If the weather holds, the community will enjoy three back-to-back summer concerts remaining in the 2013 Sand in the Streets series.
Today’s band is Spare Change, appearing live on the Pearson Park stage beginning at 6 p.m.
Based in La Grange, this four-piece band of friends got started in 2002. Traveling throughout the southeast, they grew into one of the most popular bands in the region, especially among young music lovers, with their diverse portfolio which includes rock, country, beach, funk, rap and classic rock.
With six musicians and unique instruments, from the mandolin to the violin, these musical artists bring something refreshing and exciting to their fans. Today’s performance will mark Spare Change’s sixth concert on a Sands in the Street stage — previous concerts were in 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2012.
Front man Jordan Rouse brings a youthful exuberance to the stage while a veteran rhythm section provides a strong backbeat and groove.
Chris Morden, Jeff Morris, Michael Sullivan and Matt Bell (bass, drums, guitar and electric violin, respectively) have years of collective experience. They have played all over the country and bring a measure of high energy and excitement to the stage. They also lend a hand with vocals, creating signature five-part harmonies.
Singer Veronica Welch is said to have a “freight train” powerful voice. Sharing lead vocals with Rouse adds dimension to the group’s repertoire.
Ashley Pierce will represent Self-Help Credit Union, the event sponsor of today’s concert, emceed byDownEast Today TV host Rick Vernon. The concert will be the Red Cross Recognition Night, with Bill Taylor representing the Red Cross. He’s the chairman of the Lenoir County Chapter of the American Red Cross. He will be joined by local Red Cross board members Rod Evans and Jimmy Smith, plus Tammy Forrester, CEO of the Lenoir-Greene-Wayne chapters of the American Red Cross.
“The rains have played havoc with the concerts’ original schedule,” said Adrian King, executive director of Pride of Kinston, which produces the series. “We appreciate the patience of the fans, of the sponsors, and the bands as we’ve worked to accommodate early schedule changes. I’m afraid to predict, but we’re praying that the weather will be quite pleasant tonight as we resume the shows.”
The hope is that all will be well for the final three concerts: today’s Spare Change; Band of Oz Aug. 22, traditionally the final show of a season; and Mel Melton and the Wicked Mojos Aug. 29, a make-up from the postponed Aug. 1 original schedule.
“If difficulties build character, then we’re close to heaven already.”
Sand in the Streets 2013 Schedule
Today, Spare ChangeSummer’s countdown
Aug. 22, Band of Oz
Aug. 29, Mel Melton & the Wicked Mojos
6 to 8 p.m. at Pearson Park
Free to the public
Info: Pride of Kinston, 252-522-4676, ext. 2020 or adrianking@downtownkinston.com