The third annual Concert in the Park at Dundee begins with high energy and attendance by Lorraine Glowczak

Over 200 people were in for a lively experience at Dundee Park, 70 Presumpscot Road on Wednesday, July 11 for the first evening of four, Concert in the Park Series. Beachgoers and music lovers alike were entertained by the 121 Band, a seven-member local band, based out of Raymond.

“It went splendidly at Dundee,” stated Amy Krikken, one of the lead singers still riding high from the evening.

The 121 Band is known for its high energy delivery of many popular and favorite songs from the 60s, 70s, and 80s and beyond. Children and adults were dancing to the tunes of “Mustang Sally,” “You ain’t nothing but a Hound Dog,” “Love Shack,” and “Feel it Still” to name a few.

Those in attendance enjoyed the band’s diverse musical selection, including one member of the audience, Rebecca Lawind. “I like their versatile music selection, energetic style and especially appreciate Amy’s vocals. I also love the nostalgia element to their song selection.” 

The 121 Band launched onto the scene approximately three years ago, with some members playing together much longer with the band, Rip Tide. Musicians of the 121 Band include Krikken, Aaron Spiller (lead singer), Steve Knowles (lead guitar) and Dennis Look (lead guitar), Dan Wolf (rhythm guitar), Matt Natale (bass) and Ernie Look (drummer).

In the three years they have been performing, they have played at various venues throughout the state to include Tailgates in Gray, Dena’s in Windham, Crooked Hook in Mechanic Falls, Skips in Buxton, The Northland in Jackman, Gary’s in Naples; and at private parties and more. “We are looking forward to playing on a chartered and sold-out cruise aboard the Casablanca on Friday, the 20^th,” Krikken said. “We did this last year and it is so much fun.”

As for the band’s name, the story goes something like this. The band had just begun, and a name had yet to be decided upon. Knowles, who plays with a number of musical groups, was trying to explain which band he was going to be practicing with that evening. “I’m going to be with my 121 peeps this evening,” he told that friend. Why 121? Because the band’s home base and practice site are located on Route 121 in Raymond.  

When the members of the121 Band are not performing their high energy and danceable music, they are busy working in other fields. “There's a bit of a theme to our work outside of the band,” explained Krikken. “Steve and Ernie are in the computer industry and work from home. Aaron, Steve and Matt work in car industry related businesses, Dan is in construction and I’m in real estate.”

If you missed the 121 Band and the first evening of Concert in the Park at Dundee, do not despair. The third annual concert series will offer three more Wednesday evening concerts from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. with free admission after 5 p.m. The Hurricanes performed on Wednesday, July 18th (The Windham Eagle’s publication day). On Wednesday, July 25, music will be provided by the Downeast Soul Coalition and Rick Charette will perform on Wednesday, August 1.

“We are very pleased with the attendance for the first two concerts,” stated Linda Brooks, Director of Windham Parks and Recreation, the host of the event.

Brooks also stated that concessions are available at each performance and funds raised will support area non-profits to include the Legion Auxiliary, Rescue and the Lions Club. 

For more information about the Concert in the Park series, visit WindhamRecreation.com. For more information about: 121 Band, visit www.facebook.com/121Band. For The Hurricanes, visit www.facebook.com/The-Hurricanes-162375330455425. Downeast Soul Coalition, visit www.facebook.com/DowneastSoulCoalition and Rick Charette, visit www.facebook.com/Rick-Charette-166582794166.

First concert at Dundee Park a rocking success - By Michelle Libby

There’s nothing better than jamming out to a great band live, unless it’s listening to the live music at Dundee Park in Windham while swimming and hanging out with friends. This was exactly what happened last Wednesday at the first Concert in the Park night.

The Hurricanes kicked off the series with a collection of pop, current and oldie danceable tunes. They interacted with the audience and made the concert fun despite having their audience all over the park looking for shade or a place to grill. 

“This is a treat for us,” said Mike, lead singer for The Hurricanes. “We’re happy to kick it off. Hopefully more people will come with word of mouth.”

 

“Music is good for you. Come have fun,” said Patrick, the drummer. 

The original members of The Hurricanes have been together since 1986 at Deering High School. This version has been performing all over southern Maine for 12 years. The five man band includes Mike, Snoopy on lead guitar, Bobby on bass, Sunny on Sax and Patrick on drums. 

 “It’s all about interacting with the crowd and getting the crowd involved,” said Snoopy. 

The hot evening was perfect for swimming and sitting in the shade. The audience ranged in age from kids to seniors. Families grilled, brought picnic dinners and visited with friends, all with the music in the background. 

“I haven’t been down here in 50 years, since before it was a park,” said Allan Phinney. “This is a nice little park.” 

“You never look in your own backyard,” Rachel Phinney agreed. 

Parks and recreation director Linda Brooks was pleased with the turnout of close to 250 people. Cars were parked down the access road off Presumpscot Road filling the parking lot. The concert started at 6:30 p.m., but people trickled in all night. 

Dance Studio of Maine’s competition dance team sold concessions and every week a different non-profit will sell baked goods, chips, popcorn or other snack food as well as water. 

Eighty-year-old Sally Phipps of Windham signed up to attend all four concerts. “With the first song I knew I’d hear good music,” she said. She clapped and shook her hands to songs from her generation, she added. 

The concert series will take place every Wednesday for four weeks. The final two concerts are Douglas Elder and top local musicians on July 27^th and on August 3 join Rick Charette. For more about these performers visit Town of Windham on Facebook. The concerts are from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. The park closes at 8 p.m. For more about The Hurricanes, visit them at www.TheHurricanesMaine.com.