Two Bands headline at THE BLACK BOX This Weekend

THE BLACK BOX will present two bands this coming weekend. 

On Friday, November 30, Joe Bargar and the Soul Providers provide the next installment of THE BLACK BOX New England Artists Series. Keyboardist and singer Joe Barga uses his extraordinary voice to put an unexpected twist on standard swing tunes with his group The Soul Providers. They treat audiences to a rousing set of authentic Rhythm and Blues. 

Joe Bargar

It is an all-star rhythm and blues lineup that includes gifted sidemen who’ve backed everyone from James Cotton to Dr. John. Having grown up in Providence, RI, Bargar had the opportunity to appear with such legendary acts as Roomful Of Blues, Scott Hamilton, Duke Robillard, James Montgomery, and The Fabulous Thunderbirds. 

Living in New York City for most of the 70's and 80's, Joe played with performers such as Sly and The Family Stone, Robbie Robertson, blues greats Otis Rush, Mississippi Fred McDowell, Son Seals, and John Lee Hooker; and soul masters Percy Sledge, Clarence Carter, and Solomon Burke. He can also be heard on several recordings, including those by Diana Ross and "Late Show" bandleader Paul Shaeffer.

The Fat City Band

The dance floor will be open as fun continues on Saturday, December 1 with The Fat City Band returning to THE BLACK BOX as part of The Local Artists Series. For more than four decades, The Fat City Band has written, recorded and performed a unique blend of blues, roadhouse rock, jazz, and New Orleans style R and B. 

They have performed coast to coast and beyond, sharing the stage with such legendary greats as James Brown, B.B. King and Ray Charles. Bringing over 40 years of showmanship and entertainment experience to every show, the band remains committed to one idea: music should be fun.

Tickets are available at the door or in advance at www.theblackboxonline.com or by calling the box office at 508-528-3370.

Circle of Friends Coffeehouse: Chris Smither - September 8

An evening of the blues with Chris Smither

An evening with Chris Smither Sep 8th View this email in your browser An Evening with CHRIS SMITHER Sep 8th 8 PM $35 Bluesman Chris Smither will be back at the Circle of Friends Coffeehouse to open our 29th season on Saturday, September 8th at 8PM. He sports the unmistakable sound that he has made his trademark: fingerpicked acoustic guitar and evocative sonic textures meshed with spare, brilliant songs, delivered in a bone-wise, hard-won voice. Honing a synthesis of folk and blues for more than 40 years, Chris Smither is truly an American original. As Acoustic Guitar magazine wrote, Smither sings about "the big things – life, love, loss – in a penetrating and poetic yet unpretentious way." In March 2018, Smither released his eighteenth record, Call Me Lucky to rave reviews. He recorded eight new originals along with some very special and surprising covers. Join us for a wonderful evening of the blues. https://smither.com/ "Smither is an American original – a product of the musical melting pot and one of the absolute best singer-songwriters in the world." -Associated Press. "[Smither] taps his foot to keep the rhythm, much like the late blues legend John Lee Hooker. His finger-picked guitar lines are sleek, unhurried and insistent. And then there's the voice -- equal parts gravel and molasses, Smither's singing sounds like a distillation of the folk and blues heroes he grew up listening to in New Orleans." - National Public Radio The Circle of Friends Coffeehouse is a non-profit organization affiliated with Franklin's First Universalist Society. Concerts are presented in a smoke free and alcohol free environment at the Society's handicapped accessible Meetinghouse, 262 Chestnut St. in Franklin, and begin at 8:00 PM; doors open at 7:30 PM. Beverages and gourmet desserts will be available. Tickets for this shows are $35.  Please call (508) 528-2541 or visit http://www.circlefolk.org/ to purchase tickets or for more information. Upcoming Shows Sep 22     John Gorka with                      Amilia K. Spicer Oct 6        Joe Jencks                      with Katherine Rondeau Oct 20      Bettman and Halpin Nov 3       Susan Werner with                      Jim Henry and Ruby Nov 17     Eliza Gilkyson Dec 8       The Nields Holiday Show                        and Singalong

Circle of Friends Coffeehouse · First Universalist Society · 262 Chestnut St · Franklin, MA 02038 · USA

Franklin Library: Claude Bourbon - Sep 11

Medieval and Spanish Blues Guitarist Claude Bourbon plays at the Franklin Public Library on Tuesday, September 11, 6:30 PM

Franklin Library: Claude Bourbon - Sep 11

This was shared from the Franklin Library page
http://franklinpl.blogspot.com/2018/08/medieval-spanish-blues-guitarist-claude.html

For more about Claude and his music, visit his page  http://www.claudebourbon.org/

James Montgomery Band Returns To THE BLACK BOX - Jun 22

THE BLACK BOX, downtown Franklin’s theater, music, and event venue, presents the renowned James Montgomery Band on Friday, June 22 at 8 p.m.

Blues legend James Montgomery plays with authority. While growing up in Detroit, he learned firsthand from the masters – James Cotton, John Lee Hooker, and Jr. Wells – at the legendary “Chessmate.” Over the years, Montgomery has carried on in the tradition and continues to be a vital presence in Blues as one of the most dynamic performers on the scene.

He formed the James Montgomery Band in 1970 while attending Boston University. Montgomery’s inimitable harmonica playing, combined with his energetic live shows, led to the band’s quick ascension on the New England music scene. Within two years, the James Montgomery Band was among the hottest acts in Boston, along with J. Geils and Aerosmith, and they were quickly signed to a multi-album deal with Capricorn records.

Since that time, Montgomery has recorded six albums. His first, First Time Out, has been re-mastered and re-released by MRG/Capricorn. Others include James Montgomery Band on Island Records, which was number nine on Billboard’s national playlist; Duck Fever, with members of the David Letterman Band; Live Trax, with the Uptown Horns (the Rolling Stones’ horn section); and his release on Tone-Cool, The Oven Is On.

Montgomery has toured with major artists including Aerosmith, Bonnie Raitt, Bruce Springsteen, the Allman Brothers, Steve Miller and others. He has jammed on stage with B.B. King, Buddy Guy, John Lee Hooker, Jr. Wells, James Cotton, Charlie Daniels, Bonnie Raitt, Gregg Allman, Laverne Baker, Patti LaBelle, and Peter Wolf, among others, including an impromptu session with Mick Jagger at New York’s “Trax.”

Over the years, Montgomery’s band has been a springboard for many musicians, with members having included Billy Squire, Wayne Kramer (MC-5), Jeff Golub (Rod Stewart), Jim McCarty (Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels), Jeff Pevar (Ray Charles Orchestra and Crosby, Stills & Nash), Bobby Chouinard (drummer with Ted Nugent, Squire, and Robert Gordon), Jeff Levine (Joe Cocker), Aerosmith’s Tom Gambel, and many others.

Tickets are $25. THE BLACK BOX, home of the Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC), is located at 15 West Central Street. A cash bar is available. For tickets and more information, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call (508) 528-3370.

James Montgomery Band Returns To THE BLACK BOX - Jun 22

THE BLACK BOX Local Artist Series presents The Peacheaters/The Daybreakers - May 25

THE BLACK BOX Local Artist Series presents The Peacheaters – An Allman Brothers Band Experience and The Daybreakers on Friday, May 25 at 8 p.m. THE BLACK BOX theater, music and event venue is located at 15 West Central Street in downtown Franklin.

Fueled by admiration and passion for the music of the Allman Brothers Band, The Peacheaters have been rocking audiences for more than 15 years, digging deep into the 40+-year catalog of Allman Brothers Band music. The Boston Globe, WZLX - Boston's Classic Rock Radio, and many other media outlets have raved about the authenticity of the band's performances, and the group has won multiple “Best Tribute Band” awards. From festivals to concert halls, the band's success has taken them all over the U.S., including performances at venues such as Showcase Live, The House of Blues, Daytona's Bike Week, The Big House in Macon, GA and B.B. Kings, NYC.

Blending folk-rock melodies with blues guitar muscle and rock ‘n’ roll grit, the DayBreakers have earned their stripes over four years of consistent gigging throughout New England. The band has played many of Boston and Cambridge's most revered rooms, sharing the stage with some of the region's best roots rockers, such as Entrain and the Silks. The group has also performed at Indian Ranch for three years running, opening for Three Dog Night, The Beach Boys and Bret Michaels. Combining rock ‘n’ roll, blues, country and funk, the band has worked tirelessly to craft a sound that is filled with hard riffs and soulful melodies. Their music tells timeless stories of happiness, heartbreak, rejection and redemption with rhythm that keeps audiences dancing.

Tickets are $15 if purchased in advance or $20 at the door. A cash bar is available. 

For tickets and more information, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call (508) 528-3370.

More about The Peacheaters  https://www.peacheaters.com/

More about The Daybreakers  https://www.daybreakersband.com/

The Peacheaters/The Daybreakers - May 25

Sonya Rae Taylor Headines Black Box Blues Concert - March 31

BLACK BOX Blues presents singer/songwriter/guitarist Sonya Rae Taylor on Saturday, March 31 at 8 p.m. at THE BLACK BOX theater, music, and event venue in downtown Franklin.

Part of the new breed of blues and soul musicians, Sonya Rae Taylor is always searching for new ways to revitalize the form. A triple threat, Sonya is a fiery guitar slinger, soulful blues belter, and a songwriter of depth and craft beyond her years. Joined by her husband, Ryan Taylor, the powerful guitar duo has logged many miles in their young careers, from Boston to Austin then Nashville, where Sonya was signed by BMG Chrysalis. 

The couple has made TV appearances on shows such as the ABC series, Nashville, and has worked with or shared the stage with artists ranging from Tameca Jones, Gary Clark, Jr., John Popper of Blues Traveler, John Medeski, and Derrico Watson of the Victor Wooten Band. 

Tickets are $20. A cash bar is available. For tickets and more information, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call (508) 528-3370. The home of the Franklin Performing Arts Company, THE BLACK BOX is located at 15 West Central Street.

For more about Sonya Rae and samples of her music
https://www.sonyaraetaylor.com/

Sonya Rae Taylor Headines Black Box Blues Concert - March 31

Circle of Friends Coffeehouse: Danielle Miraglia - Jan 6

Danielle Miraglia sings the blues - don't miss her.

View this email in your browser DANIELLE MIRAGLIA Jan 6 - 8 PM $20 with Open Book Danielle Miraglia sings the blues! She comes armed with a strong steady thumb on an old Gibson, an infectious stomp-box rhythm and harmonica with tunes ranging from heart-felt to socially conscious that will move both your heart and hips. Her latest "All My Heroes Are Ghosts," released with her band Danielle M and The Glory Junkies, touches on a lot of what might be on your mind these days – the loss of so many musical heroes on the title track, the chaos of "fake news" on "Monster," the general sense that the world is on fire on "All On Fire," the more personal with the death of a complicated loved one on "Guilt Trip" and more.   The music itself blends influences of some of Miraglia's own musical heroes - The Rolling Stones, Prince, Janis Joplin along with Danielle's lyrical ability to explore human nature at its best and worst.   Danielle was nominated for a 2015 Boston Music Award for Singer-Songwriter of the Year. "Straddling the line where folk/roots meets rock/blues, Miraglia has a voice that can go from a raspy come-hither purr to an Etta James-esque powerhouse belt, although she may be best known for her lead thumb — a heavy, thumping strike on her Gibson that's backdrop percussion in itself." - Lauren Daley - The Boston Globe "Danielle Miraglia is a treasure! She captivated her audience from the first few notes she played until the end of her second encore. She is charming, talented, a total professional, and completely down to earth. I can't wait to bring her back next year! She is always welcome on our stage." -   Barron Chandler, Director, Narberth Summer Concert Series "With hints of Bonnie Raitt and Rory Block, Danielle Miraglia is carving out a new place all her own in the music world. Simply put, she is stunning…with a voice that just comes out of nowhere. She animates a stage and commands the rapt attention of all within earshot. This is one artist to watch, she is going to be huge." -   Jamey Reilly, The PSALM Salon New York's Open Book duo starts the show. Rick and Michele Gedney, known as the duo Open Book have been writing, recording, and performing together since 2000. Their original music features melody invention and vocal harmonies backed by a tapestry of interweaving guitars.  Open Book has released  three albums which have received national airplay and critical acclaim. They are the winners of the 2017 Connecticut Folk Festival 'Grassy Hill Songwriting Competition'. The Circle of Friends Coffeehouse is a non-profit organization affiliated with Franklin's First Universalist Society. Concerts are presented in a smoke free and alcohol free environment at the Society's handicapped accessible Meetinghouse, 262 Chestnut St. in Franklin, and begin at 8:00 PM; doors open at 7:30 PM. Beverages and gourmet desserts will be available.  Tickets for this shows are $20.  Please call (508)528-2541 or visit http://www.circlefolk.org/ to purchase tickets or for more information. SCHEDULE CHANGES Please note that Gretchen Peters will now be appearing on April 7th and The Lonely Heartstring Band is unable to be here on March 17th. Upcoming Shows Jan 27       Seth Glier with guest Rachael Kilgour Feb 10       Chelsea Berry with Billy Keane Mar 3         Patty Larkin Mar 17       TBA Apr 7          Gretchen Peters Apr 28        Pat Donohue May 12       TBA

Circle of Friends Coffeehouse · First Universalist Society · 262 Chestnut St · Franklin, MA 02038 · USA

Circle of Friends Coffeehouse: Danielle Miraglia - Jan 6

Danielle Miraglia comes armed with a strong steady thumb on an old Gibson, an infectious stomp-box rhythm and harmonica with tunes ranging from heart-felt to socially conscious that will move both your heart and hips.

 Circle of Friends Coffeehouse: Danielle Miraglia - Jan 6

"Straddling the line where folk/roots meets rock/blues, Miraglia has a voice that can go from a raspy come-hither purr to an Etta James-esque powerhouse belt, although she may be best known for her lead thumb — a heavy, thumping strike on her Gibson that’s backdrop percussion in itself." - Lauren Daley, The Boston Globe

Open Book (Michele and Rick Gedney) will be Danielle's special guests.
http://www.openbookmusic.com/


For more about Danielle visit her webpage https://daniellem.com/



Saturday, January 6, 2018 at 8 PM - 10:30 PM

Circle of Friends Coffeehouse
262 Chestnut St, Franklin, Massachusetts 02038

Tickets Available = circlefolk.org


Shared from the Circle of Friend Facebook event
https://www.facebook.com/events/297218137452356/

Franklin Library: Paul Speidel Blues & Jazz Trio, Nov 29

The Paul Speidel Blues and Jazz Trio will be performing at the Franklin Public Library Wednesday, November 29 at 6:30 p.m. For over twenty years, Paul Speidel has been performing at major clubs and festivals in the Greater Boston area, such as Scullers, Ryles, Johnny D's, Acton Jazz Cafe, and many others. 

He taught Jazz and Blues in the Newton Public Schools during this time, and has presented music programs at public and private venues for just as long. Last year, he had the privilege of performing live on WBUR’s “Radio Boston” program to nearly 500,000 listeners, and has appeared on countless other area radio shows over the years. 

With nine CDs to his credit, Paul’s recordings have been critically recognized nationally, including a 3½ star review in Downbeat in 2011. His credits also include performances with Patti Page, Howard Alden, Jay Geils, Duke Robillard, James Montgomery and Shirley Lewis, to name just a few… 

“Speidel shines with calibrated, elevated playing that draws on his muse and on a congenital sense of what makes sense musically…Three and a half stars!” – Frank-John Hadley, Downbeat Magazine (July 2011) 

“Love it! One of the finest guitarists out there…So great having you on the show. You’re terrific!” (Jordan Rich, WBZ-1030, Boston) 

"Paul Speidel's guitar playing is impressive. He manages to mix blues and jazz and funk naturally and effortlessly. The band is tight and the songs are strong. If you haven't seen Paul, you're missing out on something special right here in Boston!” --Dana Marshall (DJ, Program Manager,WXRV 92.5-FM The River)

Franklin Library: Paul Speidel Blues & Jazz Trio, Nov 29

This was shared from the Franklin Library webpage
http://franklinpl.blogspot.com/2017/11/paul-speidel-blues-jazz-trio-wednesday.html


For more about Paul Speidel visit his webpage  http://www.paulspeidelband.com/

THE BLACK BOX New England Artist Series: Roomful of Blues - Nov 10

"The eight-piece blues band is led by guitarist Chris Vachon and features singer Phil Pemberton, bringing his sweet and soulful vocals to the ensemble’s jazzy, jump-blues musical roots. 

Their winning combination of jump, swing, blues, R&B and soul remains their calling card, as does their ability to fill the dance floor. Along with new members, bassist John Turner, trumpeter Doug Woolverton, drummer Chris Anzalone, and keyboardist Rusty Scott, and longtime members baritone and tenor saxophonist Mark Earley, tenor and alto saxophonist Rich Lataille, Roomful keeps on rockin’ in 2017."

Scheduled for THE BLACK BOX on Friday,November 10, 2017  8:00 PM
https://www.theblackboxonline.com/events.php?id=1043

THE BLACK BOX New England Artist Series: Roomful of Blues - Nov 10

For more about The Roomful of Blues  https://www.roomful.com/

THE BLACK BOX to Present a Full Lineup of November Music Series Events

THE BLACK BOX, downtown Franklin’s theater, music and event venue, presents a full lineup of quality live entertainment this November. A suburban hub for great music, THE BLACK BOX is located at 15 West Central Street. 

On Friday, November 3 at 8 p.m., THE BLACK BOX Local Artist Series presents jazz vocalist Brenda Padula. The evening will showcase songs from the Great American Songbook, along with blues and Motown favorites. Padula will be joined by pianist Dennis “Rusty” Hughes, saxophonist Arnie Krakowsky, bassist Mark Poniatowski, and drummer Kenny Hadley. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for students/seniors.

On Saturday, November 4 at 8 p.m., THE BLACK BOX presents the renowned James Montgomery Band. Growing up in Detroit, James Montgomery learned firsthand from the masters – James Cotton, John Lee Hooker, and Jr. Wells – at the legendary “Chessmate.” Over the years, he has carried on in the tradition and continues to be a vital presence in Blues as one of the most dynamic performers on the scene. Montgomery has recorded six albums and toured with major artists including Aerosmith, Bonnie Raitt, Bruce Springsteen, the Allman Brothers, and Steve Miller. Tickets are $25.

BLACK BOX Jazz presents the acoustic jazz ensemble Rhythm Future Quartet at 4 p.m. on Sunday, November 5. The virtuosic foursome, named for a Django Reinhardt tune, offers up a newly minted sound, influenced by the classic Hot Club of France, yet wholly contemporary. Led by violinist Jason Anick and guitarist Olli Soikkeli, the quartet performs dynamic and lyrical arrangements of both Gypsy jazz standards and original compositions that draw upon diverse international rhythms and musical idioms. With Max O’Rourke on second guitar and Greg Loughman on bass, Rhythm Future is dedicated to expanding the boundaries of a vital musical genre. Tickets are $20.

Roomful of Blues kicks off a new season of THE BLACK BOX New England Artist Series concerts on Friday, November 10 at 8 p.m. The eight-piece blues band is led by guitarist Chris Vachon and features singer Phil Pemberton, bringing his sweet and soulful vocals to the ensemble’s jazzy, jump-blues musical roots. Their winning combination of jump, swing, blues, R&B, and soul remains their calling card, as does their ability to fill the dance floor. Tickets are $28.

THE BLACK BOX Classical Series presents Quartett Giocosa on Sunday, November 12, at 4 p.m. Featuring violinists Irina Fainkichen and Heather Goodchild, violist Irina Naryshkova, and cellist Elizabeth Schultze, the program will include selections from Rachmaninoff, Dvorak, Still, and Gershwin. Tea service will be available. Tickets are $20 for adults and $18 for students/seniors.

On Friday, November 17 at 7:30 p.m., the third annual Rising Stars Cabaret presents a special revue spotlighting the talents of promising young singers. The cabaret is presented in an intimate nightclub atmosphere with professional accompaniment. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for students/seniors.

On Sunday, November 19, BLACK BOX Jazz presents a Big Band Brunch with the renowned Kenny Hadley Big Band. The critically acclaimed 16-piece ensemble, led by drummer Kenny Hadley, boasts masterful musicians with performance ties to Big Band legends Woody Herman, Count Basie, Stan Kenton, Maynard Ferguson, Buddy Rich, and more. Combination tickets for brunch and music are $45; tickets for the concert alone are $20. Brunch begins at 11:30 a.m., with music beginning at noon.

THE BLACK BOX Local Artist Series presents DayBreakers with Copilot at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, November 22. Blending folk-rock melodies with blues guitar muscle and rock ‘n’ roll grit, the DayBreakers have crafted their own sound on the backs of bands like the Rolling Stones, The Black Crowes, The Allman Brothers, and the Eagles. Combining rock ‘n’ roll, blues, country, and funk, the band has worked tirelessly to craft a sound that is filled with hard riffs and soulful melodies. Copilot is an American Pop duo based in Norfolk, Massachusetts. As Copilot, Ry McDonald and Maggie Quealy explore their passion and unique Americana music through their popular covers and original songs in a way that many listeners haven’t heard before. Tickets are $10 if purchased in advance or $12 at the door.

For tickets and more information, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call (508) 528-3370.

THE BLACK BOX to Present a Full Lineup of November Music Series Events

The Fat City Band to Play THE BLACK BOX - Oct 6

THE BLACK BOX Local Artist Series presents The Fat City Band on Friday, October 6 at 8 p.m. at the downtown Franklin venue. For more than four decades, The Fat City Band has written, recorded, and performed a unique blend of blues, roadhouse rock, jazz, and New Orleans-style R&B. 

Performing coast to coast and beyond, the high-energy band has shared the stage with such legendary greats as James Brown, B.B. King, and Ray Charles. Bringing 40+ years of showmanship and entertainment experience to every show, the band remains committed to one idea: “Music Should Be Fun.” The Fat City Band invites audiences to come and join the party.

Tickets are $20. The home of the Franklin Performing Arts Company and a suburban hub for great music, THE BLACK BOX is located at 15 West Central Street. A cash bar is available. For tickets and more information, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call (508) 528-3370.

The Fat City Band to Play THE BLACK BOX - Oct 6

James Montgomery Band - Friday, April 14

THE BLACK BOX, downtown Franklin’s theater, music, and event venue, presents the renowned James Montgomery Band on Friday, April 14 at 8 p.m.

Whether recording with Kid Rock, sitting in with Gregg Allman, or fronting his band of 30 years, blues legend James Montgomery plays with authority. While growing up in Detroit, he learned firsthand from the masters – James Cotton, John Lee Hooker, and Jr. Wells – at the legendary “Chessmate.” Over the years, Montgomery has carried on in the tradition and continues to be a vital presence in Blues as one of the most dynamic performers on the scene.

James Montgomery Band - Friday, April 14

He formed the James Montgomery Band in 1970 while attending Boston University. Montgomery’s inimitable harmonica playing, combined with his energetic live shows, led to the band’s quick ascension on the New England music scene. Within two years, the James Montgomery Band was among the hottest acts in Boston, along with J. Geils and Aerosmith, and they were quickly signed to a multi-album deal with Capricorn records.

Since that time, Montgomery has recorded six albums. His first, First Time Out, has been re-mastered and re-released by MRG/Capricorn. Others include James Montgomery Band on Island Records, which was number nine on Billboard’s national playlist; Duck Fever, with members of the David Letterman Band; Live Trax, with the Uptown Horns (the Rolling Stones’ horn section); and his release on Tone-Cool, The Oven Is On.

Montgomery has toured with major artists including Aerosmith, Bonnie Raitt, Bruce Springsteen, the Allman Brothers, Steve Miller and others. He has jammed on stage with B.B. King, Buddy Guy, John Lee Hooker, Jr. Wells, James Cotton, Charlie Daniels, Bonnie Raitt, Gregg Allman, Laverne Baker, Patti LaBelle, and Peter Wolf, among others, including an impromptu session with Mick Jagger at New York’s “Trax.”

Over the years, Montgomery’s band has been a springboard for many musicians, with members having included Billy Squire, Wayne Kramer (MC-5), Jeff Golub (Rod Stewart), Jim McCarty (Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels), Jeff Pevar (Ray Charles Orchestra and Crosby, Stills & Nash), Bobby Chouinard (drummer with Ted Nugent, Squire, and Robert Gordon), Jeff Levine (Joe Cocker), Aerosmith’s Tom Gambel, and many others.

The James Montgomery Band concert at THE BLACK BOX will also feature special guest, guitarist Tyler Morris. Tickets are $25. THE BLACK BOX, home of the Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC), is located at 15 West Central Street. A cash bar is available. For tickets and more information, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call (508) 528-3370.

James Montgomery Band Headlines THE BLACK BOX - Aug 5

THE BLACK BOX, downtown Franklin’s theater, music, and event venue, presents the renowned James Montgomery Band on Friday, August 5 at 8 p.m.

Whether it’s recording with Kid Rock, sitting in with Gregg Allman, or fronting his band of 30 years, blues legend James Montgomery plays with authority. While growing up in Detroit, he learned firsthand from the masters – James Cotton, John Lee Hooker, and Jr. Wells – at the legendary “Chessmate.” Over the years, Montgomery has carried on in the tradition and continues to be a vital presence in Blues as one of the most dynamic performers on the scene.

James Montgomery

He formed the James Montgomery Band in 1970 while attending Boston University. Montgomery’s inimitable harmonica playing, combined with his energetic live shows, led to the band’s quick ascension on the New England music scene. Within two years, the James Montgomery Band was among the hottest acts in Boston, along with J. Geils and Aerosmith, and they were quickly signed to a multi-album deal with Capricorn records.

Since that time, James has recorded six albums. His first, First Time Out, has been re-mastered and re-released by MRG/Capricorn. Others include James Montgomery Band on Island Records, which was number nine on Billboard’s national playlist; Duck Fever, with members of the David Letterman Band; Live Trax, with the Uptown Horns (the Rolling Stones’ horn section); and his release on Tone-Cool, The Oven Is On.

Montgomery has toured with major artists including Aerosmith, Bonnie Raitt, Bruce Springsteen, the Allman Brothers, Steve Miller and others. He has jammed on stage with B.B. King, Buddy Guy, John Lee Hooker, Jr. Wells, James Cotton, Charlie Daniels, Bonnie Raitt, Gregg Allman, Laverne Baker, Patti LaBelle, and Peter Wolf, among others, including an impromptu session with Mick Jagger at New York’s “Trax.”

Over the years, Montgomery’s band has been a springboard for many musicians, with members having included Billy Squire, Wayne Kramer (MC-5), Jeff Golub (Rod Stewart), Jim McCarty (Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels), Jeff Pevar (Ray Charles Orchestra and Crosby, Stills & Nash), Bobby Chouinard (drummer with Ted Nugent, Squire, and Robert Gordon), Jeff Levine (Joe Cocker), Aerosmith’s Tom Gambel, and many others.

Tickets are $25. THE BLACK BOX, home of the Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC), is located at 15 West Central Street in downtown Franklin. A cash bar is available. For tickets and more information, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call (508) 528-3370.

In the News - fire station open house, blues at Cottage St Pub

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

GHS

Posted Apr 10, 2008 @ 11:31 PM

---

FRANKLIN —

Eight years after the idea was first proposed, the town has a new fire station.

To mark the occasion, the department is hosting a dedication ceremony tomorrow and inviting the public inside for a look around.

"We're thrilled," said Fire Chief Gary McCarraher. "Our employees went from the old station, which was virtually crumbling, to (13 months in) a trailer.

"It's great to get them into a professional place to conduct business," McCarraher said of the new $9.3 million building constructed on the site of the former station at 40 West Central St.

"The troops really suffered during construction. It was cramped, especially in the winter," he said.

McCarraher and Lou Allevato, chairman of the Fire Station Building Committee, Town Council Chairman Chris Feeley and other dignitaries will speak at the dedication, which begins at 11 a.m.

The station will be open for public tours until 2 p.m.

Read the full article in the Milford Daily News

----------------------------

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

GHS

Posted Apr 10, 2008 @ 11:13 PM

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FRANKLIN —

A local pub owner has given the green light to the blues.

Inspired by the widely known Yard Rock Cafe in Quincy, Cottage Street Pub owner Phil Butkevich is bringing the blues to town this month.

Those who are blues fans run "from one end of the spectrum to the other - the blue collar worker to the white collar worker," Butkevich said.

"It's good sitting music, and it's good if you want to dance. Sometimes you're at a club, and the music's kind of loud. Personally, I think when you look at bands and hear the trombone, brass, bass and bugles, you're getting better quality sound," he said.

Every weekend this month, Butkevich will host at least one blues band from the Interstate 495/Rhode Island area at his 130-person-capacity pub.

Read the full article in the Milford Daily News