July is jammed full of music throughout the valleys, cities,... [Derived headline]

• Published in: The News - Item
• Main Author: Sten, Jon
• Format: Newspaper Article
• Language: English
• Published: Shamokin, Pa Sample News Group 01.07.2007
• Subjects: Zappa, Dweezil
• ISSN: 2158-9412

  The Tower Theatre in Upper Darby is sure to explode when Widespread Panic tears into town Tuesday. Panic has been a force on the jam circuit for 21 years. The premature death of guitarist Michael Houser left the future of the band in question. However, the recent addition of Jimmy Herring (Aquarium Rescue Unit, Phil and Friends) ignited an inspirational spark within the group. Herring's thunderstorm guitar groove meshes perfectly with the band's sound, and his precision on the instrument attacks the brain like a swarm of violent bees. John Bell's whisky driven, gritty vocals breathe life into each and every Panic composition. His voice sounds archaic, like an old-world warrior who has endured centuries of war on a blood stained Roman battlefield. The first full weekend of July hosts the 10th annual Briggs Farm Blues Festival. Thirteen acclaimed blues acts have assembled from all across America to ensure that this event will not only showcase legendary performers, but also provide a stepping stone for a fresh crop of younger musicians carrying on the blues tradition. Headlining Friday night is Alexis P. Sutter, regarded as a powerful female vocalist who bridges the gap between gospel and blues. Saturday features "Big" Jack Johnson, a soulful bluesman who captures the true essence, fury and rage of a delta-blues style born from the Mississippi mud. Other notable acts include Lonnie Shields, Terry "Big T" Williams, and Terry "Harmonica" Bean. Festival patrons can set up camp for the weekend on a 350 acre farm located in Nescopeck.