Spectacular Blues Spectacular at OLS

The WMPG Bluegrass Spectacular returned for a night of, you guessed it, bluegrass. Pejebscot Station kicked it off with their set, followed by Breakin’ Strings with the World Famous Grassholes headlining this event that was filled with great music, a silent auction, big energy, and a sense of community.

The Bluegrass Spectacular, in its 18th year was a benefit night for WMPG and was a great opportunity for the community to come together and support this local station here on the campus of the University of Southern Maine.

All three of these bands brought their unique sound and style to the bluegrass night at One Longfellow Square. Their performances showcased the incredible talent and musicianship that is present in the local bluegrass scene. The crowd was filled with bluegrass fans who were excited to hear some of their favorite bands perform live.

Pejebscot Station is a four-piece bluegrass band that has been playing together since 2010. The band features traditional bluegrass instrumentation, including banjo, mandolin, fiddle, and upright bass. Their sound is heavily influenced by the bluegrass traditions of the Appalachian region, but they also incorporate elements of folk and country music into their music.

Breakin’ Strings is a five-piece bluegrass band that has been playing together since 2013. The band features tight vocal harmonies and fast-fingered instrumentation, including banjo, guitar, fiddle, mandolin, and bass. They have a modern sound that blends traditional bluegrass with elements of rock and roll, blues, and jazz. Their original songs are filled with catchy hooks and memorable melodies. Their high-energy performances are always a crowd-pleaser.

The World Famous Grassholes is a four-piece bluegrass band that has been playing together since 2007. The band features traditional bluegrass instrumentation, including banjo, mandolin, fiddle, and upright bass. They have a classic sound that pays homage to the early pioneers of bluegrass music, but they also incorporate modern influences into their music. Those of us thate were there last night were treated to a performance of Harry Styles’ Watermelon Sugar

Video: Annella

The night was filled with great music, energy, and a sense of community. Everyone was there for the same reason: to support WMPG radio and to enjoy some great bluegrass music. Volunteer, Kate Manahan noticed how lovely it was to see smiles on faces, all night long, as they whooped and clapped, enjoying the music from these entertaining bluegrass bands – a great night of camaraderie while supporting WMPG.

In conclusion, the bluegrass night at One Longfellow Square was a great success raising some much needed dollars for the station.

Shout out to all the bands for giving up their time and supporting us. To One Longfellow Square for all their help. To the volunteers that helped with this event – thank you.

Thanks to the following businesses for supporting our (last minute) silent auction: