cafe & coffeehouse by day, live music listening room by night
318 Water Street Excelsior, MN 55331 USA
(952) 401-7902
HOURS OF OPERATION
8am - 2pm Every Day (winter hours)
Dinner & Live Music! Thu. / Fri. / Sat. nights!
Doors/Dinner Service 6pm / Shows 8pm
Brunch served Sat/Sun 8am - 2pm
$30 … Buy Tickets!
The legendary Minneapolis rock star, GB Leighton, is returning to the 318 Cafe for another year! His passion and energy on stage is unmatched and we are thrilled to have him. Come and see this venerable force for yourselves...
$20 … Buy Tickets!
The Minneapolis Mandolin Quartet is comprised of Liz Ashworth, Nate Wilson, John Neiman and none other than Richard Kriehn. Four storms of blistering picking and skillful melodies all in a lighthearted organic harmony with one another.
Can you guess how many strings between them? Winner gets a sticker!
Sign-up begins at 6:30.
A random drawing will determine the order.
Open Mic has been full each night! We recommend arriving closer to 6:30pm to get your name in the drawing.
Please limit your set to 10 minutes of fame!
Two songs each through the rotation. Random drawing for a third song if time permits.
If we are over capacity and you don’t get a slot, you will be guaranteed a slot the following month.
We encourage performers to rehearse and leave the music stand at home! We have a supportive environment here. It’s okay to mess up, and it’s good to learn how to work through it!
Hope to see you there!
$20 … Buy Tickets!
Monica Livorsi is a Twin Cities based singer-songwriter and pianist with a love for soulful melodies and heartfelt piano. Inspired by Sara Bareilles, Monica's songwriting can best be described as Girl Power with a theatrical flair and versatile vocals (Jane Austen concept album, anyone?). Monica is thrilled to be back at 318 Cafe for another great evening of sharing, songs, and storytelling.
Cassandra Morgan is a singer in Excelsior, MN. Originally from Iowa, she has spent the last 14 years in the Twin Cities singing a variety of music from classical to popular genres. Classically trained at the University of Northern Iowa, she has a broad passion for music from Mozart to Whitney Houston. Hailed as having a powerful and deeply moving voice, she mixes folk with soul sounds, weaving a sultry and dynamic tapestry of sound.
$15 … Buy Tickets!
It’s Wayne’s 59th Birthday! Help celebrate, starting with songs from 1967, lots of new original songs, and more! A splendid time is guaranteed for all!
$50 … Buy Tickets!
Grammy nominated singer-songwriter Chris Trapper has traveled the world over, performing to a dedicated and ever growing fan base with nothing but his guitar and his songs. Raised on Prine and Kristofferson, Trapper's first foray in the music industry was as frontman of the critically acclaimed alt-rock band The Push Stars (Capitol Records). Over the past decade, Chris has become a modern day acoustic troubadour, performing over 150 dates a year as a headliner and sharing the stage with the likes of Rob Thomas, Pat Benatar and even John Prine himself.
Critically acclaimed songwriter and pianist Pete Muller is known for his dynamic live shows and genre-spanning blend of roots, rock, soul, and pop. Muller delivers powerful, heartfelt performances that have earned him festival slots from Telluride to Montreux and dates with Jimmy Webb, Lisa Loeb, Livingston Taylor, and more. Onstage, Muller’s passion and chemistry shine, making every show unforgettable.
$20 … Buy Tickets!
Singer/songwriter Ann Reed returns with Joan Griffith on bass, mandolin and guitar. It’s their 9th Annual Mother’s Day Show at 318 Café! An evening of music with these two amazing musicians is fun, uplifting, and sure to soothe the weary soul.
$15 … Buy Tickets!
Billy brings his favorite musical comrades to bring you a warm night of great tunes. their music is sure to leave you in high spirits and melt all the snow you drove through to get here.
$20 … Buy Tickets!
Judy Thomas brings her stellar band back to the 318! Whether it’s blues, jazz, or even gospel, it’s always deeply soulful! With a voice alternatingly sultry, smoky and sweet, Judy and her band serve up a tasty evening! You won’t want to miss this one.
$30 … Buy Tickets!
“2 Girls & A Boyd” was born out of a love for rich and complex vocal harmonies. These veterans of stage and studio combine for a powerful live experience. Highlighting the talents of each of the artists, the three members, Mary Jane Alm, Aimée Lee and Boyd Lee performed for the first time as this ensemble in late 2016 to immediate critical acclaim. Joining them on mandolin features Richard Kriehn from A Prairie Home Companion and on harmonica the incomparable Noah Hoehn!
$20 … Buy Tickets!
Eli Quist—one half of the Americana duo, The Low Liners—is packing up the Martin and moving from Bozeman to Anchorage. Fortunately for us, he’s making a stop along the way at his favorite listening room. Please join Eli on his travels for a special night at The 318. Joined by special guests, Eli's heartfelt originals and choice covers are sure to inspire you.
$15 … Buy Tickets
Special show featuring new songs from the forthcoming “Technicolor Eyes” album! Born and raised in Minnetonka, Gagner has been entertaining sellout crowds at the 318 since moving back from San Francisco several years ago. This promises to be another special night, including intimate solo ballads, power-trio rockers, and delightful cover songs. Gagner has collaborated with members of Elvis Costello & The Attractions, Big Star, The Posies, R.E.M., Los Lobos, Mercury Rev, and Midlake. His songs and videos have been featured nationally on such platforms as USA Today, and locally on The Current.
$25 … Buy Tickets!
Grammy award-winning songwriter, Nashville based, Jon Vezner is a tunesmith of rare sensitivity and dry wit. His catalogue of recorded songs, topped by the poignant “Where’ve You Been,” reflects his straight-to-the heart sensibility and emotional awareness. Vezner weaves the particulars of his own feelings with the lives of people he has known into universal themes that deeply touch listeners’ emotions.
Vezner was honored with a Grammy for “Best Country Song” and the Nashville Songwriters Association “Song of the Year” in 1990, for “Where’ve You Been”, the true story of Vezner’s grandparents, co-written with Don Henry, and recorded by Kathy Mattea. “Where’ve You Been” was also honored as “Song of the Year” by the Country Music Association (CMA) and the Academy of Country Music (ACM).
He is joined by the venerable Pat Frederick.
$15 … Buy Tickets!
For the 3rd year in a row, Kelley Smith and Sarah Morris have made plans to meet up at 318 Cafe on a Thursday in May and share songs and stories, laughs and loveliness. Join them!
Folk artist Kelley Smith is a hopeless romantic who fancies old poetry and grandpa sweaters. All at once whimsical and haunting, Smith delivers deeply affecting lyrics with wry charm and a time traveler's voice.
Three-times named the Midwest Country Music Organization’s Songwriter of the Year, Sarah’s endearingly honest, expertly penned songs deliberately miss the forest for the trees. Armed with a poignantly relatable rainy day ache in her sunlit voice, she weaves a winding path of masterful storytelling and timeless Americana melody.
$25 … Buy Tickets!
Three Frantzichs.
Two generations.
One damn good night of music.
You know Bailey and Halia from behind the counter at 318.
This time, they’re stepping out from behind the bar and onto the stage.
Join the Frantzich family for an intimate night of blood harmonies, original songs, unexpected covers, and the kind of chemistry that only comes from sharing a last name. If you’ve seen Bailey and Halia jump into Paul’s shows before, you know what happens. If not—don’t miss this one.
Local music. Family soul. Best listening room in the world.
$35 … Buy Tickets!
Michael Monroe, “MN Acoustic Music Master,” (Jon Bream, Star Tribune) performs his award winning music on vocals, handmade Seaton Guitars and bamboo/crystal flutes as well as his live looping, ‘technology powered by creativity’. With 17 recordings, 12 original CDs and 7 that feature the folk legends of our time such as Cat Stevens, Joni Mitchell, Simon & Garfunkel, James Taylor etc. Monroe’s award winning instrumental soundtracks have been featured on PBS/CBC, Toronto Enviro/New York Indie Film Fests as well as an Emmy for “Soaring On Mended Wings".
$15 … Buy Tickets!
Three boomers, two millennials and a gen Xer met in the Twin Cities Women's Choir and found harmony. We love tight a cappella chords and songs that lift us up.
Click the picture for full bios.
$30 … Buy Tickets!
The legendary Minneapolis rock star, GB Leighton, is returning to the 318 Cafe for another year! His passion and energy on stage is unmatched and we are thrilled to have him. Come and see this venerable force for yourselves...
$30 … Buy Tickets!
The legendary Minneapolis rock star, GB Leighton, is returning to the 318 Cafe for another year! His passion and energy on stage is unmatched and we are thrilled to have him. Come and see this venerable force for yourselves...
$20 … Buy Tickets!
Prudence Johnson can sing anything! Folk, Jazz, Country, Pop… Any genre you choose. And she will not just “sing” them, she will give them life and perform each song with artistry, passion and honesty. Prudence, Richard and storyteller Kevin Kling have shared musical spaces and stages for years often alongside l other musicians. But tonight…it’s just the three of them. You’re gonna want to see this!
$20 … Buy Tickets!
Michael Gulezian returns for an intimate concert at The 318 - his favorite listening room venue in the entire USA! “Michael Gulezian might be the most accomplished pure guitarist on the planet. compositional genius. ... astounding.” – Fred Kraus, Minor 7th .com “Public radio favorite Michael Gulezian always has had strong ties to Minnesota and its guitar innovators, from world-rockin’ Steve Tibbetts to bluesy Peter Lang. Yet he ranges far beyond folk, playing hard-driving music that recalls Leo Kottke and the late Michael Hedges, who called him “'my kindred spirit.'” - Minneapolis Star Tribune
$15 … Buy Tickets!
Clover and the Bee brings together acclaimed Minnesota songwriters Becky Schlegel, Anthony Ihrig, Eric Christopher, and Kevin Rowe, blending their bluegrass pedigree with indie-folk sensibilities to craft American roots music as free and expansive as the Upper Midwest. The project began as a semi-regular song swap among three friends, songwriters and musical co-conspirators (Becky, Anthony and Eric) at Christopher’s house in the West 7th neighborhood of Saint Paul. The three dug into their songwriting back catalogs to show off songs that were either not bluegrass enough (in the case of Ihrig and Christopher’s band The High 48s), not country enough (in the case of Becky Schlegel’s solo project) or just plan too weird or idiosyncratic for any other project. It was at this open house for misfit songs that the three got the idea to start a new band, one whose sound showed Christopher, Ihrig and Schlegel’s country and bluegrass roots but wasn’t bound by tradition. With the addition of bassist and songwriter Kevin Rowe (Buffalo Gospel, Adam Greuel), who had recently moved to the Twin Cities from Madison, WI, Clover the Bee was born.
$30 ... Buy Tickets!
Pamela McNeill knew from an early age that music would be her life. She joined her first rock band at 16 and learned quickly how to connect with her audience. A native of Winona, Minnesota, Pamela now resides in Minneapolis. Her career has taken her all over the world including four years in the UK as a backing singer for Rick Astley and has written for and with a wide range of other artists including Wynonna Judd, Jim Peterik (“Eye of the Tiger”) and Instrumental icon Yanni. Her new EP "Wave After Wave" was released on Farm to Label Record on color vinyl and digitally. In 2024, she was honored to be inducted into the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame joining the likes of Prince, Bob Dylan, Judy Garland, Soul Asylum and The Replacements to name a few.
$20 … Buy Tickets!
With heartflet harmonies and songs that smolder, Wren + Wilde captivates with their signature smoke folk sound. The Minnesota folk band is anchored by leading ladies Hilary Yoder and Beth Olivares, whose voices weave together like a homespun tapestry. Their gritty flavor of Americana is both raw and resonant, with equal parts fire and feeling. Known for their reflective songwriting and disarming storytelling, Wren + Wilde invites listeners into an intimate space—where each song feels like a conversation, and lyrics linger like glowing embers, long after the last note fades.
Minnesota singer/songwriter Doyle Turner releases his highly anticipated new album Paper Maps. Raised on the White Earth Reservation and based in Bemidji, Doyle has been making a name for himself these last few years as a solo songwriter and as a member of the Americana band the International Treasures, who were nominated for 2 Midwest Country Music Awards last year. This new album confirms that Doyle is an exceptional songwriter who is not afraid to explore the backroads and inner workings of the heart.
$20 … Buy Tickets!
LaPlant Road is the fondly named duo of Emily LaPlant and Liz Ashworth. It is an ode to the music made in Northern Minnesota, on LaPlant Road, the place where Emily and Liz grew up and discovered themselves. They bring their love for traditional folk and fiddle tunes as well as jazz, R&B, and Rock n Roll into something totally unique. It’s all encompassed by a deep love for each other, two childhood friends and soul sisters.
Minnesota songwriter Kelley Smith is a wallflower who fancies old poetry and grandpa sweaters. All at once whimsical and haunting, Smith delivers deeply affecting lyrics with wry charm and a time traveler's voice. Prone to melancholy and daydreaming, Kelley spent her childhood roaming the woods of the north country. To this day, her longing for that landscape runs deep and seems to find its way into her songs in one way or another
$30 … Buy Tickets!
“2 Girls & A Boyd” was born out of a love for rich and complex vocal harmonies. These veterans of stage and studio combine for a powerful live experience. Highlighting the talents of each of the artists, the three members, Mary Jane Alm, Aimée Lee and Boyd Lee performed for the first time as this ensemble in late 2016 to immediate critical acclaim. Joining them on mandolin features Richard Kriehn from A Prairie Home Companion and on harmonica the incomparable Noah Hoehn!
$20 … Buy Tickets!
Over the past two years, singer-songwriter Thomas Sticha has blazed his own trail in the Midwest country and folk music scene. A native of St. Paul, Minnesota, his style of songwriting is thoughtful and clever, often paired with beautiful storytelling and/or a sense of humor. His music draws inspiration from classic country songwriting legends (ie, John Prine, Dean Dillon) and combines them with the refreshing sounds of new country songwriters (ie, Tyler Childers, Hayes Carll, Colter Wall). “Experiencing Thomas on stage is like being part of an intimate conversation with a friend who just happens to have a guitar and an incredible voice. His vibe is infectious, and his connection with the audience is genuine. If you haven't yet, do yourself a favor and dive into his music. You won't be disappointed.” — Brandon Backstrom (Host, BOB FM Total Country Radio)
For more information about Thomas Sticha, please visit thomassticha.com.
$20 … Buy Tickets!
Born in Minneapolis and raised in the quiet suburbs nearby, Raymnd developed a deep love for music at a young age—something quickly noticed by those closest to him.
Growing up, he was inspired by the sounds of The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and other 1960s neo-psychedelic acts, as well as the pop and funk roots of fellow Minneapolis native Prince. He also drew influence from modern dream-pop artists like Beach House and Mazzy Star.
As he has matured, Raymnd has crafted a sound uniquely his own—blending mellow guitar, haunting lyrics, lush synths, and hypnotic melodies that keep listeners coming back for more.
@rayymnddd
$35 … Buy Tickets!
Legendary folk/rock duo Johnson & Drake celebrate the release of their highly anticipated new album of originals We Loved Our Freedom – their first in over 40 years. Best known for their work in the 70s and 80s, they toured and performed with some of the world’s biggest acts, including Jim Croce, Earth, Wind & Fire, Linda Ronstadt, REO Speedwagon, Rick Nelson, Ray Stevens and Bonnie Raitt. Teaming up with their longtime guitarist Paul Pederson, they will play old favorites and debut songs from the new album.
$20 … Buy Tickets!
Kray Klaas is an R&B musician who has been playing in the twin cities for 9 years. With the release of his debut single "Love Me Eyes", Kray will bring a live production set that showcases his original songs, along with some of his favourite covers.
$20 … Buy Tickets!
Our favorite rodents Jon Garon and The Prairie Ferrets grace the 318 stage for another special night of stories, picking, and stellar songwriting. Join us as we welcome back the Ferrets for an evening of music and fun!
$25 … Buy Tickets!
In July of 1995 four ideas and styles gelled together to form the band Dazy Head Mazy. They have since evolved into a 5 piece cohesive unit that gives an energetic, dynamic performance at every show ensuring their audiences have as much fun as they do. Dazy Head Mazy is an upbeat group that is comprised of Will Bauermeister on twelve string acoustic guitar and lead vocals, Andrew Clark on drums and background vocals, Justin Mishler on bass guitar, Ben Wilinski on mandolin, guitar, and vocals, and Corey Rae White on lead guitar.
Dazy Head Mazy is a rootsy pop-rock band from Minneapolis, MN. Lead singer, Will Bauermeister has the ability to captivate audiences with his narrative song writing that turns every show into a party. The band has released two EP’s and one full-length album; “They’re All Wearing Pearls.” After the success of their first full-length album, dazy head mazy headed into Angel Beach Studios to record their second LP, “Shift”; set for release on November 17, 2000.
$35 … Buy Tickets!
Celebrate the release of Hello Pain, the powerful new album from Grammy®-nominated songwriter Scottie Miller, featuring the Budapest Scoring Orchestra.
Blending deep blues roots with sweeping, cinematic indie-folk and orchestral soundscapes, this is Miller at his most expansive and electrifying. Expect a dynamic, high-energy performance from an award-winning artist at the peak of his craft.
Featuring:
Scottie Miller — piano, vocal
Jesse Kellerman — violin
Greg Schutte — drums
Dan Carpel — acoustic bass
Stay Tuned….
Stay Tuned….
$20 ... Buy Tickets!
Formed over three decades ago, Leatherman has become a cornerstone of Minnesota’s Americana music scene. Blending folk, country, bluegrass, and roots rock, their sound is timeless and reflective of the Midwest’s rich cultural heritage. Known for their storytelling lyrics and interesting instrumentation, the band has garnered a loyal fanbase throughout the Upper Midwest.
Over the years, Leatherman has been recognized for their songwriting prowess , earning three nominations for Minnesota Songwriter of the Year. Their songs, often infused with themes of love, resilience, and the changing American landscape, resonate deeply with audiences.
$20 ... Buy Tickets!
Formed over three decades ago, Leatherman has become a cornerstone of Minnesota’s Americana music scene. Blending folk, country, bluegrass, and roots rock, their sound is timeless and reflective of the Midwest’s rich cultural heritage. Known for their storytelling lyrics and interesting instrumentation, the band has garnered a loyal fanbase throughout the Upper Midwest.
Over the years, Leatherman has been recognized for their songwriting prowess , earning three nominations for Minnesota Songwriter of the Year. Their songs, often infused with themes of love, resilience, and the changing American landscape, resonate deeply with audiences.
$20 … Buy Tickets!
Having started her musical journey by playing local shows near her hometown, Hailey's entertaining performances have allowed her to captivate audiences throughout the Twin Cities, western Wisconsin, and even in the renowned music hub of Nashville, TN. At just 14 years old, Hailey found her place on stage as a weekly featured artist at Country Nites Saloon in Hasting, MN, where she honed her skills and passion for performing in front of a live audience.
$20 … Buy Tickets
Jason Paulson is bringing his unique flavors of authentic and rich songwriting to the 318 Cafe stage! He is joined Nate O'Connor and Mike Gleason.
$35 … Buy Tickets!
Michael Monroe, “MN Acoustic Music Master,” (Jon Bream, Star Tribune) performs his award winning music on vocals, handmade Seaton Guitars and bamboo/crystal flutes as well as his live looping, ‘technology powered by creativity’. With 17 recordings, 12 original CDs and 7 that feature the folk legends of our time such as Cat Stevens, Joni Mitchell, Simon & Garfunkel, James Taylor etc. Monroe’s award winning instrumental soundtracks have been featured on PBS/CBC, Toronto Enviro/New York Indie Film Fests as well as an Emmy for “Soaring On Mended Wings".
$15 … Buy Tickets!
Take a trip down memory lane with this nostalgia filled show, "The Beat Goes On" featuring songs from the 60's and 70's. This performance is not just covers of classics, but rather new interpretations, seasoned by this group of jazz veterans. Their selection includes songs by Dylan, Beatles, Cher, Jefferson Airplane, Jim Croce, Queen, Paul Simon and many more. Feat. Trish Neumann on vocals giving standards and more recent tunes fresh and spirited interpretations!
$30 … Buy Tickets!
“2 Girls & A Boyd” was born out of a love for rich and complex vocal harmonies. These veterans of stage and studio combine for a powerful live experience. Highlighting the talents of each of the artists, the three members, Mary Jane Alm, Aimée Lee and Boyd Lee performed for the first time as this ensemble in late 2016 to immediate critical acclaim. Joining them on mandolin features Richard Kriehn from A Prairie Home Companion and on harmonica the incomparable Noah Hoehn!
$25 … Buy Tickets!
POB “unplugged” is BACK! The four members of one of the Twin Cities most sought-after cover bands, Pandora’s Other Box, will be playing acoustic versions of many of their full band's classic Pop/Rock hits as well some additional songs with a slightly more Folk vibe. Three-part harmonies will give you chills, fun banter and fantastic musicianship make for a rare and not-to-be-missed hang. It’s party time!
$20 … Buy Tickets!
Join Amy Angeline for an incredible evening as she celebrates her 60th birthday and shares 30 years of songwriting. After recording an album and performing locally, regionally and nationally for12 years, Amy stepped away from the stage due to a back injury, and focused on raising her daughter. She slowly began writing new songs again, and started performing at church, celebrations of life, and open mics before selling out shows at the 318 Cafe and other Twin Cities venues. Her songs portray the insight she’s gained from living with chronic pain, motherhood, and finding joy through gratitude, humor, giving back, and the healing power of music. Amy’s graceful acoustic guitar and piano float effortlessly beneath poetic lyrics that uplift and inspire audiences. Her music combines indie-folk, pop-rock, and Americana with alt-country, blues and jazz. Amy’s warm stage presence and golden voice resonate from deep within her soul. You don’t want to miss this evening filled with community, music and celebration.
facebook.com/amy.angeline.9
$20 … Buy Tickets!
Pat Frederick aka “Papa Fred,” joins local music luminaries Donnie La Marca, Dr. Dave Schmalenberger and Nick Salisbury for the highly anticipated Aster debut of The New Entangled Particles. The New Entangled Particles bring a sharply curated bag of musical tricks, hand picked for beauty, brains & humor. (Think Thomas Dolby’s “She Blinded Me With Science” as a Cuban montuno… or “On The Street Where You Live,” with a slightly dark Danny Elfman Beetlejuice lilt.) It is a decidedly joyful outré musical romp through the back alleys of world-beat, post-pop, jazz, exotica, Broadway and funk.
$20 … Buy Tickets!
Tim Sparks & Tom Lieberman are the guitar-playing two-thirds of Rio Nido, a vocal jazz trio founded in the 1970s with chanteuse Prudence Johnson. Much of Rio Nido’s appeal is the guitar interplay of Sparks and Lieberman. Each is an established artist in his own right, and together, their chemistry creates music that is entirely unique, idiosyncratic and beautiful. Click the image for full bios on Tim and Tom!
$15 … Buy Tickets!
Moonlight Ramblers, an acoustic trio known for their original humorous and thought provoking songs , mixed with their take on great singer songwriters who have influenced them. These songs are brought to life with an acoustic guitar, flute and blended harmonies. Don’t be surprised throughout the night if you find yourself tapping your toes, smiling, or laughing out loud.
$30 … Buy Tickets!
Come and help celebrate the incomparable Jeff Dayton’s BIRTHDAY! A masterful songwriter and an amazing guitarist, he also has another talent - storytelling! You never know what journeys he will take you during the show. He’ll be joined by the immensely talented Mark Bendickson & Gary Lopac… things don’t get better!
jeffdaytonmusic.com
$35 … Buy Tickets!
Michael Shynes has been one of THE most important contributors to The 318 music series over the years! A true professional on stage, he brings a mastery of songwriting and musicianship unmatched by most. This is a one night only deal, so get your tickets ASAP!
$25 … Buy Tickets!
When Keri Noble and Bonnie Jasicki met, they immediately bonded over their mutual love of lush harmonies, storytelling and singer-songwriters. A friendship developed and new, original music soon followed. Blending Keri’s pop instincts and ability to break your heart with Bonnie’s breathtaking lyrics and haunting melodies harkening back to your favorite 70’s singer-songwriters, they formed the duo, Two Rivers. Join them as they debut brand new songs and stories for the first time.
Sign-up begins at 6:30.
A random drawing will determine the order.
Open Mic has been full each night! We recommend arriving closer to 6:30pm to get your name in the drawing.
Please limit your set to 10 minutes of fame!
Two songs each through the rotation. Random drawing for a third song if time permits.
If we are over capacity and you don’t get a slot, you will be guaranteed a slot the following month.
We encourage performers to rehearse and leave the music stand at home! We have a supportive environment here. It’s okay to mess up, and it’s good to learn how to work through it!
Hope to see you there!
$35 … Buy Tickets!
Michael Monroe, “MN Acoustic Music Master,” (Jon Bream, Star Tribune) performs his award winning music on vocals, handmade Seaton Guitars and bamboo/crystal flutes as well as his live looping, ‘technology powered by creativity’. With 17 recordings, 12 original CDs and 7 that feature the folk legends of our time such as Cat Stevens, Joni Mitchell, Simon & Garfunkel, James Taylor etc. Monroe’s award winning instrumental soundtracks have been featured on PBS/CBC, Toronto Enviro/New York Indie Film Fests as well as an Emmy for “Soaring On Mended Wings".
$20 … Buy Tickets!
Virtuosos! That about sums it up for these two veteran musicians who come from The Prairie Home Companion family. It’s about to go down. Get your tickets and see for yourselves!
$25 … Buy Tickets!
Will King - nylon string and electric guitar is a teacher and lifelong student of flamenco and classical guitar styles. Bill Reynolds - acoustic 12 string, electric guitar and vocals has played with some of the best musicians in the Mpls music scene. Stymie Seamans- bass and vocals founding member of the Daisy Dillman band. All three live in the excelsior area and have enjoyed successful music careers in the five state area.
$20 … Buy Tickets!
Matt’s new orchestra has a grassy sound that’s ea;sy to fall into. Most striking to both the eye and ear is the harp mastery of Phala Tracy. The band’s sound is underpinned by the propulsive banjo groove of Quillan Roe. The bright sounds of harp and banjo are sent forth on black road of electric bass paved by Minneapolis guitar wizard Jacques Wait. The group sings together in striking close harmony. Their new album, When I was a Writer, represents not only a new and appealing sound but a 10-track songwriting triumph of melody, rhyme, and pure emotion.
Canceled Due to Weather
Based in Minnesota, but with roots in Tennessee, Chastity Brown grew up surrounded by country and soul music. In the full gospel church of her childhood, she played saxophone and drums and found her singing voice and a passion for music. Her first show was in Knoxville, TN, and then it was on to Minneapolis. Since then, she’s been featured on NPR’s “Favorite Sessions,” CMT, American Songwriter, the London Times, Paste Magazine and others. Chastity has toured the U.S. and abroad, appearing on the U.K.’s Later…with Jools Holland.
$45 … Buy Tickets!
Based in Minnesota, but with roots in Tennessee, Chastity Brown grew up surrounded by country and soul music. In the full gospel church of her childhood, she played saxophone and drums and found her singing voice and a passion for music. Her first show was in Knoxville, TN, and then it was on to Minneapolis. Since then, she’s been featured on NPR’s “Favorite Sessions,” CMT, American Songwriter, the London Times, Paste Magazine and others. Chastity has toured the U.S. and abroad, appearing on the U.K.’s Later…with Jools Holland.
$20 … Buy Tickets!
Mae & the Guys is a seasoned Americana outfit led by veteran vocalist Mae Rukavina, whose commanding stage presence and connective vocals have delivered over 23 years of live performance. This new band features original member Spike Stich on guitar/mandolin AND long-time member and acclaimed Minneapolis drummer Bob Johnston to forge a new chapter with fresh momentum.
The band welcomes new bassist Christian Twigg into the fold, whose international touring experience brings depth and drive to this energetic group. Local keyboard/accordion legend Jason Craft rounds out the band with years of collaborative history, adding dynamic to their evolving sound. Together, they deliver a high-caliber Americana Rock sound that’s road-tested, soulful and timeless.
$30 … Buy Tickets!
The legendary Minneapolis rock star, GB Leighton, is returning to the 318 Cafe for another year! His passion and energy on stage is unmatched and we are thrilled to have him. Come and see this venerable force for yourselves...
$20 … Buy Tickets!
Heartland Souvenirs is a musical trio that honors the timeless stories and melodies of iconic American songwriters while also crafting original songs that echo those same heartfelt traditions. Rooted in nostalgia and reverence for classic folk, the group features Nikki Lemire, Becky Schlegel, and Katy Tessman — three acclaimed artists whose voices blend to create something both familiar and refreshingly new.
$30 … Buy Tickets
Each month, the wicked mandolin maestro Richard Kriehn brings along some of his most talented peers, friends, and musical cohorts to share in some storytelling and song-singing. This time around, he’s joined by virtuosic violinist and multi-instrumentalist Pat Frederick and Co-owner of the 318 Cafe Matt Muller!
$20 … Buy Tickets!
Richard Smith is a British fingerstyle guitarist, renowned for his variety of styles and techniques, entertaining performances and engaging charisma. Born on December 12, 1971, in Beckenham, Kent, England, Smith's musical journey began at age 5. Inspired by iconic guitarists like Chet Atkins, Merle Travis, Jerry Reed, Django Reinhardt and Joe Pass, Smith's unique style blends country, jazz, classical and ragtime influences. In his very early years, he received mentorship from guitar greats, laying the foundation for his future success.
Pat has been obsessed with the guitar since he first picked one up at age twelve and began learning simple chords and melodies from a Pete Seeger instructional book. His background as a drummer in a garage rock band helped with the transition and he never looked back. As a youth, the St. Paul, Minnesota native pestered guitarists playing at Twin Cities coffee houses and blues venues, seeking tips on playing. Borrowing bits and pieces of the styles of finger picking pioneers he admired, he taught himself to play, building a repertoire flavored by Blind Blake, Django Reinhart and Chet Atkins.
Sign-up begins at 6:30.
A random drawing will determine the order.
Open Mic has been full each night! We recommend arriving closer to 6:30pm to get your name in the drawing.
Please limit your set to 10 minutes of fame!
Two songs each through the rotation. Random drawing for a third song if time permits.
If we are over capacity and you don’t get a slot, you will be guaranteed a slot the following month.
We encourage performers to rehearse and leave the music stand at home! We have a supportive environment here. It’s okay to mess up, and it’s good to learn how to work through it!
Hope to see you there!
$20 … Buy Tickets!
Each. month, the wicked mandolin maestro Richard Kriehn brings along some of his most talented peers, friends, and musical cohorts to share in some storytelling and song-singing. This week is no different! Mary Cutruffelo stops by to share in the fun. You can’t get this close to this show just anywhere…
$35 … Buy Tickets!
Heartfelt lyrics, an angelic voice, masterful pianist, a pure and honest stage presence- these are all of the traits Keri brings every night. If your heartstrings need a gentle tug and your soul a topping off, this is the show for you! And don’t forget to bring the tissues…
$20 … Buy Tickets!
Closer to Indigo is an acoustic trio performing songs by the amazing Indigo Girls. Formed in 2022, this aspiring band is bringing the music they love to many different venues from neighborhood bars to distilleries to the state fair! The complex harmonies and poetic lyrics bring a depth and sensitivity to each performance. Singers Shelly Domke and Tristana Ward are the closest thing you’ll find to Amy and Emily. Their voices blend perfectly and are pitch on every time. Stan Thompson is an accomplished guitarist and impresses every time with the use of his looper in order to solo over his consistent rhythmic playing. His added vocals fill out the complexity of these arrangements. Even if you’re unfamiliar with the songs of the Indigo Girls, you will still be blown away by the musicianship of these 3 artists and will be wanting to get every Indigo Girls album you can find.
