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A hard day's night

A group that pays tribute to the famed Beatles will kick off the Starlight Bowl's summer schedule.

July 11, 2007|By Joyce Rudolph

Whether you like the smooth sounds of Frank Sinatra, the wacky stylings of Sha Na Na or just want to rock out to Beatles tunes, the Summer Concert Season at the Starlight Bowl in Burbank aims to have the music to fit your tastes.

Beatles fans will be screaming, "yeah, yeah, yeah," on Sunday when cover band the Fab Four opens the season.

This is the first time the band will play the entire evening without an opening act, said program organizer Kristen Smith, recreation services manager for the city of Burbank.

"It's a great way to kick off the season because they are opening entertainment for our summer season," Smith said. "The Fab Four has such a great response in Burbank. They've created a Beatle mania in Burbank and it's an absolute must-see for Beatles fans, so why not have them fill an entire evening?"

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Easy-listening jazz is on the bill for July 22 with Grammy-award winner Steve Tyrell.

He has regenerated interest in classic pop standards, said Garth Nelson, deputy director of recreation services for the city of Burbank.

"Steve does a lot of Frank Sinatra's work," he said.

Jazz singer Sara Gazarek will open the show.

"She's an up-and-comer," Nelson said. "She brings a contemporary edge to jazz standards."

Then it's back to rock 'n' roll on July 29 with the 1950s and '60s sounds of Sha Na Na.

The Alley Cats, which is a premier Doo-wop group, will open for them, Nelson said.

"They are a perfect blend of musical talent and comic timing," he said.

Then things will spice up on Aug. 5 with Poncho Sanchez Latin Jazz Band.

The group is returning to the Starlight Bowl after several years' absence, Nelson said, adding that they generated quite a lot of excitement at their last concert.

Adding to the variety, the opening act is the Mariachi Divas, an all-female mariachi group, he said.

For those who love brass, Al McKay Allstars present the sounds of Earth, Wind and Fire on Aug. 12.

"They bring a classic rhythm and blues sound and their brass line is amazing," Nelson said.

The season will end on a high note with the 1980s group Berlin, featuring Terri Nunn.

Another popular '80s band, Naked Eyes, will open for them, said Cathryn Villalobos, recreation supervisor for the city of Burbank.

"They are a headliner '80s group," she said. "Some of their hits are 'Always Something There to Remind Me,' and 'Promises, Promises.' They are still getting a lot of radio air play."

"We try to hit the different music genres," Nelson said. "We try to come up with a well-balanced season."

Handy Market is returning as the official concessionaire, Villalobos said.

"They are a big supporter of the Starlight Bowl and are very community-minded," she said.

"People seem to be really happy with the affordable prices and quality food. And great customer service. The tri-tip sandwiches were the most popular last year."

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