SquidFest is bringing the after party to the stage at Bluenose!
Squid City Slingers is an eclectic group blending bluegrass, folk, country, and jazz. Based in MN, they’ve built a strong following in the Twin Cities and Twin Ports with driving stand-up bass, fiery fiddle, and flat-picking guitar.

SCS has played renowned venues like Bent Paddle, Earth Rider, and Custer Beacon while making waves at major events. In 2024, they headlined Bluegrass on the Black Festival, SquidFest, and Mall of America. In 2025, they hit Jackson MN’s ROTR Festival, Bayfield WI’s Apple Fest, St. Peter MN’s Rock Bend Folk Festival, ND’s Kota Ray Dam Music Festival, and River Falls WI’s Bluegrass Festival. In 2026 they’ve already toured through MN, ND, SD, WY, and CO where they recorded a full length unreleased album at the acclaimed PSAudio studio with audiophile pioneer Paul McGowan engineering and producing.

SCS also plays private events and weddings, with many booked for 2026. Their first EP, "Harbors & Highways", dropped in Summer 2025. Their second EP “River Bottom Reveries” features single “Envy the Birds” and was recorded in Henderson, MN as part of the MN songwriter sanctuary series. SCS has appeared on TV (KEYC news), Radio (WTIP North Shore, 90.1 KSRQ-FM, 89.7 KMSU), VoyageMN Magazine, Mankato Free Press newspaper articles and online video performances, and NPR’s “The Great American Folk Show” podcast hosted by ND's folk legend Tom Brosseau. SCS are on the rise as one of the Midwest’s most exciting new acoustic acts.
Find all music at the link below:
Linktr.ee/squidcityslingers