Kay Kay and His Weathered Underground
Kay Kay is not one prolific performer, but rather the formidable combination of talents Kyle O’Quin and Kirk Huffman. Together they have formed one of the best bands in the Northwest, a sprawling collection of instrumentalists (tubas, violins, guitars, and cellos are just the start) that put on an inspired show. A band you’ll want to say “I saw them when…”
Where: Columbia City Theater
When: August 6
How much: $12
Seattle Hempfest
Whether you agree with the marijuana agenda or not, it’s hard to deny they’re on a bit of a roll. First the Seattle police effectively decriminalize pot possession. Then the chief of Seattle police is appointed the national drug czar, extending elements of that policy to the feds. And then a ramshackle marijuana legalization campaign makes it to the state ballot this November. If this is all music to your ears, celebrate the rising tide at this year’s three-day Hempfest at the Olympic Sculpture Park. Admission (and contact high) are free.
Where: Olympic Sculpture Park
When: August 19-21
How much: Free
Ira Glass
Apart from perhaps Garrison Keillor, Ira Glass is the giant upon whose shoulders NPR stands. He doesn’t just have a massive audience—he defines what NPR is to us. At Benaroya Hall he’ll be taping his This American Life program. Is Seattle the most NPR-ish town in America? Come out and make the case.
Where: Benaroya Hall
When: August 21
How much: $25-$50
Terry Brooks
Unknown even to many of his fans, best-selling fantasy author Terry Brooks is a Seattle resident. His Shannara series is still going strong and Brooks reads from its latest, Bearers of the Black Staff. Haven’t started? Only 21 books to catch up!
Where: University Book Store
When: August 24
How much: Free
Earth, Wind, and Fire
Sold out by mid-July. And worth every penny. If you can weasel a ticket out of somebody, you’ll see one of the best group of live performers in pop music history. Chateau Ste. Michelle’s venue is becoming a major concert venue, and there’s none lovelier in the region.
Where: Chateau Ste. Michelle - Woodinville
When: August 27-28
How much: $48-$78
Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey’s
Maybe I’m dating myself, but I’m not sure I want to live in a world when kids don’t want to go to the circus. Sure, there are plenty of Wiis and Xboxes and iThings to enjoy at home. But how many gadgets can really replicate seeing live tigers jump through hoops of fire? None. That’s how many.
Where: Everett Event Center
When: Aug. 26-29
How much: Kids $10, Adults $17-80 depending on seating