Downtown Train band to kick off July concerts

CROMWELL >> The Recreation Department’s summer concert series will resume this summer on Wednesday evenings at a new location.

The series, which begins on July 5, has moved to the park at Frisbie Landing. Last year, performances were held at Pierson Park.

Describing the series as “a wonderful thing for our town,” Town Manager Anthony J. Salvatore said the decision to move to the riverfront park was made in discussions with Recreation Director Chris Rusack. “It’s a wonderful location, with a beautiful view of the (Connecticut) River, and Chris suggested we make the move to take advantage of that beauty,” he said.

The Riverport Park “has a more conducive ambience,” Salva-

tore said. “We have a location that many other towns wish they had and it would be a shame if we didn’t take advantage of it,” Salvatore said.

Whether they are fans of the music or just enjoy the opportunity to get out watch the river flow, “This is an opportunity for residents to come and have a nice social gathering,” Salvatore said.

“We’re excited to be moving to the riverfront park,” Rusack said.

Four concerts are scheduled, Rusack said, and shows will run from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. On July 5, Downtown Train will perform, with a rain date of July 11. They play a blend of country rock and rhythm and blues, Rusack said.

On July 12, Shaded Soul is to play (with a rain date of July 18). “Shaded Soul offers a range of styles and sounds — R&B, Motown, funk and reggae,” Rusack said.

KICK will perform on July 19 (with a rain date of July 25). They’re a Top 40 band, Rusack said.

The series concludes on July 26 with the Middletown Symphonic Band (and a rain date of Aug. 1).

Rusack said he is already reviewing a range of bands for next year’s series. “We want to get a higher level of bands that will appeal to all ages,” he said.

Beer and wine will be allowed on these designated dates and time (for 21 years and older) within the park only, Rusack emphasized in a flier advertising the series.

As to parking, “On the nights of the concerts, we will be utilizing townowned property along the river,” Salvatore said. Between the lot that adjoins the park and the townowned lot on River Road, “There are at least 100 parking spaces available,” Salvatore said, on a first-come, first-served basis.

Overflow parking is available at the former Marino Crane property at 61 River Road.

COURTESY DOWNTOWN TRAIN The Durham-based country rock and rhythm-and-blues band Downtown Train band will lead off Cromwell’s summer concert series in July.