Pulling off the main street into the Aloft Denver Downtown entrance, I immediately felt tucked away from the city. The industrial-chic interior design is playful and casual — as I am beginning to find is the general vibe in Denver — with brightly colored designs and script on the wall, offsetting dark paint and furnishings.

Once I dropped my bag with the concierge, I moved to the lounge area to plug in and get some work done while waiting for my room to be ready. There is a pool table; W XYZ Bar boasting beer, wine and cocktail specials; and some signs for the upcoming Aloft Star Project, hosted in the lobby on Oct. 17.

The free show features up-and-coming artists BANNERS and The Bergamot in Marriott International’s inaugural project, in partnership with Universal Music Group. The Aloft Star project resembles that of a battle of the bands but with a unique approach for travelers.

Performances kicked off with Years & Years performing in Philadelphia June 23; Tank & the Bangas in New Orleans Aug. 9; BANNERS in Denver Oct. 17; and the grand finale with Aloft Star finalists performing for a host of expert-level judges Nov. 1 in Austin, where the winner will be chosen.

The project encourages frequent travelers and local music lovers to head to Aloft hotels around the country to enjoy free, live music in a casual, easy setting. The smaller venues and more intimate approach are a great way to get city dwellers out and about, as well as encourage Aloft guests to make their way to the lobby and check out the show.

While I’m writing this prior to the show, I am familiar with BANNERS and looking forward to the more casual, intimate approach to the set — the complete opposite scene of Firefly Music Festival 2018, where I saw them last.

— Angelique Platas, associate editor