Four bands. One big opportunity to support local music. State of Sound's May the Fourth edition is going to be lit like a ... let's just say "elegant weapon for a more civilized age."

Put on your best earth-tone robe, wind up your hair Cinnabon-style and get down to our Walker's Point studios for another quartet of artists with sounds that span the musical galaxy:

Jacob Slade — While his music has drawn comparisons to contemporary indie-folk artists like Noah Kahan and Mt. Joy, Slade continues to explore a sound that is uniquely his. The essence of life in the Midwest pervades not only his work ethic, but also the music and lyricism found on projects liks most-recent album Soft Spoken.

Blacktop — Resting between the genres of surf rock, dream pop and folk, the music of Blacktop is adorned with soft-spoken vocals, washed-out guitars, and acoustic percussion/rhythmic elements. The project draws from a large pool of sonic influence, ranging from Ethiopian jazz and Latin rhythms of the 1960-70s to modern pop and alternative artists such as Khruangbin, Skinshape, Loving and Sam Evian.

Micah Emrich — Applying his skills to enthusiastically embrace pop, R&B, alternative rock, hip-hop and EDM, Emrich crafts rich melodies with catchy hooks that leave lasting impressions. Tapping into personal experiences and candid thoughts, he's carved out a signature space as both a deft songwriter and able producer.

Klan 414 — Regional Mexican music made a huge mark in 2023, and that success isn't about to fade with bands like Klan 414 pushing it forward. With a sound that combines the brassy blast from the genre's traditions with modern stories, this group from Milwaukee's South Side raises the level of any show they play.

Save yourself a few credits and pick up tickets to the next State of Sound in advance for $15, or grab them at the door for $20.