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May 21, 2025Wild Adriatic, Sawyer Fredericks to Headline Inaugural WEXT Local 518 Fest at Music Haven on July 26
WEXT Radio, the Capital Region’s listener-supported roots and rock radio station, today announced a potent and eclectic lineup of regional musical acts for its inaugural WEXT Local 518 Fest, to be held Saturday, July 26 from 2 to 9:30 p.m. at Music Haven in Schenectady’s Central Park.
Headlining the free festival celebrating the local music scene are two popular acts that have just released new albums: Wild Adriatic, a band known for seamlessly blending rock ‘n roll with blues and soul, and Sawyer Fredericks, the singer-songwriter who gained fame by winning Season 8 of NBC’s singing competition, “The Voice.”
Other local musical acts on the bill include Tops of Trees, Canella, and Sara Milonovich & Daisy Cutter. WEXT Local 518 Fest is presented with support from Music Haven, Chet & Karen Opalka, and Gary & Amy Dake.
“With talented musicians and cool music that crosses multiple genres, we couldn’t be more thrilled with our lineup for WEXT Local 518 Fest,” said Chris Wienk, afternoon host and program director at WEXT and vice president, radio at WMHT Public Media. “Free and open to the public, this event showcases what WEXT does best: highlight our diverse and vibrant local music scene and bring the community together to enjoy it.”
Wild Adriatic’s self-titled third studio album, written at soundchecks and writing retreats worldwide and recorded in a studio apartment in Lake George during the pandemic, was released April 18. The band has made countless U.S. and European tour and festival appearances, playing with heavyweight acts ranging from Lynyrd Skynyrd, Grand Funk Railroad and 38 Special to Goose, Sublime, Twiddle and moe.
Fredericks’ new album, “No Need to Wonder,” was released April 22. Hailing from a farm in central New York, he began playing local farmers markets, open mics, and iconic New York venues at the age of 13. Blending folk, blues and rock, Fredericks’ original lyrics, soulful vocals and powerful live performances have connected him with fans around the world since his 2015 victory on “The Voice.”
WEXT Local 518 Fest also features Tops of Trees, playing music steeped in R&B, funk and soul and built upon a strong foundation of drum and bass, classic organ, blistering vocals, and an unshakeable horn section; indie-rock band Canella, known for its heavy riffs, pop melodies, and taste of alternative genres; and singer-songwriter and fiddler Sara Milonovich and her band Daisycutter, which offers a heady harvest of heart-stopping original roots rock and alt-Americana gems. In addition, a variety of local food, beverage and craft vendors will be on site throughout the event.
