The holiday season has brought a sense of giving to the North Shore area, and local musicians are finding their own unique way to contribute.
More than 15 musicians are set to play the Noise for Toys benefit, 7-11 p.m. tonight at the Venture Room in Point Venture. Local performers include Alan “Bones” Davis, Bobby Earl, Chad Alan, The Dust Devils and more than 10 other artists.
Organizer Gary Brandenberger said he expects the Noise for Toys benefit to become an annual event to give needy children a happier holiday season. Admission for the concert is one unwrapped toy. He said local musicians jumped at the opportunity to help.
“I think it’s hard for a musician to say no to a child,” he said.
Musicians playing at the benefit traverse several musical genres including country, rock, blues, raggae and folk music. The concert finale is a jam session by the North Shore All-Stars, which Brandenberger described as “a musical chairs” anchored by Berry Cooper and Alan “Bones” Davis.
Brandenberger recommended guests bring their own refreshments, though there will be tea and coffee available.
After Noise for Toys, local acts Alan “Bones” Davis, Slim & the Phattones, Clyde Martin and Barry Whitesnake and Jul & The Chrome Wheels will all hit the stage to fight hunger for a free concert and food drive, noon to 8 p.m. Sunday at Jones Brothers Park in Jonestown.
Brandon Jolly of Jul & Chrome Wheels organized the event, which will help the Northwest Rural Community Center and its increasing need for more canned goods and monetary donations throughout the holiday season.
“This town is filled with so much musical talent,” he said. “It’s pretty easy to put together a benefit like this.”
Jolly said he hopes for guests to bring at least 10 cans each, with prizes given to those giving the most donated cans.
Originally planned to take place before Thanksgiving, Jolly said the benefit should work out perfectly for NWRCC’s regular event where it gives out groceries to needy families before Christmas.
“It’s the time for giving, so give as much as you can. Lots of people don’t have anything this time of year,” he said.