Big Thief Brings Their Emotional Folk-Rock Sound to Surly Field on August 15

Big Thief will bring their unique blend of folk, rock, and deeply personal songwriting to Surly Brewing Festival Field in Minneapolis on Saturday, August 15. The show will also feature Chicago musician Ben LaMar Gay as the opening act, making for a night built around creativity, experimentation, and powerful storytelling.

Formed in Brooklyn, New York, in 2015, Big Thief quickly gained attention for their raw and intimate approach to indie folk. The band was founded by singer and guitarist Adrianne Lenker and guitarist Buck Meek, who had previously performed together before expanding the project into a full band. Their early work introduced listeners to Lenker’s unmistakable songwriting style, which combines vivid personal lyrics with a warm, often unpredictable musical sound.

At the center of Big Thief is lead singer Adrianne Lenker, whose connection to Minnesota makes this stop especially meaningful. Lenker grew up in the Minneapolis area before eventually becoming one of the most respected voices in modern indie music. Her emotional vocals and detailed songwriting have become a defining part of Big Thief’s identity.

Joining Lenker on stage is guitarist Buck Meek, whose distinctive playing style helps shape the band’s mix of folk, Americana, and indie rock influences. Along with drummer James Krivchenia, the group has continued to evolve while maintaining the chemistry that has made Big Thief a standout live act.

Since releasing their debut album Masterpiece in 2016, Big Thief has built a devoted following with albums including Capacity, U.F.O.F., Two Hands, and Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe in You. Some of the band’s best-known songs include “Paul,” “Shark Smile,” “Not,” “Mythological Beauty,” “Simulation Swarm,” and “Vampire Empire.” Their music often balances quiet, reflective moments with bursts of intensity, creating performances that feel both unpredictable and deeply personal.

Opening the evening will be Ben LaMar Gay, a Chicago-based composer, cornet player, and multi-instrumentalist known for blending jazz, hip hop, experimental music, and global influences into his sound. Gay has developed a reputation for pushing musical boundaries and creating performances that are difficult to categorize.

For Minnesota fans, this will be a chance to welcome Big Thief back to a place with a special connection to their frontwoman. The band’s last Minnesota appearance was in October 2019, when they performed in Minneapolis. Adrianne Lenker also returned to the Twin Cities in 2024 for two sold-out solo performances at the State Theatre, giving local fans another chance to experience her songwriting outside of the full band setting.

You can grab tickets here!