In August, Andrew Scotchie traveled to Montana’s Crown of the Continent Guitar Festival, where he studied and performed as part of a scholarship program. Shortly after, Xpress readers voted Andrew Scotchie & The River Rats Asheville’s favorite rock band. And the positive momentum continues as the ubiquitous local musician’s eighth Barnaroo festival — which benefits Asheville Music School — approaches. Headlining this year is Grammy-nominated Americana outfit Yarn (pictured). The weekend event also features Folk Soul Revival, Shivering Timbers, Danielle Howle and local acts such as Porch 40, Travers Brothership, Pierce Edens, This Mountain, Scotchie’s band and the AMS rock group. Day passes start at $15/$20 (though Sunday is free, and youths attend free all weekend). Full passes, including on-site camping at Franny’s Farm from Friday, Sept. 30, to Sunday, Oct. 2, are available for $70/$75. ashevillebarnaroo.com. Photo of Yarn by Todd Chalfont
Smart bets: Barnaroo
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