THE ART OF THE DRONE

Art reflects the influences of the surrounding world . In the 1800s, impressionism captured the immediate impression of a particular moment . This style evolved in the post-impressionistic era to include pointillism techniques, which use small, distinct dots to form an image . Today, a similar dot technique combined with drone technology can create large-scale entertainment.

Drone shows utilize groups of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) carrying LED lights to create mesmerizing, choreographed images resulting in a breathtaking visual experience. The art is a mashup of pointillism and marching band maneuvers carried out by drones in the sky. Since the first drone show, just over 10 years ago, software development has quickly allowed static images to become more sophisticated with the addition of movement and dimension.

Lakewood residents will have the opportunity to experience a drone show at the Big Belmar Bash on July 3 at Belmar Downtown Lakewood. This community celebration of our nation’s independence will include music, activities for kids, local vendors, and food, and it will culminate with the drone light show after dark.

“We are thrilled to bring our drone light show to Lakewood and to share the wonder and magic of this unique form of aerial entertainment with the community,” said Rick Boss, director of Business and Development and partner for Sky Elements Drone Shows. “We can’t wait to see the reactions of the crowd as our drones take to the skies and light up the night.”

6/21 | Hazel Miller & The Collective

Rhythm & Blues

From the first note, everyone will be on their feet dancing to Hazel Miller & The Collective! With a high-energy show of jazz, rock, blues and everything in between, talented vocalist Hazel Miller continues to fortify her spot in the Colorado Music Hall of Fame. Hand-picked by Hazel, Wrenn & Ian bring an energy to the stage that is captivating and powerful. They turn heads with their polished sound and electric talent.

6/28 | Cousin Curtiss

Rootstomp

Featuring rapid fire guitar, incendiary harmonica and a thunderous kick, Cousin Curtiss left his teaching career in Alaska in pursuit of sharing his unique sound with the world. Since then, he has supported acts like The Bellamy Brothers, G. Love & Special Sauce, The Infamous Stringdusters and Pepper. Originally from Louisville, Kentucky, Trevor Michael blends his country roots with the indie-folk sound of Denver to create what he describes as “modern mountain folk with a hint of bluegrass.”

7/5

| Pandas & People

Alternative Rock

Local favorite band, Pandas & People uses a blend of organic instruments with upbeat pop sounds to rack up awards including earning “Best American Act” from Westword, twice, and topping the national Alternative music charts. On iHeart radio’s KTCL, the band achieved an “Audience Favorite” distinction and the No. 1 most requested song slot for consecutive weeks. Seth Beamer describes his style as “shameless alt indie.” With a mastery of instruments – piano, guitar, drums and bass – Seth was recently recognized as the 2022 winner of 93.3’s Hometown for the Holidays.

7/12

| Nosotros

Latin Groove

Nosotros has been one of the most recognizable Latin dance bands in the Southwest for over 20 years. They seamlessly combine Latin rhythms with elements of rock, salsa, jazz and cumbia. A review in Hyperactive Music Magazine stated their music is “not to be explained, it is to be felt in the pit of our souls.” Lakewood’s own, El Javi, incorporates elements of flamenco, progressive rock, classical, folk and many forms of world music to shape his unbound instrumental compositions.

7/19 | The Local Honeys Bluegrass

The Local Honeys’ carefully crafted vignettes of rural Kentucky soar above layers of deep grooves and rich tones, creating a nuanced, moody and deep-holler sound. They have not only become the defining sound of real-deal Kentucky music but are now poised to become some of the leading voices of a new Appalachia. Boulder-based acoustic quartet, Sturtz, falls somewhere at the intersection of folk and soul. Their music stands out for its distinctive, soothing instrumental and vocal harmonies.

7/26 | Chris Daniels & The Kings with Freddi Gowdy Blues

Chris Daniels & the Kings are celebrating their 39th year with live performances. They have produced 15 albums and joined forces with Freddi Gowdy of the Freddi Henchi Band. Both Chris and Freddi are Colorado Music Hall of Fame inductees and have been making music history for generations.

You might recognize Lauren Frihauf from Season 19 of NBC’s “The Voice.” This indie singer-songwriter’s sounds of folk and neo-soul are a stark contrast from the Colorado farm where she lives and creates.