By Audrey Anderson
Hometown Weekly Reporter
On June 21, an enthusiastic crowd enjoyed the first concert in the Summer Sounds series at the Bellforge Arts Center. On the sunny, summer solstice evening, folks of all ages relaxed on picnic tables, blankets, and chairs, enjoyed BBQ from Ribpublic’s food truck, and children played with paper guitars, made crafts, and played lawn games.
The first performer of the evening, Dayes (with solo vocals and guitar by Pat Morelli), has been performing in the Boston area for 1-1/2 years. Pat sang folk originals that were fun, upbeat, and reflective, based on his experiences as a recent college graduate. His songs included “23,” “This World That We’re Living In,” “Young Love,” and “Moments.” Pat’s vocals were soft with an attractive tone.
Dayes is working on releasing an EP and will tour the east coast this summer. Hear Dayes on the YouTube channel @dayesmusicofficial.
The second performer was Sailor Down, including Chloe Deeley, singer-songwriter, on lead vocals and guitar, Nat Peirce on drums, and Kevin McGrath on vocals and bass. Chloe’s voice was sure, honest, and straight-forward as she sang her originals dealing with experiences and relationships. Kevin McGrath’s vocal harmonies added depth to the songs, and his enthusiastic bass playing added energy. Nat’s strong performance on drums added drive to the trio.
Sailor Down’s albums include Lookout Park and Skip the Line. You can hear them on Spotify and Pandora.
Paul Armstrong, Director of Programming at the Bellforge Arts Center, said he mainly books local bands from the Boston-Worcester-Providence area, but is also expanding to include some bands from further north. Alexandra Maider-Porter, Program Coordinator, explained that the Bellforge Arts Center is run by a small group of staff, and depends on volunteers to put on its programs. She is enthusiastic about spreading the word about the programs being offered this summer and fall.
See bellforge.org for more information on upcoming programs, including Summer Sounds, Shakespeare’s King Lear, Fall concerts, and Oktoberfest.
