Monophonics Headlines Music Lineup at GO Fest

monophonics roanoke go fest

Soul. Funk. Bluegrass. Blues. Southern rock.

Hear it all at Anthem GO Outside Festival, Oct. 12-14 at Rivers Edge in Roanoke, VA.

The three-day outdoors festival is more than gear and demos, it’s also jam-packed with live music thanks to a partnership with the producers of FloydFest. This year’s headliner, Monophonics, hits the Haley Toyota stage for a free concert Saturday, Oct. 13.

Monophonics is hitting their stride as one of the premier soul bands in the country. The Bay Area band delivers cinematic songs with timeless hooks anchored by Kelly Finnigan’s soulful organ and powerhouse vocals. Their sound is inspired equally by classic soul, psychedelic rock, and classic American songwriting. The band, which recently released “Mirrors,” is known for raucous and soulful live performances.

Baked-in to Monophonics music there’s a somewhat elusive vibe. As Finnigan put it: “I think it’s having people who are all on the same page, striving to capture that musical moment and being honest in their playing and being thoughtful and putting their ego to the side to serve the song.” Monophonics is Austin Bohlman (Drums), Ian McDonald (Guitar/Background Vocals), Ryan Scott (Trumpet/Background Vocals/Percussion), and Finnigan (Keys/Lead Vocals), along with Max Ramey (Bass).

“Our goal is to offer the public the opportunity to try something new and exciting, experience the outdoors, and make memories with friends,” said Patrick Boas, event director and recreation manager at Roanoke’s Department of Parks and Recreation. “Live music is just one more way to showcase the outdoor amenities and overall appeal of the Roanoke Region.”

The entire weekend will be packed with music. FloydFest 18 On-the-Rise Competition winner Magnolia Boulevard takes the stage on Friday, Oct. 12, and runner-up Travers Brothership will play preceding Monophonics.

The weekend music schedule is packed with local and national favorites and GO Fest attendees get to experience it all for free. Other bands include The Floorboards, Sol Searchers, GOTE, and Dharma Bombs.

“GO Fest is a music festival and celebration of the outdoors all at once,” said Pete Eshelman, director of the Roanoke Outside Foundation. “Whether you come to GO Fest to try a kayak or bike, sample a craft beer or menu item from a food truck, showcase your business or organization as a vendor, or just listen to the music, there’s something for everyone. Events like this show the connected nature of the Roanoke Region and how business, talent, and the outdoors intersect.”

GO Fest Weekend Music Schedule

Friday, Oct. 12

Saturday, Oct. 13

  • GOTE — 4 to 5 p.m.
  • Dharma Bombs — 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
  • Travers Brothership — 7 to 8:15 p.m.
  • Monophonics — 9 to 10:30 p.m.
  • Mr Jennings & Crew — 8:15 to 8:45 p.m./10:30 to 11 p.m.

The Anthem GO Outside Festival is a free annual event that encourages healthy outdoor recreation. Organized through a partnership between the City of Roanoke’s Department of Parks and Recreation and the Roanoke Outside Foundation, the three-day event has evolved into one of the nation’s premier outdoor festivals since 2011. Taking place in mid-October annually, the festival features over 100 family-friendly activities, pro athlete demos, races, craft beer, camping, and live music.