ROCKLAND — If you’ve never heard of the term “holler band” you’re not alone. It’s a self-termed genre coined by The Ghost of Paul Revere, one of the three slated bands to appear at the Strand Theatre in Rockland Nov. 22 for Hollerfest. According to band members it is “based off the old gospel songs and the old field hollers that people used to do working in the fields” —so in other words, a more amped-up version of folk.

“These are younger, newer bands, sort of the rising stars on the scene,” said the Strand’s Executive Director Sarah Ruddy.

The Ghost of Paul Revere (listen here) from Portland, are dedicated to writing powerful, stripped down music that is meant to be experienced live and intimately. Joining them are Maine faves, Toughcats (listen to a clip here). For 10 years now this power trio of banjo, resonator guitar, and drums have been playing and performing their original Garage Rock styled Pop Americana across the nation. They are known for their captivating high energy live performances, intricate catchy melodies, driving rhythm, and tight vocal harmonies. And for your triple threat, Darlingside, (see videos here) a string-rock quintet, will also be on hand for the evening. They came together with five songwriters, a mandolin, a cello and violin, guitars and drums, a chorus of voices, and a van named Chauncey.

“It’s a new kind of roots rock that’s the ‘less precious’ version of Americana,” said Ruddy. “When my music booker and I were talking about putting this show together, we were both thinking we’d really like to bring Toughcats. They’re such a big, popular band in Maine. But they usually don’t get this size of a venue. So, we thought, why not just make this a showcase for this kind of genre.

This ain’t your daddy’s ragtime folk so get ready and get stoked to see this show.

Tickets on sale now: $17 general admission. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. The Strand balcony and lobby bars will be open for those ages 21+ with a valid ID. For more info: (207) 594-0070 RocklandStrand.com

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com