Hi, all, and happy Memorial Day weekend, the official opening of Season 24 in our beautiful seaside town.  I bailed on chatting with you last issue as I didn’t have anything to say; stayed in due to bad weather.  This week, however, I enjoyed such an abundance of epic entertainment that I don’t know if I can fit it all in.  And, as always, I’m ready to get out there and begin enjoying the weekend.  So let’s get started.

Last Friday I traveled rather far afield to go hear The Mercury Agenda at Market Street Inn in Salisbury, my first visit there.  Let me say that the food was delicious and the atmosphere very conducive to a good time.  On this occasion, only three of the usual five-piece band were on hand, making it their acoustic act.  Chris Sajadi on guitar was outstanding as always; but there was an added quality to his playing, maybe because he was solo without their second guitarist Nalan Lokey and I could really zone in on his playing.  In any case, there was an ethereal quality to his renditions of such songs as “Free Falling” and “Space Oddity” just to name a few.  David Waters, usually on drums, played bass, which in addition to his creative notes, also carried with it the drum beat; most impressive.  Of course, Doug Balch on vocals was awesome; again, probably because it was a quieter venue, we could really hear the excellent quality of his voice.  Certainly the harmonies between he and Chris were sublime.  It was a terrific performance.  I hope to hear the whole band at Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill today, if the rain holds off.  Meanwhile, check Who’s Where When to see where you can hear them next.

From there, friend Lori and I came back to West OC where Homeskool Dropouts were playing at Tugo’s.  Wow, these young musicians are absolutely mesmerizing as they played one classic rock hit after another.  James Fegely is one of the best guitarists I’ve ever heard, despite the fact that he is only 17!  What a shredder!  He revels in playing songs by such artists as Black Sabbath and Hendrix (so much more). while singing every song.  Incredible!  Sister Vada (15) was so chill laying down the bass runs with such nonchalance and she also sings both backup and a few solos.  What a talented duo these two are.  They were accompanied by dad Bruce on rhythm guitar and Craig on drums.  I highly recommend you go hear them whenever you get the chance.

Saturday began with a trip to The Angler which, under new ownership, has made some really cool improvements.  Lauren Glick was solo at her keyboard singing dozens of songs, both covers and her originals.  We were treated to her latest song called “I’m a Gypsy” that is a sure-fire hit.  We also heard “Mama Don’t Worry” and “Walk Me Off The Ledge,” two more originals.  Lauren has such an eclectic repertoire that you will be captivated to hear what she’s going to play next. She covers such artists as Sia, Led Zeppelin, Heart, Carole King, Dolly Parton, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Beth Hart (“Out Of LA” is awesome), Lady Gaga, Guess Who, Janis Joplin, Elton John, Leon Russell, Linda Ronstadt, Tina Turner, Joni Mitchell’s “Woodstock”, Carly Simon, Christine McVie of Fleetwood Mac and even Prince’s “When Doves Cry.”  So cool!  I’ve heard Lauren many times but I never get tired of her shows because she always has something new to play for us.  Go hear Ocean City’s premier singer/songwriter whenever you get the chance.

Next up, Full Circle at Drydock 28.  I’ve written about this band many times over the years and I find their act even better (if that’s possible) than ever.  Lead vocalist Michelle Schachter has an amazing voice that can handle any range, any genre and always sound flawless.  Her partner Kathy Denk also has a beautiful voice singing many of the songs as well as backup vocals while playing guitar.  Sean Loomis, who joined the group last year, has taken on the lead guitar parts; but I love it when he and Kathy complement on the occasional guitar duel.  Joe Mama on drums and Jeff Davis on bass round out the group who remain a perennial favorite in OC.

I finished up the night with a visit to the legendary Purple Moose on the Boardwalk to hear Surreal.  I missed them last summer; but I’m here to tell you that they have lost none of their skills nor swagger.  Will is still thrashing about on bass, Brian is still amazing on guitar, Chris is dynamic on drums, and Walt, in addition to playing guitar and some keyboard, is one of the most amazing vocalists you’ll ever hear.  I had a blast.

Sunday I was back to Coconuts to hear Colossal Fossil Sauce.  RyMac is a master on the congas and occasionally on djembe; but it’s his vocals and friendly demeanor that captivates their audiences.  Partner Brad plays guitar and provides harmony vocals while Wilson on bass and Sam on drums filled out the sound.  This group is expert in covering Reggae classics as well as rock, R&B and some pop ... such as “Gotta Have Faith,” “Magic Carpet Ride” and some Chili Peppers.  Always most entertaining.

I told you I was going to have too much to say and I haven’t finished because I heard Cecilia’s Fall on Monday at Fager’s Island (what a fantabulous show) and Lime Green on Wednesday and was blown away by both.  But that will have to wait ‘til next week.  I’m anxious to get over to Coconuts to hear The Mercury Agenda.  Thanks to Tranzfusion for again being part of coconuttimes.com.  We can hear them tomorrow at the OP Yacht Club and again on Monday at M.R. Ducks.  Also on Monday, the ever entertaining Teenage Rust & The Fabulous Rustettes will play at Coins.

Have a great weekend, everyone.  Remember to be kind to one another and always party safe.