Metro Local Live concert to feature Austin Carthell

A new tradition at ASU’s West campus kicks off Feb. 28 with the first Metro Local Live concert at 7:30 p.m., in the Kiva Lecture Hall. The event is free and open to the public; visitor parking on campus at 4701 W. Thunderbird Road in Phoenix costs $2 per hour.

The Metro Local Live series will showcase some of the Valley’s most popular performers. On Feb. 28 the campus welcomes singer/guitarist/songwriter Austin Carthell and his band. Carthell is an ASU graduate and a former student in the interdisciplinary arts and performance program on the West campus.

“Austin’s mix of rhythm and blues, rock and alternative sounds gives him a unique vibe that has made him one of the most popular performers in town right now,” said Jeff Kennedy, West campus artistic director.

“Growing up in a family with musicians and vocalists, artists and writers, preachers and gangsters, it was almost expected that I pick up an instrument or three,” Carthell said. “I remember the very first time I placed my hand on a piano and sound came out; it was during a choir rehearsal at a church where my father played. I was no more than six years old and it was then that I fell in love with music.”

Carthell said he finds inspiration in nearly all styles of music. “Whether jazz, hip hop, R&B, funk, classical or rock, they all have something to offer, and you’ll probably hear influence from all of them when you listen to my music. My music is about having fun, creativity, and innovation while paying tribute to the old styles that came before me.”

More information about Metro Local Live and the rest of the upcoming arts and performance schedule can be found online at http://campus.asu.edu/west/events, on Facebook @ asuwestevents, or by calling the arts information line at 602-543-2787.