Celebrating a decade of stirring melodies and Irish charm, the group Blame Not the Bard (BNTB) is set to mark their 10th anniversary with a special performance this Saturday, January 25th, at Bishop Hill Creative Commons. Kicking off with a potluck dinner at 6 PM, music enthusiasts are invited to enjoy an evening filled with vibrant tunes starting at 7 PM. The event promises engaging performances not only from BNTB but also from singer-songwriter Jon Hayes and the talented dancers from the Champagne Academy of Irish Dance. Attendees are encouraged to contribute a suggested donation of $20–30. For a blend of traditional Irish music and community spirit, this event is not to be missed. For additional details and ticketing, visit XRoadsCC.org.
Blame Not the Bard, the beloved folk ensemble from Iowa, celebrates a significant milestone with the release of their sophomore album, “Now and Again.” This latest collection marks a new chapter for the quartet, introducing Dan Vaughn alongside the familiar trio of Andrew Philbrick, Corey Baker, and Nicole Philbrick. The album revisits fan favorites, presenting a fresh twist on their well-loved tracks, setting the stage for new musical explorations. Since its 2015 inception, BNTB has captivated audiences across the Midwest, gracing stages from intimate venues to major festivals like the Kansas City Irish Fest. Their journey from a passion project to folk favorites symbolizes their growing influence in the regional music scene.