CORVALLIS, Ore. - Oregon State University's American Strings Series, presented by the College of Liberal Arts, is launching its new season at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 6, with a special outdoor program featuring the indie-folk band Shook Twins.
The event is free and open to the public and will take place in the Student Experience Center Plaza on OSU's Corvallis campus, located between the Memorial Union and the Student Experience Center on Jefferson Street.
Hosted by Bob Santelli, OSU director of popular music and performing arts, the American Strings series brings musicians from around the country to Corvallis for an in-depth look at the role stringed instruments play in American music. Each event includes a conversation and live performance from the invited artists.
Portland-based Shook Twins will be performing as a trio, with identical twin sisters Katelyn and Laurie Shook joined by longtime bandmate Niko "Slice" Daoussis. The band incorporates a wide range of instrumentation and vocals, from banjo and guitar to beatboxing and ambient sound.
Their recently released fourth album, "Some Good Lives," pays homage to the people who have influenced their lives, including the twins' late grandfather and U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders.
"We realized there was a theme," Katelyn Shook said. "Even though our minds are mostly on the women of today and wanting the matriarchy to rise up, we have several men in our lives who have been such positive forces. We wanted to thank them and honor the good guys who showed us the beauty in this crazy world we live in."
Laurie Shook said she hopes listeners hear their music as "the soundtrack to their lives."
"I hope it makes them feel joy, relaxation, or makes them want to dance a little. I hope they're satisfied with the way we captured these songs," she said.
Since the release of their debut album, "You Can Have The Rest," Shook Twins have shared the stage with artists including Laura Veirs, Mason Jennings, Sarah Jarosz, Gregory Alan Isakov and Crooked Still; performed at festivals across the U.S.; and toured abroad in Germany and the United Kingdom.
Seating on the SEC Plaza is free and on a first-come, first-served basis. Campus parking in permit-restricted lots is unrestricted after 5 p.m.
Future performances this season will be ticketed and held at the Majestic Theatre, 115 SW Second St. in Corvallis.
