Port Neches RiverFest bands 2015
Sure, there are high-speed boats races thundering down the Neches River and a commendable selection of festival foods, but for us, Port Neches RiverFest really shines on stage.
This year’s live music lineup has a bit more variety than in years past. Here are the five bands you don’t want to miss at this year’s fest:
Cody Canada & the Departed
From: New Braunfels
When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday
Oklahoma native Cody Canada specializes in a blend of Americana, rock and alt-country. Canada made a name for himself as the lead singer/songwriter for Oklahoma country rock band Cross Canadian Ragweed, which split up in 2010. These days, he’s touring Texas playing music that appeals to both pop country fans and alt-country purists.
Mike & the Moonpies
From: Austin
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Anytime I see a pedal steel on stage, I get excited. This vintage country outfit and SXSW favorite is reminiscent of some of country’s greats — a little Townes with a dash of Merle. Simple in execution yet full of soul, songs like
“Putting it Down” make this band a must see.
There’s a reason Daytrotter paired Mike & The Moonpies with George Strait on a vinyl split.
Shinyribs
From: Austin
When: 8:30 p.m. Friday
This band is pure genius — and I’m not just saying that because the band’s website ends each member’s bio with “He is a genius.”
With former Beaumonter Kevin Russell steering the guitar strings of the Shinyribs crew, you get a mix of “swamp-funk” and country — a blend of old and new and everything in between. Prepare yourself for a “hip-shaking, belly-laughing, soul-singing, song-slinging, down-home house party.”
The Josh Abbott Band
From: Lubbock
When: 10:30 p.m. Friday
If you like smooth, classic country with a modern-day edge, the Josh Abbott Band will have you crooning and two-stepping before you can finish your first Lone Star.
Josh Abbott’s vocals are clear and crisp, less twangy than his modern-day counterparts, which makes for easy listening. For a taste, check out “She’s Like Texas” — it’s a love song that pays homage to some of the best towns and landmarks in our great state.
What’s better than romancing Texas? I agree. Not much.
Champagne Room
From: Beaumont
When: 8 p.m. Saturday
Local favorite Champagne Room will rev up the crowd with its high-energy, dance-ready 60s and 70s funk covers, bringing every pair of bedazzled jeans to the front of the stage. Seriously, this is the band you can’t help but move to — their soulful grooves get everyone grinding and singing. It’s a party, y’all.
RiverFest Music Schedule:
Wednesday
6 p.m. Micah Taylor
7:30 p.m. Hawk Nelson
Thursday
7:30 p.m. Cody Canada & the Departed
9:30 p.m. Charlie Robison
Friday
7 p.m. Mike & the Moonpies
8:30 p.m. Shinyribs
10:30 p.m. Josh Abbott Band
Saturday
6:30 p.m. Longneck Road
8 p.m. Champagne Room
10:30 p.m. Bag of Donuts
Port Neches Riverfest
When: 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Wednesday, 5 p.m.-11 p.m. Thursday, 5 p.m.-midnight Friday, 9 a.m.-midnight Saturday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday
Where: Port Neches City Park, 1000 Merriman, Port Neches
Cost: $10 entertainment pass
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