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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Classic, modern acts close Festival at Sandpoint

The Festival at Sandpoint continues into its second weekend with another impressive trio of musical acts, including two of modern rock’s most exciting new artists and a seasoned veteran with a deep catalogue of classic hits.

• The John Butler Trio, with Eclectic Approach, Thursday, 7:30 p.m. John Butler is a huge star in his native Australia, and although his name isn’t as instantly recognized here, he has gained a fervent following in the States after several international tours with the Dave Matthews Band. Pulling from country, folk, rock and reggae influences, Butler released three consecutive No. 1 albums in his homeland, as well as several live recordings, and has also won a number of Australian music awards. Seattle pop-rock band Eclectic Approach will open the show. $44.95.

• The Steve Miller Band, with Matt Andersen, Aug. 9, 7:30 p.m. Whether you call him the Space Cowboy or the Gangster of Love, Steve Miller remains one of the defining artists of the latter half of the ’70s. Miller first had moderate success with a few blues albums in the late ’60s, but it wasn’t until 1973’s “The Joker” and its No. 1 title track that he became a hot commodity. Over the next several years, Miller released a few more platinum-selling albums, which spawned such Top 10 singles as “Fly Like an Eagle,” “Rock’N Me,” “Jet Airliner” and “Abracadabra,” all of which you can still hear on just about every classic rock radio station in the country. Canadian blues guitarist Matt Andersen is scheduled to open. SOLD OUT.

The Avett Brothers, with Vintage Trouble and Marshall McLean, Aug. 10, 6 p.m. Within the last few years, the Avett Brothers have gone from indie darlings to mainstream rock favorites. Based out of North Carolina, their blend of folk, rock and country has continued to resonate with listeners, and their most recent album, 2012’s “The Carpenter,” cracked the Billboard Top 10 and was nominated for a Grammy for Best Americana Album. You might have also seen them jamming with Bob Dylan and Mumford and Sons on last year’s Grammy telecast. Openers include L.A. rockers Vintage Trouble and Spokane’s Marshall McLean. $59.95.

Sunday evening marks the festival’s grand finale, which will feature a performance by the Spokane Symphony Orchestra, followed by a fireworks display. Gates open early at 4:30 for wine tasting (complimentary for ticket holders), and the concert begins at 7:30. Tickets are $36.95 for adults and $10.95 for anyone younger than 18.