Friends of Noise is a non-profit arts organization built on the values of collectivism and restorative justice. They seek to transform the culture of BIPOC and LGBTQ+ youth access to the music industry, by hosting all-ages concerts throughout Portland, providing professional development for teen sound engineers, and empowering youth to advocate for themselves. They are proud to present some truly gifted all-ages talent at this year’s Waterfront Blues Festival, with performances and stage crew support at the Crossroads Stage.
Joining us at the Waterfront this year are The Bridge City Quartet, Portland Jazz Collective, Earl Gracious Band and Jack 10!
Sunday, July 2
Portland Jazz Collective (3:00-3:25 PM) is a local jazz trio composed of high school and college students. Dakaria Dove (drums), Robert Rodriguez (bass), and Davasate Phelps (piano/vocals) have been playing together for two years. While each has different directions they want to go musically in life, this band is what brings them together.
The Bridge City Quartet (3:35-4:00 PM) is a group made up of local musicians from around the greater Portland area. Each is currently enrolled in different music programs around the city, working to become future educators and performers. Featuring: Audrey Allida, piano; Kaizon Conner, bass; Ian Sage, drums; Caleb Goodrich, saxophone.
Tuesday, July 4
Jack 10 (3:00-3:25 PM) is a seven-piece funk-pop band with influences from the jazz and soul genres. Ages 16-18, Jack 10 members met through School of Rock and recently recorded their debut album.
Earl Gracious Band (3:35-4:00 PM) was founded by vocalist Katie Waterland and bassist Henry Earle while the pair were attending Portland State University’s Jazz Studies program. The pair connected on their mutual love for southern fried soul, funk, and blues music. Think Bonnie Raitt backed by The Meters. The pair are joined by a rotating cast of Portland’s finest, including drummer Turner Williams, and guitarist Corey Hepner. The Earl Gracious Band provides music for the brain and the boogie. It’s not a matter of if you’re dancing, but when.