Burlington City Arts’ Annual Summer Concert Series 2019

Burlington City Arts’ annual summer concert series presented by VSECU kicks off on June 12. All are welcome to enjoy 22 free concerts, this year on lower Church Street near City Hall. The series takes place on Wednesdays and Fridays at 12:30 p.m. from June 12 to August 28. We’ve programmed a line-up that features both our local favorites and some from further afield that may be new to you. It’s an excellent opportunity to listen to new music, have lunch with a friend or co-worker or enjoy being outside with your community, supporting live music.

This weeks performer:

The Starline Rhythm Boys

Wednesday, July 10th @ 12:30 pm

Church Street (near City Hall) | Burlington, VT

Big Al Lemery shines bright under any stage light. The sound that echoes out of his well-worn Fender Tele “widow maker” is powerful and can be downright spine-tingling. Al’s been banging out the beat throughout the northeast for 40 years. After stints in Albany, NY with the likes of Johnny Rabb’s Jailhouse Rockers and Badge, Al made his way north to Burlington, VT. He is now in his element with The Starline Rhythm Boys. In addition to his lead playing, Al’s powerful harmonies and strong lead singing round out the trio’s high lonesome and hot rockin’ sound. Also, when he croons out a ballad, everybody listens. Along with all this, Al is also a fine songwriter as evidenced by his big hit, “Drunk Tank.” And Big Al is the true “Pickin’ Fisherman”!

Danny Coane, the Prince of Montpelier an’ Rockin’ Pride of Vermont, keeps on rollin’ after 45 years in the business. He has fronted bluegrass, country, and blues bands, but the rockabilly act “The Throbulators” gained him national exposure. Danny led the “Throbs” across the country and the border. When you talk about “the real deal,” you’re talking about cats like Danny. He sings with soul and relentless enthusiasm, writes some and picks a banjo and guitar with equal ability. He is the main lead singer and a rhythmic (acoustic guitar) foundation for the band. In short, Little Danny C. is “Pepper Hot, Baby.”

Billy Bratcher holds down the beat for the trio on upright acoustic bass (doghouse, bull fiddle or floor bass as it’s sometimes called). He toured with Texas Juke Joint King Wayne “The Train” Hancock and became well known throughout the US for mastering the unique “slap bass” style. Billy put out a “slap” bass instructional video for beginners on Hot Licks. He can be heard on the title track of Hancock’s “That’s What Daddy Wants” CD. In addition to his high energy playing, flamboyant showmanship an’ great spirit for things old an’ cool, Billy B. is a consummate songwriter. Billy has written most of the Starline Rhythm Boys’ original numbers that have been put out on their four releases an’ each one rings true like a classic song.