After the death of The Band‘s drummer, Levon Helm, in April of 2012, a small group of Indianapolis musicians decided to get together and play the songs of The Band to honor Mr. Helm’s legacy. As word of their plans began to spread amongst the local music community, the group grew larger and it was decided to recreate The Band’s legendary final show, The Last Waltz. That concert, also a brilliant film and soundtrack directed by Martin Scorsese, features The Band as well as several of the biggest musicians of the day.
For Such a Night, the backing “Band,” is comprised of Tad Armstrong, David England, Wade Parish, Bill Mallers, and Johnny Socko alums, Matt Wilson, Josh Silbert, Charlie Krone, and Eric Evans. Throughout the show, guests include Brian Deer as Eric Clapton, Stasia Demos as Emmylou Harris, Gary Wasson as Neil Young, Mina Keohane as Joni Mitchell, and former Socko vocalist, Mike Wiltrout as Neil Diamond and PaulButterfield. Plus, many more.
The first show, played in July of 2012 at Radio Radio, was called “The Ramble at Radio Radio” and was a smashing success, selling out far in advance. Another performance took place at The Bluebird in Bloomington, IN that December, also selling well. The show’s Producer, Matt Mays, who also performs as the Van Morrison character said, “There was something magical about that first show. It was a perfect moment in time where a group of great musicians played for a great group of people. This music is so meaningful to so many. There were lots of tears. The vibe in that room is something many of us will never forget.”
To avoid confusion with the Estate of Levon Helm, which still holds “Midnight Rambles” at his property in New York, These shows are now titled “Such a Night,” after the Dr. John song that appears in the set. The next show will take place at the Vogue Theatre on July 26th, 2013. Tickets are $15 in advance at www.thevouge.com and $20 on the day of the show. Doors open at 8:00pm.
All profits from the event go to support Down Syndrome Indiana, a non-profit group dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with Down Syndrome through education, support and advocacy. Down Syndrome Indiana offers a wide variety of resources for families and medical professionals. In addition, Down Syndrome Indiana coordinates active support groups to connect families. “We are thrilled to be the recipient of funds raised at this year’s concert; last year’s event was an absolute blast! We are thankful for the positive public awareness around Down syndrome that this event fosters.” Lisa Wells, Executive Director, DSI.