The City of Hickory is set to host musicians Larry & Joe for their Sails Original Music Series, according to a recent announcement. The free concert, made possible by Protection Products, Inc., will kick off at 7 p.m. this Friday at downtown Hickory's Union Square. Known for their fusion of Latin folk and Appalachian tunes, the duo promises a lively showcase far from any nod-off affair.
Both hailing from distinctly different backgrounds, harpist Larry Bellorín, a Venezuelan music legend, and GRAMMY-nominated bluegrass musician Joe Troop from North Carolina found common ground in music after individual trials — Bellorín as an asylum seeker and Troop's return from South America due to the pandemic. Before meeting Joe, Larry worked in construction to support himself, and during the band Che Apalache's forced hiatus, Joe shifted gears to work with migrants seeking asylum. For the audience, it's a shared experience of new and traditional sounds blending harmoniously that awaits, crafted by the duo's multi-instrumental talents that seem to enjoy throwing just about anything ‘into the van’ for their performances.
As detailed by the City of Hickory's announcement, Larry & Joe's setlist is expected to be an eclectic mix of their rich cultural heritages, punctuated with storytelling that highlights the intersection of music and social movements. Sails Music Coordinator Bob Sinclair described their act as a "high energy fusion of Venezuelan and Appalachian music on harp, banjo, cuatro, fiddle, guitar, maracas," punctuating the sheer variety of instruments the duo employs.
The Sails Original Music Series, which began in 2012, serves as a stage for original music acts from national and international backgrounds, spurred by support from local businesses like Larry’s Music & Sound, Pfahlert Creative Labs, and Crowne Plaza. At Union Square, seating will be available, with the city encouraging attendees to also bring lawn chairs or blankets. For those looking to enjoy a drink, ABC permitted businesses within the Hickory Downtown Social District will sell beverages in special cups for public consumption within the designated areas - no outside alcohol is allowed, highlighting the city's efforts to create a robust, community-friendly event.
