'Nashville's most woke band' headlines Riverfront Nights


Waker, formerly known as Koa. / Facebook.com
Waker, formerly known as Koa. / Facebook.com

The group dubbed "Nashville's most woke band" by NewSound magazine will headline Riverfront Nights on Saturday, Aug. 4, at Ross's Landing, 201 Riverfront Parkway.

Waker will take the stage at 8 p.m. at the free concert.

Waker was founded in 2012 by childhood friends and songwriting duo Chase Bader and Conor Kelly, along with Ryan Ladd and Alex Matthews. They began as Koa before changing their name to Waker two years ago.

The group mashes soul, rock and jam into an eclectic, danceable sound. Their intention has always been to "wake people" with their music. Ultimately, they focus on their live performances, as might be expected from a band wanting to portray a communal experience.

"These guys can make music and elevate a scene," praised Music City Roots.

The band has played festival stages at Bonnaroo, ACL, Hangout, SXSW, Firefly and Wakarusa. They've toured with Blues Traveler, JJ Grey & Mofro, Moon Taxi, Galactic, the Wailers, recorded a session for Audiotree Live and headlined shows across the country.

For more information: www.riverfrontnights.com.

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