2009 Molson Concert Series Lineup

The return of the Lockport Molson Canal Concert Series is about a month away and the promoters released the schedule and lineup of entertainers on Wednesday.

As usual, there is a lot of fuss about the headliners, and has brought in a bunch of top-name acts that will undoubtedly have the square behind Ulrich City Center packed again. You’ve probably already heard the names and most of them were no surprise; they were almost all leaked/announced on the individual bands websites and show schedules.

But, unlike most of the local free summer concert series, they have also released the local or regional performers who will be opening for the headline acts. I think this is great as it gives the fans of the local bands some notice, give the bands themselves time to promote their appearance and in the end, brings even more people to the shows. Since the openers play first, this means more people get there early and probably stay longer which translates to more business for the vendors and surrounding businesses. It’s such a no-brainer, that I don’t understand why venues like Artpark and Thursday at the Square don’t put more emphasis on this.

So, let’s look at a few of the local bands: Continue Reading…

Last of the Canal Concerts: How was it?

Well, seven out of eight wasn’t bad. I couldn’t go to the last of the Lockport Molson Canal Concerts for the year. I had to stay home and take care of my wife, who has just gotten out of the hospital.

My son was at work and my daughter was working at the concert with the Youth & Recreation group. So I had to keep my wife company.

Andrew Vaeth of Johnny Nobody at the TralfIf I had to miss one show, I suppose this was the one for me. I’m not a huge fan of Jeff Martin, or The Tea Party, although everyone in this area who listens to Canadian radio – as most Buffalo FM radio stations suck – has heard of them.

I listened to a bit of Tea Party as I sat at home, just to get a sense of what I missed. I guess their music is just a bit dark and bombastic for my taste. It seemed like every song was playing as if the speed on the turntable was turned down 10%. But that’s just me. If you enjoy it, far be it from me to discourage you. If you went to the concert and enjoyed it, let us know, leave a comment and tell us about it. Continue Reading…

Canal Concert 7: REO Speedwagon opens for Dave Viterna

Well, that’s the way it unfolded for me, anyway.

Another Molson Canal Concert has come and gone and once again the weather was great, the music was great and the crowd got bigger.

Emphasis on the crowd getting bigger. Continue Reading…