Hi, my friends. Hope all is well with you and you’re enjoying the fabulous souped-up classics roaring around town. Yes, it’s Cruisin’ Weekend and we’re cruisin’ on into summer. Memorial Day weekend is coming up next; then all the big events begin including the new laser light show on the Boardwalk.
    This weekend presents more great opportunities to hear the best music in the world; right here in our own backyard; and pick up some warm rays while we’re listening, too, thanks to all the outdoor venues now in full swing. Welcome back to Rio Grande Cafe & Tiki Bar where Chris Button & Joe Mama will kick things off today, Fri. This cozy intimate venue is like having your own pool party.
    Kevin Poole is assembling his full band for a rockin’ good time on the docks at M.R. Ducks Friday. Yes, Poole & The Gang will play for us while we enjoy one of the most beautiful places to view the sunset around. We are blessed with many such locations, aren’t we. Just saw a beautiful one from BJ’s last night while listening to Randy Lee. Heaven!
    De Lazy Lizard is another place you just can’t beat with music every day (Willow Brook today & Sons of Pirates Sat.) and gorgeous sunsets over the bay. And, of course, places like Macky’s & Fager’s Island turn sunsets into an event each day with special music playing during the big ‘ball drop.’
    Have you been to Jive yet. Talk about breathtaking sunsets! And the music schedule is in full swing now with The Time Police tonight, Raucous Brothers Sat. and Bryan Clark every Wed. Don’t forget Bluesology on Thursdays, too, with Bob & Jackson.
    Well, I don’t know how I got onto sunsets; I can only say my oxygen deprived brain is wandering. Allergies are kickin’ the stuffing out of me this week, so I’m going to cut my chat short and tell it with pictures. You can bet I’ll still be out and about all weekend enjoying all this terrific music. How to see it all? Impossible, I guess, but I sure do love tryin’!
    Congratulations to two of my favorite venues who each celebrated their anniversaries Wed. The 19th Hole in West O.C. where John LaMere entertained the crowd; and Johnny’s Pizza Pub with music by Rick Kennedy. Both establishments have acknowledged the power of music to soothe the savage beast. Thanks.
    Stop up to High Stakes, too, where Kevin Poole & Johnny Mojo will play next Thur. (May 24) & wish owner Brian a happy birthday. Melissa Alesi is there tonight. Party safe!