Synth-folk duo Babes in Canyon to play The Hive

By Ben Olson
Reader Staff

Babes in Canyon is a vibe. Blending synth-folk, moody pop, club beats and soaring vocal harmonies, the songwriter duo of Nathan and Sophia Hamer captures that broody Pacific Northwest feeling. It’s the music that might be playing in your earbuds on a rainy walk home at 4 a.m. after one of those nights out you’ll never forget.

The duo will return to Sandpoint for a concert at 8 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 9 at The Hive (207 N. First Ave., in downtown Sandpoint).

The beats and soundscapes they create sound like they come from a full band, but it’s just two interconnected musicians. Their sound brings to mind Australian duo Angus and Julia Stone.

The rich tapestry of catchy hooks and haunting melodies send this genre-curious band off the beaten path into a new live music journey that will get you in the feels — and on the dance floor.

Joining the enigmatic duo for their return to Sandpoint are Anna Smyrk and Shelby Natasha.

Hailing from Australia, Smyrk’s anthemic indie songs showcase her exceptional songwriting, driving indie-rock sounds and tender alt-folk confessions.

Smyrk’s first album Spectacular Denial debuted at No. 20 on the U.S. specialty radio charts and continues to get spins on BBC Radio.

Originally from Seattle, Natasha is an alt-folk songwriter who plays a traditional Chinese zither called a guzheng. Her music offers an invitation into a world of R&B-inspired Chinese folk music inspired by her upbringing between China and the PNW.

Tickets are $23.64 if bought in advance at livefromthehive.com, or $25 at the door. Listen at babesincanyon.com, annasmyrk.com and shelbynatashamusic.godaddysites.com.