Sterling Stage Folkfest is known around central New York as a time for camping, dancing and rubbing elbows with musicians and neighbors alike. This year's event promises to go back to the roots of the folk music scene as it is a tribute to regional favorites from across New England and southern Canada.

Immediately when you hear Massachusetts-based Ryan Montbleau Band you feel you know the song, like it's a golden oldie of the 1970s. Intrigued, you ask around and realize your first impression was wrong at least for this generation because that lead singer, with the trembling jazz twang for a voice, is a modern young man blazing up the New England music scene with his four fellow players.

In fact, with legendary vocals and solid gold backup, Montbleau hardly sounds like the kind of guy who would sign a letter to the public on his Web site with, “Yours truly, from a stranger's floor in the middle of somewhere,” but it's obvious the sense of humor he gives his site is the same that imbues his lyrics.

What is perhaps most memorable about the Ryan Montbleau Band is its sheer honesty. It is what it is, and makes no bones about it with lyrics like, “It seems that as my time draws nearer/I look into the mirror at a face that's had it's fun and is moving on,” from “The Boat Song.”

The band is often compared to Dave Matthews Band because of its age and jazz/pop influences, but the Ryan Montbleau Band is no copycat. With finger-picking tunes, the band delights audiences with clever lyrics and that infectious guitar Montbleau is known for. Also wowing audiences throughout the band's tour are the viola performances by member Laurence Scudder.

Eric McElveen, Folkfest promoter, characterized this year's performers as possibly the best gathering of local talent he has ever seen and is interested in the cross-cultivation of talent to expose fans to up-and-comers throughout the region.

In addition to the Ryan Montbleau Band, he recommended Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad, a band with a mix of dub, reggae and rock from Rochester. McElveen said typically the Squad brings a crowd of 600 to 700 people to its performances at Rochester's Water Street Music Hall.

If you go

What: Sterling Stage Folkfest

Where: Sterling Stage Kampitheater, 274 Kent Road, Sterling

When: Friday through Sunday

Cost: Weekend passes available through Jambase Tickets, one day passes available through Jambase Tickets and at gate; $35 advance, $40 gate Friday and Saturday; $25 advance, $30 gate Sunday. All passes include camping; $50 advance, $60 gate weekend passes

For details: Visit www.sterlingstage.com or call (323) 644-0429 for a full list of bands.