'Adia & the Gifters' to combine bluegrass, Americana music in live performance at historic Johnstown theater
A group of talented musicians, many of whom have local ties, are coming together next weekend to present a unique one-night live concert that blends bluegrass with a variety of contemporary musical styles.
“Adia & the Gifters Presents: Fusion Bluegrass” is to take place at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 20 on the stage of the State Theater, 336 Main St., Johnstown.
Adia Dobbins — a gifted singer in the Cincinnati and Detroit music scene who began her music career in Johnstown — is being joined by local musicians Kim Dull, Andy Jenkins and Jeff Perigo on percussion, mandolin and guitar, respectively. Guitarists Brad Barron and Brian Furman are also part of the six-piece ensemble.
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What is bluegrass fusion?
“(Bluegrass fusion is) a type of music most of the audience has probably not seen before, but they will recognize elements from every element of Americana, including rock 'n' roll, country, bluegrass, jazz and blues,” said Perigo, a Boswell resident.
“Even if they aren’t a fan of bluegrass — if they like Americana of any kind, they’ll enjoy this show. The song selection is fantastic. There’s a little bit of something for everyone.”
Several weeks ago, a local businessman connected Perigo with Dobbins, who had expressed an interest in performing a bluegrass type of show in this area. Perigo has played in local bands for 27 years, and he has a number of years of experience performing bluegrass fusion. They put a setlist together, and Perigo started contacting fellow musicians to see who was available to play.
“I play with some of the best musicians in the area,” he said. “Everyone is familiar with the genre, so we’re just working on the songs.
“Adia has big heart and soul, she has a great voice and she’s easy to work with.”
The show’s setlist includes hit songs from The Carter Family, Dolly Parton, Marvin Gaye and TLC, Perigo said, along with other selections that guests of high school age and above likely would enjoy.
“We will do a couple songs that people will enjoy singing along with as well,” he added.
Live music in an historic venue
The event is also an ideal opportunity to enjoy a live musical performance within the original architecture of the nearly 100-year-old, downtown Johnstown theater.
“We’re pretty excited about this,” Perigo said. “It’s a very cool opportunity to perform, first, with someone so accomplished as Adia, and second, to perform at the historic State Theater.
“It’s a great opportunity (for the public) to get out and support local artists and local venues. It’s great to see this type of thing coming around.”
How to get tickets
Tickets to the Nov. 20 concert can be purchased online and at a discounted rate at the State Theater's website, statetheaterofjohnstown.com. Tickets purchased at the door on the night of the show are full price.
Visit the State Theater’s website or call 814-205-3528 for more information.
This article originally appeared on The Daily American: 'Bluegrass fusion' group in live concert at Johnstown
