Labor Day weekend is upon us which denotes the beginning of the end of summer. Labor Day to most means a three-day weekend, barbecues, sales & last chance getaways. The true intention of the holiday is to pay tribute to those in the workforce; those individuals who have in the past provided, and will bestow in our future, economic stability and prosperity for our amazing country.  So, don’t forget to be thankful for all those hard working folks and especially for those who will continue to work this weekend to make yours more pleasant.
    A perfect way to commence your weekend is to head over to Galaxy 66 for happy hour tonight (Fri 8/30). Along with the fantastic atmosphere and menu, they are featuring The Stims from 4-8.  Band members include Zach Coffman on percussion and Brian Mahoney on guitar. This duo grew up very close to each other but didn’t join forces until studying music together in Salisbury. During their ‘open mic’ nights, the audience’s positive response & appreciation for their performances sparked their aspirations and they have been going strong ever since. They term their style as organically acoustic. They enjoy playing the music their audience likes to hear; adding some original ingenuity. They usually add a few of their own recordings to their show and break out the harmonica or kazoo as well. For just two fellas, their music flows with energetic cadence. A few weeks ago, The Stims performed at Freeman Stage for “Locals Under the Lights.” This is a monthly event giving all types of local entertainers a chance to take the stage and show their talents.
    Michael Justis returns to the 45th St. Taphouse Sat. and again on Mon. performing in the spacious Bayside Taphouse. Michael was a mainstay on the music circuit here until he left for St. Croix about nine years ago. This summer he came back for a visit and began playing around here again. Michael has a great voice and an expansive repertoire and is also superb on guitar; making him the epitome of a one-man show. This is also a great choice if you love specialty beers; they have over 30 and boast 100 taps. The Taphouse Pretzel is a must to go along with an ice cold beer.
    This Saturday, Colossal Fossil Sauce will be appearing at Johnny’s Pizza & Pub.  These guys are another dynamic duo. With just Brad on the guitar and Ryan on the bongos, you wouldn’t believe the sound they put out. I used to hear them play regularly a few years back at Kelly’s Sandbar where I tend bar. This is a cozy Key West style bar on the boardwalk and they would pack the place every time. I’m looking forward to seeing them again this weekend.  Johnny’s has a cool atmosphere and the pizza is really good!
    Speaking of hard working, all Aaron Howell fans are in for a treat this week. Aaron performs as a solo act at The 19th Hole on Friday, adding Bob Harvey & Adam Ask as a trio at Coconuts Saturday 12-4 and later as a duo called 1+1 at the Angler 5-9.  Sunday is the last chance to get to OP Yacht Club. What better way to close the season but Tranzfusion and a beautiful bayside view.
    School is in session now, but don’t assume the music ends. Mid-week still offers some great rock & roll. Wednesday, Hooters WOC presents the Jon Pheasant Band, Arizona performs at the Ocean Club Clarion and Rising Sun will be appearing at Seacrets. BJ’s on the Water gets their Wednesday deck parties started also with Old School on Sept. 4.
    How many songs can you think of that relate to working hard? How about Dolly Parton’s “9-5”, Sam Cooke’s “Chain Gang”, Donna Summer’s “She Works Hard for the Money”, Beatles’ “Hard Days Night”, BTO’s “Taking Care of Business, Rush’s “Working Man”, Merle Haggard’s “Working Man Blues” and, of course, “I’ve Been Working on the Railroad”  and “Heigh-Ho” to name a few. Have a safe & melodious holiday weekend!