LEAF is almost here — the festival’s 40th iteration runs Thursday-Sunday, May 7-10. In advance, Xpress is talking to performers about what they have planned and why being part of LEAF’s 20th anniversary is so special.
Travers Brothership, founded by twin brothers Kyle and Eric Travers, has been performing around Asheville since the siblings were 12. Drawing on influences of rock, blues, soul, funk and jazz, “Travers Brothership’s goal is to provide an atmosphere that conveys a message of community and emotional fulfillment with grooves that are sure to get you on the dance floor,” according to the band’s bio.
Mountain Xpress: You recently released your I Don’t Mind EP — are these songs from your forthcoming full-length? Can you tell us a little bit about the new album that you’re working on?
Kyle Travers: Due to the way our sound has progressed in the past year, we have decided to make our first full-length effort a live album. The band is really doing something unique live, and we want to capture that. We will be recording the live album at Pisgah Brewing Co., Thursday and Friday, July 2 and 3. All are welcome to join the fun. Early bird tickets will be available soon.
You grew up in Asheville — how do you think the local music scene and the area has informed your music?
We are so proud of our hometown. I’ve been all over, and Asheville stands out as one of the most musically diverse cities in the U.S. I think this diversity formed the versatility of our sound, not to mention all the things we’ve learned from jamming with the fantastic musicians around Asheville.
Why is it important to you to perform at LEAF?
This is a landmark performance for Travers Brothership. It’s a great honor to perform alongside so many great acts, this close to home. The LEAF programs are amazingly progressive for the cultures of the world, and we are happy to be able to contribute our music to the cause. Also some of the band [members] attended LEAF throughout their childhood and dreamed of one day performing at the festival, so this is going to be a really special show for them.
What acts are you most looking forward to seeing at LEAF?
The whole lineup is incredible. I am personally looking forward to seeing Charles Bradley and His Extraordinaires, Bombino and Xavier Rudd and the United Nations.
What’s coming up for the Travers Brothership this year?
We are going to be busier than ever. We will be releasing a live album in the fall, and will be working in various studios on our third release in between tour dates. We also have our third national tour in the works this summer. This band really has fun playing live, so we are on the road nearly every week. You can subscribe to our newsletter to keep up with our constant touring schedule.
Learn more at facebook.com/traversbrothership; send inquiries to info@traversbrothership.com.
Travers Brothership performs in Eden Hall on Saturday, May 9, 6-7:15 p.m.
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