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Pittston folk duo Years of Madness is the featured artist for July’s Third Friday art walk in Wilkes-Barre.

Guitarist John Moncivais began performing music two years ago and had gone through multiple singers before finding current vocalist Hope May via Craigslist. She was looking for a group and he was looking for a singer, so they started making music together. Moncivais said they’ve played a lot of venues in Lackawanna County, but they’re hoping Third Friday can help them expand into new territory.

“We’ve pretty much played all over Lackawanna county and a little bit of Luzerne,” Moncivais said. “We don’t really get too many gigs in Luzerne county. We’re still trying to get our foot in the door, but this is definitely a big step to get us in.”

According to Moncivais, YoM started with an alternative sound in mind, but that changed to a style of alternative folk that’s influenced by acts like Mumford & Sons, The Civil Wars and The Lumineers. He and May are excited to share their songs—including some originals—with the Third Friday crowd.

“We’re very honored to do it,” Moncivais said. “We can’t wait to play in front of everybody that’s there. This gig will be a little different because we’ll be showing off some original material. We’ve only been together for about three months, (so) we haven’t really wrote much, but we’re going to be playing the few originals we have written.”

Years of Madness will perform at Shambala during Third Friday, and according to Anne Rodella, Third Friday chairperson, the venue chose the act themselves.

“Third Fridays will find artists for venues, but if venues know of artists they’re welcome to bring in their own,” Rodella said. “They’re being featured as the artist of the month for many reasons. We were interested in featuring something a little different than we have been. We’re excited to have music outside for July with the tents and all the artists. It’ll be a really nice atmosphere.”

July’s Third Friday will feature 11 participating venues, including this month’s Art After 8 spot, Franklin’s. The travel card, a promotion that allows art walkers to win prizes for obtaining artist and venue signatures, will also return this month. Any attendee who obtains signatures from five different artists or venues will be eligible to win a $25 gift card from Flaherty’s Eating and Drinking Establishment. Rodella had some sound advice for signature hunters and Third Friday attendees alike.

“Pick what speaks to you—every venue has something special to offer. I don’t think you can go wrong with any of the options,” Rodella said. “Wyoming Valley Art League is doing a party. They’re also going to have music from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. We’ll have our tents in midtown village this month (and) they’ll feature free henna tattoos. It’s going to be a great evening filled with lots of different arts and downtown businesses to visit.”

Attendees can visit facebook.com/thirdfridaywb or follow @thirdfridaywb on Twitter for Third Friday news and updates.

Years of Madness vocalist Hope May
https://www.timesleader.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/web1_TF1.jpg.optimal.jpgYears of Madness vocalist Hope May

Hope May (Left) and John Moncivais, Years of Madness
https://www.timesleader.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/web1_TF2.jpg.optimal.jpgHope May (Left) and John Moncivais, Years of Madness

By Gene Axton

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Reach Gene Axton at 570-704-3943 or on Twitter @TLArts