Concerts in the Park return to Ober Park

Published 1:30 am Thursday, July 17, 2025

The Vashon Park District, in partnership with Vashon Events, will bring back its beloved “Concerts in the Park” series this summer, with five free Thursday evening performances beginning July 31, at Ober Park.

This family-friendly event, taking place from 7-9 p.m. each Thursday night through the end of August, features a beautiful outdoor setting where islanders are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, picnics and their dancing shoes.

As has been the case for several years now, each evening in the series will open with “New Voices,” a showcase of emerging solo artists from Vashon, followed by a 90-minute set from the evening’s headliner.

This year’s artists span genres from soul to 1970s rock to folk fusion. And with local music producer Martin Feveyear at the sound board, and Bandstand Music providing additional support, each show is set to be expertly dialed in.

Here’s what will be on tap, week by week.

July 31: Object Heavy

Object Heavy, a powerhouse soul outfit from Humboldt County, California, will kick off the series on Thursday, July 31.

Known for infectious grooves, rich harmonies, and explosive musicianship, the band blends classic soul with dance-able rhythms, led by the dynamic vocals of Richard Love. The band’s latest album, “Love & Gravity,” produced by Kelly Finnigan of Monophonics, has earned national acclaim and placement on Apple Music’s top Soul and R&B playlists.

Opening the evening will be Vashon’s own Madeleine Wolczko, whose music is as adventurous as her life at sea. As a merchant mariner and sailboat dweller, she crafts songs inspired by the ocean, often recording aboard her ship between voyages. Her sound blends electronic production with acoustic intimacy, revealing a deep emotional connection to her island home. Madeleine, known for mentoring local youth and captivating audiences, is the perfect anchor for the night’s soulful voyage.

August 7: Wild Rumours

Wild Rumours, a Seattle-based Fleetwood Mac tribute band, pays homage to the sexy sounds of the 1970s.

What began as a one-night celebration of the Fleetwood Mac and Rumours albums has evolved into a full-fledged touring experience across the Western U.S. Led by powerhouse vocalist Jen Ayers, backed by a seasoned ensemble of musicians, the group faithfully captures the magic of one of rock’s most legendary acts.

Opening the evening is local 18-year-old jazz pianist and percussionist Rowan McBennett, performing with fellow musician Marlowe Cardoza. Classically trained and now immersed in jazz with the Beall St Trio, Rowan is headed to NYU this fall to study music. Inspired by local artists and mentors on Vashon, he champions musical versatility and believes in its power to connect people and foster understanding—an uplifting philosophy he carries into every performance.

August 14: The Sweet Lillies

This genre-blending quartet brings heartfelt storytelling and vibrant collaboration to their signature style, dubbed “String-Americana.”

Featuring guitar, viola, upright bass, drums, and dreamy harmonies, their music fuses folk, rock, and even hip-hop into emotionally rich songs born from shared life experiences.

Opening the evening is Mickey Fontaine, a multifaceted local bass player and experimental artist whose influences range from jazz and rock to cyberpunk hip-hop. Known for theatrical performances and thought-provoking musical productions, Mickey brings an avant-garde edge to the stage.

August 21: The Cumbieros

The Cumbieros will light up the stage with their infectious blend of “new cumbia,” combining traditional South American rhythms with ska, rock, and psychedelic flair.

Since forming in 2011, this multicultural group has built a loyal following across the Pacific Northwest through their dynamic instrumentation — guiro, horns, guitars, and percussion. Rooted in Colombian musical tradition and reimagined with electric energy, their performances promise a lively, dance-filled celebration.

Opening the show is 9-year-old Indigo Alton, a talented young violinist and performer with a growing artistic résumé. She’s acted and sung in Vashon theater productions, played violin in holiday showcases, and wowed passersby with her busking talents. Whether she’s making art or performing aerials, Indigo brings creativity and charm to every endeavor — a rising local star ready to shine on stage.

August 28: The Great Divide

The Great Divide, a legendary all-islander band from Vashon, rose to fame in 1987 after winning the Marlboro Country Music Talent Roundup, earning $5,000 and the honor of opening for country greats Alabama and George Strait before a crowd of 20,000.

Playing music rooted in country rock, Texas swing, and classic rock, they have also shared stages with musical icons such as Elvin Bishop and Asleep at the Wheel. After a long hiatus since the group’s 2018 Strawberry Festival performance, they are reuniting with pedal steel player Dan Tyack.

Opening for The Great Divide is rising local star Neko Rogneby, making her solo debut through the New Voices program. A student at Vashon High School, Neko juggles a packed schedule as a swimmer, lifeguard, Fire Cadet, and teen leader in Rain City Rock Camp, all while honing her musical talents on piano, bass guitar, and tenor sax. Her performances span iconic venues from MoPOP to the Crocodile.

Find out more about the summer concert series at vashonevents.org and vashonparks.org.