Budwig, Landis to play concert above Evans Bros.

By Cameron Rasmusson
Reader Staff

Local music fans have something special waiting for them this weekend when Bart Budwig rolls into town.

Bart Budwig will be playing at Studio 524 above Evans Bros. Coffee on Saturday, March 16. Courtesy photo.

The Inland Northwest singer-songwriter is known for his lush, evocative songs drawing from a variety of inspirations. And while he calls Oregon his home, he has a special place in his heart for Sandpoint. That’s why he’s so excited to be heading into town Saturday for a night of music with Sandpoint’s own Cedar & Boyer, headed up by Justin and Jen Landis.

“I’ve been touring in eastern Canada, and working on John Craigie’s next record for the past three weeks,” Budwig said. “I am happy to be heading back to Sandpoint this weekend for a house show with my old buds Cedar & Boyer. Can’t wait to see y’all!”

That house show is technically not taking place in house — instead, it’s being held at Evans Brothers Coffee, 222 North Sixth Ave. The more important detail is that it will feel like a house show — a warm, intimate environment with an attentive audience focusing its attention on the artists.

That’s perfect for Budwig’s music. Sean Jewell of American Standard Time described it this way: “Sometimes when Bart sings, I forget what we’re talking about. I’m sure he knows though. I trust him. He sounds like John Prine, plays like Hoyt Axton, and looks like, well … Bart Budwig. He’s a cosmic country lawn gnome. He’s cherubic, cheery and an old soul. Songs spring from the dreams of his noonday naps, and punch the keys of his typewriter above the OK Theater in Enterprise, Ore. When words won’t take, he calls ‘em in with a bugle of his trumpet, or a strum of soothing guitar.”

Cedar & Boyer are a perfect complement to Budwig’s introspective songwriting. Locals who need no introduction to those acquainted with the regional music scene, Justin and Jen Landis weave complex soundscapes through looping and pedal effects around their soul-searching lyrics.

With so much music to look forward to, fans will want to scoop up their tickets early to ensure entry to the show. It takes place at Studio 524 in Evans Brothers Coffee Saturday, March 16, with the doors opening at 7 p.m. Tickets are $12 in advance — order online at https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4100326 — or $15 at the door.