Hi gang!

It’s been a very busy week, starting with the Bullfrog’s jam last Tuesday with Cy and Bill (thanks guys!), then with Shady Drive on Friday at Bullfrog’s, Saturday at Walk and Roll and then a private function. We were scheduled at Blue Snapper today at 3pm, but were rained out. I have mixed feelings about that, since it’s a really fun gig but I’ve enjoyed the day off. :c)

The week ahead will be bittersweet as well, as Shady Drive experiences a “changing of the guard” on bass. Mr. Dick Devries’ last public gig with Shady Drive is our appearance at Irish Kevin’s this coming Friday, August 19. Dick is leaving to devote more time to “The Melz” and another project he is putting together. It’s been an honor and pleasure to share the stage with you the past 2 1/2 years, Dick. I wish you much success with your new projects!

With that, I’d like to welcome Mr. Kevin Fancher aboard as Shady Drive’s new bassist. Kevin comes to us from E.T. King and the Determination, Bad Neighbors and Dupree. He holds a BA in Music Education and teaches in the Fairview Park School system. His first gig with Shady Drive will be at the Fairview Tavern this Saturday, August 20 at 9:30pm. He and Rob Hayes will be co-hosting the Cleveland Music Club jam night with me at Bullfrog’s this Tuesday, August 16 at 7:30pm.

That’s it for this week! We’ll talk soon…

Mike :c)