Chappalooza, the first end-of-summer gathering of musical guests, family, and friends organized by Chappaquiddick resident and musician Ernie Dewing and his band mate, bass player Graham Allen, takes place Saturday, September 28, starting at 5 pm at the Chappaquiddick Community Center. Mr. Dewing and his band, Propergander, will be headlining as they celebrate the release of their new CD, “Wide Open.” There will be a potluck. Rides will be available from the Chappy ferry for walk-ons.
There will be performances by fellow Chappy resident Kevin Keady, the Chappy troubadour, Mr. Dewing’s son, Quincy Dewing, Kent Riley, Kim Hilliard, and surprise special guests. Mr. Dewing said he intends to make it an annual event. As the father of five, ages 10 to 28, he said Chappalooza will be a family friendly event.
The CD “Wide Open” is heartfelt collection of songs with a serious, mellow southern rock feel. Most of the tunes develop a slow groove that begs to have its lyrics listened to. Mr. Dewing claims to have been influenced by Tom Petty, which can be heard in their songs but the occasional touch of Lucinda Williams and southern rock bands like the Allman Brothers and the Marshall Tucker Band, in their mellowest moments, come to mind as well.
Mr. Dewing has been a musician for most of his life. Before he moved to the Vineyard full-time from the Cape about 12 years ago, the singer/keyboardist performed around Boston for many years with his band, “Propergander,” at popular clubs that included the Middle East and the Paradise.
“Propergander” is a name Mr. Dewing has used for various bands over the years. Greg Holland, from Falmouth, has been a member of many of those bands. He has worked with Mr. Dewing for 17 years. He sings and his guitar drives many of the songs on the new album.
Still, this band is a relatively new arrangement of musicians for Mr. Dewing. “Chappalooza will be our first live gig. People came in at different times to record tracks, but this will be the first time we have played in one room. I’m really looking forward to that.”
Chappalooza, a musical event for family and friends Saturday, September 28, 5 pm at the Chappaquiddick Community Center, $10 is the suggested donation.
