In 1997, members from two popular Notre Dame University bands explored their inner Jam children, concocting a new entity dubbed Umphrey’s McGee. Although UM quacked like a Jam duck, they incorporated more Prog, Metal and Hard Rock influences than their gentler brethren, expanding the Jam palette considerably. In recent years, UM’s Prog leanings have expanded in the studio and he band also showed it could dial things back for the acoustic quietude of 2006’s Safety in Numbers.   

What memories do you have from summer camp — maybe swimming in the lake, hiking in the woods or paddling a canoe? Think again. How about memories of playing chess, redecorating rooms, honing skills in sports, music or art or even swinging from a trapeze?  

The 41st annual Appalachian Festival brings the cultural traditions of Appalachia to Coney Island with down-home crafts, storytelling performances, traditional dance, homecookin' and live music from bands like Joe Mullins & the Radio Ramblers, Calamity Rain, Wild Carrot & The Roots Bands, Rabbit Hash String Band and more.  

Like fine wine, local legends Over the Rhine have gotten better with age. From their first show at Sudsy Malone's (about 20 folks showed up to see it) to their various record deals (I.R.S. and Virgin/Backporch) and back to their DIY roots (which has given them some of their biggest successes yet), OtR is marking two decades of gorgeous, soulful music-making. A live recording of their reunion with original members Ric Hordinski and Brian Kelley last December at the Taft Theatre is out now on two CDs.  

Summer is reaching its hot, sweaty peak, and for months King's Island has been packed with hordes of youths enjoying their precious few months of freedom.