Marcus Alan Ward. Credit: Courtesy of Marcus Alan Ward
Local guitarist, producer and self-proclaimed “electro soul pioneer,” Marcus Alan Ward has maintained that he’s on a musical quest to impress himself. So far, so good. The talented musician’s work has been featured in publications including The Fader, Pitchfork, Pigeons & Planes and Spin.

After taking a hiatus from live performances during the pandemic, Ward just announced he’ll return to the stage on Friday, July 15, in a special performance coinciding with the release of his new album, Cruiserweight, an electric guitar-driven jazz effort that differs sonically from his previous work. It’ll mark his first headlining gig in four years.

Nathan-Paul, Corey Grand, Broken Keys, Sted Lee and Colie Rich will join Ward.

The concert will take place at Crobar. Doors open at 8 p.m.

Tickets to the Marcus Alan Ward release party cost $15 in advance, $20 at the door. 

This article appears in Jun 15-28, 2022.

Jeff has been covering the Cleveland music scene for more than 25 years now. On a regular basis, he tries to talk to whatever big acts are coming through town. And if you're in a local band that he needs to hear, email him at jniesel@clevescene.com.