Bishop Hill Welcomes an Unforgettable Night of Banjo-Driven Psych-Folk and Soulful Storytelling

On Tuesday, April 22nd, the Bishop Hill Creative Commons is proud to present a truly special evening of music with the wildly inventive Tall Tall Trees and the heartfelt charm of singer-songwriter Walker Burroughs. The night begins with a community potluck and social hour at 6:00 PM, followed by the concert at 7:00 PM. A $20–$30 donation is suggested.

At the heart of Tall Tall Trees is Mike Savino, a genre-defying artist who has redefined the boundaries of the banjo. Fusing elements of psychedelic rock, folk, minimalism, and electronic music, Savino builds lush, layered soundscapes using loop pedals, effects, and experimental techniques—all centered around his custom-built “Banjotron 5000.” Known for his collaborations with indie-folk luminary Kishi Bashi and his mesmerizing solo performances, Savino has become a cult favorite for fans of boundary-pushing acoustic music.

His music has been described as “visionary” (No Depression) and “a one-man orchestra of the imagination” (NPR). Live, Tall Tall Trees is more than a concert—it's an immersive journey through sound and texture that’s both introspective and joyfully expansive.

Opening the evening is Walker Burroughs, a gifted singer-songwriter whose warmth, wit, and vocal grace first caught national attention as a finalist on American Idol in 2019. With piano-driven melodies and lyrics that strike a balance between sincerity and cleverness, Burroughs crafts songs that feel instantly familiar—like a conversation with an old friend. Influenced by artists like Ben Folds, Elton John, and Sara Bareilles, he brings a fresh but timeless sound that resonates across generations.

Whether you're drawn to experimental folk innovation or thoughtful, pop-inflected songwriting, this is an evening of music that promises surprise, beauty, and genuine connection.

The concert will take place at Bishop Hill Creative Commons, located at 309 N. Bishop Hill St., Bishop Hill, IL. The Commons, which is run by Crossroads Cultural Connections, is a vibrant artist cooperative that showcases local art and serves as a venue for concerts, workshops, and community events.

Bring a dish, bring a friend, and settle in for an unforgettable night at one of the region’s most intimate, welcoming, and inspiring venues.

For tickets and more information visit: xroadscc.org