LEX Locals

Gareth Evans & Seth Murphy | Tahlsound

Through a conversation with Seth Murphy and Gareth Evans, this feature spotlights Lexington’s creative music scene and the magic of Tahlsound—a grassroots concert series transforming Southland Drive into a hub for live, local music.

Founded in 2017 by four local musicians—Seth Murphy, Gareth Evans, Brandon Pittard, and Chris Smith—Tahlsound is a community-powered, pay-what-you-can music series that celebrates the rich cultural legacy of one of Lexington’s most storied neighborhoods. With a focus on regional talent, genre-spanning performances, and neighborhood connection, Tahlsound is as much about community as it is about music.

Tahlsound’s events—typically held on the Oleika Temple Great Lawn at 302 Southland Drive—feature local food, drinks, artisans, a kids’ corner, and of course, incredible music from Lexington and beyond. It showcases everything we love about our local music scene—homegrown talent, community, and connection. Head to Tahlsound.com for scheduled performances.

Leandra Forman & Kristin Hughes | FoodChain

Leandra Forman and Kristin Hughes, executive directors of FoodChain, are redefining what it means to connect a community through food. This dynamic nonprofit is a hub for sustainable agriculture, food education, and hands-on learning—empowering people with the tools to grow, prepare, and enjoy fresh, healthy meals regardless of income. From their innovative indoor aquaponics farm to their vibrant teaching kitchen, FoodChain is creating a more just and equitable local food system.

This May 21–23, FoodChain’s signature event, F.E.A.S.T., joins the Kentucky Local Food Systems Summit for a multi-day celebration of local food, farms, and the incredible women shaping our food system. Tickets available at FoodChainLex.org.

Chef Paula Endara | The Manchester: Granddam + Lost Palm

Chef Paula Endara, originally from Quito, Ecuador, leads the culinary charge at two restaurants located at The Manchester: Granddam, the flagship restaurant featuring culturally inspired Bluegrass Cuisine, and Lost Palm, the rooftop drinking parlor that boasts an impressive array of Latin inspired share plates. A James Beard Foundation Bootcamp alum with over 13 years in the hospitality industry, Endara's diverse experience includes avant-garde training at the Basque Culinary Center in San Sebastián, Spain, worked at a nomad restaurant concept in Quito in collaboration with Amazonian farmers, and founded Roots Restaurant in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Currently, she is showcasing her culinary talents as a contestant on Season 22 of Bravo's "Top Chef: Destination Canada," which premiered on March 13, 2025.

Albert Lukonga | ALBERT COUTURE

Albert Lukonga is the visionary behind ALBERT COUTURE, a premier fashion house based in Lexington, Kentucky. Known for his impeccable craftsmanship and eye for detail, Albert brings a bold, international flair to the heart of the Bluegrass. His designs effortlessly blend elegance with innovation, offering bespoke pieces that reflect both personal style and timeless sophistication. With ALBERT COUTURE, Lukonga is redefining luxury fashion in Lexington, one custom creation at a time.

Erin Goins | Bites of the Bluegrass

Erin Goins is the founder of Bites of the Bluegrass, Lexington’s premier food tour experience that takes guests on a culinary journey through the city’s vibrant dining scene. Passionate about local flavors and rich history, Erin curates guided walking tours that showcase Lexington’s best restaurants, hidden gems, and unique dishes—all while sharing stories that connect food, culture, and community. Enjoy this LEX Locals episode where Erin shares what she loves about the city we call home.

Stay tuned for Episode 5 of LEX Locals—coming soon.

Photography by Matt Malicote | Video Production by Branded 78 | Illustrations by Ben Runco