Local Musicians Unite for Music Festival

The second annual 100% Local Music Festival benefiting the Northfield Area United Way will be held Friday and Saturday, October 3 and 4, 2014 at the Contented Cow Pub and Wine Bar. The festival features two nights of top local talent and runs from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. All musicians, technicians and organizers are volunteering on behalf of local nonprofits. The event is open to all and a goodwill offering of $25 is suggested.

Friday night’s line-up features Jon Manners, Matthew Griswold and Marty Anderson and the Goods. Saturday night features Chad Johnson, Mark Allen, the Counterfactuals and Mr. Sticky. All have strong ties to the Northfield area.

It’s rare for so many great local musicians to come together in one festival and, as executive director of the Northfield Area United Way, I am thrilled that they’re standing up for our community by contributing their talent.

These musicians place a high value on artistry, including the Counterfactuals, an indie rock band made up of Carleton and St. Olaf College professors whose album, Minimally Decent People, has received plaudits from critics. Bluesy rocker Jon Manners has been voted Best Solo Artist by Minnesota Scene magazine. Country rocker Chad Johnson is a singer/songwriter has been entertaining audiences in the area since he was a teenager. Singer/guitarist Marty Anderson is a local favorite who headlines a classic and alternative rock band.

The 100% Local Music Festival coincides with the kickoff of the Northfield Area United Way campaign with a goal to raise $425,000 for local nonprofit agencies focused on strengthening the Northfield are in the areas of Education, Health and Basic Needs. The event is sponsored by Just Food Co-op, the Contented Cow and College City Beverage.