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The Fallser Winter Music Festival 2025

Arts and Entertainment

February 19, 2025

From: The Fallser Winter Music Festival

Schedule Of Events

March 6, 2025

Nick Lombardo & The Decent OK Band, Pep Rally, Leana Song, Cookie Rabinowitz

Opening night sets the stage for a genre-bending, high-energy fusion of sound with four amazing bands. Starting the night is The Decent Ok, with their sharp songwriting and genre-bending indie rock. Pep Rally takes things up a notch with their art rock meets marching band energy. Next up is Leana Song, a group that seamlessly blends Afro-Cuban and Ghanaian rhythms with contemporary harmonies. Cookie Rabinowitz rounds out the night, delivering an irresistible mix of alternative soul, funk, and R&B. It's a night of movement, melody, and musical reinvention-don't miss it!

Nick Lombardo & The Decent Ok Band

The Decent Ok is a Philadelphia-based indie rock band founded by Philadelphia public school teacher Nick Lombardo in the fall of 2019. The band features Josh Steingard on drums, Ethan Cain on bass, and James Gaffield on lead guitar. Driven by the songwriting and musicianship of Lombardo and his bandmates, The Decent OK released their genre-bending first album, "Never Been Better," in the summer of 2020 to critical acclaim, along with several singles and music videos. Since then, The Decent Ok have been performing at venues of all sizes in Philadelphia and the surrounding area, building a following as they go.  To hear The Decent Ok, visit us on Spotify, Apple Music, or Youtube.

Pep Rally

Philadelphia's Pep Rally is an Art Rock/Marching Band mash-up composed of two musicians who play many instruments to make a big, fun sound. Frontman and noted producer/engineer Tommy Joyner and percussion tuff girl Emily Roane make upbeat, buzzy songs about gritty topics like jail and drug abuse, such as "Turn the Radio Up" and "South Street."  You've never heard depression sound so happy. Producer/engineer Tommy Joyner, part-owner of Philadelphia's MilkBoy the Studio, has recorded and produced for such notable artists as Silk Sonic, Miley Cyrus, Dave Matthews, and James Taylor and also composed music for many nationwide advertising campaigns such as Keurig, Black Box Wine, and NBC Sports. After years of percussive composition and playing drums, most famously for Digable Planets, Tommy became interested in more melodic composing and singing. What started as an open mic lark to get people excited enough to let down their guard became PEP RALLY, which makes grown-up pop-rock of the best kind: immediate yet thoughtful, muscular but approachable, intelligent, and danceable. The act is percussion-heavy, employing a host of "high school band instruments "fitting the band's moniker and featuring extended percussion jams. Win some melodies, some six-string crunch, sleek vocal harmonies, deft use of synthesizers, and a propulsive beat underscore the songs' messages of forward momentum and the importance of seizing the moment. Best of all, Joyner's flexible vocals—sometimes sweetly sung, sometimes spoken, always clear, forthright, and engaging—reveal him to be a frontman with the charisma and appeal worthy of the Philadelphia indie scene he's done so much to foster.  

Leana Song

Leana Song, led by Philadelphia-based percussionist and composer Shawn Hennessey, returns to the stage after a long hiatus with a performance at The Fallser Club. Shawn, a Latin Grammy-nominated percussionist, has mastered world rhythms over two decades. His global journey has taken him to cultural hubs like Ghana, Cuba, Haiti, and Israel, where he deepened his connection to percussion and composition. Leana Song blends Afro-Cuban and Ghanaian drumming with contemporary harmonies and electronic elements. The group has shared stages with world music icons like Tinariwen, Vieux Farka Toure, and Antibalas. Their debut album, Orisha Love Songs Vol. 1 (2008), and their follow-up, Orisha Love Songs Vol. 2, recorded in Cuba and remastered in 2024, exemplify their genre-defying fusion of tradition and innovation. Shawn's passion for rhythm as life's universal pulse continues to drive Leana Song's music, creating a rich, soul-stirring experience. Join them for this celebratory comeback performance, where Leana Song will play traditional and original Ewe drumming.

Cookie Rabinowitz

Cookie Rabinowitz "Soulman - Optimist" is a singer-songwriter from Philadelphia. His unique alternative-soul style is a blend of funk, pop, and R&B informed by Motown's Marvin Gaye and reminiscent of Jason Mraz, Anderson Paak, and Jack Johnson.

March 7, 2025

Keystone Breakers, The Fractals, & Heather Hurlock

Get ready for a night of music that blends the grit of Americana, the fire of rock, and the soul of storytelling. The Keystone Breakers bring their signature mix of cosmic country, Southern blues, and rich harmonies, delivering a sound both familiar and fresh. The Fractals unleash a high-energy fusion of rock, jazz, and deep musical prowess, led by the masterful songwriting and guitar work of Kevin Hanson. And Heather Hurlock's deeply personal folk-rock anthems—infused with resilience, poetry, and raw emotion-will pull you in and hold you close. Together, these artists promise a dynamic evening of soundscapes that will stir your spirit and keep you moving. 

The Keystone Breakers

The Keystone Breakers are a band based out of Southeastern PA heavily influenced by 70's Country, Cosmic Country, Southern Blues, and American Roots Music. Since 2014, they have been performing their own brand of original music and putting their own touch on the classics, while continuing to deliver their audience with a unique, yet familiar experience with their relatable story telling songs, tasteful country guitar licks, and three part harmonies. With the latest album release, Ridge Roads, the band has gained the attention of country music fans throughout the Northeast. They also gained the attention of the popular magazine, Honky Tonk Times, and were featured in an article in Issue 21.

The Fractals

Guess what happens when a trio of three martini lunches staggers toward a ragged copy of “Respect For Acting,” stumbling over bellbottom into plasticine porters, hissing like 8-Tracks, knocking over emo kids with Flying Vees? The Fractals, that's what happens, and they have been happening for ten years. Tearing it up mercilessly in a cyclonic maelstrom of Stevie-Angus-Fagan, with outer bands of Zeppelin and Trane, the whirling dervish that is The Fractals is not to be ignored. Kevin Hanson, lead singer and songwriter, has performed and recorded with the likes of Usher, Jay-Z, The Roots, Musiq Soulchild and countless others. He appears in the acclaimed films “Fade To Black” as a band member for Jay-Z's “farewell concert) and Dave Chappelle's “Block Party” as a member of the house band . His distinctive songwriting is what has drawn so many to both Huffamoose and his current band. His compositions and masterful guitar playing are the spinal cord of The Fractals. Jim Stager, bassist, has performed and recorded with hundreds of artists, ranging from Rosemary Clooney (!) to the legendary punk band “X”. His mastery of rock and jazz merge in a style that has earned him a place in the pantheon of Philadelphia's notable session greats. Erik Johnson, drummer, has performed or recorded with countless artists in myriad styles. His credits include: Ben Schachter's Trio of Many, George Garzone, Tim Hagans, Jack Walrath, Gary Bartz, John Swana, Jef Lee Johnson, Ralph Bowen, Larry McKenna, Jim Ridl, Jamaaladeen Tacuma, Kurt Elling, Gerald Veasley, Lelia Broussard, Liz Longley. In addition to his legendary status as a jazz virtuoso, his drumming has served  as the heartbeat for a striking range of Philadelphia's singer-songwriter community. His fiercely original expressiveness on drums and soaring background vocals have become vital to The Fractals' sound. The Fractals have recently completed their first full-length offering, “Heavy Rotation” and are currently performing in the Philly area in support of their new release. Their live performances are not to be missed, and their shows have gained notoriety among local musicians and fans alike as remarkable musical events.

Heather Hurlock

Heather Hurlock's music weaves together raw emotion, poetic storytelling, and a deep connection to the human experience. Best known as the frontwoman of the barn rock band Tin Bird Choir, Heather captivates audiences with her heartfelt lyrics and dynamic performances. In her first solo project, Heather explores themes of resilience, healing, and transformation, drawing inspiration from personal trials, nature, and the quiet strength found in everyday life. Her upcoming album, Kings and Queens of Mayhem, delves into the complexities of love, loss, and renewal, blending folk, Americana, and indie rock and even a dash of gritty punk. Recorded with a collective of talented musicians (Kiley Ryan, Johnny Killgore, Brad Hinton, Adam Coffinberger, and David Hall) at the renowned Morningstar Studios, Heather's music offers anthems for the bold and ballads for the brave, inviting listeners to reflect, connect, and find their way back home.

March 8, 2025

Andrew Lipke Trio,  Dirty Dollhouse & Emily Drinker

Get ready for a night of unforgettable music at The Fallser Winter Music Festival Day 3, featuring three of Philadelphia’s dynamic acts. The Andrew Lipke Trio brings a wealth of experience,  powerful musicianship, intricate arrangements, and a deep love for rock ‘n’ roll. Dirty Dollhouse, led by Chelsea Mitchell, blends folk, retro-pop, and country with strikingly intimate songwriting with raw emotion and haunting melodies. Rounding out the night is Emily Drinker, whose soulful mix of folk, pop, and rock has earned her accolades and a devoted following. Join us for a night where storytelling, musicianship, and passion take center stage.

Andrew Lipke Trio

The Andrew Lipke Trio is made up of Andrew Lipke, Phil D’Agostino, and Chris Giraldi.  All three have been involved in countless recordings and projects by local and regional artists, some of which are: Rachael Yamagata, Lesley Gore, Amos Lee, Mutlu, Dirty Dollhouse, Griz, Chris Kasper, Hezekiah Jones, Martin Sexton, Get The Led Out, Ben Arnold, Birdie Busch, Greg Laswell, Ingrid Michaelson, Trevor Hall, Phil Roy, Stereo League, Kate Gaffney, and The MSHN.  Chris is an in demand session and live drummer, Phil is the best bass player in town, and Andrew loves arranging music for and conducting symphony orchestras around the country. They also really love playing rock music together.

Dirty Dollhouse

Dirty Dollhouse, spearheaded by Bucks County’s own Chelsea Mitchell, merges folk, retro-pop, and country. Their latest album “The End,” released November 2024, takes listeners through a poignant narrative of love, loss, and healing, reminding us that with every ending comes a new beginning.

Emily Drinker

Emily Drinker is an independent singer-songwriter from Philadelphia. Her soulful brand of folk, pop, and rock goes down smooth, whether she’s performing with her powerhouse band, the Funky T, or in a more intimate format, incorporating live looping. Emily’s song “5th Ave” won Song of the Year at the 2024 Hometown Hero Homey Awards (on Delaware Public Media), and the song was a finalist in the 2023 John Lennon Songwriting Contest. Her 5-piece band has played at many regional festivals including Musikfest, the Wayne Music Fest, and the main stage at the Philadelphia Folk Festival, and they were recently named “Best Band” at the 2024 Homey Awards. Emily has opened for Pat Benatar, Rufus Wainwright, Switchfoot, Bakithi Kumalo, and JD Souther, among others. In addition to a busy performance schedule in Philly and its surrounding areas, Emily enjoys working as a session vocalist, performing in half a dozen local bands, sharing exclusive content with her lovely community on Patreon, running a group for women in the Philly music scene (Calliope Coalition), hosting a festival in her backyard with her band/housemates (CINNAMiN Fest!), and hosting “The Smiling Banjo Podcast,” a new video podcast about the Philadelphia Folk Festival which features interviews with some of the festival’s recent performers.

March 9, 2025

San Noche, I Yhan I Arkestra, Rootsettaz, & DJ Dread Head

Get ready for a Caribbean Night of deep grooves, conscious vibes, and electrifying reggae as San Noche, I Yahn I Arkestra, The Root Settaz, and DJ Space Camp take the stage for an unforgettable evening of music. San Noche will transport you straight to a tropical paradise with their warm, soulful take on reggae classics and hidden gems spanning the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s. I Yahn I Arkestra brings their powerhouse fusion of reggae, dub, jazz, and psychedelic rock, delivering high-energy, deeply spiritual performances that move both the body and the mind. The Root Settaz rounds out the lineup with their signature mix of deep roots, dub, and improvisational jams, creating a sound that uplifts and unites. With DJ Dread Head spinning heavy dub selections between sets, the night promises to be a journey through the full spectrum of reggae, from foundation to the future. Come ready to dance, groove, and elevate!

San Noche

If it’s soulful, energetic, positive reggae with the most authentic sound around, look no further. San Noche knows how to captivate and entertain for hours on end with their diverse and amazing talent. Whether the event calls for keeping the dance floor full or for a low key dinner party, San Noche has gained the reputation for delivering warm, sweet reggae that will transport an audience to a tropical paradise. Specializing in reggae styles from the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s, San Noche’s repertoire of songs includes all time reggae fav’s to obscure b-sides and everything in between. Jump on this reggae train with San Noche at the controls, and let us dance and groove all night.

I Yhan I Arkestra

Formed in 1997 in Philadelphia, I Yahn I Arkestra is a powerhouse of reggae, dub fusion, and progressive roots, blending deep-rooted Jamaican dub
traditions with improvisational jazz, electronic music, Psychedelic Rock and African percussion. Known for their high-energy, conscious reggae and heavy dub improvisation, the band delivers an electrifying and uplifting live experience that resonates with diverse audiences. At the heart of I Yahn I Arkestra are primary songwriters Derek Myers (Ras Jah D) and Kasea Myers (Kaseaopia). The two met while growing up in Baltimore before moving to Philadelphia, where they connected with the musicians who would form the band’s core. Their journey began with a groundbreaking debut performance at the first Philadelphia Fringe Festival in 1997, held at the historic Betsy Ross House in Old City. Since then, the band has taken their dynamic, deeply spiritual, and positive sound to major festivals and venues across the U.S., the Caribbean, and the Middle East. I Yahn I Arkestra has collaborated with reggae and dub legends, including HR of Bad Brains, master percussionist Doc Gibbs, and Chuck Treece. They have also been remixed by Rob Paine and have shared the stage with a long list of influential artists, such as Damian Marley, Lee “Scratch” Perry, Kabaka Pyramid, Protoje, Hempress Sativa, Third World, Collie Buddz, The Wailers, Beres Hammond, Gregory Isaacs, SOJA, and Michael Franti. A defining moment in the band’s history came when they were dubbed live at the TLA alongside UK dub pioneer Mad Professor. The band’s discography is rich with albums, singles, and collaborations, including From Shakamaxon, Dub Shack, Love Mission, Dub Mission, and the Ras Asana yoga Dub album. Their music has continually evolved, blending synthesizers, intricate vocal stylings, and deep dub grooves to create a truly unique sound. Looking ahead, I Yahn I Arkestra is set to release a new album in Spring 2025 and will embark on an East Coast tour throughout the summer, performing at reggae festivals, clubs, and more. In addition, the band will continue to collaborate and produce new music at their Philadelphia studio under the Inity label, including an upcoming Ras Asana album. With a legacy spanning over two decades, I Yahn I Arkestra remains a force in the reggae and dub scene, uniting audiences with their powerful rhythms, conscious messages, and immersive live performances.

Rootsettaz

The Root Settaz is an original five-piece Reggae, Dub, Jam band unit based out of the Philadelphia region. Consisting of five core members: Patrick Lattanze (vocals and guitar), Nevin Thomas (drummer), AlexanderJeffers (Bass), Derry J (keys and keytar) Matt Diamond(horns and percussion). Our mission is to illuminate minds and spirits - standing together for truth, unity, and love- bringing the battle to Babylon’s gates. A unique and refined blend of deep Roots- Dub- Rock and Improvisation is what you will experience at a Root Settaz show.

Date : March 6-9, 2025

Time :

March 6, 2025 from 7:30pm to 11:00pm

March 7, 2025 from 8:00pm to 10:30pm

March 8, 2025 from 8:00pm to 10:30pm

March 9, 2025 from 8:00pm to 10:30pm

Location :

The Fallser Club,

3721 Midvale Avenue

Philadelphia, PA 19129

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