Jeff Mollyhorn, Kevin Briley, Gary Graves, and Ryan Stiles of The Ernie Small Blues Band performs at Concerts in the Park on Circus Square. Photo by Pennman 7/9/2010.

Kicking off the Circus Square Park series of the 2010 Friday night Concerts in the Park was The Ernie Small Blues Band. The later start time of 7:30 (as opposed to Circus Square’s start time of 6:30), combined with the passing of the rain threat that took Lead Based Paint indoors from Fountain Square, allowed this one to go on as scheduled outdoors. So we were treated to some cool blues on a hot summer’s night.

Combining a traditional 4-piece blues band with a 4-piece horn section allows this band to pack quite a punch. Add to that some quality female vocals courtesy of Randi Womack (who can belt them out), and some bluesy harmonica work on several songs. Add it all up and it’s easy to understand why this band is an annual favorite. A very nice-sized crowd filled the park and smiles were seen everywhere. If you missed the shows tonight don’t make that mistake again. This series is one of the best free entertainment gems available anywhere, and a key part of what makes Bowling Green so special. Lucky for us there are 4 more weeks to go. See you next Friday!  

About the author: Pennman bought his first 45 at age nine and has been hooked on rock ever since. He has spent much of his disposable income on music, especially live performances. He writes reviews of the shows he sees and keeps a keen lookout for upcoming shows in or near Bowling Green. He has a BA in Communications, specializing in journalism, and has dabbled in music himself, both as a player and instructor. Find more of Pennman’s work at www.associatedcontent.com/user/165511/pennman.html or visit him at www.myspace.com/pennman_bg or www.facebook.com/pennman