http://www.coconuttimes.com Coconut Times - Ocean City's Entertainment Web Magazine - Coco Nights en http://www.coconuttimes.com/ http://www.coconuttimes.com 18421726885787 http://www.coconuttimes.com/articles/Coco-Nights/SWINGING-INTO-FALL
I’m planning to hit Coconuts again on Saturday to hear the Lime Green Band. Talk about vocals - Angeline Leech is another rarity having one of the best voices on the shore with a phenomenal range - and she plays guitar as well. She is joined by Terry Wilson on lead guitar, John Murrell on bass and Billy Heiser on drums. I’m always amazed at the eclectic repertoire this band can boast. Everything from Fleetwood Mac to Jethro Tull to Lady Gaga and so much more. Come out and join the fun. Sunday is gonna be a big big party with music by Margot & Valerie at noon and 33 RPM at 4p. Loves these guys. The energy with which they perform is off the charts. Mike Beavan is one of the most flamboyant drummers you’ll ever see. He does most of the singing with bassist Rock covering a few of the hard rock tunes. Talk about flamboyant: Rock is still a proponent of head banging as he really gets into the music. Larry Biegel on guitar is amazing. I often call him the guitar wizard (a title previously only used to describe Chris Button). Larry has earned it in my book. Not only is he incredibly proficient, but he also has complete command of his special effects pedals with which he can conjure up an array of alternate musical sounds; such as an organ or horns. Bottom line is these guys put on one heck of a show, always leaving the crowd begging for more. You’ll notice by looking at the Who’s Where When listing that Coconuts has entered their fall phase of entertainment by being closed Monday-Wednesday. I’m hoping to get back there on Thursday to hear the Chest Pains. I keep missing them for one reason or another and I really like this band. In case you didn’t read a previous Coco Nights, I’ll say again that the closing party is Sunday, October 27 with Monkee Paw. You read that right ... almost ‘til Halloween. Fun!!!

What else have I been up to? I heard Lauren Glick last Saturday at The Angler with Dane Williams (The Klassix) on guitar. It’s rare that Lauren does not bring her keyboard that she always plays for her solo gigs (tonight at Papi’s Taco Joint). For this performance she rocked on her bass guitar bringing great energy to each and every song; including many of her incredible original compositions. I love this talented lady. I also heard The Mercury Agenda last Saturday at Harborside to get my dose of rock from Doug, Nalen, Austin and David. Great show as always. And ... I finally made it to M.R. Ducks to hear the incomparable Tranzfusion. I don’t think there’s anyone out there who hasn’t heard this amazing group ‘cause they’ve been around for so many years. Bobby Malaby on drums/vocals, Hank Koenig on guitar/vocals, Al Cook on bass/vocals and Bob Davis on keyboard/vocals/bass. Oh, and by the way, both Hank and Bob play a mean harp, too. I can never say enough about the quality of this band. They broke out a lot of their very old repertoire for the first set that was just awesome. Who still plays “96 Tears” or songs by The Animals, just to name two. These guys have been together for so long that they often retire certain songs for a time and bring them back another day. Bob told me that they enjoy keeping their set lists different from show to show. In fact, there is no list; he calls the songs as he feels them and/or as the audience is receiving. You can hear them tonight at Bourbon St. on the Beach.

That’s gonna be all for now. I really had more to say than I thought I would but that’s what happens once I get going. Now it’s up to you to get going and go hear some fabulous music offered in so many of our venues around town. Be kind to one another and always party safe.]]> Fri, 20 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400 18411725937028 http://www.coconuttimes.com/articles/Coco-Nights/FAB-MUSIC Hey, y’all. Teenage Rust played at Coins on Memorial Day Monday and I was there along with so many other faithful friends - and we had a blast! You should have already viewed some pictures from that day including one of keyboard/singer Crystal Grandel who just radiates joy. God has certainly blessed her with so much talent. Her hubby Paul does a lot of the vocals and is the bass player, while Howard Wimbrow plays lead guitar. Howard also plays with No Byscuyts and Comfort Zone. Holding down the bottom is T Lutz on drums, always having a good time back there. Center stage is the couple we all love to love, Maddy & Billy Carder. Billy plays guitar, too, and sings a few; he does a great Johnny Cash. I always call Maddy our ‘Dancing Queen’ because she does just that while providing backup vocals and tambourine. What a fun show they put on each and every time. Let’s all get together again to hear them play at M.R. Ducks on Sunday, October 4, at 4p.

It’s been a wonderful weekend of music for me. I managed to pry myself lose from my comfy lifter/recliner chair on Saturday to go to Harborside Bar & Grill to hear one of my favorite bands, Dunehounds. These guys stand out for me by having a broad and eclectic repertoire, often playing the more obscure tunes from popular artists. Case in point: “I Second That Emotion.” Arranged and performed a la Dunehounds, I wasn’t even sure I was hearing right at first. But, yes, that is the same song made famous by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles back in 1967. Genius to pull that out of the musical ether. Then there was “Handle With Care” that I immediately attributed to George Harrison (yeah, I was thinking The Beatles); but he recorded that tune with The Traveling Wilburys, which famously included Roy Orbison, Bob Dylan, Jeff Lynne, Tom Petty and Jim Keltner on drums. I’d like to hear the Dunehounds do “End of the Line,” too; which was reportedly a tribute to Roy Orbison who passed on prior to the release of The Traveling Wilburys Volume that included “The Wilbury Twist.” Fun stuff. Anyway, I digress. Here’s one you won’t hear anywhere else: “It Don’t Come Easy.” You may be surprised (I was) to learn that George wrote that one but gave it to Ringo. “Golden Years” by David Bowie is another favorite that they play along with Dire Straits’ “Sultans of Swing” and Jackson Brown’s “Runnin’ On Empty.” So much talent in this group: Sean Loomis (guitar; also Full Circle), Troy Mawyer (guitar), Kasey Briggs (bass) and Adam Bilenki (drums). All four sing with Adam and Sean carrying most; and with wonderful harmonies, I might add. Actually all four sing and all four have solo gigs too. Go hear them next time you get the chance. You’ll be as impressed as I always am.

Sunday I had the privilege of hearing Lauren Glick perform a live mini concert for guests at (Tranzfusion) drummer Bobby Malaby’s house. What a deck party that always is - fabulous musicians. His son Scott Malaby plays guitar, Will Davis plays sax, bass and sometimes keyboard, and Sarah Robins who plays flute and backs up Lauren on beautiful harmonies. Glick has indeed assembled a most excellent band to help her arrange some of her songs and take them to the recording studio together. Albums to date include LUSH and Maybe I’ll Run. I’ve been to a lot of solo gigs with Lauren on keyboard; so I was familiar with them but hearing the band play them was so fulfilling. I felt the full weight of the witing as well as the musical structure of each song. I know she is grateful for the contributions the band has made to her compositions. In a quiet setting as this was, it was so cool to be able to hear and appreciate all of her lyrics, many about her personal life experiences or about social issues. I’m looking forward to her next album as she continues to write entertaining and meaningful music. You can find Ms. Glick’s schedule right here in Who’s Where When or on her website, laurensings.com

Many of you may have already seen the facebook post about Gavin Hades and his incredible adventure at the Mountain Music Festival in Gatlinburg, Tenn. (thanks to dad Jeremy Brink, Cecilia’s Fall). I watched the entire video and was so impressed that I had to include a bit here in case you don’t know. Gavin participated in the “So You Think You Can Shred” competition that was judged by five world renowned guitarists; Joel Hoekstra (Whitesnake) and Brad Gillis (Night Ranger & Ozzy) among them. Each competitor was given only 30 seconds to play/shred for the judges and several were most impressive and received some 10 scores. Gavin was last and the judges were so blown away that they wanted to give him 10.5 and 11. So why, I wondered, didn’t he win? Turns out performers in the festival were excluded from competition and Gavin was there to play with his band The Gavin Evick Band. So many great things happening for this young man and we are all so proud of him. Rock on!

That’s it for now. Hope you enjoy our beautiful second season in Ocean City. Be kind to one another and always party safe!

]]> Fri, 06 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400 18401725073688 http://www.coconuttimes.com/articles/Coco-Nights/LABOR-DAY-WEEKEND Sometimes I sit down to write and nothing comes to mind, partly because I’ve not been out much; but now, since it’s been three weeks, I think it’s more than that. Usually I begin with a “Hi, friends” or “Hi, y’all;” but sometimes I don’t know what to say next. Is this truly ‘writer’s block’? I guess so. The only word that has come to mind for the past few weeks is ‘sometimes.’ And so I begin.

Okay, I’m staring at the screen again. You know what? I think I’ve been watching too much TV where I stare at the screen and I’m not required to say anything. I’m going to break out of that right now. I recently had a conversation with lovely songbird Sarah Robins of Endless Ember about how her summer has been. Yeah, can’t believe it’s Labor Day Weekend already ... now there’s where I would normally have begun to write. Anyway, she has performed at many venues with many different duo partners, including Chris Sajadi who is the regular lead guitarist with Doug Balch in The Mercury Agenda and has been playing as a duo with his girlfriend Allyson Morris who is also a talented musician playing keyboard and french horn. Sarah had a Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill job some days ago and had to scramble to find a replacement for a partner who couldn’t make it. She called John Cardo, a singer/guitarist from Pittsburgh who has relocated to Ocean City. She tells me they really clicked and the job went well. Sarah is also a musician on flute and she says playing with different musicians has made her even better and has vastly increased her musical catalogue. Go Sarah!

What else is the multi-talented Chris Sajadi up to? I just learned from Chris that he has accepted a music teaching position in the Wicomico school system for which he is most excited. He assures me that he will continue to collaborate with all his musical friends for which I am most happy to hear. I heard The Mercury Agenda twice last week: first at the Shaka Pool Bar where Ally joined the group on keyboards (which was a cool addition, I might add), and again at Fast Eddie’s. I love this group and I love it when Chris breaks out his fiddle. Their music spans decades, they play extremely creative medleys or mash-ups you may call them, and Doug’s vocals are powerful and entertaining. In case you’ve forgotten, Doug is also a wrestler who has a match in Philadelphia this weekend. Good luck, Doug the Rockstar!

It was a memorable night for me when I made it to Sunset Park to hear Teenage Rust. What a beautiful venue watching the sunset over the bay. Talk about playing crowd favorites; these guys are the best. It always feels like a family reunion when we hear them play, right? Gotta keep the spirit of BJ’s alive. I hope to see you all on Monday at Coins at 4 pm to party again with this good-time band. For you newcomers, here’s the lineup: Billy Carder on guitar, Maddy Carder the Dancing Queen on backup vocals, Howard Wimbrow on lead guitar, Paul Grandel on bass, Chrystal Grandel on keyboards and Tommy Lutz on drums.

The party rolls on at Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill. You can’t beat the ambience there. Round stone tables with big umbrellas dot the dune-side patio and the music is top-notch. There’s always a cool breeze off the ocean. I heard the Bilenki Duo last week, one of my favorites, in between breathtaking views and heart-pounding sonic booms from the Air Show. Check out the Who’s Where When list to see the complete lineup for Coconuts that includes, still, two acts a day. The annual Tipsy Turtle party is scheduled for Sunday September 22nd, after which the incredible 33 RPM will take the stage. This is one of the biggest parties of the year at which one lucky person will win a Caribbean vacation to Green Turtle Club Resort & Marina. Coconuts will remain open even later this year with the closing party being on Sunday, October 20 featuring Monkee Paw.

Well, okay, then, I’ve done it; I cracked the silence. I hope you all have a safe and happy holiday weekend enjoying all the best that Ocean City has to offer.


]]> Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0400 18391723240191 http://www.coconuttimes.com/articles/Coco-Nights/DONT-I-WISH Hi, all. What do I talk about today? I don’t know. Looking back over the week, I didn’t go anywhere. Why not, you may ask. I know I missed a lot of fabulous music; places that were on my radar to cover. It’s been boring health stuff mostly. I had a really bad reaction to my regular eye shots and couldn’t see for a few days. And I have a disc bulge that’s making it even more difficult than usual to walk. I’m hoping to conquer all this soon because the lineup at Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill is super this week starting with Monkee Paw tonight, The Royal Flush Band Saturday and The Lauren Glick Band on Sunday. You can check the Who’s Where When section to see the full schedule; the only place I know to have two acts every single day.

Many thanks to my associate Terry Sullivan who has taken wonderful pictures at several of the places I wanted to be. Check those out in Fun Fotos. It makes me smile to see all my friends having a good time listening to some of the best music around. Thank you, Terry. And thanks, too, to friends Patty Smith and Tish Michel for sending me a few as well. Tish was at Sunset Park last night (Thursday) to hear the incomparable Tranzfusion; I’ll have that picture for you next time. This is a perfect spot to tell you that I just got word from our local rock star Billy Carder that Teenage Rust & The Fabulous Rustettes will perform on the bayside stage of Sunset Park next Thursday, August 15, at 7pm. It’s always such a good time hearing these musicians play - like a family reunion, really. Billy and Howard Wimbrow lead on guitars with Paul Grandel on bass, Crystal Grandel on keyboard and T Lutz on drums with our beautiful Dancing Queen Maddy Carder on backup vocals and tambourine. Join in on the fun at beautiful Sunset Park.

I’m having a really hard time sitting at my desk, friends, so I’m going to cut it really short this time around. Hopefully I’ll have heard some great music I can tell you about next week. Til then, be kind and party safe.


]]> Fri, 09 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0400 18381722645870 http://www.coconuttimes.com/articles/Coco-Nights/HEATING-UP-FOR-AUGUST Hi, friends. Okay, you can call me a slacker. That’s right ... because I haven’t written this column/blog since July 12. Mainly it’s because I haven’t been out too much due to weather issues, both rain and heat; but also because I’ve been processing the alarming diagnosis my daughter Colleen received recently of a brain tumor pressing on the optic nerve. Yeah, scary stuff. While we have not been to see the neurosurgeon yet, her neurologist has allayed our fears somewhat by telling us that it is rather common, not malignant and is small. It does, however, need to be removed so we’re anxiously awaiting how she will be proceeding with treatment. You may have seen this news on facebook already. I would like to thank everyone for their kind and encouraging remarks. So please forgive me for being off my game.

As I said, I haven’t been out much but I did make it to Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill last Sunday to hear The Bilenki Duo. George and Pat are both excellent guitarists and vocalists with an incredible repertoire of so many favorite tunes spanning several decades. Pat is impressive with her command of lyrics and impressive range; George is equally proficient with a bit of grit to his voice that is so appealing. Together their harmonies are sublime. I encourage you to go hear them, returning to Coconuts on August 25.

I stayed to hear a new act for me, Moonstone. The duo of Pamela and Rich was also very entertaining. Pam has a sweetness to her voice with a smooth vibrato that is most pleasing to the ear. I researched them and found that they often play with a full band called FIREKITE in the Baltimore area and also play around northern Virginia. Ironically, they will also return to Coconuts again following The Bilenki Duo on August 25. Sign me up!

What’s going on this weekend? You know there’s so many venues and so many excellent musicians that you can’t go wrong no matter where you choose to go. This evening you can hear Beg To Differ at Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill. I have not heard them either so I’m going to make an effort to go, maybe after the temp has cooled a little, right. Rule G will rock Coconuts on Saturday and locals Colossal Fossil Sauce will be on hand for Sunday Funday at the coolest spot on the beach, Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill.

Lauren Glick and her recording band were sensational last week at Sunset Park. Playing nearly all of her originals from LUSH and MAYBE I’LL RUN, she was joined by bandmates Bobby, Sarah, Will and Scott. You can catch the mega talented singer/songwriter Lauren Glick solo tonight at House of Sauce and Sunday at Papi’s Taco Joint. And get this ... after years of great house music, Fish Tales is having live music that featured Full Circle Duo last week; and Lauren Glick will perform there on Monday. Glad to have Fish Tales presenting live music.

That’s it for now. Get out there and enjoy, my friends, and remember to be kind and always party safe.]]> Fri, 02 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0400 18371720910099 http://www.coconuttimes.com/articles/Coco-Nights/IN-FULL-SWING Hi, y’all. How ya doin’? Yes, I played hookie last week and didn’t write to you at all after procrastinating through the weekend .. no excuse. It certainly wasn’t because I hadn’t heard any music because I did. I was at Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill to hear The Mercury Agenda, a show I always love. I was there again to hear Rick & Regina, another act I thoroughly enjoy. Regina is an incredible vocalist; the only one I know who can sing up into that atmospheric register known as the ‘whistle tone.’ Then I had fun hearing the amazing talents of the players in the String Buzzards at Harborside. AJ Fox is home for the summer (he now lives in Nashville) so it was an added treat to hear him on both mandolin and dobro, along with Darin Engh on banjo and guitar, Sean Loomis on guitar and Wilson Sawyer on upright bass. Too cool! It’s a once-a-month treat to hear these guys play Blue Grass on the last Sunday of every month; check it out next time on July 28th.

This past week I had the pleasure of hearing Lauren Glick play not once, but twice - first at the Taphouse West, then at Crabcake Factory West ... both venues so close to home for me, so yeah, avoiding the traffic. Lauren is continuing to write new songs and has played a few for us at these last performances. She tells me that she and her band are in rehearsals in preparation for a show at Sunset Park on Thursday, July 18. I call it her recording band as they are different players than the ones she works with for her Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill shows - playing there Sunday, by the way. Those musicians will again be Dane Williams on guitar, Ted Galinas on bass and Mike Beavan on drums. Members of her all originals group are Scott Malaby on guitar, Sarah Robins on back-up vocals and flute, Bobby Malaby on drums, Will Davis on sax and Lauren on bass. We’ll be hearing songs from her two latest albums, Lush and Maybe I’ll Run, as well as a few brand new tunes. What an impressive talent we’re so fortunate to have right here in our own backyard (so to speak). Lauren will also join Sarah to perform at Coconuts as the duo Endless Ember on Monday. Speaking of Sarah, she has an incredibly busy schedule playing at the Caribbean Pool Bar right now, Saturday, the Bordeleau Winery on Sunday, Monday at Coconuts (as I said), with the full band at Caribbean Pool Bar on Tuesday, and every Wednesday at Saltwater 75. Sarah keeps her shows fresh and exciting as she sings with different guitarists at different shows; so it’s always a surprise. Here’s another songbird with an awesome voice. Be sure to catch her shows.

I was so looking forward to hearing the Chest Pains at Coconuts yesterday but deferred due to impending rain. And, sadly, I missed a performance from Randy Lee Ashcraft & the Saltwater Cowboys and Full Circle at Bourbon St. where all my pals from BJ’s days were on hand for the fun. Sometimes I just run out of steam. The Mercury Agenda will be playing at the Shaka Pool Bar today (Saturday) but I’ll have to miss them as I’m going to hear Tranzfusion at their annual fan appreciation party (you can hear them next Friday, July 19th, at Bourbon St.). But I’m gonna try hard to hear them when they return to play Fast Eddie’s on Thursday, July 18th. Gee, I haven’t been to Fast Eddie’s in a while. I guess I’m a bit intimidated by summer traffic; but I’ll get there. Here’s another act I want to catch: Lime Green Band at 38 Degrees on Wednesday, July 17. This one will be a duo gig for Angeline and partner Terry. I think it will be a treat to hear her wonderful voice without a full band, know what I mean? They will, however, return to Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill on Friday, July 19th, with the full band - always a fun party.

Time for me to close here and get ready to party. Rain, rain go away! Remember you can check out music listings on Who’s Where When and notice at the bottom a direct link to Monique’s OC Beat for more. Whatever you do, remember to always be kind and part safe.]]> Fri, 12 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400 18361719708116 http://www.coconuttimes.com/articles/Coco-Nights/STORMY-MUSIC COCO NIGHTS 062824

Hey, everybody out there in fun city - how ya doin’? I must confess the heat made me kinda lazy, often preferring to stay in my lovely air-conditioned living room in my lovely lift recliner chair and let the incredible variety of choices on TV entertain me. Yeah, that sounds like the proverbial ‘couch potato’ doesn’t it - minus the couch. That’s not to say I have been a total hermit; no way, Jose, gotta hear some live music ... and I did!

Wednesday I visited The Angler knowing a breeze would be cool off the water ... and it was. What a treat to hear the String Buzzards playing on this beautiful bayside dock bar. Darin on banjo/guitar, Sean on guitar and Wilson on bass played song after song of music straight out of the American Songbook in Blue Grass style. Such a pleasure. The dock bar soon began to fill up when the crew of 85 n’ Sunny beach umbrellas showed up for a company party, courtesy of their boss Pat McLaughlin. Cudos to that hard-working and friendly bunch of young people. Many of the group were from Romania, Lithuania and closer to home, from Salisbury. It was an added pleasure of the night to watch this beautiful group of young men and women having fun; creating memories of OC for a lifetime. And then ... the sky began to darken; a wind suddenly lifted napkins off the tables and all we saw of daylight was a small window to the west where the sun struggled to shine its rays upon the waters. Then there were rumblings and lightning filling the air as the rain poured down. It felt like an old-fashioned ‘hurricane party.’ Anyway, it was an awesome sight, wasn’t it? And an awesome night meeting new friends.

Have you been to see Jim Long yet? It was a fun time watching him in action last Saturday at Coins. Long has been a musical fixture in Ocean City since the early ‘90s; I remember watching his solo act on keyboard and conga at the Princess Royale; then with various groups until he landed the Seacrets contract that made him a household name for all the visitors from near and far who went to his shows. For the last few years Jim has taken a different approach with his one-man show being performed at several different locations including Beach Barrels on Thursdays and Coins on Saturdays. His loyal fans follow him wherever he goes ‘cause you’re guaranteed a good time with Jim; he has a special first-name rapport with so many. All the swagger, irreverence, humor and sheer talent are still in abundance with this born-to-be entertainer. His voice is stronger than ever as is his ability on the conga. After singing so many iconic and classic tunes, he ended by parodying Elvis complete with pelvic gyrations and lip sneer. You’re one in a million, Jim Long. Say, “Hell Yeah!”

I’m kinda glad I waited ‘til today to ‘talk’ with you ‘cause now I can praise last night’s band some. I’m referring to the Mercury Agenda who played Friday night at Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill. I continue to be impressed with the level of expertise exhibited by the young men in this band. After talking with guitarist Chris Sajadi a while, I began to understand that not only are they all so good, but are totally in sync with each other as well. As singer Doug commented, “they certainly bring out the best in me.” Chris told me he’s been close friends with drummer David Waters since they were 12 years old. I could see the connection between these two when at the end of their incredible medley - Kenny Wayne Shepherd’s “Blue on Black,” slipping back in time to segue into the Doors’ “Five to One,” the Beatles’ “Come Together” and Cream’s “Sunshine of Your Love!” - David looked up from his amazing drumming, made eye contact with Chris and gave him a smile of pure joy Now, that’s musical heaven to me.

There’s so much more I could say about all these wonderful musicians; but if you’re heard them, you know what I’m talking about. Do yourself a favor and get out to hear live music - so good for the soul. Our outdoor venues are in full swing; this town is just bursting with talent and wonderful music. Be kind to one another and party safe!]]> Fri, 28 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0400 18351719115100 http://www.coconuttimes.com/articles/Coco-Nights/MOUNTAIN-ADVENTURE Hey, y’all! I made it! Of course I’ve needed a few days to recuperate but I’m here. I told you last week that I would be going to Pennsylvania to meet my new great grandson and I did it. It was challenging to be in the car that long but once in the mountains, we were in total awe. The only thing that put a damper on it was the ears popping at the higher elevation. It was incredible how the roads wound around and around the mountains going ever higher. We passed so many small villages, townships and simple crossroads that if you blinked, you would miss them. I found myself saying, “Where do they go to hear music? Where are the clubs?” So, no folks, it was fun to visit, but I wouldn’t want to live there. I can certainly appreciate the beauty of the often pristine forests. One could imagine going back in time before there were any settlements at all. I am in awe of the tenacity of the people who settled there. It appeared that mining and farming are the main industries. I believe it was Huntingdon that granddaughter Haley says they go to for shopping. From where she lives in the Mapleton, it’s about 20 minutes to anywhere - round and round on sometimes one-lane little roads. A bit scary; but so beautiful.

I don’t usually share much of family photos but this is going to be an exception and I hope you will indulge me. Baby Jett James Wallace is a month old now, and he is such a sweet little guy. His parents, Haley (my granddaughter) and Mason are absolutely over the moon in love with him and are already talking about when they might give him a little sister or brother. My daughters Melissa and Colleen (who is the proud grandmother), plus her daughter Hannah and her guy Niko, and Matthew (Melissa’s son) were on this adventure together. Melissa took the young ones, Hannah, Niko & Matthew, to magnificent Trough Creek State Park where they hiked up the mountain to find a small waterfall and a natural phenomenon of a teetering but balanced boulder near the top. Incredible! In fact, they call it the Balanced Rock. They made it all the way to the top to view it up close. I have a few pictures for you. Our adventure ended with a day at Hershey Park where they all had a great time riding the coaster rides while I scooted around watching them from my electric scooter. That’s the way to travel. (See more pictures in Fun Fotos.)


As Dorothy said, “There’s no place like home!” Yes, I’m glad to be home. Guess I’m spoiled ‘cause there’s no shortage of entertainment in our fair town. I spent the afternoon at Coins for the Jim Long show. He’s handsome as ever and sounded terrific, too. The ‘party bar’ crowd were all there and party we did. I hope you are having a good time out there exploring everything Ocean City has to offer. As always, I encourage you to always be kind and always party safe!

]]> Fri, 21 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0400 18341718410202 http://www.coconuttimes.com/articles/Coco-Nights/ROCKIN-MUSICIANS Hi, friends. Well, color me excited! I’m going on a road trip to meet my brand new GREAT grandson who has the coolest name: Jett James. So happy for proud young parents Haley & Mason who have been blessed with this sweet little guy. It’s been a few years since I ventured out of the area and I’ve never been to the mountains of Pennsylvania; no further than Doe Mountain, that is, when we use to ski. So, yeah, I’m excited.

Meanwhile, on the music scene last week, I had a great time hearing a few of my favorite bands starting with Cecilia’s Fall last Saturday at Harborside. Lead guitarist Gavin Hades was on the road with his pal’s Gavin Evick Band; so they enlisted Nalen from The Mercury Agenda to fill in for him. He, of course, did a wonderful job, often dueling guitars with band leader Jeremy. Likewise, bass man Jeff (Full Circle & Chest Pains) was unable to make it, so Eddie filled in on bass. John, as always, was terrific on the drums and Tess was belting out the tunes as she always does. Unfortunately, though, she was on crutches. While she couldn’t stand and jump around as usual, her vocals were excellent as always. These talented folks don’t miss a beat even with guest players; a true testament to their talents.

Later I checked in to The Angler on the dock for a few hours of wonderful music from Lauren Glick who played yet another recent original tune for us - among the amazing number of popular classic tunes, of course. She can play and sing anything and everything when solo on her keyboard. Sunday’s performance was totally different when she played with the band at Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill. She ditched both her bass and keyboard to perform as a free spirit singing up a storm in a decidedly rock fest of songs from such artists as Janis Joplin, Heart, Jethro Tull, Rolling Stones and The Beatles’ “Helter Skelter” and “Come Together,” for example. On this outing bass man Ted sang a few as did Mike (33 RPM) on drums. The incomparable Dane (The Klassix) played smokin’ guitar with all these talented players showcasing the incredible Lauren Glick. Check out Who’s Where When on this website to view Lauren’s upcoming performance schedule.

Saturday night I visited Coins for another performance of the highly entertaining group called The Mercury Agenda. Yes, Nalen made it after playing with Cecilia’s Fall earlier to share guitar duties with Chris. Holding down the heartbeat of the band were drummer David and bassist Austin. Front and center is the impressive Doug on vocals. I swear he sounds just like Jim Morrison on The Doors’ tunes. As I’ve written about them many times, I’m so appreciative that they play so many cool old rock classics going back to Cream and Hendrix, as well as music from more recent decades. They give us an interesting variety of music in the highest possible calibre of musical performance each and every time I hear them. Catch them tomorrow early at the Caribbean Pool Bar and check their schedule in the Coconut Times listing for more.

Other bands in Coconut Times include Tranzfusion who you can hear tonight (Friday) at the OP Yacht Club. Lime Green Band can be heard Saturday at Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill. Sarah, with her revolving cast of duo partners in Endless Ember, is busy this weekend with Rick at Saltwater 75 today; at the Caribbean Pool Bar with Neil on Saturday; and again at Saltwater 75 on Wednesday with Chris (of Mercury Agenda).

There’s so much to see and hear in our beautiful town that I’m sure you’re going to find something that suits you. If I get out tonight it will probably be to hear 33 RPM at The Angler and maybe Rockoholics at Coins. Tomorrow Old School returns (finally) to Harborside and I would love to hear them. For now, though, I’m too excited to sit here any longer so I’m closing this now and getting ready for music and a road trip! Be kind, my friends, and always party safe.


]]> Fri, 14 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0400 18331717812134 http://www.coconuttimes.com/articles/Coco-Nights/THE-MULTI-TALENTED-DUNEHOUNDS Hi, all. Are you enjoying this wonderful sunshine and warm temperatures? I know I am. And I’m really enjoying all the fantastic music being offered all over town; far too many for me to cover them all, that’s for sure. This week I’d like to talk to you about one of my favorite bands - The Dunehounds. I had the pleasure of hearing them last Saturday at Harborside in West O. This talented foursome is comprised of players who are each and every one capable of headlining their own solo shows. Of course, that means each one sings and plays guitar on their own; but I’m getting ahead of myself. Let me introduce you to the band. On lead guitar is Sean Loomis who is one busy guy. You’ll spot him in several other very successful bands: Full Circle, String Buzzards, sometimes Loomatix, sometimes as a duo with such players as AJ Fox, with Darin Engh and whoever joins in on the last Sunday of the month for the Bluegrass Pickup Pickin’ Party at Harborside; and sometimes solo. In fact, you can hear him play solo every other Monday at noon at Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill. In addition to being an excellent guitarist, Sean is blessed with a voice that’s like a warm blanket on a cold night, making him an asset and a friend to so many fellow musicians since coming to town from Leesburg, Va., a few years back. We’re so glad he decided to stay.

Also sharing rhythm and lead guitar duties with Sean is Troy Mawyer. I remember when Troy first came to town seeking to join our musical community. It wasn’t long before he moved on from Open Mic nights to having shows of his own in such places as the Hilton Pool Bar. Since joining The Dunehounds, Troy is a major contributor with great lead guitar parts and vocal harmonies. Bass man Kasey Briggs is another who has expanded his skills to playing guitar for solo acts. If you check out his facebook page, you’ll see that, in addition to solo shows, he joins forces with Not That Jason Lee playing as The Upside of Down. He writes that “this collaboration started a couple years ago when Not That Jason Lee and I merged our passions to start Shorebreak Entertainment. Focusing on great harmonies and using 2 guitars in completely different ways, this show is something of which I've really become proud. You'll definitely be seeing more from us!” Also, he and partner Steve Kenney play every Thursday at The Wedge Bar. So you can see how versatile and busy this guy is too. Providing the heart beat is Adam Bilenki on drums who also contributes much of the vocals while also beautifully harmonizing with Sean as well. Adam was kind enough to share a bit of his background with me. His parents are none other than the incredible duo known as The Bilenkis - George and Patricia. Adam says his dad started out as a drummer for various bands in his youth, so there was a drum kit in the basement that beckoned to young Adam who taught himself to play; so having mastered it so young is probably why he is able to drum and sing so well at the same time. Later, he taught himself guitar as well so he could play solo shows too.

So you get the picture, right? All four sing and all are excellent musicians, which makes them so interesting and able to cover so many different genres of music. I jotted down a few examples that started with a song they dedicated to me, which just happened to have my name in it - “Golden Years” by David Bowie. You never know what you’ll hear next as they play Rock, Pop, Blue Grass, Country - all different and so refreshing to hear song selections we rarely hear from other bands. There were tunes from Tom Petty, Paul Simon, Grateful Dead, Eric Clapton, Willie Nelson, Dwight Yoakum and so many more. The band is so sharp and tight on rhythm changes and endings; a sure sign of pure professionalism and love of music. I was blown away when these attributes were highlighted in an original tune called “Vacation Song,” after which they grabbed the audience back with a double dose of the Stones’ “Honky Tonk Women” and “Start Me Up.” Genius!

It was a perfect Saturday afternoon at the recently updated Harborside watching the boats cruise up and down the harbor. I zoned out reminiscing of the days when hubby Capt. Ron had our commercial boat, Scooch Too, docked nearby. Many overwhelming memories poured over me from which I was pulled back to reality with such tunes as “Eminence Front” and “L.A. Woman” - no end of awesome music from the amazing Dunehounds. Be sure to go hear them as soon as you can; maybe on Wednesday, June 12, at Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill.

I’ve rattled on long enough so I’ll leave it up to you to check out Who’s Where When to decide who you want to hear this week. Enjoy the music, be kind and always party safe!


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