BY AMY MARCHIANO
Tom Drummond of the band Better Than Ezra said they will entertain with a “high-energy show” Saturday.
The bass guitarist talked Wednesday about the free concert they will perform at 8 p.m. at Progress Avenue and Laurel Boulevard.
“We will probably play a lot of hits,” Drummond said.
The group, which consists of Drummond, Kevin Griffin, Michael Jerome and Jim Payne, wants to keep the music upbeat with the celebratory atmosphere of Yuengling’s 190th anniversary. The band formed in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in 1988 and is based in New Orleans.
“We will definitely do ‘Good,’ ‘Desperately Wanting,’ ‘Crazy Lucky,’ ‘Breathless’ and ‘Juicy,’ ” Drummond said.
The Yuengling sisters, Debbie, Jennifer, Wendy and Sheryl, announced the band’s performance in April. They listened to the band growing up.
“It’s a band that kind of resonates with us,” Jennifer Yuengling said previously.
DAVID MCKEOWN / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Yuengling’s 190th anniversary Lager cans sit out at the brewery in Pottsville during an exclusive media kick-off event in April.
Drummond attributes the longevity of the band with “good songs and song writing,” as well as passion for the music and people.
“We enjoy what we do,” Drummond said.
The band’s most recent song was “Grateful,” released in 2018. Their most recent album, “All Together Now,” was released in 2014.
Inspiration for songs comes from everyday life and the music they listened to growing up, Drummond said.
“We try to incorporate things that inspire us,” Drummond said.
Drummond said he believes this is the first time the band will be in Schuylkill County.
Drummond said he enjoys Yuengling Lager.
“It’s a classic, really good beer,” he said.
Merchandise will be available near the main stage on Progress Avenue and Laurel Boulevard.
In addition to Better Than Ezra, local bands will entertain visitors throughout the day.
The Boys Upstairs, Pottsville, will perform from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Yuengling Brewery Stage C, Mahantongo Street; Toolshed Jack, based in Northeast Pennsylvania, will play from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Arch Street Stage B; and Hooligan, Pottsville, will open for Better Than Ezra from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the main stage.
Contact the writer: amarchiano@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6028
