A night of gene-defying music on final Friday of Folk Festival

Friday night brings together four artists who refuse easy categorization. From a Kerrville New Folk winner with subtle precision to a trans-fronted country-punk band that challenges everything the genre can be, Friday establishes the festival’s commitment to musical fearlessness. The evening moves from intimate songwriter craft through indie-rock sensibilities to the high-energy punk-country fusion that defines modern Americana’s edge.

7 p.m.

Anthony da Costa — The Nashville-based singer-songwriter won the Kerrville New Folk competition at age 16, a remarkable achievement that signaled his place among the festival’s alumni. His guitar work is subtle but precise, his lyrics conversational and grounded in real life. Da Costa has toured as guitarist with Sarah Jarosz and Aoife O’Donovan, two of the finest artists working in contemporary folk music. He graduated Columbia University with a degree in ancient Greek and Roman history in 2013. A three-time semi-finalist at the International Songwriting Competition, he also works as a music journalist and producer, citing Ryan Adams, Dan Bern and Bob Dylan as major influences.

8 p.m.

Cactus Lee — The indie-folk artist brings a distinctive vocal approach and songwriting that rewards close listening.

9 p.m.

Lilly Hiatt — Daughter of Kerrville icon John Hiatt, Lilly has built her own considerable career in Nashville, moving beyond her father’s long shadow while drawing on the same well of Americana tradition. Her 2024 album “Forever” continues her exploration of introspection and personal growth. She’s toured with Margo Price and Drive-By Truckers. Her indie-rock approach to country brings generational contrast to her father’s sound. Born in Los Angeles, she moved to Nashville to refine her craft, earning critical acclaim from Rolling Stone and NPR. She became sober in her late 20s after struggling with addiction, an experience that infuses her songwriting with hard-won wisdom.

10 p.m.

Vandoliers — The Dallas-Fort Worth country-punk six-piece challenges every expectation of what country music can be. Fronted by trans artist Jenni Rose, the band fuses punk attitude with country instrumentation and mariachi influences. Their 2025 album “Life Behind Bars,” produced by Ted Hutt (Old Crow Medicine Show, Flogging Molly), delivers high-energy performances that defy easy categorization. Vandoliers represent the progressive edge of modern country music. They’ve toured extensively across North America and Europe, performed at major festivals including SXSW and Americanafest, and released five albums building a devoted following known for electric live shows.