Romantica at the Basilica Block Party

I first saw local band Romantica play at Cafe Barbette in Uptown, and got the chance to photograph them last night at the Basilica Block Party.  The pedal Steel guitar, harmonica and the unique voice of lead singer Ben Kyle (who grew up in Belfast before Mineapolis) draw you right into the music.  Check out their “America” album – My favorite songs: Fiona, I Need You Tonight, Queen of Hearts, and The National Side.

This was my 4th year in a row shooting the Block Party.  Coming back to the same event several times is sort of an interesting experience because you want to keep changing things and up and try some new ideas.  This year the Basilica added a 3rd stage in response to concerns that the early hours of the event can be pretty hot in July – so they set up the “happy hour” stage on the shaded side of the Basilica, which set up a great opportunity to actually shoot the bands with the church.