Tim Preston
The Independent
ASHLAND —
Determined to help revitalize downtown Ashland’s nightlife and musical opportunities, area musicians are teaming with officials at Alexander’s at the Plaza for a series of Friday evening performances on the hotel’s second-floor balcony patio above Winchester Avenue.
Guitarist Nathan Gillum of the Genuine Junk Band will be the first Friday performer during September, playing a combination of acoustic rock and folk tunes at the cozy above-ground venue. As a prelude to his own show, Gillum is also expected to participate in an unrehearsed blues jam at the corner of Winchester Ave. and 16th Street during the monthly Downton Live and First Friday Art Walk event.
The following Friday at Alexander’s will take a diverse turn with a show by members of local classic and progressive rock band CARRIER, hotel officials reported.
Folk/indy/blues musician Sasha Colette, along with bassist José Ortega, will bring a unique brand of music combining soft, yet powerful vocals and driving two-piece instrumental backing to Alexander’s balcony on Sept. 17.
While Sept. 24 has not yet been booked, a staff member at Alexander’s said the restaurant and bar is trying to confirm appearances by additional solo performers and bands including Luna and the Joe Freeman Band.
In addition to Friday night performances, local saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist Jeff Carter will continue to host Jazz Tuesday at Alexander’s with an evolving group of area musicians.
There is no charge for any of the performances. For more information about upcoming events at Alexander’s, call the hotel at (606) 329-0055.
TIM PRESTON can be reached at Tinseltown@dailyindependent.com.
