Saturday, July 30, 2011

2nd Annual Wyman's Pond Music Fest


What a day! The sun was out, and it was sunny and pretty dry, with temperatures in the 80's. This year we had about 20 more people than last year's 70, but instead of staying all day, there were early departures and late arrivals, which gave the day a busier feel.

Two big changes from last year were: a) power for microphones (and other things, as you will soon discover), and b) I let the musicians announce themselves. Also, since there were so many more in attendance than last year, the children spent more time in the water and playing games in the upper field, and less time glued to the front of the stage area.
  • Elizabeth Lorrey began the day, and surprise #1 old high school chum (and local musical wunderkind) Kris Lucander plugged in his bass and accompanied her for her entire set. She ran through songs both old and new, plus a cover or two, and Kris sang Joe Jackson's "Is She Really Going Out With Him?". Also, Pete Rathier (another old friend from high school) sat in on djembe for a few songs.
  • Next up, married duo The Rafters cruised through an energetic set of their original material and a few covers (U2 and others). And in addition to their organist Glenn Compagnone, they had Elizabeth, Kris and Pete all come up at various times to fill out their crowd-pleasing sound.
  • In between sets by the pros there was a short "Amateur Hour" wherein several of the girls in attendance (and a couple of the youngest boys) took turns singing at the mic for the crowd. One girl covered Taylor Swift's "Love Story"Link, and later she accompanied one of the twins on an original song. In between, the other twin followed with an original of her own, and the crowd cheered all three of them for their efforts.
  • (continued later)

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

A Week of Great Live Music

"And lo, the sun burst forth from behind the mountain, and the songs of angels danced in mine ears..."

This week has several great chances for you to get out and hear some fantastic local musicians:

  • Wed 7-27: Abbie Barrett will be at Bloc 11 (Union Square, Somerville). A solo show at 7 pm featuring songs both old and new!
  • Thu 7-28: Elizabeth Lorrey can be found at the Main Street Cafe in Groton, MA with old pal Kris Lucander sitting in on bass! They will be onstage from 7 - 9 pm.
  • Sat 7-30: This is the big one! The 2nd Annual Wyman's Pond Music Fest will be sending out soundwaves from 5 New England bands in a day-long extravaganza that should surpass last year's inaugural event. Catch lakeside sets by both Abbie and Elizabeth, plus Almanac Mountain, The Rafters and Vanessa Kafka (her only live show in 2011). Definitely a day not to be missed!
So find your way to one (or all) of these great music venues and enjoy the sounds and company of your local talents - you won't regret it!