Hunter's all new, the Still's all through

By Jeff Dickerson

For the Daily

In celebration of the release of her third album, "Alive", Lisa Hunter is set to play Ann Arbor's legendary The Ark. The folk rock artist is dressed to leave a mark on the local music scene. She will be getting a little help from her friends as members of The Still back her up on her latest tracks.

Lisa Hunter refers to her music as "truth or dare folk rock." Her musical career ignited in 1996 with her praised debut album "Solid Ground." She has made herself a name in folk music in the Midwest with her energetic performances. Described as "bare-bones" and "truly real", Lisa Hunter's newest album features simply her soft voice and acoustic guitar alone in the studio. Unlike her first two efforts, "Solid Ground" and "Flying", the music featured in her current work is simple and raw, focusing on the basics of her craft.

Joining her onstage will be local heroes, The Still. In case you've missed out on their live shows in past years, now is your final chance to see them perform together. This Saturday marks the end for Ann Arbor's favorite folk rockers. After nearly six years of resounding vocals and acoustic guitars, the band is calling it quits. They'll be playing one last show at The Ark to close their successful careers.

The six man band started up in 1994 when the Kaplan brothers, Ethan and Noah, set out to form a band with some of their close friends. They joined Al Massey, Jesse Schriffrin, Zach Platsis and Nathan Adams to form what has become one of Ann Arbor's favorite bands. Folkrocksteady, that's how the folk rock group The Still describes their sound. Since then, the University of Michigan grads have released three albums including their latest, Transit. Their music exhibits the roots of their unique sound. In each song you can hear a taste of their influences Bob Dylan, The Grateful Dead and rocker of the free world Neil Young.

The Still found success after the Ann Arbor New Music Fesitval in 1996. Known for their potent shows, they've sold out concert halls all across Michigan from Detroit to Kalamazoo. Saturday's show marks the end of one popular local group, and the growth of one of the most promising local folk artists. The combined talents will make for a memorable folk concert with a touch of local flavor. Don't miss out, you won't have another chance.