Hi, guys. Whether you’re in the thick of things at the final weigh-ins at the Reel Inn Dock Bar at Harbour Island for the White Marlin Open or joining the crowds at any one of several other waterside locations, there’s no doubt that this annual tournament generates a lot of excitement. I was at Sunset Grille last night and the night before to hear Animal House and Deanna Bogart, and the sight of all those beautiful boats with fish pennants flapping in the breeze was almost better than the music - almost. Animal House singer Perry was right in the crowd, singing to the gals and havin’ a great time. You can hear them this weekend, Fri. & Sat. at Fager’s Island. And what can I say about Deanna Bogart. This gal is an absolute rare force of nature - musical nature, that is - so gifted on keyboards and saxophone. Of course, she has honed her skills over many years of playing and as we wonder if she can get any better - she does! She paraded through the audience blowing on that sax in free-style jazz and making it ‘talk’ to the people she met showing also her great sense of humor. Back up on the boathouse stage, she played the keyboard with lightning speed and with such creativity. It’s always fun when she ‘duels’ with the guitarist. Her accompanying musicians are always top notch. Don’t ever miss an opportunity to hear this amazing musician/songwriter/singer who I’m sure, as she said, will still be playing for us into our golden years.
    More amazing talent can be heard from Tommy Edward tonight (Fri.) at Johnny’s Pizza Pub. Along with beautiful songstress Melissa Rose & flamboyant drummer Harry, you can count on this group to keep you dancing in the aisles all night long. Now, this is not a Sir Rod show, but Tommy always throws in some Stewart tunes and he does them so well. This is definitely one of my favorite groups.
    Another favorite (yes, I know I have many) is the Mood Swingers featuring the amazing vocals of Lauren Glick. Nobody can sing a blues song a la Janice Joplin or country/blues a la Sugarland like Lauren. She will rock you to your soul. Mike Armstrong is undeniably one of the best guitarists around and he can sing a mean tune too. I especially like it when he breaks into some slide blues on that guitar - awesome! Hear them tonight, Fri., at BJ’s. And you’ll want to come back on Sat. to hear great ‘80s music from The Chest Pains.
    Talk about a high energy band, check out the Bo Dickerson Band on Sat. at Smitty McGee’s. The crowd goes wild every time this group returns. They play all the best of today’s young country with some classic and a little rock thrown in. Bo has a way with the women, too, I’ve noticed; just to add a little spice. In addition to Smitty McGee’s being your sports headquarters, you can always count on a good time with Randy Lee Ashcraft on Thur. & Fri. and the Ginger Duo (that’s the lovely & talented Nancy Micciulla) on Sun.
    Seacrets will continue their Summer Concert series with a performance by Collie Buddz w/ New Kingston on Mon. Reggae fans have been lovin’ the music in the Morley Hall as well as on the beach stage every night with bands such as S.T.O.R.M. playing this weekend. Rockin’ favorite Big Bang Baby will return on Fri. night. Every day is a good day at Seacrets. You know what I’m talkin’ about.
    I’m speaking for everyone at Fager’s Island last Sun. night when I say we thoroughly enjoyed the Beatlemania Again show. These guys are so committed to recreating the music of the Beatles that they use only the old-style amps and instruments of that day and they change attire to suit the years of the songs they’re covering. John even donned an Army helmet when he sang “Revolution.” It was tons of fun. And I bet it will be again this Sun. when Captain Fantastic comes to town singing and playing the music of Elton John. We’re all loving these tribute bands, aren’t we?
    The Purple Moose has certainly been fun - tonight is Aerosmith & next Thur. is Bon Jovi tribute Crossroads. Also can’t wait to see Colin Kane on Wed. Something different - the Moose will become a Comedy Club for a night with this brilliant, witty comedian. Be sure to get a ticket - it’s gonna sell out. Party safe, friends!