Music four all
Newport hosts a spring quartet of concerts
A well-curated playlist, feel-good bluegrass and musical tributes will keep the Newport Performing Arts Center lively with four new concerts set for the next four weeks.
The concerts kick off on Sunday, March 16, at 3 pm, with Marty Isenberg’s Wes Anderson Playlist. Described as a sonic storyboard and soundtrack to the wonder, loneliness and nostalgia of life in the modern world, the concert features Isenberg’s own Wes Anderson-inspired spin on songs by artists like David Bowie, Nick Drake and the Velvet Underground through the lexicon of jazz orchestration and improvisation.
Next, on Friday, March 21, at 7:30 pm, is Broken Compass Bluegrass. Known for its tight arrangements, tasteful picking and distinguished songwriting, this northern California-based band offers a fresh take on bluegrass from musicians Kyle Ledson, Django Ruckrich, Mei Lin Heirendt and Sam Jacobs. Their energy is palpable as they weave intricate melodies and harmonize with ease, transporting fans to a place where tradition meets innovation. Whether you’re a die-hard bluegrass aficionado or just looking for some foot-stomping fun, this one-night-only event is sure to leave folks of all ages spellbound and inspired.
On Friday, March 28, at 7:30 pm, A New Randy Hansen Experience, celebrating the music of Jimi Hendrix, takes the stage. For nearly three decades, world-renowned guitarist Randy Hansen has acquired a reputation for being one of the best Hendrix impersonators on the planet. In fact, he’s one of the few players officially recognized by the Hendrix family. Releasing countless discs through the years featuring both stellar Hendrix jams and his own authentic Hendrix-inspired riffage, Hansen is a true guitar legend — delivering landscapes of sound, masterful guitar work, strong riffage and remarkably authentic killer cosmic tones as he channels Jimi’s spirit through his Fender Strat guitar.
Last, but certainly not least, the Fleetwood Mac tribute band Taken by the Sky performs live on Friday, April 4, at 7:30 pm. In what’s sure to be a sold-out show, the group offers faithful renditions of Fleetwood Mac’s iconic songs — perfectly capturing the harmonies, emotion and energy that made the original band legendary. Fans will be treated to favorites like “Rhiannon,” “Go Your Own Way” and “The Chain,” all performed with the spirit and passion that defined the band’s timeless sound.
Tickets are $30 for Marty Isenberg’s Wes Anderson Playlist, $20 for Broken Compass Bluegrass and $40 for Randy Hansen or Taken by the Sky. The Newport Performing Arts Center is located at 777 W Olive Street. For more information, go to coastarts.org or call 541-265-2787.