Beloved by Rockport audiences, Carbon Leaf—the first band to play the American Music Awards unsigned by a record label—returns with their signature blend of folk-infused indie rock and heartfelt storytelling. Celebrating over 30 years together, the Richmond, Virginia-based band continues to captivate fans with their infectious energy and thought-provoking lyrics. This time around, they’ll feature music from their acclaimed new album, Time is the Playground.

“For fans of thoughtful, melody-driven rock with a folk twist, “Time is the Playground” is … a worthy addition to Carbon Leaf’s legacy – a reminder that even as time marches on, some things, like the power of a well-crafted song, remain timeless.” – The B Side Guys

ABOUT THE ARTISTS

Carbon Leaf’s 15th studio album, Time is the Playground, marries nostalgic storytelling with nuanced, folk-infused indie rock. This 12-song collection reflects on time, love, and personal growth, blending acoustic and electric instrumentation with heartfelt melodies and harmonies. “The challenge for us was to make something that felt good to get through from beginning to end, like a story,” says frontman Barry Privett.

Formed in 1992 in Richmond, Virginia, Carbon Leaf first gained national attention with their hit “The Boxer,” making history as the first unsigned band to perform on the American Music Awards. With a fanbase drawn to their infectious energy, thought-provoking lyrics, and DIY spirit, the band has released charting albums, won multiple songwriting awards, and logged over 3,500 live shows.

After a successful stint with Vanguard Records, Carbon Leaf returned to their indie roots, recording in their own Two-Car Studio and re-recording previous albums to regain rights. Time is the Playground, their first full-length album in a decade, gathers 15 years’ worth of ideas alongside new material, reflecting the band’s evolution and creative resilience.

Known for their tireless touring, Carbon Leaf remains a self-managed model for independent bands, delivering music that resonates deeply with fans and stands the test of time.

 

OPENING ACT: ZAK LOY
7:15 PM: Pre-show

Over 25 years in the music business as a guitarist, songwriter, collaborator and producer Zak Loy is releasing his first solo record called “ Dinero ” . Zak had his first national success with the band “ALPHA REV” after releasing albums on Hollywood Records and Kirtland Records, achieving 2 top 10 Triple A radio singles with “New Morning” and “Sing Loud”. In 2013, Zak became the lead guitarist, sideman collaborator for the Lead Singer of the band +LīVE+ – ED Kowalczyk, Zak has worked closely with Ed ever since, joining +LīVE+ in 2016 for the “reunion years” and as of 2022 Zak became the Lead Guitarist, co-writer, music director and Producer of +LīVE+. Zak Loy’s first solo venture leans heavily on a singer songwriter approach taking inspiration from his life growing up in Texas, his experience traveling the world as a musician with a family at home and working in the music business.

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