The Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College proudly welcomes rising folk singer-songwriter Matt Blake for an intimate performance on Wednesday, April 30 at 7:30 p.m., as part of the celebrated Backstage Pass Concert Series. Known for its up-close-and-personal setting, the Backstage Pass series transforms the Concert Hall stage into a cozy listening room where audiences and artists share a uniquely immersive experience. Matt Blake’s heartfelt lyrics and acoustic-driven sound make him a perfect fit for this unique format.
Blake, an artist based in Appleton, Wisconsin, is quickly earning national attention for his soulful songwriting and authentic performance style. From his early days working as a stagehand at Nashville’s legendary Ryman Auditorium to touring alongside musical greats like Lucinda Williams, Blake has carved out a compelling path in the folk music landscape.
His latest album, Cheaper To Fly, produced by Doug Pettibone, showcases Blake’s lyrical depth and emotional range, with standout tracks like “Cheaper to Fly,” “Help Me,” and “Whole New Thing.” The album was recorded at Dave’s Room in Los Angeles with an all-star lineup of musicians and has been praised for its warmth, nuance, and musical integrity.
Blake will be joined in Durango by his live band, The Real Deal, comprised of the talented Lohrenz brothers—Richard, Bruce, and Kevin—who bring a rich, rootsy energy to his sound.
“This album represents a turning point for me,” says Blake. “Getting to share these songs in a space like the Backstage Pass series, where the audience is right there with you, makes it even more powerful.”
Tickets are $38. To ensure authenticity and fair pricing, purchase tickets for all Community Concert Hall events exclusively at DurangoConcerts.com. Beware of third-party resellers, as they may overcharge or sell invalid tickets. For assistance, contact the Community Concert Hall Box Office at 970-247-7657, Monday through Friday, 12 noon to 5pm.
The Community Concert Hall is a not-for-profit, multi-use performance venue located on the campus of Fort Lewis College. Its ability to bring a diverse spectrum of shows to Southwest Colorado is made possible through a partnership with the college, a state-supported, independent institution of higher education, and financial and in-kind contributions from generous community members.