The Montvales and Blue Cactus

Blue Cactus, led by Steph Stewart and Mario Arnez, hails from North Carolina's honky-tonk scene, fusing folk, alt-country, and psychedelic rock. Known for supporting acts like The War And Treaty and Town Mountain, they craft introspective and lush music. Their third album, "Believer", explores themes of illness, dreams, and hope with guest singers like Erin Rae. Praised by No Depression and compared to Gillian Welch, their rich sound remains deeply personal and adventurous.

The Montvales are a Cincinnati-based indie country duo of longtime friends Sally Buice and Molly Rochelson, who began busking as teens on Market Square in Knoxville, TN. Produced by Eli LoPinto, their album Path of Totality includes songs like "Plains of Ohio."