The Music City Maryland Festival is back! Presented by Sun Rider 9 Productions.
Join us on Saturday, August 23rd, 2025, from 1:00pm to 10:30 PM at The Vortex at CAA Park for an unforgettable day of music, food, and fun!
🎶 Lineup 🎶
Featuring:
The Nude Party
Jah Works
Empire Strikes Brass
The Dive Bombs
Mallow Hill
The Players Band
Shake the Room
Experience
Ghost Town Radio
South Rolling
🌟 Exciting News About Tickets! 🌟
VIP tickets will be available by or before February 14, 2025, offering exclusive perks and premium access to the festival.
General admission ticket holders will also have the option to upgrade to VIP if desired—don’t miss this chance to enhance your festival experience!
🎟 Ticket Details 🎟
Advance Tickets: $10 (no fees) starting December 27, 2024
Children 12 and Under: FREE
Event Highlights
Delicious food trucks
Refreshing beverages, including adult options
Two Stages
Art vendors
A stunning 12-acre venue with lush greenery, nestled in the heart of the Catonsville Arts & Entertainment District
Conveniently located just 6 miles from BWI Airport and 10 minutes from downtown Baltimore
Important Information:
Rain or Shine event
No outside coolers, pets, tents, or backpacks allowed
Bring your lawn chairs and blankets for a comfortable experience
Celebrate Catonsville’s first 12-acre outdoor music and event venue, a space designed for live entertainment and community gatherings. Explore local shops and restaurants within walking distance, and kick off your day at one of Catonsville’s finest taverns or eateries.
Come and enjoy our sixth annual presentation of The Music City Maryland Festival!
For The Nude Party, nearly a decade has flown by in the blink of an eye. In that time, the New York-based band has released a pair of well-received albums, an EP, and played countless shows. Prior to the pandemic, the band was really starting to hit its stride. They had a system in place and were spreading their brand of melodic rock to the masses. In fact, they could count Jack White, Arctic Monkeys, and Orville Peck as vocal supporters, which led to support slots for each. Soon, incredible live appearances at Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza, Newport Folk Festival, and Shaky Knees became the norm.
In late 2020, The Nude Party released its sophomore album, Midnight Manor, which debuted at #1 on the Alternative New Artists Album Chart. The sextet was unable to tour behind it and compared its release to skipping a stone over a raging river. A byproduct was that it showed the band that on their third album, they couldn’t lean on their tried-and-true method of testing out new material live and then hunker down to record.
Instead of sitting around, the band got busy. Setting up shop in their Upstate New York headquarters, the group used the funds they’d saved and spent a year building a studio space out of a barn. Tired of paying for studio time and being rushed, The Nude Party methodically worked at their own pace. Out were the sessions lasting a strict handful of days. In were impromptu writing moments and picking every sound as they went along.
When the band met the Tampa based engineer Matthew Horner, they discovered that they had the opposite problems: Matthew had a collection of incredible gear with no studio and The Nude Party had a great new studio with no gear. So they invited him to move his equipment up to the Catskills to record an album together. Such was the origin of the band’s third album, Rides On.
Unlike their first two albums, The Nude Party decided to produce Rides On themselves. With their new space and the help of Horner, The Nude Party had as much fun creating as they ever had at any other point in their career. The lack of pressure allowed them to record over 20 songs, including some that dabbled in electro-pop and stripped-down country before settling on the final 14 songs.
Rides On, the band confidently says, is their best record. It’s also the most homegrown and the most organic record The Nude Party has created to date. Working on the album themselves allowed for a democratic process where each band member could take a fuller role in producing the songs they wrote. There was some initial trepidation about there being too many cooks in the kitchen. But as is the benefit of owning your own studio space, time was not a factor. In turn, it
allowed for the band’s ideas to blossom, everyone’s voice be taken into account and create an exciting, collaborative vibe.
The relaxed atmosphere of the sessions, and arriving with only loosely structured material, allowed the band to thrive in the studio. It also unleashed a diverse sonic texture compared to their previous releases, as best demonstrated by the title track, “Ride On.” Sonically, the song is reminiscent of Sticky Fingers-era Stones, but its lyrics are mini-vignettes where Magee sings about persevering through adversity. The twangy, blues-drenched licks of the title track, the breezy desert dust encapsulated by the ‘70s infused “Hard Times,” the Shaun Couture-led “Sold Out of Love,” the swinging ‘60s garage vibes of “Cherry Red Boots,” which captures the spirit of what The Nude Party are going for — and showcases their growth as a band. As does expanding the band’s sonic palate with a cover of Dr. John’s “Somebody Tryin’ To Hoodoo Me.” It would have been easy to stick to the New Orleans musician’s format, but the band showed off their prowess with their own darker, electric version of the deep cut.
The Nude Party coalesced and embraced the spirit of collaboration. They’re excited to begin the next chapter of their career.
At a time when it would have been easy to pack it in, the band continues to persevere.
“Their shows are high energy and driven – powerful affairs that carry the audience through a full-range of emotions and often force the fans to look inward throughout – while still filling the building with love, acceptance, and hope.”
-Caleb Calhoun Ashvegas.com
Empire Strikes Brass is a dynamic BrassFunkRock band hailing from Asheville, North Carolina. Their music resonates with a powerful message delivered through a captivating and larger-than-life sound. Fueled by a thumping rhythm section that sets the groove, the band’s rich horn arrangements, performed by a robust horn section, add an extra layer of depth to both their original compositions and compelling covers, showcasing the evolution of ESB.
Formed in 2012, Empire Strikes Brass started as a group of friends who loved playing New Orleans-inspired second-line and funk tunes infused with elements of rock and jam. Over time, they have transformed into a collective of incredibly talented musicians, singers, songwriters, and producers. The result is a fresh and authentic sound that seamlessly combines their diverse musical influences while staying true to their roots.
The band boasts a remarkable lineup of artists, each bringing their own unique contribution to the table. From the rich vocals, and harmonious saxophone of Grammy Award-winning artist Debrissa McKinney (known for her work with Secret Agent 23 Skidoo) to the masterful keyboard and production skills of Lenny Pettinelli, the thunderous beats of drummer Nik Hope, the solid bass lines of JP Furnas, the melodic guitar riffs of Chris Porter, the soulful trumpet sounds of Alex Bradley, and the sky high notes of Tim Morgan on trumpet, the smooth trombone of Jacob Bruner, the vibrant saxophone of Pauly Juhl, and the versatile keyboard and percussion talents of Sean Donnelly, every member of ESB plays a crucial role in the band’s success.
Since their inception, Empire Strikes Brass has become a staple at various festivals across the USA, leaving a lasting impression with their infectious energy and electrifying performances. Their horn section has also had the honor of sharing the stage with esteemed acts like Shpongle Live Band, Umphrey’s McGee, Papadosio, and many more iconic names in the funk and jam scene.
Whether performing live or working on their studio recordings, Empire Strikes Brass emanates a strength and cohesiveness that is undeniable. Their debut album, “Theme For A Celebration,” was recorded at the renowned Echo Mountain Recording Studio in Asheville and received acclaim as one of the top 100 releases of the year by WNCW 88.7 radio in 2017. Following that success, their fierce follow-up release, “Brassterpiece Theatre” (2019), was also recorded at Echo, showcasing their continued growth and artistic prowess. Both albums are available on all major music distribution, streaming, sales, and listening platforms, allowing listeners to experience the band’s exceptional musicality.
As they continue to tour and captivate audiences, Empire Strikes Brass is diligently working on their highly anticipated third studio album. Between shows, they are crafting and mastering new sounds that will undoubtedly leave their fans craving for more. Keep an eye out for this remarkable band on the road and at festivals near you. Their unforgettable performances are not to be missed.
If you answered yes to this question, chances are you are already familiar with Baltimore’s own Jah Works . If you are new to the band, you are in for a musical treat of positive vibes and uncompromising roots rock reggae music.
Jah Works is a true grassroots success story that emerged from Baltimore’s reggae scene over 20 years ago. This is music made by and for lovers of real, authentic reggae music. Consistently performing hundreds of shows a year worldwide, they have forged their sound in clubs, festivals and on the sun drenched beaches of Negril. Their sound is firmly planted in the roots of Jamaican music and culture, encompassing rock steady, reggae, and elements of dancehall and dub. What Jah Works does best is introduce the novice music listener to the fullness of reggae music and culture.
Formed in 1993, the band found their identity while listening to the song “Jah Works” by the classic Jamaican vocal group The Gladiators. Lyrics like “I’m a man of prayer, none of my doings, shall ever go wrong…” and “Jah hear I when I cry” resonated with the members, and so Jah Works was moved to begin writing their own original reggae music. Starting with “Feast or Famine” in 1994, the band has recorded and released 9 albums to date. They have sold over 100,000 copies independently, and with the upcoming release of “Believe”, Jah Works is set to take their music to even higher heights.
Longtime fans know that the Jah Works sound consists of strong vocals over heavy duty original reggae riddims. After a brief hiatus, founding member and original front man, Scotty P. has returned to lead the brothers forward into new musical territory. Together with the rest of the group, they have come up with their best album to date, “Believe” which will be released in 2016. The new album brings the group’s evolution full circle, with lush, horn drenched roots reggae music. Mixed by some of reggae music’s top producers, including Jim Fox (Lion & Fox) Tippy I (I Grade), Jason “Jocko” Randall (JBB), Nathan Sabanayagam (Chillhouse Studios), and Baltimore’s own Steve Wright (Wrightway), Jah Works’ latest and greatest effort will cement their standing as one of the finest reggae bands to ever come out of the United States.
Shake The Room delivers a supercharged mix of iconic hits from the 90s and 00s along with a sampling of classic party tracks . Our deep catalog contains an extensive variety of songs from the rock, pop & country genres which are delivered with a rock edge. Every performance is customized to fit the venue and connect with the crowd and our dynamic stage presence makes every STR show a one-of-a-kind experience!
Mallow Hill sparks a bright light into modern-day blues and rock & roll. The Baltimorebased band creates music that fuses together a mesmerizing symphony of raw emotion, pulsating rhythms, and electrifying melodies. The band channels an eclectic mix of musical inspiration, drawing from the likes of Gary Clark Jr, The Black Pumas, Marcus King Band, Led Zeppelin, and The Black Keys, among others, to shape their unique sonic identity.
The Baltimore quintet – Mikayla Joseph, (vocals) Danny Gwinn, (guitar) Mac Dignam, (keys) John Menefee, (drums) and Chris Reynolds, (bass, vocals, harmonica) exudes an unbreakable bond of chemistry and musicianship, fortified through many years of friendship.
As Mallow Hill embarked on their debut album in 2023, their evolution in the music scene became palpable, bringing a fresh, distinctive sound to life, captivating audiences with both live performances and studio recordings. Guided by the soulful vocal stylings of Mikayla Joseph and the adept guitar work of Danny Gwinn, Mallow Hill is forging a vibrant and expanding fanbase in Baltimore and Beyond.
Mallow Hill is a name borrowed from a street in Baltimore that pays homage to the groups roots and origin story. The street “Mallow Hill” has always served a purpose as a “headquarters” for music creation and collaboration, with an “open door” policy that has been established by band leader and founder, Danny Gwinn. It was this framework that led to Gwinn’s introduction to Mikayla in May, 2020, which progressively emerged to become the band that is Mallow Hill.
Since meeting, Gwinn & Mikayla’s shared goals and artistic vision has given the group a more defined direction to their creativity and original music. The two being heavily influenced by blues and soul music from all decades, have found a way to combine elements of a vintage feel with a modern production. Alongside the help of producer, Dex Green (Margo Price, Elvis Costello, Devon Gilfillian), the debut record “Soul Candy” offers a wide range of listening experiences.
Among the album’s highlights is “Thinkin Bout My Baby,” featuring an assertive bass line and weaving a timeless narrative of personal growth amidst the tumult of toxic relationships, individuals, and habits. The resonant tones in the track “Smoke” deeply convey the song’s thematic essence, delving into the profound anguish and challenges faced by all parties entangled in the throes of substance abuse. In “Cryin” the contemporary blues production takes center stage, showcasing Mikayla’s soulful vocals alongside an electrifying, almost psychedelic guitar solo. Closing out the record, “Fake Your Smile” casts a brooding, almost sinister atmosphere that leaves you yearning for more.
The record features some of Nashville’s best session players, including Jack Lawrence on bass (The Raconteurs, Dead Weather, Jack White), Meg Coleman on drums (Alison Russell, Brandi Carlisle, Jenny Lewis), Ray Jacildo (The Black Keys), Laura Mayo (backup vocals), Maureen Murphy (Zac Brown Band, Marcus King). Engineered by Joe Costa (Ben Folds) and produced by Dex Green.
Gwinn and Joseph were fortunate to have found their calling early on, allowing them to develop their skills and talents with their respective instruments. Building this foundation has shaped their musical journeys and influenced the direction of their careers.
Mikayla – “I can play/strum a couple of chords on guitar and piano, but I am a singer through and through. I have always been naturally drawn to music and singing since I was a kid. However, I do have to credit my grandmother for throwing me on stage at a young age. Because of her, I’ve never really suffered from any stage fright. Performing feels super natural for me, like I’ve always been meant to do it. So after I started, I never looked back. Like many singers, I learned a lot in churches and choirs, then I went on to an arts high school to further that experience. I spent years in several choirs, musical theater, and eventually went on to take private classical lessons. One thing I was never taught how to do was sing the blues but here I am, loving every minute of it. I feel so lucky to have had my grandmother, countless instructors, teachers, and friends that are all a part of my journey and made me the musician that I am today!”
Danny – “I first picked up a guitar in 6th grade. It was some dusty piece of junk that someone left behind in a house that my grandmother was selling. My grandmother, being a musician herself, promptly brought the guitar to me and just sort of left it in my eyesight. It was only a matter of days until I was banging on it, trying to learn chords and make sounds. Soon after, I began taking guitar lessons from my neighbor who studied at Berkeley. He was a huge influence to me learning how to play and also for me, just observing what a lifetime of honing a craft can become to someone. Since those first guitar lessons, I have been hooked on the idea of always becoming a better guitar player one day at a time, but also always trying to create something with the tools that I have in front of me.”
“As I entered high school and beyond, I built-out a jam space first in my parents garage, and then in the basement. I took the advice of my first guitar teacher, Craig, who told me “You build it and they will come” referring to a rehearsal space. That has pretty much been my motto for everything that I do now. It took about 15 years for things to start coming together, but eventually things did happen, and I credit that mindset to the formation of Mallow Hill.”
On the heels of the mid-90’s ska revival, The Players Band (TPB) was founded in 1999, drawn in by the infectious rhythms and horn-heavy ska sounds originating in Jamaica in the late 1950s. 25 years later, TPB has played over 550 shows, delivering sweet Jamaican ska and reggae across the Mid-Atlantic. TPB includes current members of The Pietasters, Jah Works, Bumpin Uglies, Scotch Bonnets, Rude Girl Revue, Loving Paupers, Left Alone, and The All Mighty Senators. The band has opened for Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s Isley Brothers and Joe Strummer, Grammy winning Toots & the Maytals and Rebirth Brass Band as well as The B-52s, The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, The English Beat, The Skatalites, and more. TPB was featured at the 2021 Supernova International Ska Festival, headlined Baltimore’s New Year’s Eve Spectacular, and Maryland’s Olympic Tribute with Michael Phelps at Fort McHenry, performing at venues such as 9:30 Club, Capital One Arena, Fillmore Silver Spring, Pier 6, Knitting Factory, Trocadero Theatre, Chance Theater, Seacrets, Bottle & Cork, Rams Head Live!, 8×10, Ottobar, and many others.