Sat 8.24
Today is the day. Cleveland’s best talent. 20+ bands. Comedy. Food Trucks. Burlesque. Bowling.
In January 2012, new owners took over Mahall’s 20 Lanes in Lakewood.
Since then, the vintage bowling alley has moved from featuring music occasionally into the charmed circle of the top music clubs in greater Cleveland, showcasing both obscure touring bands worthy of greater exposure and excellent local original music. And they haven’t stuck strictly to indie rock — the music has ranged all over the genre map. Plus it’s the only full-time music club in town where you can bowl a few games before catching the bands.
Last year, Mahall’s celebrated its entry into the local music scene with the first annual 2012 LKWD Music Fest. This year, it’s exploded into something even bigger, featuring 30 bands on three stages and a national headliner with a familiar name — Brooklyn rapper Talib Kweli, one of the superstars of the “conscious” rap movement, which focuses on social and political awareness.
He’ll perform on the outdoor main stage at 8pm. Preceding him on that stage will Brooklyn hip hop collective Phony Ppl and quirky Detroit electronic pop trio Jamaican Queens.
But don’t just go for the headliner. The two inside stages are packed with some of Cleveland’s best talent.
It’s hard to pick out standouts from a field that includes classic soul ensemble Wesley Brite & the Hi-Lites, Cleveland hip hop due Muamin Collective (who perform with a live band), Seafair with their strings-enhanced panoramic rock sound, electro-pop duo Attack Cat, the stark garage rock of Obnox, punk trio So Long, Albatross, who coat propulsive melodies with a thick layer of noise — and many many more.
There will also be comedy, burlesque, buskers, food trucks and stands, and local vendors.
Admission is $20 in advance, $25 at the door.
Lakewood, OH 44107