Tempest to Perform at Lief's Annual Birthday Bash

Celtic rock band Tempest celebrates over 30 years of high-energy folk rock fusion at intimate Sutter Creek Theatre

Mar. 21, 2026 at 12:00am

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Tempest, the acclaimed Celtic rock band, is set to perform at Lief Sorbye's annual birthday bash at the historic Sutter Creek Theatre. Formed in 1988, the San Francisco Bay Area-based group has released 18 critically acclaimed albums and played over 2,500 gigs, blending Irish reels, Scottish ballads, Norwegian influences, and other world music elements into their high-energy folk rock sound. The current lineup features all original members, including founder and lead singer/electric mandolinist Lief Sorbye, guitarist Rob Wullenjohn, bassist Ian Butler, fiddler Jon Berger, and drummer Adolfo Lazo.

Why it matters

Tempest has built a global reputation over the past three decades as a pioneering force in the modern folk-rock movement. The band's annual birthday bash at the intimate Sutter Creek Theatre is a must-attend event for fans of Celtic-inspired rock music and a celebration of the group's enduring artistry and longevity.

The details

The Sutter Creek Theatre, an award-winning historic 215-seat former silent film theatre, will host Tempest's birthday bash. Doors open at 6:30 PM, with open seating, beer and wine available, and tickets priced at $27 in advance or $31 on the day of the show.

  • Tempest formed in 1988.
  • The band has released 18 critically acclaimed albums over the past 30+ years.
  • Tempest has played more than 2,500 gigs since its inception.
  • The birthday bash is scheduled for March 21, 2026.

The players

Tempest

A Celtic rock band formed in 1988 in the San Francisco Bay Area, known for their high-energy fusion of Irish reels, Scottish ballads, Norwegian influences, and other world music elements.

Lief Sorbye

The founder and lead singer/electric mandolinist of Tempest, recognized as a driving force in the modern folk-rock movement.

Rob Wullenjohn

The guitarist for Tempest, a Bay Area native who rejoined the band after an impromptu reunion concert in Berkeley.

Ian Butler

The bassist for Tempest, from San Diego, who also rejoined the band after the Berkeley reunion concert.

Jon Berger

The fiddler for Tempest, a Vermont native who first joined the band in 1993 and brings his passion for Celtic and British Isles traditional music.

Adolfo Lazo

The Cuban-born drummer for Tempest, who has been with the band for over three decades and is known for his inventive rhythms and rock-steady drumming.

Sutter Creek Theatre

An intimate 215-seat former silent film theatre in Sutter Creek, California, with superb sound, voted Best Indie Theatre multiple times.

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What’s next

Tickets for Tempest's annual birthday bash at the Sutter Creek Theatre are on sale now, with advance tickets priced at $27 and day-of tickets at $31.

The takeaway

Tempest's annual birthday celebration at the historic Sutter Creek Theatre is a must-attend event for fans of Celtic-inspired rock music, showcasing the band's enduring artistry and innovative fusion of traditional and contemporary sounds over the past three decades.