On Sunday afternoon, Oct. 4, the community of Woodbridge came together at New England Brewing Company for a lively celebration of the Local Bands Show’s 38‑year legacy. The event, hosted by longtime radio trio Frank Critelli, Rick Allison and Dennis Lamar, highlighted the show’s commitment to showcasing home‑grown talent on WPLR and its online replay on CygnusRadio.com.
Three Hosts, Three Decades
Critelli, Allison and Lamar have steered the music‑only program since its inception in 1988, when Allison and the late James Velvet first took the mic. Their on‑stage banter mirrored the relaxed, family‑friendly atmosphere of the radio show, keeping listeners and attendees laughing and engaged between sets.
Live Performances From Local Favorites
The afternoon featured three beloved Woodbridge bands. Wolf Harbor—Jesse LaBranche (vocals/guitar), Bobby Dyckman (vocals/guitar), Mike Voyce (bass) and Austin Rivera (drums)—delivered a high‑energy punk‑rock set that had the crowd singing along to new releases and classic favorites. LaBranche expressed his love for the moment, saying there was nowhere else he’d rather be than on stage with his band.
Next up, the Eddie Seville Band—Billy K (guitar), Donnie B (bass) and Chad Oliver (drums)—fulfilled their promise of “rock and roll” with a crisp, blues‑tinged set that kept beer cans clinking and feet moving. Their songs about Saturday nights, road trips and a mysterious “Carol Ann” resonated with fans who miss hearing rock on the radio.
Closing the show, The Manchurians—Roger C. Reale (bass/vocals), Dean Falcone (guitar), Bob Orsi (harmonica/vocals) and Rich Suarez (drums)—proved why they remain local legends. Their mix of original tunes and a spirited cover of Steve Cropper’s “Ticket to the Midnight Hour” showcased the enduring power of community‑driven music.
Family, Faith and Community
The celebration was more than a concert; it was a family gathering. Attendees of all ages, including Jesse LaBranche’s grandmother, danced, sang and shared stories. The hosts highlighted the show’s role in fostering connections across generations, a value that aligns with the community’s emphasis on family and faith.
Critelli also announced the revival of the quarterly New Haven Advocate newspaper, distributing a copy to the crowd and underscoring the importance of local journalism in preserving community heritage.
Looking Ahead
With a new Wolf Harbor album on the horizon and the Local Bands Show slated to continue its Sunday night broadcasts on WPLR, the hosts reaffirmed their commitment to keeping Woodbridge’s music scene vibrant for years to come. Listeners can replay each episode on CygnusRadio.com every Monday around “noonish,” ensuring the music remains accessible to all.
The event reminded everyone that when families, friends and local artists unite, the spirit of Woodbridge thrives—celebrating tradition, nurturing talent and reinforcing the bonds that make our town a true home.
Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.
