Column for July 28, 2005

I like to promote live music in our area, But it seems like it is getting harder and harder to find live music. Back in the day, pre 1970s seems like bands were at clubs seven nights a week. Then somewhere we became a weekend town. Now with DJs, Karaoke and drunk driving laws it is getting harder and harder to find the music!

Livonia Civic Center, 15218 Farmington Road, has dances with music from the '40s, '50s and '60s with live music by Wally Duda, 8:30 till 11:30pm every Saturday. Dance lessons 7 till 8pm, are $5 if you attend the dance. You can call 248-968-5197 for more information.

One band that sends me stuff on a regular basics is the Bluescasters. The band is pleased to announce the release of their long awaited CD, Five Dimes. With a musical style that defies most labels, but is best described as "swinging blues," the CD consists of 13 songs-10 of which are originals written by band members Kerry Adams, Harry Rodman and Doug Wolgat. See the band July 29 at Cowley's Pub in Farmington on Grand River just east of Farmington Road. For more information contact the band via their web site www.bluescasters.com Or call 810-632-7471.

Remember The Candy Band? They performed a show at the Farmington Library and recently celebrated their 100th show with the release of the group's new CD, "Lollipunk." It's easy listening punk rock music for kids of all ages. The band has been gearing up for several important gigs including Lollapalooza in Chicago and July 31 at the Vans Warped Tour at the Pontiac Silverdome. For more information see their web site www.candyband.com.

Back in the day, JT, AKA Joe Tackett, played guitar in several area bands. If memory severs me right, he played with Rocks Gang and did some gigs with Beatlemania alum Marshall Crensha. For the last 15 years JT has been working the day job gig. But now he says he is ready to get back to music full time. Tackett plans a Rock's Gang reunion gig scheduled for the Plymouth Concerts in the Park, on Friday evening, August 12. Then he plans on becoming the Teen Angels full time guitarist. Joe reports the Teen Angels are still working full time, and will be opening for The Beach Boys on Friday evening, the day before the Dream Cruise, at Birmingham's Shane Park.

Might be a good time for me to note Benny and the Jets band will be performing with Mitch Ryder August 20 at the Dream Cruise in Ferndale, Woodword and 9 mile. Interestingly former Teen Angle -Stonebrige guitarist Paul George now plays for Mitch Ryder. Small world. Support live music, tell your friends, get out and have fun.