Dead Fest: Ascension – Two Nights of Unmissable Music at Kirby’s Beer Store
Free Admission | 21+ to EnterGet ready for two electrifying nights at Kirby’s Beer Store as Dead Fest: Ascension returns! This annual celebration combines the spirit of Halloween, the cultural vibrancy of the Day of the Dead, and a showcase of Wichita’s thriving music community. Now in its fifth year—and its third under the name “Dead Fest”—this festival was co-founded by Zane Rowland and Brian St Petersen, bassist and guitarist for Witch Cradle.
More than just a music festival, Dead Fest is an invitation to immerse yourself in creativity. Attendees and performers alike are encouraged to dress up and embrace the festive atmosphere. From hard rock to psychedelic funk, dub reggae to modern hip-hop, the lineup for this two-day event promises a genre-spanning experience that will leave every music fan satisfied. With no cover charge and a legendary venue that thrives on intimate performances and a tip bucket system, Kirby’s ensures that every dollar goes to the artists, reinforcing the venue’s deep-rooted connection to Wichita’s music scene.
Night 1 – Friday, October 18
The first night of Dead Fest will feature an eclectic mix of dub, electronic, and rock, culminating in powerful debut performances.
- Flatland Dub Club – Influenced by dub reggae rhythms, Flatland Dub Club’s soulful grooves bring infectious energy to every performance, setting the perfect tone for the night.
- Phiya – This eclectic rock band draws inspiration from a wide range of styles, crafting an engaging sound that defies easy categorization.
- Wasay Oblique – A psychedelic funk-rock band with music that makes you want to both headbang and dance. Expect an unforgettable blend of rhythm and experimentation.
- Apathy Unit. – A two-piece horrorcore/synthpunk/hip-hop act that defies all expectations. Their sound is raw and unique, just like their name (including the period at the end).
- Dead End Mary (Debut) – Making their highly anticipated debut, this new act promises to make a big first impression with an exciting live show.
- Milkwave – Fronted by Annie Palmer (they/them), Milkwave combines dreamy, synth-infused soundscapes with personal, queer-centered lyrics. Bassist Matthew Wiseman’s stereo-rigged aluminum neck bass adds a distinct edge to the band’s sound, while drummer Brandon LaBarge’s intricate rhythms create a compelling backdrop.
- Fractvred – Specializing in emotionally charged “bummercore,” Fractvred offers a dynamic mix of melancholy melodies and heavy breakdowns. With lyrics that reflect the struggles of everyday life in a world on fire, this band is one to watch.
Night 2 – Saturday, October 19
The second night brings even more variety, with performances spanning rock, metal, and hip-hop, creating a sonic journey for all music lovers.
- S@ntiago – Fronted by D’Angelo Talbot, a multi-talented artist with roots in classical music, blues, and rock, S@ntiago delivers modern rock anthems with big choruses and unforgettable riffs. Some may know Talbot from his viral videos or national TV performances—either way, his show is not to be missed.
- Dangerously Biased – A loud, two-piece alt-rock band known for big riffs and catchy melodies. Described as “riff rock,” their high-energy performance is sure to get the crowd moving, drawing influence from acts like Royal Blood and Audioslave.
- Witch Cradle – A no-rules hard rock band with powerful vocals and a bassline that is both tight and fat. With Brian St Petersen on guitar, this band brings an intense sound that promises to leave a lasting impression on the Dead Fest crowd.
- Kush Powers – Representing Wichita’s vibrant hip-hop scene, Kush Powers will bring his lyrical flow and energy to the Dead Fest stage, adding an essential element to the night’s lineup.
- The Cavves – Known for their anthemic indie rock infused with “land-locked surf music” energy, The Cavves have established themselves as a Wichita staple. With albums like Learn to Swim and Settle Down In a Guest Bedroom, their music explores themes of depression, grief, and friendship, blending upbeat rhythms with introspective depth.
- Galdrar – A Wichita-based metal band whose name draws from Norse mythology. Their songs delve into themes of ghosts, superstitions, and the occult, blending thematic lyrics with intricate guitar riffs and haunting drum patterns.
- Phantom Black – A young rock group with hints of 80s metal, Phantom Black brings elements of thrash, funk, and rock to the table. With high-energy performances and female-led vocals, this band defies genre boundaries and leaves it all on stage.
Why You Can’t Miss Dead Fest: Ascension
Dead Fest isn’t just a concert series—it’s a celebration of Wichita’s music scene, a place where creativity and community come together. Whether you come in costume or just bring your love for live music, Kirby’s Beer Store is the perfect venue to experience it all. With no cover charge, 21+ entry, and two stacked nights of performances, there’s no better way to spend your weekend. Every dollar tossed into the tip bucket helps support the artists directly, ensuring that these talented musicians can keep doing what they love. Kirby’s legendary intimate atmosphere promises up-close-and-personal performances you won’t experience anywhere else. So, mark your calendars and tell your friends—October 18 and 19 will be two nights of music, community, and celebration that you won’t want to miss. Come for the music, stay for the memories, and be part of something special at Dead Fest: Ascension.
Event Details
- Dates: Friday & Saturday, October 18 & 19, 2024
- Location: Kirby’s Beer Store, Wichita, KS
- Admission: Free
- Age: 21+ to Enter