SAUGUS — JumpStreet rocked the stage at the Saugus Iron Works to complete the final show in their summer concert series. The series, a partnership between the Saugus Public Library and the National Park Service, has drawn crowds for the past three months, offering residents a weekly show.
Wednesday night’s band consisted of Mark Retallack on keyboard, Mike Ruggelo on drums and as lead vocals, and Joe Holaday on bass and guitar.
Despite the slight chill in the air as the sun set, many people still took to the lawn, setting up their chairs or sitting on the various benches. Some brought blankets to stay warm as a light breeze came through. The cold was a clear sign that the concert series had reached its final night.
JumpStreet played various classics, taking some requests before the concert got underway. The crowd clapped along and yelled out artists they’d like to hear before 6 p.m.
Songs included: “Can’t Find My Way Home” by Blind Faith, “Jailhouse Rock” by Elvis Presley, “California Dreamin’” by The Mamas & The Papas, “Angel From Montgomery” by John Prine, and “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” by Looking Glass.
It was clear from how they played that the band had plenty of experience rocking a stage together. They harmonized throughout the songs, and Holaday shredded during his guitar solos, lighting up the venue and getting the crowd going.
With the series coming to an end until next year, Library Director Alan Thibeault viewed it as a successful summer.
“We’re really pleased with the turnout for this year’s series. We averaged almost 200 people at each show, a significant increase from previous years. And we are getting a lot of positive feedback from concertgoers about how much they love the series … the performers and the venue,” he said.
“Having that big upper lawn available at the Iron Works is such a luxury and it’s an awesome setting for outdoor events like this. I love our partnership with the National Park Service. It allows us to host library events including story hours, concerts, and other programs there,” said Thibeault.
