By Jen Van Tieghem
Each year, Humphreys Concerts by the Bay boasts an eclectic lineup of bands playing throughout the spring, summer and fall at the beautiful waterside location. Despite growing competition from nearby music venues, Humphreys has once again announced nearly 60 upcoming shows, with more to be added.
Their musical guests range from classic-rock outfits to up-and-coming singer-songwriters with everything in between. Humphreys will also welcome a handful of comedians this year rounding out their diverse offerings. The season is already off to a great start with recent sold-out shows by Interpol and Steely Dan; there are certainly more sell-out days to come.
With most of the shows falling in the summer months, here is a look at some of our picks for shows in May, June and July.
May 14 – Tony Bennett
To say that Bennett is a legend is an understatement. The musician’s career has spanned over 60 years and garnered him a wealth of accolades. At Humphreys, the crooner will present a set of his beloved signature songs along with his endearing stage presence. Opening the show will be Tony Bennett’s own daughter, Antonia Bennett, who performs jazz and pop standards. Tickets start at $127 with dinner and hotel packages available. 7:30 p.m.
May 16 – Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds
Former Oasis guitarist and songwriter Noel Gallagher has released two albums with this group, the most recent of which dropped this year. Gallagher’s newer material incorporates psychedelic rock elements into a pop-alternative style. The band also performs covers of several Oasis tunes. This show is standing only as opposed to a seated show. Tickets are $45. 8 p.m.
June 12 – Ingrid Michaelson
Despite penning several successful pop songs over the last decade, Michaelson is still a seemingly underappreciated singer-songwriter. From the sweet and simple “The Way I Am” to the dance-worthy “Parachute,” the songstress has a talent for crafting addictive tunes. Her latest earworm “Girls Chase Boys” was released on last year’s “Lights Out.” That album also spawned “Time Machine,” a catchy ditty with an equally captivating video, which features cameos from several actors including Rainn Wilson and Donald Faison. Tickets start at $40 with dinner and hotel packages available. 7 p.m.
June 28 – Smash Mouth/Toad the Wet Sprocket/Tonic
This lineup of pop-rock goodness will bring together three hit-making bands from the ’90s and early 2000s. Those of us that grew up with “All-Star” (Smash Mouth), “All I Want” (Toad the Wet Sprocket) and “If You Could Only See” (Tonic) as our high school soundtrack won’t want to miss this one. All three bands are likely to perform songs that span their lengthy catalogs and entice fans both old and new. Tickets start at $53 with dinner, hotel, and meet and greet packages available. 7 p.m.
July 2 – John Butler Trio
This Australian band presents an interesting combination of folk-rock with funk and bluegrass elements. Known as a “jam band,” the group is known for extended musical interludes. Their infectious rhythms can be heard on their latest single “Only One.” Soulful singer Anderson East will open the show. This show is standing room only. Tickets are $48. 7:30 p.m.
July 5 – Indigo Girls
The prolific folk duo will wrap up Fourth of July weekend with their gorgeous harmonies. Though their career started in the ’80s, Amy Ray and Emily Saliers have stood the test of time with songs that hold up just as well. The two have had a career many only dream of, as talented musicians (and political activists) whose songs have become contemporary classics. With over a dozen albums on their resume, the set should include plenty of hits as well as deeper cuts. Our fingers are crossed for “Shame on You” and “Love of Our Lives.” Tickets start at $49 with dinner and hotel packages available. 7:30 p.m.
This smattering of shows is just the tip of Humphreys’ musical iceberg. Visit HumphreysConcerts.com for a full schedule that stretches through the end of October.
—Reach Jen Van Tieghem at [email protected].
