Golden Oak will be returning to The Waldo Saturday, May 10 at 7:30 p.m., with support from Keenan Hendricks (Rigometrics).

With harmonies derived only from the genetic intricacies of a brother-sister duo, Zak and Lena Kendall have evolved from homespun, family-oriented folk music to deliver roots-revival styled sophistication for a hyper-conscious generation. The Kendalls, beloved within their quickly expanding fandom as GoldenOak, were raised in part by the western Maine landscape. GoldenOak began as two children playing around backyard bonfires and was more firmly established with their 2016 debut, "Pleasant St."

In response to their coming-of-age chronicle, Dispatch Magazine coined the duo "one of Portland's most important upcoming bands." As purveyors of age-old tradition sharing contemporary messaging, the pair has landed spots on stage with Lady Lamb, The Dustbowl Revival, The Ghost of Paul Revere, and The Mallett Brothers Band. Following their most recent project, "Foxgloves" - named 'EP of the year' by the Portland Music Awards - their sophomore full-length, "Room to Grow" is GoldenOak's most cohesive collection yet.

Creating "Room to Grow" felt like a research project. Instead of turning research into a critical analysis, Zak produced an analytical work of art backed by empyreal folk music. As a student of human ecology in college, his songwriting contains front-line accounts of the current situation. "Art isn't a dumbed-down version of climate issues," Zak said. "It's okay that I'm not writing a book. There's a place for music and art in climate conversations, and turning research data into art still does these ideas justice because that's an important way to convey information and knowledge to push these issues to the forefront and make positive change."

GoldenOak’s new album is due June 25. The band hopes to reconnect with their fans in the New England festival circuit this summer, the hallowed ground where the duo first found their footing. "This record contains several reasons to fight climate change," says Lena. "But overall, it's about continuing to find the reasons why, and here are the stories we can learn from. 'Room To Grow' reminds us that there is a way forward." 

Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and concessions will be available for purchase. To purchase tickets and for more information about The Waldo, parking and other upcoming events, please visit: thewaldotheatre.org. Photo used with permission, no credit given