Emily Haavik & the 35s are a string-heavy alt-country band driven by heartfelt songwriting and fervent harmonies. Haavik lives in the Twin Cities but maintains a long distance relationship with hometown bandmates that’s defined by driving on I-35, the band’s namesake. After recording and releasing the album Ease Back in late 2018, the group performed a lot. They’re in “a phase of recovery and relief this spring” but Haavik says they’re excited to perform at Blacklist Artisan Ales, during “our favorite eight days of the year.” Haavik leads the band on vocals and also plays keys and guitar. The 35s is a formidable group of players that includes bassist Matt Prois, drummer Luke Mirau and guitarist Dave Mehling. Alyssa Mesedahl plays fiddle, Beau Walsh is on banjo, and couple Lisa and Bryan Wentworth sing and play guitar, respectively.