Now that spring is finally here in all its glory, we know that summer – and all the fun that comes with it – is right around the corner. In Ellicottville, that means enjoying the great outdoors, festivals, good food, music and much more, including Ellicottville’s Gazebo series sponsored by Five Star Bank. This series of free concerts kicks off on Saturday, June 30 from 2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. and continues Thursday evenings beginning July 5 through August 9, from 7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. at the Village Gazebo.
One of this summer’s highly anticipated acts is Buffalo band The Visitors, with Maria Sebastian. Featuring a set list that has something for everyone – from Neil Young to Coldplay and Lucinda Williams to The Cranberries – this four-piece cover band plays to packed audiences across Western New York.
About three years ago, Maria Sebastian and Jerry Augustyniak (drummer for 10,000 Maniacs) started the band. Due to the changing nature of most bands, they named the band The Visitors – a tongue-in-cheek reference to the fact that bands don’t often stick together for long. In addition to Maria and Jerry, band members included guitarist and singer Zak Ward (who has his own original band Son of the Sun) and bassist Rick Ryan (who has played with many classic Buffalo bands, including Weekend).
Over the years, schedule conflicts and logistical issues have given credence to the band’s name, with various artists subbing from time to time. From Buffalo’s West Side, Maria – who sings lead vocals and plays rhythm guitar – has a schedule just as busy as anyone else’s. After touring with 10,000 Maniacs as a backup singer last year, she has decided to stay local this year, allowing for more shows in the area – including Ellicottville’s Gazebo concert.
In addition to Zak Ward (a native of Niagara Falls) and Rick Ryan (from Tonawanda), the current lineup includes Rick’s twin brother Tom Ryan on drums. The Visitors gives this group of four talented and accomplished musicians – and friends – the opportunity to play the music they love together and share it with others.
Mark your calendars now – you won’t want to miss the chance to catch this free live performance at the Village Gazebo on Thursday, August 2 at 7:00 p.m. For more information about the Gazebo series, visit http://www.ellicottvilleny.com/gazebo-series/.
