Blues, soul and family Southern Avenue brings Memphis groove to Fort Smith

Southern Avenue will perform a free concert at Fort Smith's Riverfront Park on May 1, kicking off the Levitt Amp Fort Smith Music Series. The band blends Memphis blues and soul influences and is touring in support of their fourth album, "Family," released under Alligator Records. Ori Naftaly, the band's guitarist, expressed excitement about returning to Fort Smith, where they have performed twice before. The concert will feature the Brooke White Band opening at 6 p. m.

, followed by Southern Avenue at 7 p. m. Naftaly emphasized the personal nature of their music, which reflects their journey from Israel to Memphis and their transformation into a close-knit family. He noted, "We want to perform the coolest, most fun and deepest song. " Southern Avenue has shared stages with various notable artists and has been nominated for Band of the Year at the Blues Music Awards for three consecutive years.

Their sound, inspired by the likes of B. B. King, continues to evolve, with Naftaly stating, "This is the most Southern Avenue we’ve ever been.