It was a rare kind of August Sunday in New York City. Sunny, comfortable with no humidity in the air. A perfect day, as Central Park’s Summerstage wrapped up its 2008 schedule with a day of soul and funk.
We got to the park in time to hear the last couple of songs from Naomi Shelton and the Gospel Queens.
I’ve always loved the sound of a gospel choir.
Next up was the Menahan Street Band, in their debut performance. Made up of members of the Dap-Kings, Budos Band and others, it was no surprise that this was a tight outfit.
Their set really impressed me, and I’m looking forward to their debut album, dropping in October.
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Sunday is the final show of the 2008 Summerstage season. Wrapping up this twenty-third season of music are bands associated with Daptone Records, bearer of the torch of classic R&B. For the friendly price of nothing, you’re getting three Brooklyn based soul and funk bands, headlined by Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings.
The show starts at three with Naomi Shelton & The Gospel Queens.
Next up, is the Menaham Street Band made up of members of the Dap-Kings, Antibalas and The Budos Band. All of these bands can lay down a serious groove, so this should be a good one.
Finally, closing out the day, and the summer, is Ms. Sharon Jones. After tearing up festivals across the nation, I expect her to be in top form for the hometown crowd.
It is going to be a beautiful day on Sunday. I’ll be there, representing LMB. If you’re going let us know.
Photos to follow, of course.
