One of West Virginia’s favorite home state bands, Fletcher’s Grove, is getting down again at Groovin’ in the Grove 2. It is just a few weeks away, landing on the last weekend of September the 28th – 30th in Philippi, West Virginia; just a little ways south of Morgantown. The grounds are lovely with rolling hills and gravel roads leading to a grassy stage area. Did I mention it is BYOB at the stage area? You can walk right up to the stage with your drink in hand, which always gains bonus points for me. This makes it extra easy to get cozy as you set up your home base in front of the stage. There is a lot of area on these grounds, it may not all be covered with patrons, so if you wanted to stretch out you can, or bring a bike and take yourself on a tour of the beautiful property, finding many peaks to watch the sunset or sunrise.
Groovin’ is a showcase of some of West Virginia’s finest! From some new hometown sounds to old school warriors with bands like reggae sounds of Rasta Rafiki staring Saturday night. Saturday afternoon will be featuring Manor and Friends; a funky jam band from Morgantown, Hillbilly Carnival a fun, playful and theatrical bluegrass band from Putnam County, as well as West Virginia’s very own delegate Mike Pushkin and the Loyal Opposition.
It is Friday that has me hyped, I will be out dancing to two of my favorites. First off The Kind Thieves, they stole my heart a few years back with their mix between foot stopping punk and psychedelic bluegrass that spun me in a want to start a mosh pit but also take your hand for a friendly spin; they are form the Beckley area. If anyone stayed through the rain at Deep Roots a few year ago, you will remember The Company Stores shining like a ray of sunlight through clouds with their leading ladies fierce vocals, people were blown away and screaming for more, they’ll be heading up from Charleston. Friday is stacked with good West Virginia bands; a town favorite The Greens, Moonshine Crossing and 18 Strings just to temp ya with a few more.
There will also be some travelers; special guest Pappy and JP Blondo from Cabinet is playing a few times, having a headline spot as well as playing with Duo Grove for a late night set. Andy Frasco & The U.N., That 1 Guy is playing and John Stickley Trio to round out the rest of the headliners.
There is definitely some talent jammed packed in these two days, and for the price?!?! Gate price is $60, it is hard to find a festival with those ticket prices anymore. Have a kid under 12? They can get in for FREE; making Groovin’ in the Grove one of this year’s most family friendly priced events. Fire is also allowed on these camp grounds so pack up the family, gates open at noon on Friday, and enjoy some good tunes and maybe even a few s’mores or two. Visit the website and pick up your tickets, I’ll see you in the West Virginia mountains!