Founded by Kalan Wolfe, The Shift has provided the Pacific Northwest with wholesome folk/rock music since 2019.  Being a contestant on American Idol back in 2019, Wolfe gained invaluable experience and exposure to a broader audience.  The Shift has performed for the Oregon Country Fair, Okanogan Family Barter Faire, Classic Moonfest, Shrimp Fest, Freedom Fest, SRD Fest, as well as venues such as The Spanish Ballroom, and Tony V’s. The Shift has also performed alongside acts such as Nattali Rize, Tim Snider, Peter Rivera, Amber Lily, Jus Wright, Leon Hendrix, and Patterns of Saturn.

Today, The Shift shares their latest single “The Wave.”  Enclosed in the track are the trademark instrumentals that fans have been accustomed to along with an island vibe.  The uplifting lyrics center on tackling life head-on even if it seems nearly impossible to.

Wolfe and bandmate Keely Crow-Ka have called on performers from across the country to join them at Departure Festival in Quilcene, Washington on the weekend of August 5th, 6th and 7th 2022.  The duo founded Departure Festival out of a determined desire to persevere through the hardships the COVID-19 pandemic has created. When performing with their band The Shift was no longer an option, the focus went inward. Departure Festival was inspired by their desire to support other artists who they admire, in a communal environment where people can gather as restrictions ease. 

“We are musicians first, and festival organizers second. We want to give something special to the community that has supported us so much through these unprecedented times” says Wolfe. “Vendor applications are open on our website, and we are looking for top of the line craft, and food vendors to attend. We have all taken an enormous blow from the pandemic, and we want to provide an opportunity for artists and creators to get back to their craft.”

Departure Fest will take place at the Lake Leland Amphitheater, a beautiful, lakeside venue. Organizers are working to minimize single use plastics, and aim to amplify Indigenous voices at their events. 

“We are passionate about the environment and social justice. We have selected artists that not only inspire us personally, but who we see doing the hard work it takes to make positive changes in the world” says Crow-Ka. 

To preserve an atmosphere of gentle comradery, attendance will be limited 1200 tickets. Presale tickets can be purchased from the Departure Festival website here.