The upbeat and, primarily, cover band, Garden State Radio, made its fourth return to Musikfest in 2021.

Garden State Radio performed Aug. 11, Wells Fargo Festplatz.

The group, founded in 2013, in, of course, the “Garden State,” New Jersey, began playing local gigs and soon expanded to larger venues and events, traveling to several neighboring states, including Pennsylvania and Maryland.

The group of young performers books approximately 200 shows a year at festivals, corporate and municipal events and private events such as weddings.

“For the year moving forward, we’re really moving into a wedding world while, in the past, that really wasn’t our lane. Now, with all the changes in the world, we’re mainly only doing some bigger events and weddings,” says Ryan Kelly, drummer and the band’s only original band member.

Garden State draws crowds of all ages with an impressively diverse set list. The four lively musicians, in addition to Kelly, are Hannah Peterson, Matt Williams and Mike Gleisberg, They typically include fun throwback classics while incorporating more modern hits in the repertoire.

“We always try to keep current with what’s going on in the music world, especially stuff that fits Hannah’s [lead vocalist] style and our overall vibe. We’re always trying something new,” says Ryan.

Concerning Musikfest, Ryan says, “The energy is different there. It’s so big and positive. It’s just super-powerful when you step on that stage at Musikfest. It’s different than a lot of other festival or concerts that we get to be a part of. It physically feels different. So, we’re all looking forward to experiencing that again.”