Late Summer Music Preview

Welcome to the Summer Music Preview (SMP) Vol. 2! Because of the high volume of live-music events this year, the month of August was pulled from the regular SMP issue and is now presented here. This mini version of the SMP includes live-music events for August and highlights a few performers you can check out before the summer ends.

This has been a big summer for music on the peninsula, and there’s still plenty to check out. From local watering holes to wineries, restaurants and live-music venues, there’s a setting – and a musical genre – for everyone to enjoy.

We hope you have a rocking August and continue to frequent the establishments that offer live music, even through the off-season.

Grace Johnson

Special Issues Editor

Many bands are synonymous with the county’s summer music scene, and one such group is Frank Maloney & His Big Country Unit – a “rock- and blues-infused outlaw country band” that’s been playing the Northern Door music circuit for years, including a record number of shows at Husby’s, where you’re sure to catch the group multiple times throughout the year.

The band features Maloney on lead vocals, guitarist Adam Haste, Tony Wiltgen on keyboards, drummer Dan Smrz and Tony Menzer on bass. Maloney and Smrz also host the open-mic night at Husby’s.

Check out Frank Maloney & His Big Country Unit July 30 at The Garage at Husby’s in Sister Bay for a hootin’, hollerin’ good time!

The “architect” of Jonny T-Bird & The MPs, Jon “Jonny T-Bird” Neuberger, has fronted the group since 2009, when he was attending college in Milwaukee. The MPs are the “Marinated Puppets,” a shout-out to the short-lived band he started before Jonny T-Bird. 

After studying guitar with “two of Milwaukee’s guitar legends, Jeff Dagenhardt and Greg Koch,” Jonny T-Bird takes the approach that “you have to be born with the blues to play the blues.” He picked up the guitar at 13 after being diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome and pursued jazz and blues in college. 

His guitar, vocals and harmonica alongside the MPs – bass guitarist “Cadillac” Craig Carter and drummer Jenna Kopitske – create an unforgettable blues trio. Wisconsin Area Music Industry–nominated and Milwaukee-based, this group will be waiting for you Aug. 21 at Waterfront Mary’s in Sturgeon Bay.

The sibling trio Girl Named Tom is an acoustic pop and singer/songwriter group of balanced harmonies. The first group ever to win NBC’s The Voice, its name comes from Joshua’s childhood nickname for Bekah, which was Thomas. Their style blends classics such as Joni Mitchell and Stills and Nash with modern musicians such as Taylor Swift and Adrianne Lenker.

The members of Girl Named Tom put a dynamic spin on the songs they perform, aided by their expertise as individuals. Their original music and instrumental skills provide a full concert experience that lends itself to their country groove. 

Fresh off their win on The Voice, and with a charting cover of “River” by Joni Mitchell, Girl Named Tom will wow you with jaw-dropping talent. Experience the group Aug. 28 at the Peg Egan Performing Arts Center in Egg Harbor.