Published in the May 27-June 9, 2015 issue of Morgan Hill Life

By Mark Fenichel

Mark Fenichel

Mark Fenichel

The Friday Night Music series opens its weekly summertime shows June 5 and will run through Aug. 28. This year, as an added bonus, if you come early you will be entertained by some of the best in local acoustic solo and duo acts. From 6 to 6:20 p.m. there is a special children’s set of dance and music programs from Michelle Moyer’s Music In Motion and the local award-winning Lana’s Dance Studio. The acoustic opener takes the stage at 6:30 p.m. for a solid 20-minute set.

June 5 Steve Barbour opens for Entourage. He’s a rocker at heart covering songs from Traffic to Hendrix. June 12 the eclectic Lori Ludy opens for Soul Kiss. Her creamy vocals and guitar style are a winning combination. She plays ‘20s to ‘30s style blues, folk and campy comical originals with lyrics that are sure to make you laugh.

June 19 local Jeff Smith opens for Super Bad. He plays contemporary tunes and accompanies himself on mandolin, ukulele and guitar. June 26 Jim Boyers opens for the Jesse Charles Band. Jim is an extremely experienced singer-songwriter and carries with him myriad of originals. July 3 there is no Friday Night Music Series, but returns July 10 with Free Spirit opening for Toree McGee and RodeoHouse. The acoustic duo of Mike Tatarakis & Ray Trevino (Free Spirit) are folksy troubadors with spot-on harmonies and an Everly Brothers meet Simon and Garfunkle sound. July 17 Chris O’Connor (from Chris & Friends Open Mic at GVA Cafe) will bring his Neil Young sound to open for Busta Groove. Singer-songwriter Michael Gaither will make an appearance July 24 opening for Shane Dwight. July 31 opening for Tina Michelle and the Rhinestone Cowboys will be Kevin and Ann Worley a couple who have been playing together since marrying 15 years ago. Their harmonies are rich and Kevin’s guitar playing is the perfect compliment to this harmonious duo. Aug. 7 New Jersey born Aly Kahn brings his Springsteen-like persona to open for Forejour.

On Aug. 14 Patrick T. McCauley will do things with his voice and guitar that shows his pure talent. He will be opening for The Cocktail Monkeys. Aug. 21 opening for Sage it’s Dave Allendar, a well-seasoned singer-songwriter who is rooted in the South Bay folk scene. Aug. 28 is the final night of the series with San Jose’s favorite horn band The House Rockers. I will open that show with my guitar, harmonica and a special guest playing blues, roots, folk and Americana.
• • •
On another note, celebrate the ‘60s with vintage rockers Chubby’s Allstars at the Granada Theater May 30.

If you have a music tip send it to me at [email protected]