It’s another beautifully busy month in the Burg when it comes to entertainment.
With more outdoor and riverfront shows in the works, music opportunities continue to expand in our fair city. It’s not hard to find something fun to cure the post-winter blues. But in case you need some help, I’ve got your back. First, here are a few fun events that feature some music in the mix.
Historic Harrisburg Association will host its 3rd Annual Speakeasy (April 5) in its 1929 landmark Central Trust building located in our own beloved Midtown. Expect classic jazz numbers, dancing and ‘20s-style cocktails for the perfect Fitzgerald evening.
If you’re a food fan, check out the 6th Annual Central PA Soup Cook-Off (April 7) and scleroderma fundraiser at the Abbey Bar. Or if you’d rather drink locally made beer at Zeroday surrounded by Jim and Pam lookalikes, you’ll want to clock into “The Office” party (April 27) during Harrisburg Beer Week.
For you artsy types, be sure to look for Risque Business (April 28), a drag burlesque show at River City Blues Club or maybe an Open Jam with local saxophonist and Yam Yam member Jason Mescia (April 4 and 18) at J.B. Lovedraft’s.
If your heart is set on some live music, I’ve found some solid suggestions for you to make the perfect night out. It’s high time to melt off that winter frost and shake what your momma gave ya.
THE RECORD COMPANY, 4/6, 8PM, CLUB XL, $30-50
The Harrisburg University Concert Series continues to bring hot bands to Club XL. This time, it’s the Record Company, a highlight on the local 2019 music calendar. Hailing from Los Angeles, this bluesy rock band is made up of members Chris Vos, guitarist and lead vocalist, Alex Stiff, bassist and backing vocalist, and Marc Cazorla, drummer and backing vocalist. Blending together influences from blues and punk, these rockers recall a wonderful mix of John Mayer, B.B. King and Grace Potter. Impressed yet? Check out their Grammy-nominated album, “Give It Back to You,” for a taste of some of the best contemporary blues. Dust off your vinyl because the Record Company’s coming to town, and you’d best be prepared.
LOTUS, 4/18, 8PM, CLUB XL, $30
Some call them the jam band to end all jam bands. Some call them genre geniuses with an indescribable sound. Whatever you might call them, Lotus is bound to bring quite the crowd to Harrisburg’s newest hit venue. Blending styles centering around electronica and jam music, all influences find their way to Lotus for a diverse and deep sound. Since 1999, their livetronica sets have blown people away. Their shows tend to feature complex light sequences and some light group improvisations. So, gear up accordingly and, most of all, have fun getting down with your bad self.
WHITAKER UNPLUGGED, 4/19, 5PM, WHITAKER CENTER, $5-8
This event features a new program from Whitaker Center—“Whitaker Unplugged.” If you’re an acoustic singer-songwriter or just a lover of live music in general, join your kindred spirits in the lobby of the center. With a focus on local music, Whitaker Center is hoping to help aspiring artists get their start as confident musicians. Every third Friday, Whitaker Unplugged will offer an opportunity for community recognition, a moment in the spotlight, and possibly a cash prize, to boot. If you know me, readers, you know that I’m very passionate about the music community in Harrisburg. Programs, organizations and venues that encourage musicians in our community are vital in keeping art growing in the Burg. Come out and support “Whitaker Unplugged” for their second show in what I hope will be a successful ongoing series.
Mentionables:
Spring Gate Country Music Festival, Apr. 6-7, Spring Gate Vineyard
Consider the Source, Apr. 13, The Abbey Bar
Jay Dayoungin & Yungeen Ace, Apr. 13, H*MAC Capitol Room
River City Big Band, Apr. 15, River City Blues Club
Bobcat Brisko, Apr. 19, J.B. Lovedraft’s
Babel Map, Apr. 20, River City Blues Club
Frank Turner & the Sleeping Souls, Apr. 20, Club XL
Yella Beezy, Apr. 22, H*MAC Capitol Room
Dave Bennett, Apr. 27-28, The Forum
