both the audience and the musi- cians playing at the festival." The diverse lineup also presents bands with the opportunity to forge new connections. "Teke::Te- ke, a Japanese psych-rock band from Montreal, and Ghost Funk Orchestra, a genre-defying band from Brooklyn, met at a previous Northern Current Music Festival and have since played together in Montreal," explains Munley. These relationships underscore the festival's impact on the musical community. Another highlight of the festival is its foresight in musical programming, which often becomes even more impressive in retrospect. Many of the bands chosen are newer on the scene, poised for greater success. For instance, House of Waters, who played at Northern Current in 2021, won a Grammy this past year. Such achievements make the festival a point of pride for Saranac Lake, showcasing its abil- ity to attract and support rising talent. Looking Ahead As Northern Current prepares for its 2024 edi- tion, the excitement is palpable. While honoring the legacy of Hobofest, Northern Current has carved out its own identity, becoming a highlight of the community's summer calendar. Northern Current is more than just a music festi- val; it's a testament to the power of community and what can be achieved when people come together with a shared vision. Whether you're a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, Northern Current invites you to join in on the fun on September 21, 2024. From 12:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Riverside Park will once again come alive with the sounds of di- verse musical genres, as the village of Saranac Lake comes together. This year's lineup includes The Nude Party, Bella's Bartok, Lady Moon & The Eclipse, All Night Boogie Band, Kurt and Carrie Steger, and ADK Players. Attendees can expect an eclectic mix of folk, rock 'n' roll, psych-rock, circus punk, neo-soul, boogie, blues, and bluegrass. t Richie Stearns and Rosie Newton of the band Richie & Rosie

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