In anticipation of his forthcoming sixth solo album, “Orgy of the Damned,” set to release on May 17 under Gibson Records, acclaimed guitarist and songwriter SLASH (don’t forget also a GRAMMY award-winner) has announced a North American tour dedicated to celebrating the Blues this summer.
Named the S.E.R.P.E.N.T. festival, an acronym representing Solidarity, Engagement, Restore, Peace, Equality N’ Tolerance, the tour will commence on July 5 in Bonner, Montana, and traverse major cities including Los Angeles, Denver, Cincinnati, Toronto, New York City, Boston, and Atlanta, among others. SLASH has meticulously curated a stellar lineup of Blues artists to accompany him on this inaugural festival, featuring notable names such as Warren Haynes Band, Keb’ Mo’, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Robert Randolph, Samantha Fish, Eric Gales, ZZ Ward, Jackie Venson, and Larkin Poe. Throughout the tour, SLASH will perform alongside his Blues ensemble, comprising bassist Johnny Griparic, keyboardist Teddy ‘ZigZag’ Andreadis, drummer Michael Jerome, and singer/guitarist Tash Neal.
The inception of the S.E.R.P.E.N.T. festival stems from SLASH’s vision to unite fans in celebrating the essence of Blues music, alongside fellow artists who share his passion for the genre. Additionally, SLASH aims to support charitable causes he has championed over the years, as well as uplift marginalized communities through initiatives focused on enhancing livelihoods. A percentage of proceeds from each VIP package and festival ticket sale will directly benefit selected charities, including The Equal Justice Initiative, Know Your Rights Camp, The Greenlining Institute, and War Child. The festival has partnered with PLUS1.ORG to advance these philanthropic endeavors.
Describing the S.E.R.P.E.N.T. tour as a tribute to Blues and rock ‘n’ roll music, SLASH emphasizes its role as a platform for promoting unity and solidarity during times of uncertainty and division. By allocating portions of ticket sales to support social justice causes and international aid efforts, S.E.R.P.E.N.T. seeks to foster an inclusive environment where attendees can revel in exceptional music while contributing to meaningful causes.
General ticket sales commence on Friday, March 15 at 10 am local time, with pre-sale options available at www.serpentfestival.com. Limited VIP packages for the S.E.R.P.E.N.T. festival are currently accessible, offering exclusive perks such as access to SLASH’s soundcheck, autographed vinyl copies of “Orgy of the Damned,” and more, obtainable through www.serpentfestival.com.
