Hi, everyone. Here’s the first issue in June and with it the beginning of the fastest three months of the year. Maybe it’s the cool events we look forward to every weekend that makes it fly by so fast from Memorial Day to the Ravens parade, spectacular Air Show this weekend, the Firefighters’ parade and the DEW Tour coming - always so many fun things to do in Ocean City and it flashes by in the wink of an eye. So enjoy every day, my friends, for no one really knows what the future holds, no matter how much we plan it.
    Are you planning on going to the Air Show? Yes? Me, too. It’s always exciting but if you know me, you know I’d probably rather be listening to music sitting by a palm tree in the breeze. And there’s plenty of great music goin’ on this week.
    One of my very favorite bands, Full Circle, will be very busy entertaining the visiting crowds as they begin the weekend playing at BJ’s on Fri. night. If you’re one of a few who haven’t heard them, now’s your chance. Anyone who has will tell you that they are loaded with talent having three amazing vocalists, and their song list spans genres and generations. Check ‘em out; you’ll be glad you did.
    I visited the 45th St. Taphouse several times last weekend and I want you all to get the word out that the newly opened Bayside Taphouse is the bomb. Go to the western entrance to the huge deck and restaurant. They’ve really done a great job of renovating this space, turning it into a very swank restaurant and sports bar (screens everywhere) - complete with a stage for awesome bands and big dance floor. Right up my alley. The bayside windows open out onto the deck so you can sit outside and still be at the bar and watch the bands. Cool! You can catch repeat perfomances of what I saw last week with 2 Much Stuff on Fri. and The Mood Swingers w/ Lauren Glick on Sat.
    I’ve been quite impressed with 2 Much Stuff featuring Joe Smooth on sax. Then we have Glenn (Honu) on keyboard/bass/guitar, Ed on drums and John on lead guitar. Also impressive were John’s two new original tunes, “Perfect Summer Day” and “Wig Hat.” I would put these compositions up against anyone’s. And John has a great voice and entertaining delivery, too. All four share vocal duties which makes for great variety, and the energy is very upbeat. Most entertaining
    And, of course, everyone knows what a magnificent vocalist Ocean City has in Lauren Glick. This group, The Mood Swingers) also has a lot of talent with Mike on guitar who also sings (love his crazy good slide on blues numbers), Ted on bass, and Bubba on drums (who sings on a few numbers as well). Awesome group! Join their fans to party Sat.
    Then Wed. night I heard Tim & The Animal whom I had not seen in a while. Tim Cyphers has one of the best voices around and Danny Morgan on congas/bongos adds an energetic spice to the duo that you just can’t resist - or describe. So you must hear them for yourselves. Catch them every Sun. at the 123rd St. Hooters; every Thur. at de Lazy Lizard; and every Wed. at 45th St. Taphouse. In Baltimore on the weekends, they play at The Horse You Came In On in Fells Point.
    It’s gonna be a huge weekend on the deck at M.R. Ducks starting with the hot sounds of Tear The Roof Off. Guitarist Vince D’Addio leads this group of seasoned musicians. There may be some surprises this weekend - who knows - a sax maybe. Tune in and see. Then Sat. the party will be off the hook with Johnny Bling - always a good time.
    And Sun., another busy group this weekend, Tranzfusion, will play on the deck at M.R. Ducks. It’s always special hearing these fantastic musicians there; but you can also hear them at Coins on Fri. and Sat. nights. Coins has a nice dance floor and great food. Check out this great venue for good music.
    There’s so much more to do so check the “Who’s Where When” list here and online at coconuttimes.com. I’ll end this week with a fond farewell to one of OC’s most gifted musicians, Tim Hofman. Just recently Tim gifted me with three of his CD’s loaded with classic tunes he played so passionately on piano. I’m thankful to have the legacy of his music and I send sincere condolences to his family on his untimely death.
    Please be careful as you travel and remember to always party safe!