Sensory Friendly Show – King Cardinal

Denver-based King Cardinal is gearing up to release their second full-length album, “Land Lines,” on January 26th. Known for their DIY ethos, the band self-produced most of the songs at their homebase studio, Clubhouse Recorders. With the support of the Denver community and collaborations with artists like Anna Morsett (The Still Tide), Sarah Anderson (Heavy Diamond Ring, Paper Bird), Ben Wysocki (The Fray), Jess Parsons (Bluebook), and Chris Weist (Wood Belly), they’ve crafted a diverse collection ranging from blue-eyed soul to Dad Rock, experimental synth, and folk. Despite the varied influences, the songs seamlessly coalesce into a cohesive musical journey.

The core trio of Brennan Mackey (vocals/guitar), Ben Waligoske (pedal steel), and Jonah Wisneski (guitar) forms the heart of King Cardinal’s distinctive sound. Notably, King Cardinal has an impressive touring history, sharing stages with artists such as Ben Sollee, Darlingside, The Wallflowers, The Futurebirds, Sam Outlaw, and Israel Nash. Their music has even found a place in popular culture, being featured in the hit Netflix movie “Love Hard.”

King Cardinal’s journey began with early songs that earned Mackey an invitation to perform at the prestigious Telluride Bluegrass Festival alongside stars like Punch Brothers, Brett Dennen, Lake Street Dive, and more. Now, with their upcoming album “Land Lines,” King Cardinal continues to evolve and showcase their musical prowess, promising an exciting next chapter in their musical story.

What is a Sensory-Friendly Concert?

The Kennedy Center defines sensory friendly performances as being “designed to create a performing arts experience that is welcoming to all families with children with autism or with other disabilities that create sensory sensitivities.”

In practical terms, that means the concert volume is lower (not loud), and lighting isn’t too dark or too bright (no strobing or quick changes). Attendees and their families can move around, dance, and sing along in a fun, judgment-free environment.

Some Common Elements You Might Find at a Sensory Friendly Concert

• Dim, in-the-middle lighting. Not too bright and not completely dark. Lights aren’t strobing or changing abruptly. This helps lessen light contrast sensitivities.
• Medium or lower volume levels. This helps help mediate abrupt or overall loud noises. This might includes finger snaps instead of clapping because they create less noise.
• Flexible space outside the performance room, like a corner or a side room, is provided. This helps provide a break area so one could calm down if they get overwhelmed, or not worry if they’re too loud.
• Wider space between rows or aisles. This helps everyone maneuver in and out more easily.