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The Waybacks Star in Bay Jam 15, All Day Music Fest on the Bay

The Waybacks, one of the hottest bands in the country — playing a genre-hopping blend of bluegrass/jamgrass, honky-tonk, swing, classical music, and blues and pop — headline Bay Jam 15, held April 19 in Islamorada Founders Park.
“The Waybacks bring real star power to this year’s Bay Jam and are spectacular live,” said David Feder, president of ICE. “In addition, this event showcases the Keys’ best music with great local bands, is family-friendly, and tops it off by using the proceeds to award thousands of dollars in art and music scholarship to local students.”

Gates open at 11 a.m. for the all-day annual outdoor music fest. With free admission for kids 13 and under, $10 for adults and just $5 for students, Bay Jam is affordable for everyone. A total of 14 bands will play including David Feder and son Nyan, a reunion of the popular Blackwater Sound, and Marley Fest-favorite Baga Tricks.

The Waybacks, from San Francisco, have been described as “purveyors of acoustic mayhem.” The band has produced five albums to date and have a dedicated following. Wherever they play, high praise follows: The Washington Post described band members as “…virtuosos sharing a singular mind-set.” Billboard Magazine said “These guys can play like bandits,” and the San Jose News called them “…geniuses … whose playing stacks up to anything you’ll find.”

Bay Jam has everything needed for day of music and fun in a spectacular setting on the Florida Bay. Concertgoers (especially families and kids) can enjoy a swim at the bayfront beach just steps away from the TIB Bank of the Keys Amphitheater stage. A variety of food will be provided by two well known local restaurants – Craig’s and the Green Turtle. Soft drinks, beer, wine, and snacks will be available. Commemorative T-shirts will be on sale, there will be an art show, and noted artist Pasta Pantaleo will paint various aspects of Bay Jam as they occur.

Bay Jam, now in its fifteenth year, raises money for art and music scholarships for local high school students and in-school programs and necessary supplies. Feder proudly notes that to date, Bay Jam has awarded more than $125,000 in scholarships to local students. “It’s the community’s chance to have a great time while financially supporting the musical and artistic dreams of talented local kids,” said Feder.

Scheduled to appear are: Guitarist David Feder will perform his popular hillbilly flamenco style and son Nyan, 14, will amaze with incredible guitar talents; C.W. Colt plays tropical swamp blues; Baga Tricks brings unique rock/ Reggae; Jimmy Hawkins is the island king of the Blues; Steve Miller and Blackwater Sound play classic rock; Second Chance Band performs inspirational rock; Micah plays Caribbean country; Luke Sommer Glen Band plays Southern-fried rock; Steve Venini is a talented acoustic singer/songwriter; Stereo Underground is Key Largo’s rock warrior; and the Coral Shores High School Jazz Band brings the big band sound to the stage. The band schedule will be posted on the ICE website prior to the event.

Attendees can bring blankets and lawn chairs, but coolers are not permitted. For detailed information about Bay Jam or and the musicians, go to www.keysice.com.

ICE is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing quality entertainment and cultural events to Upper Keys residents and provides musical and arts scholarships to local students.