Last Saturday the Jersey Shore Jazz & Blues Foundation teamed up with the Veterans Foundation of America to present the annual Band Together for Veterans event at D’Jais Bar & Grill in Belmar. Seven member bands from the foundation, along with veteran and member volunteers provided the entertainment and manpower to make this another great event, which raised awareness and much needed funds for veterans’ programs, like Pause to Thrive, who along with our foundation had a table at the event. (Outside Picture)
It was a beautiful day at the beach, and a large crowd came out to hear some great music and support the cause. MC Danny Coleman got things started, introducing Meagan B. Solomon, President of Growing Patriotism Through Education to sing the “National Anthem.” That was followed by our own navy veteran, Jo Wymer’s rendition of “God Bless America.”
Danny then introduced the Jo Wymer Band featuring P.K. Lavengood on bass. Their set including a fun version of Carl Douglas “Kung Foo Fighting,” which had the room dancing.
Next up was one of our newest members, the Tara Weiss Band, featuring Army veteran, Jason Cortazzo on guitar. Their traditional blues style coupled with Tara’s powerful vocals were a real treat for the crowd.
Working Dogs then took the stage, with Air Force veteran John Dammacco on bass, and delivered a blistering set of blues/rock originals which were much appreciated by those in attendance.
The Jen Barnes Band followed with Marine veteran Greg Smith, and wowed the audience with a great set of blues which included Jen on both guitar and vocals.
Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, Peter V & Blues Train took the stage with Navy veteran John Fernandez leading a twin guitar attack, and Mike Scott on sax. They showed why they are some of the best blues players around.
The Incinerators have been playing this neck of the woods for many moons. Led by veteran John Fernandez, they were joined by Bob DelRosso on guitar, and with Miss Kimmie taking some of the vocals, their set of curated covers with some excellent originals sprinkled in, was well received.
The final band of the day was the Bennett/Danials Project, who were represented in the service by Scott Twomey of the Coast Guard. Subbing on bass for one of the event’s primary organizers, Matt D’Esposito, who unfortunately couldn’t be there, was Big Jim Grant. They closed out the day in style with a terrific set that put an exclamation point on a great day of music for a cause.
If you weren’t there and would like to make a donation, please use the QR code below, and thanks for supporting.
