Dawes’ performance at the Bluebird to support Toys for Tots

The L.A.-based folk-rock band Dawes will brave the cold temperatures of Bloomington to perform at 8 p.m. today at the Bluebird Nightclub as part of the Bluebird’s annual WTTS Christmas concert, which benefits Toys for Tots. 

Dawes is composed of brothers Taylor and Griffin Goldsmith, along with Wylie Gelber and Tay Strathairn. The group released their third album, “Stories Don’t End,” this past April.

The group recorded “Stories Don’t End” at Asheville’s Echo Mountain Studio in North Carolina with Jaquire King, who has worked with several artists, including Kings of Leon, Norah Jones and Modest Mouse.

Taylor Goldsmith, the group’s lead vocalist, said the band wanted to develop their sound even further on their new album, citing the expansion of their musical limits as a reason for choosing to work with Kings.

Dave Kubiak, owner of the Bluebird, is expecting a good show despite the fact that many IU students are in the midst of finals week. He said he looks forward to the annual Christmas show every year.

“The turnout is usually very good,” Kubiak said.

Kubiak, who is also in charge of booking at the Bluebird, said bands that align with the musical style of WTTS, a local indie music station, are typically chosen for the concert.

This will be Dawes’s first time performing in Bloomington.

“We’re expecting a very good response,” Kubiak said. “It’s gonna be a great show. Everybody’s really excited for it.”

Singer-songwriter Sturgill Simpson is slated to open for Dawes.

“I would just encourage people, along with their ticket, to bring an unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots,” Kubiak said.