Our fifth Garden Concert this year will feature my favorite local blues artist: Ben Rice. Ben is one of the young lions of the Northwest Blues scene, and has won a number of awards. His original music blends Soul, Delta-Blues, Rockabilly, Jazz, and Funk into a Roots Stew. He also tours regularly with Curtis Salgado, and other blues legends. Check out Ben here: www.benricelive.com

I have had the privilege to tour with Ben a couple times in the last two years, and have played a few shows with him locally as well. His brand of blues is some of the most creative and unique I have heard. The group also features the great Melanie Owen on bass and vocals. You won't want to miss this!

Since most people are vaccinated and group gatherings are much less risky than they once were, you are free to do what makes you most comfortable, but if you would feel most comfortable being in a "pod" at least 6' feet from others, there will be plenty of room for that! Please bring your own lawn chairs if you can (although we do have some available), and you may want to bring snacks and beverages. You may have to find street parking in the neighborhood.

We no longer feel that it is necessary to limit the amount of attendees, so please spread the word! However, the musicians are still relying on you to make a contribution so they are compensated for their time and expertise, so if you can make a contribution in advance that would be much appreciated. There will be a gratitude jar, though, and no one will be turned away! Please contribute the suggested donation of $10-$25 per person. To do so in advance you can use: Venmo (@swinginsticks), PayPal (https://www.paypal.me/swinginsticks), Zelle (on your mobile banking app, just use swinginsticks@gmail.com), or Cash App ($swinginsticks).

If you can, please RSVP by emailing me at swinginsticks@gmail.com so we can track how many people plan to attend. Also, feel free to email if you have any questions. We look forward to sharing a wonderful evening with you all!