Nolen Sellwood plays a modern interpretation of the British Isles folk music style of the 1960s and ’70s. The Prior Lake native is a student at the University of Minnesota Duluth. “I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with several talented UMD musicians, which has deeply influenced my sound and helped me grow as an artist,” he said. His band includes two friends who go back to his middle school days — Sam Hovda on piano and trumpet, and Owen Reinert Nash on percussion. The newest addition to the band is bassist Brooklyn Stewart, who Sellwood met at Schmitt Music. Sellwood’s album Cadence to the Flame was released in June.

Jake Searl plays a blend of folk, pop and rock that leaves audiences “feeling inspired, confused or laughing,” he said. The band consists of lead singer and acoustic guitarist Jacob McClure Searl, drummer Todd Gremmels, and bassist Matt James. Searl has been performing since 2019 and brings his life-long love for music to the stage with his band. He said the trio plays “a variety of dynamic original tunes.” Searl performed solo on WDIO-TV’s Good Morning Northland in 2024 and as a Featured Focus Artist on Two Harbors Community Radio in 2022.

Are they daredevils, ballet dancers or gymnasts? The Youth Flyers are a troupe of young aerialists that train and perform with Sea Smoke Aerial Arts, a children’s program located inside Destination Fitness in Duluth. Using a colorful aerial sling suspended over the floor, performers defy gravity with spins, swings and climbs that dazzle and delight. Mind-boggling flexibility and perfect balance fuel these incredible feats of strength. A dedicated training regiment and fearless inner drive make it a wonder to watch. Featured acrobats include Lily Griffith, Elizabeth Aysta, Izzy Furman, Isis De Souza, Evie Fitzpatrick, Olivia Valentin, Romy Sauve, Cora Mayfield and Gia Majchrzak. The group is directed by Suzy Jezierski.

Born on the icy shores of Duluth, Saltydog is a captivating blend of funk, folk and improvisational mastery. Formed by brothers Jacob and Owen Mahon, this psychedelic cowboy collective also includes Bryan “Lefty” Johnson, Calvin Lund, Sam Deters and Gavin St. Clair. Drawing inspiration from Talking Heads, The Band, and jam-band legends, Saltydog’s sound is as eclectic as it is electrifying. The group’s live shows, brimming with joy, spontaneity and soulful unpredictability, promise a groove-filled journey for all. A new album is expected later this year, following up on the 2024 release, Pepper.