Rustic Skies' upcoming album is titled “There and Back Again,” which is in the spirit of recovery after hard times, celebrating the ups and downs of being human. The theme of the release is a “candlelight concert,” which is both in reference to the frequent use of candle/fire imagery in their lyrics, and reminiscent of the “candlelight concert” format used in classical music.
Rustic Skies is an indie band from the Cleveland/Akron area fronted by an electric cello. Through songs that showcase the highs and lows of life and the human experience, their music blends jazz, funk and rock to bring a unique performance to the stage. With her soulful lyrics and cello melodies, Jessica Jonczyk (vocals/cello) drives a fresh sound for both the rock stage and the orchestral concert hall. Along with the rich guitar of Andrew Schifano, driving bass of Max Frazier, and the energetic drumming of Tom Nagle, the four bring excitement and heart to the forefront, sharing stories of life and passion through the medium of music. For quieter, intimate settings, the band adjusts to a duo with Jessica on cello and vocals, and Tom on cajon for a soulful, gentle arrangement. In addition to their involvement with Cleveland Rocks: Past, Present and Future through their Music Incubator Program, within their first year, Rustic Skies has had the honor of releasing four singles, performing at IngenuityFest and Akron Pride, and being named Best New Artist in the 2025 Cleveland Music Awards.
Recess, recently winning a golden ticket on American Idol Season 24, named 2026 “Best Alternative Band” by the Cleveland Music Awards, and 2023 top three best bands in Cleveland by Cleveland Scene Magazine, is an Orchestral Synth-Pop / Alternative band from Cleveland, Ohio. After releasing three EPs and 4 new singles, going viral numerous times, and touring the US, the band has committed itself to not only bringing the most epic emotion and fiery live performances they possibly can to every stage, but also continue to release memorable, distinctive and catchy music. Recess is about escapism. What better escape than a dream?
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Van Arlo is the indie-acoustic project of singer-songwriter Ben Marthey, blending cinematic storytelling with raw vulnerability and a modern folk-rock edge. Drawing from influences like City and Colour, Manchester Orchestra, and Gregory Alan Isakov, Van Arlo crafts a sound built on sweeping melodies, textured dynamics, and lyrics that wrestle with loss, longing, and the quiet weight of waiting.
Based in Northeast Ohio, Van Arlo has steadily carved out a space in the American folk-rock landscape through emotionally resonant performances and a growing catalogue of original work. In 2024, the project earned a nomination for Best New Artist at the Cleveland Music Awards and has since garnered regional and national attention with features on NPR’s Ideastream and Fox 8 Cleveland.
Van Arlo has opened for national touring acts The Verve Pipe and Birdtalker, and continues to build momentum with performances at respected listening rooms and stages including The Bluebird Café, The Celestia Theatre, the Rialto Theatre, and multiple appearances at House of Blues Cleveland— and numerous curated events throughout Northeast Ohio.
With each live show, Van Arlo invites listeners into an experience that’s intimate, atmospheric, and emotionally urgent—a blend of familiar storytelling and dynamic arrangements that lingers well after the last note. Rooted in the Midwest but reaching far beyond it, Van Arlo is quickly becoming a name synonymous with heartfelt songwriting and unforgettable live moments.
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