Local Group WALLER to Open for THE SAMPLES at DAC Fundraiser

Darien CT

06 March, 2022

3:04 PM

Description

The Samples, led by Norwalk's own Sean Kelly, are bringing their blend of reggae-influenced rock to the historic Wall Street Theater on March 25th to benefit the Darien Arts Center. Local favorite and Darien native, Waller, opens the show at 8 p.m. A popular group of kindred souls, Waller is led by James "Waller" Crafford, who was born and raised in Darien and is an alum of Darien High School's class of 2016. In addition to being a finalist in the DAC's Darien's Got Talent, Crafford, a multi-talented singer/songwriter, plays several instruments and writes, composes, and produces his own music. He shared his first recording to Soundcloud as a high school freshman in 2013, and after experiencing local success, James transitioned his focus to songwriting and developing his live performing craft until the unexpected halt of 2020. Believing in a brighter future, he took to his home studio to re-create his late demos into mastered recordings. Waller also performed at Rocktoberfest this past fall at Highland Farm in Darien. "Discovering my love for music instilled in me a sense of wonder and belonging I never had before and I am so thrilled to help benefit the DAC on March 25!" commented Crafford. The band Waller facilitates a vibe where love is palpable and fun is guaranteed. Its sound is characterized by raw expressive vocals and vintage guitar tones. A well-loved group high on life and ready to rock and roll, Waller leaves audiences with nothing to do but smile. The Samples, a band formed in Colorado in 1987, has shared the stage with big names such as The Allman Brothers Band, Blues Traveler, and Phish in the early to mid 90s. On their own tours, many rising bands opened up for them including The Dave Matthews Band, Hootie & the Blowfish, and Lisa Loeb. Their music has been described as a cross between The Police and the Grateful Dead and their success has included television performances on The Tonight Show and House of Blues. In addition to the release of several albums, Kelly's songs have been featured in Perks of Being a Wallflower, and more recently in television's Younger and in ads for MSNBC's midterm election coverage. Concert proceeds benefit the Darien Arts Center, the local non-profit dedicated to educating, promoting, and providing the means of artistic expression in dance, music, visual arts and theatre for all ages in the community. General admission and tiered tickets are $35-$80 and available at eventbrite. Limited special event tickets, available at darienarts.org for $150, include VIP seating and drink bracelets. Doors open at 7 p.m. for the 18 and older event at the Wall Street Theater located at 71 Wall Street in Norwalk. For more information, visit darienarts.org or call the DAC office at (203) 655-8683.