Long time and new fans of Tramped by Turtles are getting excited for Saturday. Trampled is back in Duluth to perform at the Bayfront on their only official Duluth tour date (many were lucky to see them play a surprise show at Pizza Luce during Homegrown). 

This is their first time back in Duluth in a while. Their last show together was in October 2016. Mandolin player Erik Berry felt one day they would get back together again. 

“In my heart of hearts I never really believed we were never going to play together again but it was a possibility,” he said. “[Dave Simonett] really needed that head space and a clear, blank calendar.” 

It means a lot to the community they grew up in as a band for them to be returning to the big stage. Alex Piazza, band member in Alamode and Big Wave Dave and the Ripples said they exemplify the “dulthian dream.”

“Their harmonies are incredibly on point along with their tact yet razor sharp musicianship. A true staple that every duluthian should be proud to call their own,” said Piazza. 

Their surprise homegrown gig in April is the kind of thing that keeps local fans excited. Mellisa La Tour, executive director of Duluth Homegrown Music Festival said they are a band of loyal musicians who never forget to tip their hat to where they began.

“The secret show was fantastic and Pizza Luce Duluth was the perfect venue for us to all stand and dance together, singing along and hugging each other.” She added she cannot wait to do it again this weekend with more people. 

Berry is excited to play a Duluth show, especially because he still lives here. 

“It’s the opportunity I have to bring my kids to work and get some friends and neighbors to come,” said Berry.

Berry could be seen all around town over the past few years, and put out a Celtic folk album with Teague Alexy in March called “Irish American.” Alexy will be performing before Trampeld this weekend, along with Superior Siren, Bad Bad Hats, Charlie Parr, and The Last Revel. 

Berry said part of Trampleds success has some from the fact they all get along so well personally. He said that relationship is still there and playing music again has been really positive.