From this morning’s press release…

Once again the sights, smells and especially the sounds of the Decatur BBQ Blues & Bluegrass Festival will invade Oakhurst Saturday, August 16^th from 12pm – 8pm. This year’s event promises to be one of the best with a terrific line up of blues and bluegrass artists.

Kicking off this year’s festival is the blues power trio The Georgia Flood. All three members have played in various bands throughout their musical careers, but no other project has the sound, style, or explosive musicality of brothers Brooks Mason on lead guitar and lead vocals, Lane Kelly on bass and back-up vocals.

Returning to our stage from a 1yr. hiatus are the ladies of Roxie Watson,in 2014 they have a new album out Songs from Hells Hollow. Over the years they have morphed into simply one of the finest original bands in the Southeast, regularly selling out storied songwriting venues from Eddie’s Attic in Decatur, GA to the Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, TN

They are followed by the soul singing songwriting sisters of Larkin Poe who are again returning hot off the heels of a month long tour in Europe. Also making their debut at the Decatur BBQ Blues & Bluegrass Festival is Kate & Corey the Bluesy Americana duo of Kate Shaffer and Corey Coleman that have quickly made a big name for themselves.

After 5+ years we are honored to have Michelle Malone return to the festival. Her guitar chops, trademark voice, and songwriting craft have won her critical acclaim and numerous awards over the years including: best album (Atlanta magazine), 2 time best acoustic guitarist (Creative Loafing, IAC), and 5 time female vocalist of the year (Creative Loafing), Best Blues Guitarist (IAC.com).

Finally we are extremely proud to announce our 2014 headliner,bluegrass stalwarts Balsam Range who will be playing the festival for the first time. These five outstanding acoustic musicians and singers from Haywood County, North Carolina have created their own legendary sound that honors and celebrates every angle of bluegrass, classic, and American Heritage music. Winners of the IBMA “Song of the Year” in 2012 and “Record of the Year” in 2013, Balsam Range are an experience not to be missed. Welcome them to your neighborhood!

Tickets will go on sale in the coming weeks. For further information on all festival happenings log onto www.decaturbbqfestival.com or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Ariel La Boutique – located in the 330 West Ponce building – has a sign in their window announcing their closing.

The shop opened back in April 2012, replacing the old Fabutique space.