The Pittsfield-based Tony Lee Thomas Band will open on Thursday for Roomful of Blues.
Tony Lee Thomas BandFor the first time in its storied existence, the Stearns Square concert series includes opening performances by local bands. Just before Roomful of Blues takes the stage on Thursday night, the Pittsfield-based Tony Lee Thomas Band will perform an opening set.
“It has been a win-win situation for the openers to have this opportunity this summer,” said Shannon Plaquet, entertainment booker for Theodores’ who handled the supporting band lineup. “All of the openers have loved it and it has allowed me to get some well-deserved exposure to these up and coming artists.”
The opening bands not only get a chance to shine on the outdoor stage, they also have a chance to finish the night inside at Theodores’.
The local bands begin at 6:15 p.m. and play until 7:30. Headliners go on stage at 8 p.m. and play a 90 minute set. During that time, the openers are setting up on the Theodores’ stage to begin their second set of the night at 10 p.m.
The Tony Lee Thomas Band will appear this week and front man Thomas will use the opportunity to showcase a new configuration.
“Although I have played with everyone in this lineup, this will be the first time this lineup is on stage together,” he said. “It can be a little scary to improvise and take risks but it’s better than playing the same show every night."
The Tony Lee Thomas Band features Chris Mattoon on drums, bassist Jeff King of Springfield-based The Kings, and Mike Valenti on sax.
“I never write a set list, always change the line up, and try my best to listen to what my band mates are doing,” said Thomas of his approach. “They give me new ideas and I watch those ideas develop in real time with the audience so we can all take the adventure together.”
For Plaquet, the addition of the Tony Lee Thomas band should be a great mix with the legendary Roomful of Blues.
“I booked the openers for Stearns Square trying to pair up and match the headliner's musical stylings,” she said.