Greetings Bikers, enthusiasts and music fans. I was awakened to the sound of motorcyles traveling down my street this morning, reminding me that our two-wheeled visitors are rolling in today (Thur.). There are many popular viewing spots around town with the organized events taking place at the Convention Ctr. and the Inlet. In its third year, OC BikeFest promises to be bigger and better than ever. In Sonic Notes, Cathy gave some information for you and you can see the complete lineup at ocbikefest.com but here are the acts I would like to see. At the Ocean Stage Foghat will perform at 2:30 on Fri. followed by War at 5:30. Sat. I’d love to hear America at 2:30 and Three Dog Night at 5:30, wouldn’t you? Then there’s a Boardwalk stage where our friends Kashmir, who have played at the Purple Moose, will be performing on Sun. at 2pm. Playing all Led Zeppelin, this group is recognized as the #1 Zeppelin tribute in the nation and a well-deserved accolade that is, too. I’m sorry I’m missing their performance today (Thur.) as I’m writing this. In addition to all the great music are demos and stunts that will amaze you. Let’s all enjoy the show and remember to be courteous to your neighbors as you travel and party around town.

Dr. Harmonica & Rockett 88 will be busy this weekend as they play at the 45th St. Bayside Taphouse on Sat. Again, let me clue you in as to where this is. All of you are by now familiar with the 45th St. Taphouse where you’ve been enjoying music on the outside deck all summer; but perhaps you’re still not aware that the Taphouse has another venue just a few steps to the west under the blue neon sign that says Bayside Dining. Inside you’ll find a large bar, spacious dining room, wrap-around deck with tiki bar and stage and dance floor - all right on the bay. This is where you’ll find the Doc blowin’ that harp and recounting his bawdy stories with some of the best blues players in the business. Fri. night Poverty Ridge Band will be playing at this location. See their ad for all the events happening at 45th St.

Skipping past the weekend for a minute, I have to say all us locals are so happy to have BJ’s Wed. Deckless Deck parties back. This coming Wed. will see the much anticipated return of Two Guys & a Mama featuring three of our area’s most talented musicians: Dave Sherman, Chris Button and Joe Mama. We miss them during the summer as they’re all involved with other musical projects; so we’re happy to have them back, right? In addtion to the fact that, as I said, they are wonderful musicians, it’s a pleasure to hear Dave’s voice singing a collection of songs that is distinctly different than the norm. He is, without a doubt, one our most talented singer/songwriters; and a very nice guy.

Smitty McGee’s, the original home of Bike Night, will be roarin’ with action all weekend, particularly Sat. night when the Bo Dickerson Band checks in to deliver a night of rockin’ country, both classic and modern. They always attract a huge group of fans, many of the gals sportin’ their cowboy boots. You’re guaranteed a good time.

Not too many weeks left to enjoy Seacrets’ beach parties so I recommend a visit to catch the Jim Long Band, featuring Jim, Mark Fitzgerald & Gene Watson. Not only do you get to dance in the sand to a lot of great music, but Jim also leads several different contests during band breaks for T-shirt prizes. And tonight, Fri., Seacrets concludes three nights of tribute bands with Live Wire playing an AC/DC tribute show.

The Purple Moose is bringing back Surreal Fri. & Sat. playing their own style of tribute show, an incredible songlist spanning the’80s and ‘90s. You’ll not hear a better vocalist than Walt Downey who has the power and range to rival, and even better, many well-known artists.

Most importantly to enjoying all this music is that you all stay safe and happy.