Hickory – The City of Hickory’s Sails Original Music Series will feature Jive Talk this week. The free concert begins at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 10, at Union Square in downtown Hickory.

Synth pop indie rock band Jive Talk is known for its anthemic, synth-rock sound and high energy, live performances.

“These guys won over the entire town the last time they were in Hickory,” says Sails Music Coordinator Bob Sinclair. “Quirky and groovy! Their show is sure to rock the Square.”

Jive Talk began as the project of longtime friends Oliver Pierce (lead vocals/guitar), Isaac Middleton (guitar/synth/vocals), and Ben Dunn (bass/vocals). After working long-distance for some time, the group solidified in the winter of 2021 in Nashville, adding Philip Walker (drums/vocals) and Andres Ahogado (guitar/synth/vocals). The band has since exploded on the live circuit, capturing audiences with their engaging and high energy performances.

Jive Talk has performed 75+ shows over the past few years, including headlining and support dates with bands The Districts, Stephen Sanchez, The Unlikely Candidates, Doom, Flamingo, and many more. Their music has been featured in Spotify’s Fresh Finds and Indie Chillout, Apple Music New in Alternative, SiriusXMU, and in rotation on WRLT.

Acme Radio Live describes Jive Talk as “a breath of fresh air for Music City … Spirited, care-free, and lovable, seeing them live is surely a special experience.”

Started in 2012, the City of Hickory’s Sails Original Music Series showcases well-crafted, live music by bringing original music artists to The Sails on the Square. Original music is defined as music that is written or composed by the artist who performs it.

The Sails Original Music Series offers excellent musical entertainment from national and international touring acts with the help of numerous sponsors. Thanks to presenting sponsor Protection Products, Inc., and supporting sponsors Atriax, Bob Sinclair Music, Larry’s Music & Sound, Pfahlert Creative Labs, Olde Hickory Brewery, and Crowne Plaza for supporting the series.

In addition to the seating available at Union Square, audience members are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets. A variety of close-by bars and restaurants offer food and beverages.

ABC permitted businesses within the Hickory Downtown Social District will sell beer, wine, and other alcoholic beverages in specially marked cups that may be consumed on Union Square, sidewalks, and other public areas within the designated boundaries of the social district. No outside alcohol may be brought into the social district. To review additional restrictions and a detailed map of the social district’s coverage area, visit www.hickorync.gov/downtown-social-district.

For more information about the Sails Original Music Series and upcoming bands, please visit www.HickoryNC.gov/SailsMusic and follow the Sails Original Music Series Facebook page, www.facebook.com/SailsMusic.