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Vince Herman uses a simple approach to keep audiences of all ages engaged at his shows: dancing, enjoyment and musicianship.
Herman is scheduled to play the Sunset Concert Series today at 7 p.m. in Turley Park.
According to the musician’s Web site, Herman has been playing music since he was 3 years old when his brother crafted him a wooden guitar with rubber bands.
Herman has come a long way since plucking rubber bands as he has built a reputation with the band Leftover Salmon. But the band has recently taken a hiatus, which has allowed Herman to venture into new areas, according to the Web site.
Brandon Mann, Herman’s booking agent, said Herman’s performances captivate any audience and people of any age can enjoy the music.
“They have the full package, everything about what they do is fun loving, and just stretches across the generations,” he said. “He is legendary in the festival circuit.”
Mann said it was that all-are-welcome atmosphere that makes Herman’s performances perfect for outdoor venues.
“You can have a family with kids and you can have older folks who are not necessarily into pop music, but once they are there, something about the music touches people,” he said.
Herman said he enjoyed playing outdoor venues because it is a good way to bring the whole community together where they can dance and have fun.
“We just love (playing outdoors). Sometimes it gets a little grueling playing in smoky bars,” Herman said.
The band is known for enjoyable antics and a loose attitude on stage, but their songs also contain a deeper meaning.
“Their lyrics definitely do not just touch on light issues, there is some depth and they talk about environmental issues, or political issues,” Mann said.
Herman described his music as Americana without borders, using influences from different regions in the country to create a unique sound. He said the wide range of musical influences represent the variety that exists in America.
“It’s kind of rootsy, kind of bluegrass and kind of alternate country,” he said.
No matter what venue Herman plays, he said the ability to reach audiences with his music is a special privilege.
“I’m here listening to the Michael Jackson memorial and realizing how he touched a lot of people,” he said, “ With live music, all musicians have a gift to do what is outside the normal occupation of our culture.”
For more information on Herman visit www.vinceherman.com.
Chris McGregor can be reached at 536-3311 ext. 275
