Mustang Music Festival – Day 2 Recap
The fifth annual Mustang Music Festival kicked off on October 9, 2015 on the beautiful grounds of the Whalehead Club with Big Bone Daddy getting things started on the West Stage. This was the same group of veteran rock and rollers who entertained us at the pre-party, and they did not disappoint. The site had been transformed into a musical wonderland, and the anticipation and excitement could be felt by all.
The Dead 27’s, a Southern roots band, inaugurated the East stage with their old-school rock and soul ensemble. The group hails from Charleston, SC, and fuse a little electronics into their mix to create their unique, individual sound. First up on the South Stage, with its incredible view of the Currituck Sound for the artists, was Ballroom Thieves. This trio had strong vocals with beautiful harmonies. Fruition, from Portland, Oregon was the next up on the West Stage. They invited fellow Portlandian Farnell Newton, artist at large, to share the stage with them. He gave our ears a good tickling with his funky trumpet playing.
From Asheville, NC, The Fritz showed us how to get down and dirty, and Tom Hamilton’s American Babies from Philly showcased their improvisational skills adding a little electronica to their rock and roll. As the sun began to set The Mike Dillon Band took the spotlight. His talent for making music out of everyday items, like a tin can and his T-shirt moistened with some of his spit, is pure brilliance and never ceases to amaze me.
The stars were out in strength, and the crowed swelled as one of NOLA’s enduring ensembles, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, showed us that, whether you’re in your ’70s or your ’20s, music can bring us all together. The crowd was showing their love as ladies of all ages were invited up on the stage to shake their moneymakers. The last to take the stage for day one of this awesome festival was the one and only Rusted Root. The world/roots rockers from Pittsburgh, PA have been making music since 1992, with loyal legions of fans flocking to their shows. They definitely didn’t disappoint the Mustang Music Festival crowd.
Mike Dianna and his crew have created a top-notch, premier music festival in an area that offers a beautiful, natural setting that captivates anyone who attends. What makes it one of the most welcoming events is the hospitality. They greet all who come, whether VIP, artists, or GA folks with a friendly smile, a positive attitude, and the goal of making your festival experience the best it can be.
Photos by John Phillips | Words by Suzy LeVee Phillips
