Hi, all. I had such a fine time last week I just don’t think I can stand it if it gets any better - but it is...and I will! Last week I had a chance to hear Back Seat Becky at BJ’s and I was most impressed. Guitarist Taylor Knox has been mentioned in this column several times over the past few years beginning when he used to sit in on open mic at the Crab Bag. He has one more year to go at Berklee School of Music but, man, is he ready to go now. Taylor has great chops and a voice to match. There will be no holding him back. Bandmate Steve Wisniewski shared vocal duties as well as guitar and an intriguing little keyboard gadget. Bassist Dan McDonald was a curly-haired cutie who, from his body language, clearly enjoyed playing. And pumping out the beat with pizazz was Mark Brenan. These young guys play a varied repertoire that belies their age; both new and old tunes that had everyone dancing. Catch them every Mon. at Trader Lee’s.
    I also ventured out to Bishopville to the lovely setting of Lighthouse Sound where the first concert on the lawn took place with Lauren Glick & the Mood Swingers. It’s such a serene setting with an expansive view of the bay and Ocean City skyline. That view will really come into play on Wed. when Tranzfusion is set to perform under the stars for a July 4th Independence Day celebration. Bring your chairs and enjoy the spectacle along with music from one of the best bands around.
    Then I stopped in High Stakes for a long overdue listen to Lower Case Blues. BJ on bass, Jake on guitar, and Paul on drums have, if it’s possible, gotten even better. Jake is one of the best guitarists you’ll ever hear. And his style is compelling to watch. And BJ? He’s a force of nature who pops that base so effortlessly and yet with great effect. I guarantee you will be blown away by this trio. And you’ll have the chance to hear them for yourselves Thur., July 5, at High Stakes on Rt. 54.
    We were all thoroughly entertained by the Sounds of Society last Sun. at Fager’s Island. This Chicago tribute band had some awesome musicians playing some of the best music of all time. You never realize how many hits a band had until you hear them grouped together. Most enjoyable. I’m certainly looking forward to this Sunday’s concert with One Hot Night - music of Neil Diamond. Again, many top-of-the-chart tunes over the years. Hope to see you all there.
    And Wed. night I was thrilled anew at the sounds of Shaun Hopper on the guitar. His finger-style of playing has all ten fingers moving at once as well as guitar body taps for percussive sounds. Everyone is just in awe of this fine musician who has proven to be a fine singer as well. Shaun will be playing every Wed. this month, so come out for the show - it’s an early one at 8:30 pm.
    It’s been a pleasure to have Arizona back in town playing at the Clarion/Ocean Club. And to hear Ray Pittman Project who have been on the deck this week. Be sure to include the Ocean Club and/or the deck bar in the Clarion at 101st. It’s possibly the most breathtaking venue in Ocean City overlooking the ocean.
    The Purple Moose continues to bring us the best in rock ‘n roll. This week it’s the incredible sounds of Surreal on Friday & Saturday, Walt’s vocals are among the best in the business, bar none. Brian on guitar, Will on bass and Renee on drums all deliver precise and  dynamic performances playing the best hits of the ‘80s and beyond. They always pack the house so come early and claim your space. Did you get your tickets for FUEL yet? The date is almost here - Thur., July 5. That’s right, the fireworks will continue on the boardwalk with one of the most explosive bands of the rock world - and the friendliest, too.
    The Purple Moose continues their Thurs. tribute nights with Heart tribute Kick It Out July 12. These gals can really power pump the hits out. I can’t wait for The Rising - yes, Bruce Springsteen music on Thur., July 26.
    I heard rising star Sarah Bernstein  Tues. at Jive. A native of Salisbury, she has been performing in L.A. and  Halifax, Nova Scotia where she met with acclaim. At the young age of 17, this poised, beautiful and talented gal is destined for big things. See her every Tues. this month at Jive. Party Safe!