Frankfort Bluegrass Fest 2018: 5 Must-See Musical Acts To See

FRANKFORT, IL — With more than 25 musical acts performing on two stages at this weekend's eighth annual Frankfort Bluegrass on the Green festival, it can be daunting figuring out which must-see performances to check out during the two-day event. Time is limited, and not everyone can see all the musicians at the festival, which runs Saturday, July 14, and Sunday, July 15, at Breidert Green and Prairie Park in the village's downtown.

Thankfully, organizers for the Frankfort event have provided a list of the can't-miss performers playing this weekend. That doesn't mean the rest of the musicians on the festival's lineup should be missed, though.

“Everyone of these bands is a headliner somewhere so it’s not fair to make up top five lists,” one festival committee member said. “Really I love them all and don’t plan to miss a pick.”

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But if you can't be on hand for the entire event, here are the five must-see performances — along with musical clips — you should make it a priority to see as chosen by festival organizers.

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1. Special Consensus

When: 12:15 p.m. Saturday and 4 p.m. Sunday on the Breidert Green Stage

Why It's a Must-See Performance: "Locally, Special Consensus has been a pied piper of sorts, both educating people locally to the deep-rooted influences of bluegrass and drawing their loyal following to Frankfort. The band embraces and reveres American music forms with boundless energy."

2. Kenny and Amanda Smith

When: 1:30 p.m. Saturday and 2:45 p.m. Sunday on the Breidert Green Stage

Why It's a Must-See Performance: "The winners of the International Bluegrass Music Association's prestigious Emerging Artist of the Year award in 2003, the band leads with heartfelt vocals found in contemporary songs while the chemistry between Kenny and Amanda creates a groove perfectly suited for a hot summer night."

3. Balsam Range

When: 2:15 p.m. Saturday on the Breidert Green Stage and 6:30 p.m. Saturday on the Prairie Park Stage

Why It's a Must-See Performance: "The busiest band in the land has 'picked' up 10 International Bluegrass Music Association Awards with six critically acclaimed albums. Founded in 2007, Balsam Range headlines and sells out major festivals, including the Grand Ole Opry."

4. Jeff Austin Band

When: 9:15 p.m. Saturday on the Breidert Green Stage

Why It's a Must-See Performance: "Innovative but rooted, this electro-driven bluegrass sound strikes the fancy of those anxious for new Americana music platforms. Austin and his bandmates take fans on an adventure every performance."

5. Anderlik, Otto and Church

When: Noon Sunday on the Prairie Park Stage

Why It's a Must-See Performance: "This triumvirate jammed in a late night Windy City session leaving fans breathless. The three Chicagoans 'connected' through their versatility and musical reach in the bluegrass genres. Rob Anderlik, Pat Otto and Mike Church have developed a strong following since 2015."

Frankfort Bluegrass on the Green: The Basics

When: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. July 14, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. July 15

Where: Breidert Green, Kansas and White streets, and Prairie Park, White and Elwood streets, downtown Frankfort

Cost: Free

More Info: Go to the festival's website for bios on all of the musical acts performing during the two-day event.

Special Consensus (Screen shot from video via Compass Records | YouTube)