Fans of all ages gather at Albion’s historic band shell in Victory Park throughout the Swingin’ at the Shell season to enjoy the free concerts.
By KARA DECHALK
Contributing Writer
The Victory Park bandshell in Albion will once again be alive with music on Sunday evenings for the 21st season of Swingin’ at the Shell.
The series promises a diverse lineup featuring rock classics, Gaelic and Celtic melodies, Latin grooves, soulful jazz, and iconic tribute acts.
As usual, concert goers are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair to sit on. This year, through the generous support of the William H and Karen K Dobbins Family Foundation, an efficient irrigation system has been installed around the bandshell’s lawn ensuring the grass will stay healthy and comfortable all season.
The free concert series begins Aug. 3 with the music of Billy Joel performed by Allentown, a Detroit based tribute band and runs each Sunday at 6 p.m. through Sept. 14.
Allentown, fronted by piano man Mark Calcott, of Windsor, Ontario, plans to bring a show packed with Billy Joel’s biggest hits and a few deep-track fan favorites.
The musicians that make up Allentown come together from all over the Great Lakes Region including guitarist Cezaar Wade of Jackson and others from Toledo, St. Clare Shores, Windsor and White Lake.
The six-piece band also performs as “Lookin’ Back” a Bob Seger tribute band that last played Swingin’ at the Shell in 2018.
“The versatility required to authentically deliver both catalogs speaks to the musicianship that has made both groups regional favorites,” said Todd Stoney, the band’s founder who play drums in both acts.
A special treat is in store for fans in Albion as Lookin’ Back will debut its new singer David Trojan. Trojan will step out in the middle of the Billy Joel tribute with a Bob Seger classic marking the official beginning of Lookin’ Back’s next chapter.
The 2025 series schedule continues weekly. Aug. 10, Gone 2 Paradise, the ultimate Jimmy Buffett experience; Aug. 17, B!G L & Code Blu, Soul, R&B, Rock; Aug. 24, Highland Reign, Celtic/Gaelic; Aug. 31, Cabildo Music, Latin Fusion; Sept. 7, 496 West, jazz and more, featuring Albion’s own Andres DeJesus; Sept. 14, Heartache Tonight, an Eagles tribute.
All shows are free and open to the public.
