Kent American Music Roots Festival

The inaugural Kent American Roots Music Festival debuts today, featuring Americana, bluegrass and country acts at 22 venues throughout downtown Kent. More than 20 acts, such as singer-songwriter Brent Kirby, Rachel Brown and the Beatnik Playboys, Hey Mavis and the Thor Platter Band, are slated to perform. Consult the website for a schedule and a map of the participating clubs. (Niesel)