The City of Hickory’s Sails Original Music Series, presented by Protection Products, Inc., kicks off the fall season of free concerts with Psychedelic Surf Country. The performance will begin at 7 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 5, at Union Square in downtown Hickory.
“You may know Joel Timmons as a leader of the beloved lowcountry band, Sol Driven Train. He also tours constantly with multiple other high caliber ensembles. But we asked him to put together a band to showcase his brand-new solo project. The result is Psychedelic Surf Country. He calls them his super group! It’ll be surfy, rocky, funny…” says Sails Music Coordinator Bob Sinclair.
Guitarist, songwriter, and producer Joel Timmons has built a reputation as a master collaborator, known for his dynamic stage presence and genre-blending creativity. Whether on the road with Sol Driven Train or sharing the stage with revered artists across the Americana, bluegrass, and folk-rock spectrum, Timmons brings depth, humor, and heart to every musical moment.
Now stepping into the spotlight with a fresh band, Timmons unveils his new sound that fuses coastal cool with country grit and psychedelic flair. The music is a reflection of Timmons’ eclectic tastes and deep-rooted connections in the music community. The ensemble features standout players he’s crossed paths with throughout his Nashville tenure, each contributing their own magic.
Born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina, Timmons draws heavily from lowcountry life, layering his songs with beach-town vibes and honky-tonk swagger. From poetic musings to comedic twang, this new chapter of Timmons’ career showcases not just his musical prowess, but the collaborative spirit that’s defined his journey all along. Psychedelic Surf Country isn’t just a genre—it’s a state of mind.
Started in 2012, the City of Hickory’s Sails Original Music Series showcases well-crafted, live music by bringing original music artists to The Sails on the Square. Original music is defined as music that is written or composed by the artist who performs it.
The Sails Original Music Series offers excellent musical entertainment from national and international touring acts with the help of numerous sponsors. Thanks to presenting sponsor Protection Products, Inc. and additional supporting sponsors Bob Sinclair Music, Larry’s Music & Sound, Pfahlert Creative Labs, Olde Hickory Brewery, and Crowne Plaza for contributing to the series.
In addition to the seating available at Union Square, audience members are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets. A variety of bars and restaurants are close by and offer food and beverage choices.
ABC permitted businesses within the Hickory Downtown Social District will sell beer, wine, and other alcoholic beverages in specially marked cups that may be consumed on Union Square, sidewalks, and other public areas within the designated boundaries of the social district. No outside alcohol may be brought into the social district. To review additional restrictions and a detailed map of the social district’s coverage area, visit www.hickorync.gov/downtown-social-district.
The Sails Original Music Series continues with Jacoozy on Sept. 12, Selwyn Birchwood on Sept. 20, and New Translations on Sept. 26.
For more information about the Sails Original Music Series and upcoming bands, please visit www.hickorync.gov/SailsMusic and follow the Sails Original Music Series Facebook page, www.facebook.com/SailsMusic.