• Icehouse MPLS (map)
  • 2528 Nicollet Ave S
  • Minneapolis, MN, 55404
  • United States

ADVANCE: $12 // DAY OF SHOW: $15
6PM DOORS // 9PM SHOWTIME

Lauded as a “triple threat on vocals, fiddle and composition” (Star Tribune), Jillian Rae is a fiercely unique spirit who cares more about making authentic music than about fitting into a tidy box. The Minneapolis-based, classically trained violinist turned country fiddler has become a commanding international presence--writing powerful genre-bending songs, heading up her own critically acclaimed rock/pop band and backing up Grammy-winning acts like The Okee Dokee Brothers. Although she got her start playing with folk and country bands, Rae’s latest album I Can’t Be the One You Want Me to Be (2019) took a decided turn into pop and rock with unflinching, hard-hitting songs. It also showcased her orchestration abilities with layered violin tracks saturated in heavy grooves and moody arrangements. The album’s final track “Wayward One” was featured prominently in the hit Chinese film The White Storm 2 and has catapulted her into near stardom in China. Rae is also an in-demand producer and session player, known for her soaring pop orchestrations and fiddle parts. She is currently working on a new album.

Californian turned Minnesotan, Cassandra Cole is a songwriter, visual artist, actor, athlete, and mother. Cole specializes in songwriting that showcases life’s rich tapestry - and refines each thread, creating a canvas that gives us a look into her soul. In her latest release, Steps, she writes about the human experience.  

Steps dives into some heavy subjects in Cole’s life - including years of depression, anxiety, heartache, and faith.  Inspired by her favorite songwriters, such as Fiona Apple, Norah Jones, and Ella Fitzgerald, she uses her songwriting to tell stories. The album ebbs and flows - the last track, “Mornings High”, is about taking emotional, mental, and physical steps out of the darkness. 

Recorded during the COVID-19 crisis, Steps was produced by Jason Hafer at his studio in Portland Oregon. Due to health and travel restrictions, the musicians that are featured on the album recorded their parts separately, and were later masterfully woven together.

Cassandra’s songwriting is a blend of raw energetic passion with an eclectic modern edge. Her sound is a reflection of her own experiences and stylistic inspirations like “...Annie Lennox, Tori Amos, and even Janet Jackson.” - Erica Rivera