Worcester, Massachusetts -
The City of Worcester is proud to announce the fourth annual Out to Lunch Summer Concert Series, beginning on Friday, June 29th at 11 a.m., and continuing every Friday until August 31st. The public is invited to enjoy free, live performances,which will begin at noon and end at 2 p.m. The events will also include intermission acts from talented community groups, a variety of food sold by local restaurants, and a farmers and crafters market.
The concert series is co-produced by the City of Worcester and the Worcester Cultural Coalition in partnership with Immedia, WCRN 830 AM, and the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce, with support from Bay State Savings Bank, Charter Communications, the College of the Holy Cross, Commerce Bank, Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare, and the Worcester Telegram and Gazette.
The 'Out to Lunch' Concert Series is an opportunity for residents and employees working in the downtown area to relax on the Common and see the vast changes happening all around downtown - new construction, new roadways, expansion of businesses, new restaurants, and venues.
2012 performances will include (info also available at www.OutToLunchWorcester.com ):
June 29: Linda Dagnello Quintet
The Dagnello Quintet has played together for over twenty-five years, touring all over New England with the hip, mainstream vocals of Linda Dagnello and her jazz quintet. The well-known band will kick off the concert series on what is sure to be a sublime afternoon in the sun.
July 6: Dom
Beginning a national tour this summer, Dom has recently ascended to become one of the best indie rock bands in the nation. Having won Song of the Year at the 2010 Boston Music awards, and having since opened for acts like Jane's Addiction and Ratatat, Dom brings a renowned, popular, and sunny rhythm to the City of Worcester.
July 13: Twangbusters
Boogie on down on this date to hear American roots music from a super group of well-known local musicians, including Paula Bradley, Dr. Z, and "Wild Bill" Nadeau who have played with luminaries Junior Brown and Tony Trischka. With drums, guitar, piano, and even a ukulele, the Twangbusters are sure to rock the Common with their unique blend of music.
July 20: Delta Generators
This band, nominated for a Boston Music Award in 2011 for their contributions to the blues scene, creates a fun and unique atmosphere for their listeners. Employing musical devices from rock & roll, soul, funk, and a smattering of country, the Delta Generators are sure to get the Common moving and swinging.
July 27: Dale LePage and the Manhattans
With all of the hits from the "Mad Men" generation, Dale LePage and the Manhattans are sure to be a crowd pleaser. Sounds from Sinatra and Elvis will radiate across the Common, bringing people back to well-loved and memorable pieces of music across a few decades. Dale LePage lends his vocal talents to a band that "swings with soul," whenever they're in town.
August 3: Stone Clovers
Bringing Irish Folk Rock to the masses by fusing it to their musical interests in jazz, reggae, rock and funk, the Stone Clovers, all from Worcester, have honed their skills playing all over New England to reach their current prowess. Punching out music inspired by the emigrant to America's experience, the Stone Clovers are an impressive bunch you won't want to miss.
August 10: Boogaloo Swamis
Boston Blues News called them "the best New Orleans music you'll find outside the bayous." Their infectious rhythm and song choice will have you on your feet in no time, grooving and clapping to the beat. Combining influences from Cajun zydeco and Americana strands, the Boogaloo Swamis bring a rarely seen rhythm and style to the Northeast.
August 17: Grupo Fantasia
Sounds of the Caribbean will ring out when Grupo Fantasia comes to the Common. After having netted the 2009 New England Urban Music Award for Best Latin Band, the band continues to produce and play live music. The group's leader, Angel Wagner, began touring with a musical group at age eleven, and has even played at Madison Square Garden. With so many years of experience, their honed talents and large repertoire are sure to impress all who come to listen.
August 24: Dis-N-Dat
Reggae has come a long way since the days of Bob Marley, and Dis-N-Dat is here to prove just how far it's come. With a four-time Grammy nominated band member in Rangotan, Dis-N-Dat brings its neo-reggae style to the Common for an afternoon fusing musical influences from dancehall, reggae, and roots music. Known for their energetic performances, be sure to save the date for this band.
August 31: SPF-4 Kicking out the jams on one of the final days of the summer, SPF-4 is a surf band with great rock riffs and amazing instrumental talent. Delivering each measure with tremendous purity and tonal quality, the band is on the breaking lip of the new wave of surf music here in the United States. Don't miss out.
"I'm looking forward to heading to 'Out to Lunch' this summer. We've planned an exciting line-up of talented local artists, and brought local food vendors, musicians, crafters and farmers together to celebrate all that is Worcester, in the midst of significant transformation of our Downtown," said City Manager Michael V. O'Brien.
"With so much to see, why miss out?" said Erin Williams, Cultural Development Officer, City of Worcester, and Executive Director, Worcester Cultural Coalition. "This year is especially exciting for all of us in the City of Worcester because we have added new acts, extended dates from last year, and expanded the multi-cultural array of musicians, food vendors, crafters, and farmers. What better way to enjoy Worcester's creativity.
Jpeg images of performers available upon request.
