In lieu of my normal weekly postings of weekend picks for live music in Denver, today I’d like to draw your attention to one special event in particular: Mike Fest 2013, a two-day musical benefit featuring over a dozen bands in two venues in support of Denver music scene veteran Mike Marchant.
One of the things I love best about the Denver music scene is the way it takes care of its own. Many times in recent memory, when a Denver musician, band or music scene supporter has come under hardship, other musicians have without fail rallied around in support. It is an awesome thing to see, and even more awesome to participate in.
When Mike Marchant, a respected Denver performer, was recently diagnosed with cancer, it pulled the rug out from under him. The good news is, thankfully, the cancer is currently on the run as Marchant undergoes chemo. The bad news, as is often the case, is the growing pile of medical bills. So tonight and tomorrow, April 12-13, the Hi-Dive at 7 S. Broadway, along with 3 Kings Tavern across the street at 60 S. Broadway, are co-hosting “Mike Fest 2013”, a two-night benefit event featuring some of Denver’s finest local talent.
Friday night’s lineup at the Hi-Dive includes Il Cattivo, SPELLS, Miss America, Sawmill Joe and Marty Jones; Saturday night will feature The Outfit, In the Whale, Kitty Crimes, Ark Life, Patrick Dethlefs and Natalie Tate. While that’s going on, 3 Kings across the street will feature Safe Boating Is No Accident, Pink Hawks, Champagne Charlie and Loving Things on Friday; and Oliver Bravado, Rowboat, Shady Elders, Ponderosa and Violent Summer on Saturday.
Both nights at both venues are available for a suggested donation of $20 (and of course, you can give more); doors open at 7pm nightly, and shows are for ages 21+. Come out and show your support for one of Denver’s own who could really use your help.