Get ready for an unforgettable evening of hooks, harmony and high-octane fun with the George Huntley Band and The Vanguard. Both groups bring dynamic musicianship and infectious energy to their sets, delivering power pop and indie sounds that reignite the magic of rock’s heyday. This special double-header showcases artists with deep roots in Raleigh and a passion for entertaining hometown audiences.
George Huntley Band
George Huntley, best known as a member of The Connells from 1985 to 2003, returns to the stage with the George Huntley Band, consisting of Scott Carle (Dillon Fence), Andrew Branan (Cage Bird Fancier), Tom Mills (Johnny Folsom 4) and Alex Lawhon (The Roman Spring). A longtime Raleigh musician, George played both lead guitar and keyboards in The Connells and wrote and sang lead vocals on many of the band’s songs including “Sal,” Home Today,” and “Doin’ You.” In 1996, he released his first solo album, “Brainjunk.” George will release a new album on May 9, 2025, with producer Ryan Pickett (My Morning
Jacket), his first in over 28 years.
The Vanguard
The Vanguard emerged on the Winston-Salem music scene in the early 1980s and for the next decade thrilled fans with their energetic live shows, ambitious original songs and unconventional covers. With influences ranging from classic rock to prog to power pop, the group built a loyal following across the Triad and beyond. Their song “Waiting Game” appeared on More Mondo, a compilation of N.C. artists released in 1985, and the band later recorded with REM producer Mitch Easter. Now, after a decades-long hiatus, The Vanguard are playing a few select shows. Don’t miss the musical muscle and precision of this extraordinary collection of players, including Jon Heames (veteran of the Raleigh music scene and formerly of Let’s Active, Motocaster and the Backsliders, among others); Mike Chamis (longtime Winston-Salem musician, band leader and music teacher); Paul Dillon (guitarist, singer and Winston-Salem native); and Chris Stephenson (in-demand Triangle drummer who has performed with Chris Stamey, The Connells, The dBs and others).
