Sonic Lunch Live: Michael Franti & Spearhead!

Now in its 12th year, Bank of Ann Arbor’s Sonic Lunch is a free summer outdoor concert series located at the corner of Liberty and Division in downtown Ann Arbor. Every Thursday through Aug. 29 (except for July 4 and July 18), Sonic Lunch will feature a range of local and national artists. Sonic Lunch will once again host opening acts prior to each performance beginning at 11:30 a.m. featuring predominately regional artists.

8/22 Michael Franti and Spearhead wsg Abigail Stauffer

8/29 Jessica Hernandez & The Deltas wsg Jacob Sigman

THIS THURSDAY

The next-to-last Sonic Lunch concert of 2019 will feature one of the biggest acts we’ve ever had the pleasure of presenting over the last 12 years: Michael Franti & Spearhead!

After stints in the Beatnigs and Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy, singer/songwriter/guitarist/social activist Michael Franti formed the band Spearhead in 1994.  His group features an infectious blend of rock, reggae, funk, rap and soul, with lyrics that address spirituality, community and our connectedness to each other. Franti’s energetic stage presence and hopeful attitude will convince the most pessimistic person in the world to get up and dance and enjoy the time we have together on earth!  Touring in support of their 10th studio album, “Stay Human, Vol. II,” Michael Franti & Spearhead will perform on the big stage at Bank of Ann Arbor’s Sonic Lunch on Thursday, August 22nd.

Our opening act Abigail Stauffer will take the stage at 11:30 a.m. that morning and is also not to be missed.  The folk siren from Dexter, Michigan has a captivating voice and will warm your heart and soul with her music.  I last saw Abigail when she performed at Grillin’— the picnic with a purpose to benefit Food Gatherers — and she sounded better than ever, with her soulful vocals and impressive guitar playing easily winning over the audience.

We are expecting one of the largest crowds we’ve ever had for Bank of Ann Arbor’s Sonic Lunch on Thursday, August 22nd, so please plan on arriving early for Michael Franti & Spearhead with special guest Abigail Stauffer!

By Martin Bandyke, morning drive host on Ann Arbor’s 107one.