Two of our favorites, Pretend Friend and Haymakers are joining forces for this Bluegrass/Folk/Jam double header!

Fri 4/18 7pm - $10/$15 all ages

Haymakers takes the concept of the string band and plugs it into a broad swath of acoustic music that stretches from Americana to bluegrass, from Appalachian folk music to bluesy western swing, and even into the realm of the jam band. Dustin Arbuckle (vocals/harmonica), Tom Page (vocals/guitar), Evan Ogborn (mandolin/vocals), and Caleb Drummond (bass/vocals) lock into an array of grooves that go in and outside the box of traditional acoustic music. The Wichita, Kansas-based group formed in 2012 and gradually honed their sound through steady gigs around the Sunflower State before releasing their debut, self-titled album in 2017. Since then the band has toured steadily throughout the Midwest and beyond, playing everywhere from festivals to rowdy bars to living rooms. Over the years they have cultivated a loyal fanbase and developed a reputation for lively performances that blend a wide variety of original and traditional songs performed in their own unique style.

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Pretend Friend is a nationally touring progressive bluegrass and folk-rock band based in Wichita, Kansas. Known for combining musical elements from a variety of genres, Pretend Friend melds raw energy and soulful expression into timeless original songs "that seem to have always been." Pretend Friend grew from the combined inspiration of rock and roll, Kansas bluegrass culture, and the campground jamming tradition of the Walnut Valley Festival. Their music is a fusion of styles, showcasing intricate musicianship and delivered through electrifying performances comparable to any rock show.

Pretend Friend was founded in 2015 by singer, songwriter, and guitarist Grant Boesen. Boesen's commanding tenor voice serves as the unmistakable identifying force driving the band's sound, drawing comparisons to iconic vocalists like Shannon Hoon (Blind Melon), Geddy Lee (Rush), and Chris Cornell (Soundgarden). Boesen is a classically trained vocalist, guitarist, and music school dropout, and he has won awards for songwriting, flat-picking, and finger-style guitar playing. Reflecting an eclectic variety of influences, including Dave Matthews, Paul Simon, Bruce Hornsby, Tony Rice, and Doc Watson, Boesen's songwriting blends contemplative lyrics with thematic melodies.

In 2017, Pretend Friend's lineup was enhanced with the addition of Evan Ogborn, a champion mandolinist whose creativity and dynamic style have been formative in developing the band’s unique sound. Ogborn's jazz training, relentless dedication, and uninhibited performance energy make him a formidable stage presence and songwriter. Together, Boesen and Ogborn have earned a reputation for their innovative arrangements and fearless musical approach.

In 2024, Pretend Friend further elevated its lineup with the addition of Caleb Drummond, a virtuoso bassist from Wichita known for his punctual style and deep groove. Drummond brings a new dimension to the band's sound, anchoring the rhythm section with an expert sense of musicality. Drummond’s work across multiple genres, including jazz, folk, and bluegrass, lays a solid foundation for Pretend Friend’s sound while adding a rich complexity to their performances. Drummond graduated from Friends University in 2011 with Bachelors of Arts in music performance for upright and electric bass, as well as a Bachelors of Science in music business. He has been a private instructor at Damm Music since 2012.

Also joining Pretend Friend in 2024 is Rami Stucky, a skilled drummer from Wichita whose finesse, rhythmic precision, and refined experience have energized the band's live shows. Stucky’s background in jazz injects a fresh, percussive energy into the group, enhancing their ability to seamlessly blend the acoustic and the electrifying. His drumming adds an exciting layer of intensity to Pretend Friend’s high-octane performances. Stucky can also be heard on Monitor’s Memorand (2017) and Dave Raskin’s Loose the Shades (2022). Both albums are available wherever you stream music.

With Boesen, Ogborn, Drummond, and Stucky at the helm, Pretend Friend has become a more powerful force than ever, pushing the boundaries of acoustic music. Whether performing original material or putting their spin on a classic tune, Pretend Friend captivates audiences with their infectious energy, virtuosic musicianship, and fearless exploration of new sonic landscapes.

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Limited seating available - if you need ADA accommodation contact us!

Day of show tickets available at the door - advance tickets available in the taproom!