Downtown Swansboro, on the corner where the people gather for music and memories thanks to the hard work of the Seaside Arts Council
Seaside Arts Council
The community organization known as Seaside Arts Council does a wonderful job of supporting the arts in the Swansboro and Western Carteret areas. They were established in 2009 and do a lot to educate and provide opportunities for the arts in the areas they serve. I wanted to share their mission and vision with my readers because this is something we can all get behind.
“The Mission of the Seaside Arts Council is to promote, advance, and provide performing arts opportunities, appreciation, and education for residents of and visitors to the Swansboro and Western Carteret County Area.
We execute this mission by Hosting the SwanFest Summer Concert Series, hosting art shows featuring local artists, offering scholarships to promising local students, and much more.”
On Sunday, July 3, 2022, The Seaside Arts Council awarded four $1500 scholarships to deserving seniors in the area they serve. Three of the four were on hand to be introduced to the crowd in between band sets.
As for their vision: “The Seaside Arts Council of Swansboro and Western Carteret is the voice of the arts, dedicated to promoting dynamic and diverse arts to our community and surrounding areas. The Arts Council strives to connect the positive power of the arts and music to educate and inspire our youth while uniting people across all cultures, building a strong community that is a quality place to live, work and play.”
The two best ways to show your support are to show up for the shows and to give, whether it is electronically, online, or in the field.
They are promoting two Summer concert series for locals and visitors to enjoy each week throughout the season. SwanFest takes place in Swansboro each Sunday from Memorial Day thru Labor Day. This free concert series goes down at The Pavilion at Olde Towne Square.
On the flip side of the Swanfest Schedule is the EmeraldFest Schedule. This is a free weekly concert series that happens each Thursday in Emerald Isle at the Western Ocean Regional Access from 6:30-8:30 pm
Captain Dick & The Lost Seamen Kick Things Off
Capt. Dick & The Lost Seamen for SwanFest featured band founder Dicky Scearce, guitar and vocals, Dino Pelletier taking the lead guitar, David Stover on bass and vocals, and Josh Mineer behind the kit, with a special guest offering harmonies and percussions, Jason Patterson.
Interestingly enough, the band that will be appearing at EmeraldFest this Thursday is who opened the show on Sunday, July 3, 2022, at SwanFest. Captain Dick & The Lost Seamen is a local band project that was started by Dicky Scearce and Jack Ketner a few years ago. In fact, the quartet welcomed me into 2021, by being the first band I saw last year. I caught the original cast back then for a fun night of music at Bogue Sound Distillery. (photo below)
For those that are not from around here, you should note that Scearce & Ketner are staples on The Crystal Coast music scene. Sadly, Ketner has suffered a few medical setbacks since this band formed. Given those developments, the show goes on with another area legend holding down the strings and filling in the sounds on the lead guitar, the gifted Dino Pelletier.
I met Scearce & Ketner early in my blogging travels, This file photo brings us back 7 years ago to Beaufort where I found the band sharing songs at The Dockhouse.
Guitarist Dino Pelletier closed out the set with The Star-Spangled Banner, Hendrix style!
Sunday would mark the first time I caught Scearce with a drummer in the backdrop. Keeping time for the band was New Bern beat maker, Josh Mineer, helping him on bass and with song and harmony, and David Stover, who played with both bands on the bill last Sunday.
Captain Dick & The Lost Seamen, rhythm makers Mineer & Stover
The band offers many popular songs to keep the crowd dancing and enjoying the music. They also sprinkle the set with originals that keep them grooving too. They are a fun band and perfect for their beach environment. Check out their site and put them on your schedule soon by visiting: Captain Dick and The Lost Seamen.
If you missed your chance to see the band last weekend, call your friends and make a plan to see them this Thursday at EmeraldFest. The music starts at 6;30 pm Bring a chair or blanket, friends and family. Just leave the pets and alcohol at home.
The Pegasus Plus Reunion Show
Opening the set with rocking original music Pegasus + at SwanFest
Pegasus Plus was a popular rock act from NC that toured regionally, for years. In fact, many of my friends from the area recall their treks to The Attic, a popular rock club in Greenville, NC. Local music scene side note, that club was owned by Built For Comfort’s beat keeper, Joe Tronto. That blues band is rocking the scene tonight in Washington, NC at the new night spot, Sevens. Pegasus Plus was a popular attraction when they came to the area and they still have the knack for delivering a quality show.
Pegasus Plus Reunion came to be after the band took a 30 plus year break. David Stover reached out to his bandmates to see how everyone was doing. Before long the group was getting together for monthly practice sessions and now plays a couple of shows a year together.
Pegasus + founder, vocalist, and bass player David Stover at one of the band’s first reunion shows.Circa February 2019 at Lincoln Theater in Raleigh, NC
I would love to see more of this band. Seems the first couple of times I saw them they were playing with other popular NC rock bands on theater stages. Once with the Wannabees a classic rock cover band based in New Bern, NC, and the first time was in Raleigh with Nantucket. Interesting side note about the scene, all these bands share the drummer, Jason Patterson. who has quite an impressive biography.
I have known Patterson for nearly a decade now. In all this time, we never sat down and talked about his career behind the kit. In fact, we’ve spent more time talking shop as we are both small business owners. At one point during the show on Sunday, his bandmate J. K. Loftin was talking about their rock star drummer. I already knew he logged beats with the Wannabees as that was how we met. And I learned along the way that he was Nantucket’s drummer too. But I never knew he was the drummer for Cry of Love, a popular rock band that formed in Raleigh in the late 80s and stayed on the road touring into the early 90s.
After learning this I did a little research on my friend Patterson. Following his time with Cry of Love, he ended up on tour with Texas guitarist Chris Duarte. Duarte was one of the first artists I wrote about in 1994 after landing on the blues scene. Duarte was fairly new to the scene at the time as well and I did a review of his first release. An effort that Patterson would help him support.
When I asked Patterson about his career I wondered what touring experience he enjoyed the most and he replied, “ I had a blast playing with Chris. Such a brilliant player. We were in a van loading our gear in and out a lot of one-nighters. Saw some parts of the country that I did not see with Cry Of Love.”
Another true sign of a professional is when the band sign falls on you, and you keep playing. Above are shots from Mary Shine’s live video that captured the sign collapse.Pegasus Plus Reunion with David Stover, bass and vocals, J.k. Loftin guitar and vocals, Martin Bissell, guitar and vocals, Bill Joyner, music director, keyboards, guitar and vocals, and Jason Patterson drums and supporting vocals.
Both shows last Sunday were noteworthy for the bands and those that attended. Seaside Arts Council is doing a good job supporting the arts in their area. I hope you decide to show your support by attending one of their events soon. Tomorrow the husband and wife band 4EverAll will take the stage under the pavilion. The music starts at 6:30 pm. You are welcome to bring a chair, invite friends, and buy tumblers and t-shirts, but leave the alcohol and pets at home.
Thanks For Reading
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Music In The Park Featuring Built For Comfort Band Under the Gazebo In Morehead City
On Saturday, June 11, 2022 I caught up with Built For Comfortrocking their blues under the gazebo in Morehead City, for the Second Saturday Concert Series at Martin Luther King Jr City Park. The blues quartet from the Greenville area offer a fun show, featuring many blues standards and familiar rock favorites.
Making up the sounds in this band are Landy Spain, who tackles the guitar parts and lends a hand on vocals; Al Carroll plays the bass, Joe Tronto keeps the back beat on the drums and last but not least on harmonica, washboard, vocals is the band’s frontman, Bill Hunneke.
They perform many shows throughout the year, but its always fun to find them jamming in the park. The first time I heard this band in 2016, I met them at a park just around the corner, down on the water for Downtown Morehead City’s Alive at Five Concert Series.
Built for Comfort offer a Teeny Weeny Bit of fun music for fans in the park on Saturday June 11, 2022 in Morehead City’s Martin Luther King Jr. Park
Fans of the band can catch them on the second Saturday in July, if you find yourself in the Washington, NC area. Click here for event details: Built for Comfort on Saturday, July 9, 2022 at Sevens in Washington, NC.At the end of July they will rock their hometown when they take the stage at A.J. McMurphy’s in Greenville. Music will be shared from 8-11pm.
Click on this link if you’re looking for more information on the acts on the schedule for theSecond Saturday Series
Coming up next month for the Second Saturday Concert Series will be the Thrillbillies, under the gazebo at Martin Luther King Jr. Park on Saturday, July 9, 2022 from 6:30 – 8:00 pm. Bring a chair and the family for a night of food truck food and fun music.
At Swanfest We Go Under the Pavilion with Pure T Mommicked
pure t mommicked rocking Swanfest on Sunday, June 19, 2022, in Swansboro, NC
Pure T Mommicked is a familiar band on our local rock scene. This band has nearly a quarter-century of tales to tell. Over the years that I have known them I have seen duo and trio versions of the band, but Sunday, June 19, 2022, I was finally rocked by the full ensemble, complete with the church band rhythm section which included, Darren Boyd on bass and BJ Maynard on drums. Band founder and frontman Jimmy Mahoney, is the man on the mic with some guitar grit thrown in. Mark Hibbs more often plays bass with the band, but last week he tackled the six-string for Neal Paul who was out of town.
SwanFest is a weekly concert series brought to us by the Seaside Arts Council and its sponsors in downtown Swansboro, from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Should you find the time to attend some Sunday soon, please consider offering a donation to assist with keeping the music and arts community flowing.
Of course, when living in Eastern North Carolina in the Summer, we do have to contend with storms and severe weather on occasion. When weather interferes with the show going on the committee simply reschedules the show. Sometimes they extend the season and other times the stack acts. For example, I went to see Pegasus Plus on Sunday, June 12 but given the weather, they rescheduled the band for July 3. The double header will be featuring Captain Dick & the Lost Seamen kicking things off at 6:30 pm, followed by Pegasus Plus at 7:30 pm.
2022 Swanfest Schedule
MC for the event last Sunday was Will Baker who is a member of the Seaside Arts Council and half of the Will & Tony Show. Always active in supporting the arts, I met Baker years ago when he was working Hillsborough, NC for a living and promoting local music on the radio there too. Now that he is retired, our coastal area is happy to have his talents in event planning.
Baker takes photos and videos of the events and uploads the captures to the Seaside Arts Councils Facebook Page. You can follow them and enjoy the music.
Will Baker welcomes gatherers to the Father’s Day SwanFest and introduces Pure T Mommicked who opens the show with a rocking original number
As for last Sunday, it was a beautiful Father’s Day night with local rockers, Pure T Mommicked, a band that came to life 24 years ago, just over the bridge in Emerald Isle, NC. Over the years the band has turned out quite a bit of original music, which is available on all streaming platforms. When I was writing this piece I was listening to them on Spotify, but at work I listen to them on Amazon Music. If you enjoy original rock I recommend checking out this rocking quartet. To keep up with their show and band announcements, follow them on facebook by liking pure t mommickedtoday.
Spotlight on Some Local Solo Singers
Hank Barbee at Oceanana Pier and Pier House Restaurant
I caught up with a solo Hank Barbee at the beach a couple weeks back. The long legged baritone was set up for dinner sounds, under the bar cover on the deck at Ocenana Pier and Pier House Restaurant. They host live music every Saturday evening from 6-9 pm.
Barbee splits his time playing solo, mostly around his hometown area of Wilmington, NC, and making rhythms around the region with his band The Dust Parade. In fact, the quartet will be setting up for a show tonight at Carolina Home & Garden in Newport, NC. The music starts at 6:30 pm. This band blends the talents of Barbee on guitar and vocals, Jim Durham on sax and vocals, Matt Henderson on bass and Xavier Roberson on drums. They offer original music mostly, with a wind-inspired surf sound with hints of jazz and blues. It’s always an awesome musical experience with the Dust Parade. The band will be making their rounds this summer. Next week they will be jamming at TheNew Village Brewery in Oriental on, July 2, 2022.
You can also mark your calendar today for their appearance at SwanFest on Sunday, August 14, 2022.
The Dust Parade has plenty of merchandise available for fans online and at their shows. Be sure to show your support by buying some music to take on the go, or a T shirt with the band’s logo. Keep in mind that every merch-purch helps advance projects for the band. One said project we are looking forward to advancing is new Dust Parade Music.
The band has been working things out for their next release. With Covid shutting things down and real life taking its toll, time has been the hardest thing to find for the studio work. The next release will be worth the wait though. It truly is going to be a beast. It will highlight this band and all of the friendship and music kinship which Barbee has been cultivating since his full time return to the NC scene in 2016.
Dust Parade Music – “It’s a Good Day” – Hank Barbee, June 11, 2022 at Oceana Pier House Restaurant
Coming up this Saturday, June 25 and next July 2, at Ocenana Pier and Pier House Restaurant will be the fun jams of MadSol Music, featuring talented stringer Tony Soldati and beautiful vocalist, Riley Madison on the deck from 6-9 pm. If you haven’t heard this duo yet, you’re in for a treat. They set out for stages all over the state, from Greenville, NC about 8 months ago. Barbee returns the following week for a solo shot at the pier on Saturday, July 9, 2022.
Greenville, NC-based duo MadSol
SwanFest PreFest with New Bern Artist Clarence Coley Live at Bake, Bottle & Brew
Clarence Coley wraps up his final set at Bake, Bottle & Brew on Sunday, June 19, 2022
Before heading over to SwanFest on Sunday, I stopped by Bake, Bottle & Brew to catch the last set of New Bern stringer, Clarence Coley. I caught this talented singer at open mic several years ago in New Bern, when he dropped by Tap That, but this was the first time I caught his live show.
While out and about I had the pleause of meeting blog follower, facebook friend and fellow music lover Joan Cross. She was sitting with David Stover at Coley’s gig. Joan called me over and introduced herself and welcomed me to their table. I told Stover I was in town the week before to catch his show with Pegasus Plus, but as we both knew, the event was postponed due to the weather. Along with playing bass for Pegasus Plus, he also keeps things in the pocket for Captain Dick & The Lost Seamen. As mentioned above both bands will share the bill next month for SwanFest during the Fourth of July weekend.
As for Coley, this talented player offers a mixed set with a variety of popular genres, including country and rock for all ages. Along with solo performances he plays in a duo Rollin’ Woods with his future wife Kristen McRoy, who he brags about on stage even during his solo shows. The duo has been navigating new territories with a new band mascot, their new baby Aidan who was born in late February. You can scope out Coley and Rollin’ Woods on Facebook to keep in tune with their destiny.
The Importance of Open Mic Nights
Tiff, Fern, Jesse, and Ryan Rubich and more joined the jam at Nick’s Blacksheep
Many music makers that are novice on the scene often hone in their talents and sharpen their stage skills at open mic events. These events often take place during the week and offer a platform for music makers to join forces, share music, create bands and more. As a music lover, I enjoy open mic nights because I get to meet and listen to so many cool acts in a short time. So many of the artists found on this blog site came to my attention thanks to an open mic night. Since open mic nights are good platforms and popular on the scene, I will always share new places to take your talent each week.
Durham
The Blue Notein Durham offers a Blues Jam on Tuesday and Open Mic on Wednesday. They support live music throughout the week and serve up some of the best food in Durham, NC. Stop by the next time you are in the mood to dine and move to the beats!
Greenville/Winterville
The nice thing about Greenville is you can hit several hot spots in a night to work out your jams. For example you can start out your Monday night with John Williams who opens the stage to jammers at AJ McMurphy’s 8 pm – until everyone jams. Following that fun, you can check in at The Buccaneer Music Hall which opens the stage at 10 pm until 1 am. All jammers are welcome to join the list and share their talents. On Wednesday’s in town you can check out Molly’s Community Cafe where tunes start at 7 pm. Just on the outskirts of town, over in Winterville, you can catch Mark Oliver hosting open mic at Nauti Dog Brewing Company. This is an every other Wednesday event. All are welcome to jam. Sign up and play from 7-10 pm.
Washington
Backwater Jack’s offers an open mic night on their pebble beach stage each Thursday that the weather permits. Hosted by local talent, Brian Burke, all are welcome to join in the fun. Music plays from 7-10 pm and all are encouraged to play. Above is a local jammer that joined the fun last summer. The restaurant and tiki bar is a big supporter of live music each weekend and serves up some great food too!
Along the Coast
Tiffany Elaine, The Crystal Coast’s mama bear and open mc hostess with the mostest!
For those living near the Crystal Coast, you can join in the fun that Tiffany Elaine cultivates at Cru Bar & Wine Store / The Beaufort Coffee Shop every Monday night. The mic opens at 7 pm and the fun happens until 10 pm. I have to to this open mic night several times over the years and always have a blast.
Tiffany is an angel on our music scene, doing a lot to help music makers strive and thrive in music. She takes her role as host seriously and makes a connection with everyone who joins her events. She introduces each person and makes everyone feel welcome and an important part of the equation.
This mother of three not only hosts open mic nights, but also makes music with her sweetheart, singer and guitarist Fernando Rivera with their duo Fern and Tiff, as well as plays music with her friend Steve Mehan in Southbound Train. Catch them this Saturday poolside at The Inn at Pine Knoll Shores. They will perform 1-4 pm.
Presenting The New NCMZ.Live Music Calendar Page
Are You Looking For An Open Mic to Test The Waters? Or Do You Want to Know Where to Find Live Music Tonight?
Today marks a new day in the blog world now that I have created and implemented a new calendar page that I can add new events to as I learn about them.
This gives readers and fans a reason to stop by the site more which is not only good for the acts we promote but the businesses too.
Advertise your live music events on this site! Reach an audience looking for live music!
You can support my effort by sharing this article with friends on your social media sites. Take a break and support live music this weekend. If you tip the blogger, your funds will be used to fuel the mission of supporting live music around the state. Thank you!
I remember the day that Ryan Rubich signed up and made a commitment to his life in music. We were chatting in a Jacksonville restaurant when he made the declaration of his road ahead. I simply sat there and encouraged the young lad. I helped him write a bio and booked a couple of community gigs for his duo to get polished. It was an exciting time in his life, there was definitely a fire ablaze in his soul and it was radiating out from his fingertips.
I met Rubich at an open mic night at Crystal Coast Brewery in Atlantic Beach that was hosted by Tiffany Elaine. After hearing him jam a couple of times, at a few open mics hosted by Elaine, I invited the slinger to come to Fairfield Harbour for a show which would mark the first time I saw Rubich live his original beat keeper, Jared Cain. I had met Cain years before jamming in a couple of different projects with Irish Robinson. The duo played two shows for me. Once during the winter months, the duo jammed at The Community Center (above) and the second time they returned in the Summer for a show at Red Sail Park (below).
It wasn’t long after those days that Rubich got serious about his career and turned his full attention to his career. This focus has paid off and paved a way for the singer-songwriter to stay busy with music. Even during the down days of Covid-19, the stringer and singer compiled, recorded and released his debut EP. After catching Rubich at a couple recent shows, I touched base with him on messenger and asked about the new release.
I started with the basics. “Tell me about the new release,” I said, “When did it come out?”
Rubich replied, “Released November 20th, 2020. ‘Find Your Way‘.” Who produced and recorded the disc? “Mike Corrado produced/recorded it at his studio Grunt Tunes it was mixed by Tommy Brothers at Shoreline Studios in Wilmington. We sent it out to the west coast to be mastered at moontreemastering.” Now the songs are available on all platforms for fans to enjoy.
After listening to his new EP, I asked the artist about songwriting, I was curious if the music came first or the lyrics. Rubich said, “Personally I write a lot of music pretty easily but have to dig for a concept or idea about lyrics. Sometimes I see where the vibe of the music takes the lyrics or for it to inspire an idea. It’s something I’m still a novice at, but learning more day by day.”
I heard a rumor that he was working on a side project lately and the best I can say about that is the rumors are true. Rubich has teamed up with a new band. He will be the lead guitar player for a New Bern-based band with some popular players. The new five-piece rocking beach band will be rolling out in the weeks ahead. I have another interview in the works with the frontman for that band project. So be sure to keep it here to catch the waves to the beach.
Besides working things out with the new project, in rehearsal each week, Rubich says, “I’ll still be playing full-time solo, and I am lining up gigs with my band RUBICH’S CUBE. In fact, he wanted me to tell everyone, “We have a gig April 29th @ Dukenfields, Jacksonville, NC 10 pm – 1 am. That gig will feature Mike Sandvig on bass and Jacob Yepez on drums. Stay tuned for more band dates with things opening up!”
To keep up with the Jacksonville based guitar player Like his page Ryan Rubich Music Facebook. For those interested in checking out his music start here and pick your favorite platform: Find Your Way
Big News From Bryan Mayer
I caught up with Bryan Mayer a couple of weeks ago when he was performing live at Tap That Craft and Wine Bar. The local country crooner has been keeping busy with solo shows during the pandemic days of Covid-19. In fact he has a few shows coming up along the Crystal Coast in the days ahead. You can catch him at The Saltwater Grill in Swansboro, next Friday, April 9, 2021. On Sunday he will be rocking fans at Gaffer’s in Emerald Isle from 2-5 pm.
Earlier this week Mayer made a big announcement regarding a solo show coming up next month. Bryan Mayer will open for country music super star Tracy Lawrence when his tour stops in New Bern to perform at the new Maola Events Center. To get your tickets in advance of the May 8th performance follow this link: Tracy Lawrence Tickets.
I will be taking to Mayer next week about this amazing opportunity as well as find out what else is happening in the singer’s life these days. He really is chock full of good news with lots happening on the horizon.
Big Sam At Harbour Pointe For Supper Sounds
Sam Lewis was our guest performer for the dinner crowd last Thursday evening at Harbour Pointe Bar and Grille. Lewis was a big hit with the residents that enjoy live music as they dine.
Sam Lewis is a very busy bee on our local music scene. When he is not offering a solo show, he plays with a band, and sometimes he jams as a duo. But that’s not where it ends. In fact, his band excursions keep him busy most weekends but during the week, he hosts open mic nights and encourages others to sing while hosting karaoke.
Starting next week Big Sam takes his big Karaoke Act to Sara’s Big Apple. All are encouraged to come out and sing. It is good therapy to express yourself through music so, come hungry, dine in, and sing out loud! Sounds like a great weekly option for the Broad Creek Road neighborhoods.
Here is the itinerary for Lewis in the weeks ahead:
•Thurs 4/1• Sweet Edventures Dessert Bar Swansboro KARAOKE 7-10p
•Sat 4/3• The Growler Bar Emerald Isle FULL BAND 7-10p
•Sun 4/4• New Covenant Church EASTER SUNDAY WORSHIP 10:30a
•Thurs 4/22• Sara’s Big Apple Pizza -KARAOKE- 6-8 pm
•Sun 4/25• Carolina Home and Garden DUO 1-3p
•Weds 4/28• Ducks Grille & Bar 6:30-9:30 SOLO
•Thurs 4/29• Sara’s Big Apple Pizza 6-8p -KARAOKE-
•Fri 4/30• The Office, Kinston DUO 7-10p
Before leaving his last gig I asked same to offer up an original song. He obliged with this:
The Little Things by Sam Lewis
Matt Riddle Live At The Brown Pelican
Matt Riddle is a Marine currently serving and living in New Bern. Just before press time, I reached out to Riddle on Facebook to learn more about him. I asked how long he has been playing? “I’ve been playing and singing roughly 27 years off and on. My mother introduced me to all kinds of music, I believe that in order to play good music you have to appreciate all types.” He definitely spreads out, offering everything from country to rock and more. When I walked in he was offering a rare cover of Peter Gabriel’s Sledgehammer.
I asked the stringer if he is from here, though I guess otherwise, he kindly replied, “I’m a transplant from Texas, I’m currently still in the Marine Corps, but my family and I have had a house here in New Bern since 2011 and we plan on staying in the area after I retire.”
“I do write my own music, I just haven’t performed it live too many times.” I can’t wait to see him again and request some original material for us.
As for gigging and looking for work playing, this entertainer says, “I’m always looking for more gigs that can fit into my busy schedule, if it works then I will play.” Riddle adds, “I love the way that music makes people feel, it is the outward expression of the soul.” As for reaching out and securing a date he says, “If anyone wants to book me they can reach me on here or by email at riddle1171@yahoo.com.
Amazing Lounge Lizards Groove Us Into the Weekend
I caught a sample of The Amazing Lounge Lizards while they were in town last Friday. This fun five piece party band hails from Raleigh and keeps busy around the Triangle area. I learned that have been rocking the scene with this current line up for just about a year.
One thing for sure they are full of energy and offer a great variety of popular party songs that span the decades from the ‘70s through today.
This weekend the band will bring the fun and funk to The Real McCoy’s tomorrow night. Music starts at 6 pm. To follow the band and keep up on all their dates like them on Facebook here: The Amazing Lounge Lizards.
Joe Brown & The Band Take Tap That
Our own local groove master, Joe Brown brought his band to Tap That last Friday to usher us into the weekend.
This would make for the second time I enjoyed Joe Brown, frontman and entertainer extraordinaire. For nearly five years I have been shooting pics and filing Brown behind the keyboard.
The first time I caught him front and center without a row of ivories at his fingertips, it was New Year’s Eve, on the very same stage. For that gig, he was backed by two keyboard players and the band. Last Friday he was backed by only one keyboard player. The popular Brandon Shamar kept the keys 🎹 grooving in time to the beats. Offering the backbeats for the night was the incredible Jasmine Best on drums. Also sitting in that night was guitar player Chris Campbell, who shared some pretty blues grooves and turned up the funk too when it was time.
We were all there to celebrate the front man himself, as Joe Brown finally turned 21 on March 22! Repetition is an important part of being a music maker and turn 21 over and over again keeps you young! Keep celebrating! Cheers!
Currently the band as no upcoming events to share, but keep it here as I am sure that is about to change with so many things returning to normal.
Adam Hill Music Monthly Rewind
I don’t know if I can really explain it, but when I tell you that music is powerful and impatctual upon the soul, I think of the movement my own soul when exposed to some Adam Hill music.
I can say this, I have had a love affair with music for as long as Adam Hill has existed. And for as long as I have been paying attention, one thing is true…Sometimes you come upon an artist that stops you dead in your tracks and makes you pay attention to music on a whole new level. That is exactly what Hill did to me.
I stopped out to check out the band Solid Ground and that is when Hill became a focal point of my music affections, not long after he offered this awesome version of Jimi Hendrix’s Voodoo Chile on stage at Jean’s in Havelock.
Was he the first? No! I have been at this longer than Adam has been making music. Being a decade older than the slinger is my only advantage to that equation. But I met Hill in the summer of 2016 and have been making my way to his shows on the regular because my soul always feels better after such a music experience.
Moving On By Adam Hill
My favorite music is Adam Hill. To be quite honest, I love original music. If I want to hear popular well-known songs, I can turn on the radio. But when I meet new players, it intrigues me to listen to their souls. Music is their portrait. They paint their canvas with music notes and phrasings from the depths of their spirit in the hopes of touching beating hearts and inspiring minds.
Over the years I have watched Hill offer many of his own songs and that is always the highlight of his shows for me. I am moved by the music as much as the lyrical messages. It’s clear to me that Hill survives the pains of living through shredding six strings and expressing his hurts through song. Many of his songs offer insight to the afflictions and struggles of life. He deals with life on his own terms and helps many others do the same with his music.
If you want to get your full of some Adam Hill Music, you have plenty of chances this weekend. The busy slinger has four shows booked over the next couple days. His first show is tomorrow morning, when he provides the music for the Annual Beauty and The Beast Car Show taking place in the Walmart parking lot on Yopp Road in Jacksonville, NC . The car show kicks off at 10 am and music is offered 11 am- 2 pm. Tomorrow evening the stringer will be singing at Crossroads Bar and Grill in Seven Springs, NC with music being served 10 pm til closing. Hill also has two shows on Sunday mentioned below in the weekly rundown. Keep reading to find out where you can catch him this Easter Sunday.
Carolina Swamp Dogs Bring Their Blues To Town
It was a Sunday Funday with The Carolina Swamp Dogs last week at the Brown Pelican. The Blues Duo from the Jacksonville area brought their unique blues offerings to the Dirty Bird for a few hours of afternoon fun.
I met this band at Annual Seafood Festival in Morehead City back in 2017. At the time they were the featured blues trio on the bill that year.
Carolina Swamp Dogs, when we met in 2017, was a trio of retired Marines with 85 years of service to our country now playing the blues.
Since those days, the band has slimmed down to a fully function duo featuring Gary Oles and Tommy Langlois.
Carolina Swamp Dogs Rock Red Sail Park
Over the years these Dogs have been my go-to when I need to fill a bill with the blues. They are good friends and talented blues musicians. I love how they bring education of the blues to the forefront of their show. The blues is our legacy, a part of our National history nobody better try to erase.
Both players retired from the Marine Corps and have kept in touch through the magic of music. They try to jam a few times a month but don’t keep a crazy schedule. For those looking to catch some authentic blues offered in a unique way, be sure to catch their show while you can. Our beloved, Gary has been bitten by the love bug and is changing things up in the hopes of settling down in Florida later this year. He and his fiancé Kathy Knowles are relocating to Orlando later this Summer, which means you only have a few more opportunities to catch this duo in the weeks ahead.
Next week they will be grooving in the beer garden at Wrightsville Beach Brewery in Wilmington, on Saturday, April 10 with tunes being poured out from 3-6 pm. The following week you can catch them back at The Brown Pelican when they bring their jams on Saturday, April 17, 7-10 pm. Also on the radar is Huffman Vineyards on Saturday, May 22, 7-10 pm and In June they have a gig on the books at Nick’s Blacksheep Tavern. Music plays 9 pm- 12 am.
Back To The Program @ The Brown Pelican
More signs of normalcy appear to be on the horizon for our friends at the Brown Pelican as they adapt to being back in action and open for business after 50 weeks of suffering from the shut down.
Starting this week they will resuming their regular routine of hosting a Monday evening blues jam with your host Big Jim Kohler and Friends. Music is offered 7-10 pm and all are welcome to join the fun.
Each Tuesday night Doc Paul will host a songwriter’s night where two acts will be highlighted each week. Music plays 7-10 pm. Come hear the latest and greatest players on the scene.
Singer Songwriter Doc Paul
Thursday’s welcome the return of Open Mic Night hosted by local slinger Charlie Duzan. This open mic welcomes all that wish to join the fun with music being shared 7-11 pm.
Open Mic host Charlie Duzan
Of course, The Brown Pelican is always your local music stop on weekends with awesome acts on the floor, front and center each weekend. Catch a show any Friday 7-10 pm or Saturday 7-10 pm. Looking ahead, Owner of the Dirty BirdHeather Haiss is interested in using Sundays to help those in need. For the year that her business was closed Big Jim hosted blues events each Sunday to keep the lights bill paid. With Haiss having survived her darkest days she hopes to continue helping others in need as she rebounds from her difficult year of closures. Keep it here to find out who she
At a glance music for this week, disclaimer below.
Friday 4/2 Afreyed Knot 8-11 at Blackbeards, New Bern
Chuck Phillips Band 6:30-9:30pm at Backwater Jack’s, Washington
Eli Craig Band 8-11pm at The Doghouse Tavern, Ayden
Monterio Experience Trio 8:30pm-12 at Market St Pub, Washington
Tim Bivans 8-11 at AJ McMurphy’s, Greenville
Jamie Pridgen Band 10pm-1am at The Office, Kinston
Roy and DC Linton 7-10 at Ribeyes, Washington
2Digh4 10pm-1 at The Buccaneer Music Hall, Greenville
Singer showcase 7:30 pm, Erin Lewis, Sam Weatherly, and Joe Shingera at Molly’s Café, Uptown Greenville
Sat 4/3 Side Trac Band 8-11 at AJ McMurphy’s, Greenville
Eli Craig Band 8:30-12 at Market St Pub, Washington
Psylo Joe 7-10 pm at Local Oak Brewing Co., Winterville
John Williams 6:30-9:30 at Backwater Jack’s, Washington
Chris Hagan Band 10pm-1am at The Office, Kinston
Roy Stewart 7-10 at The Plank Steakhouse, Farmville
Mikele Buck Band 8-11 at Blackbeards, New Bern
Open Jam 6:30 hosted by John Williams at Backwater Jacks, Washington
Justin Anderson 10pm-1 at Buccaneer Music Hall, Greenville
Cooper Greer 7-10 pm at Ribeyes, Washington
Sun 4/4 John Benson 2-5 pm at Backwater Jack’s, Washington
Tues 4/6 Brian Burke 7-9 at AJ McMurphy’s, Greenville
Every Mon Rhythm & Grooves open mic with John Williams 7:30 AJ McMurphy’s, Greenville
Open mic 8:30pm with Jared Gonzalez at The Buccaneer Music Hall , Greenville
Every Wed Open Mic with JT at Molly’s Community Cafe, Uptown Greenville
3rd Wed of month Open mic with Chuck Phillips 6pm at Parleys Sip and Steam , Washington
Every other Wed Open mic with Joe Shiranga 7-10 at Nauti Dog Brewing Co., Winterville
Every other Thurs. Brian Burke hosts open mic 6:30-9:30 pm at Backwater Jack’s starting April 8, 2021.
Disclaimer: Please note that musicians and times are subject to change. Please call the venue in advance for confirmation. While I don’t know or support all of these musicians I do recommend these venues.
Thank you for supporting live music.
More Live Music Options
Cruisin’ County by County
In the hopes of always keeping things fresh and new, here is a new rundown of live music for the days ahead, county by county.
Cooper Greer will be on hand in the Angus Room, to provide Saturday evening entertainment at Ribeyes of Washington. Music is on the menu from 7-10 pm.
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Pamela Cox and J. B. Mayes will be the featured live music at Captain Cooks this Saturday night! Everyone is invited to come early for a good dinner and stay late for the music Music is offered 7-11 pm.
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Eli Craig Band will provide the music this Saturday, from the stage at Market Street Pub in downtown Washington, NC. Music plays 8:30pm – midnight. Make sure you have your dancing shoes on!
