Published: August 23, 2008 01:11 am            

MOLSON CONCERT SERIES: Jeff Martin ends season on a high note

For the last time this summer, the Ulrich City Centre played host to the Molson Canal Concert Series on Friday night.

Headliner Jeff Martin, former member of the Tea Party, took the stage to cheers and applause just as the sun was setting.

Martin’s set was a bit quieter than others in the concert series, with an acoustic guitar and bongo drums replacing electric guitars and screaming vocals.

For Lockport native Colin Roberts — bassist for opening band Johnny Nobody — it was a surreal experience to open for Martin.

“I was a big Tea Party fan growing up,” Roberts said. “It’s an honor. I was a fan growing up, so it’s pretty amazing.”

Roberts said he and the rest of Johnny Nobody, who all hail from Lockport, were thrilled to be playing at home.

“There’s a lot of family and friends, and a lot of people I haven’t seen in a while,” he said. “It’s incredible. As a kid growing up here, I wished there had been something like (the concert series). ... I would have been at every show.”

Joseph Orlando, singer and guitarist for Buffalo-based Mother Red, the other opening band, said he came to the concert series two weeks ago to see Riders on the Storm.

“It’s a great time,” Orlando said. “I wish I had come to more of them.”

Most of the openers have been locally grown. Orlando said the concert series has provided “great exposure” for some local bands.

The crowd Friday night was a mix of old and young, with people playing Frisbee and chatting between sets.

Concert Promoter Kathy Paradowski said she’s glad the concert series moved to Lockport.

“We think it’s gone very well,” she said. “We’re happy.”

Mayor Michael Tucker took the stage before Martin’s performance and thanked the crowd for their support.

“It’s been a really good summer,” he said. “We’re gonna see you all next year.”

Contact reporter April Amadon at 439-9222, ext. 6251.

        

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