Photos

Photos: Scenes from Best New Bands of 2024 at First Avenue

by Laura Buhman

February 03, 2025

Saxophonist Jovon Williams of jazz fusion band Room3 performing at First Avenue's Best New Bands of 2024 showcase at First Avenue in Minneapolis on Friday, Jan. 31, 2025.
Saxophonist Jovon Williams of jazz fusion band Room3 performing at First Avenue's Best New Bands of 2024 showcase at First Avenue in Minneapolis on Friday, Jan. 31, 2025.Laura Buhman for MPR

Minneapolis live music centerpiece First Avenue hosted its annual Best New Bands event on Friday, Jan. 31. The lineup featured rising talent from the local scene representing a wide range of genres.

During tight sets — with announcements in between by radio hosts Jill Riley (The Current), Joey Peterson (Radio K), Krista Wax (KFAI), and Sean McPherson (Jazz88) — The Dalmatian Club, Kiernan, Bizhiki, Christy Costello, Mati, Porch Light, and Room3 each brought their unique energy to the mainroom.

Related: Mati - Carbon Sound Session Live at Minnesota State FairRelated: The future looks bright for Minneapolis band Porch LightRelated: Photos: Bizhiki debut 'Unbound' album at Parkway

Clean Water Land & Legacy Amendment
This activity is made possible in part by the Minnesota Legacy Amendment’s Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.
Photos: Scenes from Best New Bands of 2024 at First Avenue