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 June, July and August.
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 1980s, 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.
Aug. 15 – The B-52s
With a career spanning decades and genres, this alt-rock, new wave group is still going strong. Though they haven’t released an album since 2008, The B-52s have a long catalog to draw from. The unique band – both visually and musically – is sure to perform several of their many hits and well as obscure fan favorites. The group is known to exude as much energy now as they did 30 years ago and we can’t wait to dance in our seats to this fun and enduring music. Tickets are $65. 7:30 p.m.
Aug. 25 – Jill Scott
the Bay. (Courtesy of Humphreys)
Recently added to this year’s Humphreys lineup, Jill Scott’s show is sure to sell out fast. The soulful songstress is known for her solo work as well as numerous collaborations with various stars interweaving genres from jazz to hip-hop. The Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter is getting ready to release her next album, so we’re hoping to get some sneak previews from that as well as old favorites like “Cross My Mind” and “A Long Walk.” Tickets start at $86 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].
