On: March 17 at 02:21 PM
Photo above, the ReUnion horn section. At front, FunkyTim of Minor Dischord.
Hundreds of hearty souls braved a brisk wind to get funky and enjoy some green beer March 15 during Stockton's second annual St. Patrick's Day Festival.
The event was organized by the Downtown Stockton Alliance, while Bradley's provided the brews and Irish food to the crowds on Hunter Street. 209Vibe sponsored two stages of live music at the event.
The day started with a tight set of grooves by the Randy Sandoli Quartet, who opened the community stage in Janet Leigh Plaza. It was followed by Hey Manna!, one of Stockton's most interesting and promising young indie rock bands. It was great to hear the group's challenging, fuzzed-out yet melodic sound - think Modest Mouse with the volume on 11 – emanating from the heart of the city.
The main stage on Hunter Street opened at 2 p.m. with a set by Minor Dischord that was both rocking and funky. The sun warmed the crowd that packed the outdoor drinking area. Every table was taken.
The sun had set behind the Hotel Stockton and the air had started to become chilly by the time The Stockton Royale opened its set at 3:45 p.m., and even the weathered soul of singer Junior Sharper couldn't stop some from seeking shelter inside Bradley's. But that didn't stop the band from putting on a hot set of hip funk.
The street festival closed with a set by ReUnion, which demonstrated why it's one of the funkiest, smooth bands in Stockton. Anchored in part by Tower of Power vet Mic Gillette, the band blew the roof off the city's showmobile. Fans came out in the chilly wind and danced to the band's spot-on renditions of "Chain of Fools" and other funk and soul hits.
It was a great end to a groovy St. Patrick's Day celebration.
Check back later for more photos.
