The Sweet Lillies Return to Steamboat Resort

The sun casts a warm glow over the base of Steamboat Resort as the sound of music drifts through the air, mingling with the smell of food and drink from the various vendors. People of all ages stroll through the area, some stopping to listen to the tunes, while others continue on their way, nodding their heads to the beat. It's a scene that's become familiar in Steamboat Springs, particularly when The Sweet Lillies are in town. The Colorado-based band, with their unique sound that blends folk, jazz, rock, and more, has a special connection to the Yampa Valley, one that's grown stronger over the years through repeated performances and collaborations with the community.

For band members Becca Bisque and Julie Gussaroff, the connection to Steamboat Springs is more than just a series of gigs - it's a homecoming of sorts. They've played everywhere from WinterWonderGrass in 16-degree weather to late-night sets at Schmiggity's, and those experiences have helped solidify their appreciation for the valley's music culture. Gussaroff notes that Steamboat works hard to bring music from all over the world into their community, making it a beautiful experience to be part of. The band's sound is a reflection of their individual musical backgrounds and the sense of openness and collaboration that's led to a style that's difficult to categorize. Gussaroff draws from folk, with influences including rhythm and blues, classical, and rock, while guitarist J.J. Murphy brings a jazz background, and drummer Jones Maynard's experience spans rock, studio work, and experimental sounds. Bisque's musical roots include orchestral training and elements of indie rock and Americana, all of which come together to create a unique sound that's constantly evolving. Here's the thing though - the band isn't just about creating music; they're also about the process of songwriting and exploring creativity. Gussaroff and Bisque, the foundations of the band, emphasize the importance of supporting that creativity, and it's something that shines through in their performances. As the band takes the stage at Steamboat Resort on April 4, from 3:30 to 5 p.m., they'll bring that energy and commitment to their music, and the community will be there to support them, just as they have in the past. The connection between the band and Steamboat Springs is a two-way street, with the musicians drawing inspiration from the community, and the community embracing their unique sound. Picture this: a crowd of people gathered at the base of a mountain, all there for the love of music, and The Sweet Lillies, with their genre-bending sound, taking the stage to perform. It's a moment that's been months in the making, with fans eagerly anticipating their return to Steamboat Resort. And that matters because it's not just about the music - it's about the sense of community that comes with it. This performance is more than just a concert; it brings people together in a way that's rare, and that's what makes Steamboat Springs, and the band's music, so special. Not exactly what you'd expect from a typical mountain town, but that's what makes this place so unique. As the music begins, the crowd will be transported to a place where genre doesn't matter, and all that's left is the sound, the community, and the moment. The sun will still be shining, the mountains will still be towering above, but for a brief moment, everything else will fade into the background, and all that will be left is the music, and the sense of connection that comes with it. In the midst of it all, the musicians will be doing what they do best - creating music that's unique, inspiring, and deeply rooted in the community that supports them. As the performance comes to a close, the crowd will disperse, but the memory of the music, and the sense of community that came with it, will linger on, a reminder of the strong bond between the musicians and the people of Steamboat Springs. The sound of music will still be echoing through the air, a gentle reminder of the power of creativity, and the impact it can have on a community. And as the crowd disappears into the distance, the mountains stand tall, their presence a lasting impression of the enduring power of music, and the connections it creates.