Eric Engblade & Justin Avdek | Eastside Dual Release Party

Doors @ 7 PM, Music @ 8 PM.

Eric Engblade

Eric Engblade is “Folk-Rock With Teeth”, a joyful Grand Rapids, MI bequeath, pouring over the tug-o-war between wants and needs. His sound and songs are a soothing serenade, singing you to a place where apple pies cool on windowsills, and children play in cattails; accompanied by church bells ringing in the distance, where he warns to be weary of the “Enthusiastic, Evangelistic, Preacher Man”.

An accomplished and acclaimed singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, session musician, and music educator from Grand Rapids, MI, Eric Engblade performs as a solo artist or with his band across the Great Lakes region, having opened for prominent national acts as Greensky Bluegrass, Billy Strings, Paul Thorn, Pert Near Sandstone, and has performed at some cool places in the Midwest and beyond. Some career highlights include performing at Wheatland Music Festival (2024), Hoxeyville Music Festival (2010, 2017), Beaver Island Music Festival (2011), Hiawatha Music Festival (2011), Earthwork Harvest Gathering (20l6), Buttermilk Jamboree (2017, 2018), Cowpie Music Festival (2018), and at Frederick Meijer Garden Amphitheater (2012, 2018).

He has released five highly locally reviewed full-length albums since 2008 with his newest release "Compass" in 2024. Released in 2012 while fronting, booking, and managing The Northern Skies, ‘Thick As Thieves’ was hailed as a “homegrown, handmade work of art” (On The Town, Grand Rapids, MI). In 2016 he released a 12 song, self titled, solo LP within which Engblade’s “inspiring musicianship and songwriting” (John Sinkevics, localspins.com) are undeniable.

Engblade is a full-time working musician, teaching students multiple instruments at Ada Conservatory of Music (Ada, MI), and Joyful Sounds Music Studio (Grand Rapids, MI). He also frequently makes music with families at Meijer Gardens (Grand Rapids) and at Children’s museums, schools, and private parties. His music tells great tales of mystic marvels, advent, and adventure! He is the modern Michigan Ringmaster: Theatric in his antics; Silly in his nature; Swing in his tempo; A showman thoroughly rooted and suited in the art of illustrating a vision, taking listeners on a mission, from his heart to yours. He is the father of two beautiful children -- Naomi and Zephyr. He is a husband to his beautiful wife -- Tammy. He loves his entire family to the bone.

Connect with Eric on his Facebook Page Explore Eric's Instagram

Eric Engblade's YouTube Channel

More information via Eric's Website

Justin Avdek

Justin Avdek is a widely known musician in West Michigan. He has played bass in many local groups including Earth Radio, the Tommy Foster Band, the Mark Lavengood Band, Chordis Bell, The Underground Circus, and with Eric Engblade. Justin has released several albums as a solo artist and with collaborative groups, including and Dr. Dangatang, Don't Forget to Plug in The Sun, You Are What You Sleep, and recently The Hidden People. He loves to make sounds.

Connect with Justin on his Facebook Page Explore Justin Avdek's website Justin Avdek's YouTube Channel