“Oh say can you see.” This week we celebrate the independence of the greatest country in the world.  I wonder how many people know that our national anthem actually has 4 verses. The work, written by Francis Scott Key, was originally a poem with 3 additional stanzas following “O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave”.  For those up on their knowledge of music, the anthem has a range of one and a half octaves which is why it is difficult to sing by most. Ironically, some of those with vast vocal ranges have goofed-up the lyrics while performing the anthem in public (a major faux pas).  Key wrote the work of art about an event close to what we call home. The words describe what he witnessed during the bombardment of Fort McHenry by the British Royal Navy ships in the Chesapeake Bay.  

For most, July 4th is a time for celebration, merriment & time off work. For locals, days off work will be few and far between until the season ends. This goes for musicians as well. Kevin Poole, a local musician and family man knows this too well. His schedule is booked solid and fortunately for us, he plays at some of the best outdoor venues in OC. Kevin has the expertise of entertainment down to a science, but he makes it seem like an art. His acoustic talent & good humor provide his listeners with an opportunity of a fun, carefree day out. His song list is extensive & includes many of his originals. I dare you to request a song he can’t fulfill. His 3rd CD titled Scenic Route includes over a dozen originals which highlight the regional lifestyle from the eyes of a local. He operates as a solo act and alongside other local musicians as Poole & the Gang which includes Joe Mama, or sometimes Ed Smullen, on drums, John Remy on guitar, & Ryan Mete on bass. At a recent gig at M.R. Ducks, keyboard player Chris Thomas joined in adding even more fullness to the Gang’s sound. A great way to celebrate the 4th is by starting off at Coconuts – Castle in the Sand – with Poole & the Gang starting at 5 pm; ending with a view of the fireworks from the beach. Coconuts offers sun, fun, volleyball & two live bands every day. Kevin can also be heard at Coconuts this Sat. & 7/13 with Joe Mama at noon. Some other great outdoor establishments with fresh air & amazing views where Kevin can be found are Fager’s Island tonight & 7/5, Rio Grande Café with Joe 7/6, M.R. Ducks & OP Yacht Club. Visit kevinpoole.net for a “full” schedule. 

I have a recommendation for this weekend. If you love music, beer, & BBQ (and who doesn’t?), then head over to the Blues, Brews & BBQ Festival at Heron Ponds Amphitheatre in Delmar this Sat. from noon til whenever. Local craft beer & music by Deanna Bogart Band, Chris English, Heather Hardy, Bullbuckers, & two of my favorites, Lower Case Blues & Dr. Harmonica & Rockett 88. I was lucky enough to catch Dr. Harmonica (Mark Kenneally) at the Taphouse recently and he is incredible! The band’s funky blues are performed with such an intense charisma that they bring their audience to life. I love the brilliant solo sax performances by Alan Yandziak; but you never know who the Doc might bring along with him. It could be that Daryl Ray Jenkins might show up to play sax. This band is the winner of numerous awards & was official band of Baltimore Orioles. I can’t wait! 

Indeed, America is the land of the free because of the brave. Never forget the sacrifices made by our men and women whose bravery has helped to keep us free. “And the Star - Spangled Banner in triumph shall wave, o’er the land of the free and the home of the brave”!