Upcoming schedule announced for Downtown Paso Park
Paso Robles REC Foundation has announced their line-up for 2018 Summer Concerts in the Park, so mark your calendars now for Thursdays at 6 p.m. from June 7 to August 16. A diverse array of bands will satisfy music lovers with both covers and original songs.
Major sponsors of the REC Foundation, Firestone Walker Brewing Company and J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, help make possible the music series that is attended by thousands throughout North SLO County. Along with wine and beer, water and sodas will also be available for purchase.
Dirty Cello, contributed photo
The ten-concert season between mid-June and mid-August is not only popular with devotees, but with musicians, too. The process by which bands are selected can be highly competitive.
“It’s tremendous,” said Lynda Plescia, Recreation Services Manager. “We average 70 applications a year. We implemented a protocol to keep up with the interest.” On December 1, the Recreation Department puts out a call for music talent. Along with their application, specific criteria are met, including a song list, references, and video.
Dirty Cello, a San Francisco-based blues, bluegrass, and rock band that has traveled all over the world, is excited to perform this year.
“We love Paso Robles, with its eclectic antique shops, delicious eateries, and friendly people,” said singer and cellist Rebecca Roudman. “We’ve performed sold-out shows in Paso Robles the past couple years at venues like D’Anbino Cellars, and have gotten to know a lot of the people of Paso Robles, who are not only warm and welcoming, but a lot of fun to have at our shows. Our new tradition is visiting Twisted and Glazed for an after-concert donut treat! We play a mix of covers with our own unique spin, including Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin and Guns and Roses, plus our own original blues songs like, “Don’t Call Me Honey.” We’ll get you up and dancing and singing along. We can’t wait to have a great time with you!”
The Kings of 88, contributed photo
Monte Mills, a longtime SLO County favorite is always in the lineup. “This year, he’s going to perform an extra hour at his show on June 21, which is the summer solstice,” Plescia added.
“Our concerts feature incredible local talent paired with great food and drink in our newly renovated City Park and play area,” said Plescia. “So, put on your dancing shoes or spread out your picnic blanket and celebrate summer with us!”
June 7: The Brass Factory (classic R&B/Motown)
June 14: The Jammies (rock, funk, reggae)
June 21: Monte Mills (country, rock)
June 28: Dulcie Taylor (rock American roots)
July 5: Unfinished Business (rock, soul)
July 12: Dirty Cello (blues/bluegrass)
July 19: Sound Investment (pop, rock, dance)
August 2: The JD Project (country, rock, blues)
August 9: The Kings of 88 (classic rock)
August 16: Joy Bonner Band (old soul)
For more information, call Recreation Services Manager Lynda Plescia at 805-237-3987.
