The upcoming performance at Blackrocks Brewery in Marquette marks a major milestone as Big Air celebrates the release of their new album alongside a supporting set from the Charlie Millard Band. Wrapping up a three-week autumn tour, the Charlie Millard Band brings a genre-blending sound rooted in rock, folk, classical training, and jazz influences passed down from foundational mentors and iconic keyboard artists. The trio crafts live setlists on the day of the show, letting them adapt to audience energy while incorporating recent tour additions, such as selections prepped for a Tom Waits tribute event. This adaptable stage approach follows an expansive summer season that saw the group performing in settings ranging from rural potluck barn dances to collaborative productions with ballet companies.
Heading into the headline release, Raymond Little’s project Big Air pivots toward a raw, lo-fi punk energy that stands distinct from his earlier solo recordings. The record came together organically during an unscripted week-long retreat at a rented home in Big Bay, relying heavily on a tight-knit circle of friends and engineers. Bassist Jaden Harvey, drummer Mikey McGaffigan, and producer-friends Ryan Staples and Mike Maple helped the music take shape without a rigid plan, trading off engineering duties while Little focused on cooking meals and guiding the songwriting. With final mixing wrapping up, the album reflects a fast-moving, highly collaborative effort set to premiere digitally on Bandcamp.
Kurt Hauswirth spoke with Little and Millard about the upcoming show and the Big Air album:
Beyond sharing a four-hour evening on stage, both acts share deep creative ties, with Millard contributing writing and instrumental work to the new Big Air tracks and joining in for live cross-pollination. The event's visual identity originated from a historical quote discovered by Millard, attributed to Father Jacques Marquette, which evolved into the event tagline alongside a minimalist three-bird graphic on the poster symbolizing the conclusion of a long journey. As both groups prepare to leave everything on stage, listeners can explore the Charlie Millard Band’s catalog on their website, Hattie Jane Music, while Big Air's new material debuts online ahead of an energetic local celebration.
More information about Raymond Little's music can be found at his Bandcamp page.
