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Suncoast Pinellas > News > People
Popular Bluegrass Group Returning to Sunset Beach
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Published: October 11, 2008
A band that is an area favorite is set to pick the strings at the monthly concert at Sunset Beach.
On Thursday, Oct. 16, the Dapper Dan Band will make a return appearance on the municipal beach in Tarpon Springs.
The band plays Americana music concentrating on folk and bluegrass. Members turn to a variety of musicians from Bob Dylan to legendary bluegrass artist Ralph Stanley for inspiration. They also throw in a few originals.
Its Web site notes the band brings "strong harmonies, funky guitars and enough heart to get people smilin'."
In the 10 years it has been in existence, first as the Muscle Memory Band and now in its present incarnation, Dapper Dan has attracted a loyal following even though according to founder Wally Bivens, Americana is a specialized genre.
"There's some audience for it," he explained, noting, however, "It's not widespread."
Still, last year, the band drew the largest crowd of any of that season's performances at the Sunset Beach concerts, according to Recreation Specialist Daniela Smyth. The Tarpon Springs recreation division organizes the concerts.
Bivens, the group's rhythm guitarist, gave the band its present name because of two personal references evoked by the name Dapper Dan. Dapper Dan, a Kentucky race horse who ran second in the 1965 Kentucky Derby to winner Lucky Debonair, reminded Bivens of his Bluegrass State birth place.
The 2000 Coen Brothers film "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" also carried a reference to Dapper Dan, the name of a hair gel favored by one of the characters. The movie featured the bluegrass music Bivens loves.
Lead guitarist Chris Lane and singer Peggy Cole have been with Dapper Dan since it was founded. Stand-up bass player Barkin Barney joined the group three years ago.
The band concentrates on playing at special events, festivals and private parties but avoids clubs. "The last place I want to be is in a bar at 2 in the morning," Bivens said.
Members try to have a running conversation with audience while performing, Bivens said.
But music is foremost, he added. "We mainly play our music and hope everyone enjoys it."
For samples of the music, go to the band's href=http://www.dapperdanband.com> Web site.
The lowdown
The Dapper Dan Band will perform a free concert 7 - 9 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 16, at Sunset Beach, in Tarpon Springs. The beach is at the western end of Gulf Road. Many concert-goers bring chairs, blankets and picnic dinners. Alcohol is not allowed at the city-own beach.
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