Live music in State College, PA

A Tale Of Two weaves Americana roots and blues tones with classic Southern storytelling. The duo features award-winning vocalist Stephanie Adlington and guitarist Aaron Lessard, taking cues from Tom Waits, Ray LaMontagne, Patsy Cline, and Hank Williams Sr. Their songs lean into tales of revenge, hard drinking, and sinners of many kinds, delivered with soulful grit. Onstage they bring easy chemistry and quick-witted exchanges between numbers, shaping a swamp-tinged, retro-minded set. They have also opened for Mary Gauthier, Grayson Capps, and Peter Mulvey.

Discover the easygoing energy of downtown State College during the monthly First Friday series. Spend the evening browsing art, people-watching, catching up with friends, shopping, and tasting your way through a variety of local restaurants. Many galleries and stores stay open later than usual, offering complimentary nibbles and drinks, live music and other performances, plus specials at retailers and eateries. Parking is free in the Pugh, Fraser, and Beaver garages with validation from participating merchants. This community tradition runs from April through December.

Since 1992, Splintered Sunlight has honored the music of the Grateful Dead with an authentic, improvisation-focused tribute. The band features a two-drummer setup and Butchy Sochorow on lead guitar, blending expressive playing with a vocal style reminiscent of Jerry Garcia. A dedicated following comes for imaginative performances and set lists that shift from show to show, capturing the exploratory spirit of the Dead.

A tentative reunion show is planned at Cafe 210 West in State College, Pennsylvania. The lineup features Matthew Taglang on vocals, Jimmy Cochran on guitar, David Featherman on bass, and Steve Braksator on drums, with a set centered on alternative music from the 1980s and early 1990s.