Musicians and Schedule
At the 2024 New Deal Festival, we are excited to bring back some favorite WV artists from festivals past as well as new groups. From folk to funk, there’s a little something for everyone. And in celebrate of Arthurdale’s 90th anniversary, we’re excited to extend the New Deal Festival for a special evening concert by WV roots musician Andrew Adkins on our mainstage!
11:00 AM – 12:15 PM: The Masons
THE MASONS are an Americana acoustic rock duo. Showcasing their mountain roots, THE MASONS deliver a high-energy show of original music and unique arrangements of familiar tunes, with a knack for re-arranging and infusing their music with sweet vocal harmonies, and a toe-tappin’ Masons twist, creating a freshness that is both exciting and familiar.
THE MASONS are SKIP MASON on acoustic guitar and vocals, and CINDI MASON on her trademark upright bass and vocals. Pulling songs from the classic rock and country rock genres, the two have crafted a show of acoustic arrangements with an Appalachian spin on familiar songs, as well as their original music. This has generated enthusiastic audience support from numerous performances throughout their home state of West Virginia, surrounding states, and their Winter home in South Florida.
Since forming over 10 years ago, THE M ASONS have logged 1200+ live shows, and released their first CD in 2014. The Masons would return to the studio, releasing their second CD, “Hard Life”, in 2019. Visit their website for clips and more information!
12:30 PM – 1:45 PM: Grace Campbell
Hailing from West Virginia, Grace Campbell brings her unique charm to the music scene. Her captivating songwriting and magnetic personality have garnered her a dedicated fan base both locally and on social media.
Grace has transcended the Appalachian region
with her music. She continues to grow her
regional fanbase through live appearances, a
strong social media presence, and the genuine
connection she makes with her audience. Her live appearances have included working with artists such as: Kathy Mattea, Kidd G, Philip Bowen, and Kassi Valazza.
2:00 PM – 3:15 PM: Chris Haddox
Chris Haddox is a West Virginia born (Logan) and based (Morgantown) musician who’s never met a stringed instrument he couldn’t master. He writes and sings his voluminous collection of songs about (to quote him) “religion, firearms, courthouse squares, goats on trampolines, shoes, fiddles, and hurricanes”—whatever catches his eye. He continues, “Like most writers, I try to find new ways to address old topics. Some songs are funny, some sad, some sarcastic but they are all honest–even the ones that are full of lies.”
3:30 PM – 4:45 PM: Ya Honk
“Ya Honk” is Alex Heflin’s tenor guitar trio. After releasing his wildly eclectic record “Room for Everyone” in 2021, which was recorded in his home studio, he decided to put together a group that could play the material. In addition to Heflin’s original music, the group plays tunes by the likes of Scary Pockets, John Scofield, Bill Frisell, and Julian Lage. Heflin is joined by Mason Atha on bass and Eli Weidman on drums.
7:00 PM – 8:45 PM: Sweaty Hands String Band
Comprised entirely of former (and current!) WVU Bluegrass and Old-Time Ensemble students, the Sweaty Hands String Band explores americana, bluegrass, and old-time genres, creatively blending the sounds of traditional Appalachian music with modern folk and country. The band is based out of Morgantown, West Virginia, and draws inspiration from the likes of Doc Watson, Hazel Dickens, Peter Rowan, Gillian Welch, and more modern influences such as Sierra Ferrell, Billy Strings, songwriter Adrianne Lenker, and old-time fiddler Sami Braman. Each member of the band has a unique musical background and brings something different to the table, expanding the bounds of genre to fit their own musical niche.
8:00 PM – 10:00 PM: Andrew Adkins
Raised in the Appalachian mountains of West Virginia, Andrew Adkins is a storyteller who defies the confines of expectations and boldly refuses to conform to any predetermined mold. Since his last release, “Who I Am,” Adkins has spent time on the road, here in America and in Europe sharing the stage with household names and playing festival staples far and wide, such as Merlefest, Bristol Rhythm and Roots, and Americana Fest, deepening his ability to connect through song. Fittingly hailed by No Depression Magazine as “West Virginia’s most profound songwriter,” Andrew Adkins evokes an emotional response from his audience that ranges from belly laughter to tears, pulling everyone in close to see the magic of the moment.
