The FreshGrass Festival has now reached its fifth anniversary in Bentonville, Arkansas. Originally envisioned as a branch of the FreshGrass | North Adams celebration, the Bentonville edition has grown into a unique cultural experience all its own, held at the dynamic arts space known as The Momentary.
This year’s lineup brought back several renowned artists such as Béla Fleck, Alison Brown, Sister Sadie, and Shakey Graves—familiar faces from last fall’s event in North Adams. At the same time, the festival showcased a fresh wave of talent, including both emerging artists and local acts. Jesse Welles, a native of Ozark, Arkansas, who gained internet fame for his musical takes on current events, received a warm hometown welcome as he took the Main Stage. Meanwhile, rising bluegrass-punk band Front Porch competed in the Band Contest and also played a lively set on the solar-powered stage near the entrance of The Momentary. This eco-friendly stage was hand-built and personally transported from Lafayette, Louisiana, by Louis Michot of Lost Bayou Ramblers, who also headlined the No Depression Stage on Friday night. Fortunately, the weekend enjoyed clear skies, allowing the sun to energize not just the solar stage, but the crowd’s spirits as well.
Representatives from No Depression and the FreshGrass Foundation were on site to document the festivities and have shared their top moments below.
FRIDAY
Willi Carlisle – Though travel delays nearly made me miss it, I arrived just in time to catch the beginning of Willi Carlisle’s commissioned performance at the Tulip Barn. What followed was an imaginative and theatrical showcase — a whimsical folk tale that explored the age-old struggle between light and darkness through enormous puppets. Mama Possum, symbolizing nature, kindness, and authenticity, faced off against The King, the embodiment of power and avarice. Infused with themes of queer freedom, anti-capitalist critique, and radical self-acceptance, Carlisle’s set was bold, heartfelt, and unforgettable — a true talking point for the rest of the weekend. — Hilary Saunders
Béla Fleck, Edmar Castañeda, Antonio Sánchez Trio (BEATrio) – Witnessing this trio perform was like sitting in on a masterclass in musical innovation. Béla Fleck’s banjo danced through complex rhythms with Edmar Castañeda’s electrifying harp and Antonio Sánchez’s intricate drumming. Their interplay defied genre boundaries, blending classical, jazz, and Latin elements into an evolving soundscape that felt both rooted and exploratory. It wasn’t just a concert — it was a conversation in music among three virtuosos. — Adam Kirr
SATURDAY
Band Contest – Normally I’m darting across the venue snapping photos, but this year I had the honor of serving as a judge for the Band Contest — a first for the Bentonville edition of FreshGrass, though a regular feature in North Adams. The finalists — Crying Uncle, Front Porch, Downriver Collective, and Fog Holler — each presented an original track along with a traditional piece, vying for a cash prize and recording time with Compass Records. In the end, Nashville’s Downriver Collective stood out, winning over the audience and judges with their seamless chemistry, commanding stage presence, and standout vocals from lead singer Ali Vance. — Hilary Saunders
Jesse Welles – Encores on the Main Stage are rare due to the festival’s tight schedule, but Jesse Welles broke the mold. Known for blending poignant commentary with sharp songwriting, Welles delivered a moving set that captivated the audience. Songs like “United Health” and “War Isn’t Murder” were reminiscent of John Prine’s lyrical wit yet grounded in today’s stark realities. His performance had an unmistakable aura, almost like watching the emergence of a new folk legend. — Adam Kirr
Rosanne Cash with John Leventhal – On Friday, Rosanne Cash joined sculptor Kevin Kresse for a discussion about the Johnny Cash statue recently placed in the U.S. Capitol. By Saturday, she returned to the spotlight alongside her husband, John Leventhal, for a serene acoustic performance. Their set, rich with classics from albums like The Wheel and The List, was intimate, soulful, and filled with stories that kept the crowd spellbound. I could’ve listened to them all night. — Hilary Saunders
Cha Wa – Having previously covered the cultural legacy of New Orleans’ Mardi Gras Indians in the “Voices” issue of No Depression, it was truly special to see Cha Wa live. This vibrant group, steeped in historical celebration and Black Masking Indian traditions, lit up the stage with their energetic performance. Fans of their story will be excited to know that new music is on the way. — Hilary Saunders