Town Launches Mentone Americana Nights

Shigley Amphitheater on Moon Lake Campus will Host Free Concert Series

Something new is happening on the mountain this summer. Mentone Americana Nights is a free concert series bringing live music to the Shigley Amphitheater on Moon Lake Campus. On the fourth Saturday of each month from June through September, these family-friendly evenings will be all about good music, good food, and a good reason to come together.

The idea is simple: offer people a chance to hear great music in a laid-back setting. In addition to enjoying great musical talent, guests are encouraged to explore the artisan shops and galleries on the Moon Lake Campus and grab a bite at Moon Lake Kitchen, which serves up Cajun and Creole favorites — along with burgers and wings to enjoy while listening to the music.

Locals and visitors alike are invited to spend the evening enjoying what makes Mentone special.

“Mentone has always been a place where creativity and community go hand in hand,” says Mayor Rob Hammond. “Americana Nights is more than a concert series — it’s an invitation to gather, celebrate local talent, and enjoy the magic of summer on the mountain. We’re proud to welcome everyone to this new tradition.”

As of press time, the June 28th show was set to feature Judy-Nicole Kirby, Average Joe, and Adamson Avenue.

Kirby is a Fort Payne-based singer-
songwriter with a voice that draws you in and lyrics that make you want to stay. Her pop-folk style blends heartfelt melodies with a touch of soul, and whether she’s playing for a crowd or a handful of folks, she makes it feel personal. She is also a visual artist and helps support other local creatives through her work with Boom Town Makers Market.

Average Joe is composed of Phillip Dooley (Geraldine), Russell Godwin (Grove Oak), and Dennis George (Fyffe). This trio has deep roots in local music scenes. Their setlist spans from the 1960s to today — rock, country, pop, and bluegrass — all arranged with acoustic instruments and three-part harmonies. Dennis brings a full toolkit, playing everything from mandolin and dobro to harmonica and violin, with harmony vocals shaped by years of shape-note singing.

Adamson Avenue, featured artist for the Saturday, June 28th concert

Adamson Avenue is based in Carrollton, Georgia. The group delivers a mix of folk-country and Americana, led by singer-songwriter Jason Kesler. With Chris Sundling on upright bass, Seth Murphy playing pedal steel guitar, Trey Young on guitar, and Greg Frazier on drums, their sound is honest and melodic, often centered around songs about life, faith, and the moments in between. They’ve built a loyal following for their heartfelt shows and authentic style.

Sponsors for the first show included Town of Mentone, Moon Lake Kitchen, First State Bank, Delightful Retreats, Mentone Market, Tri State Environmental Services, and Lookout Media Group.

Plans are also underway to feature rock and roll acts, along with some downhome bluegrass, as part of the series.

Stay connected with The Groundhog on Facebook and at readthegroundhog.com for announcements about upcoming acts. Businesses wishing to help bring more live music to the community by helping sponsor Americana Nights can email Mentone Town Hall at mentone5al@yahoo.com.

Mark your calendar for the next Mentone Americana Music Nights! You don’t want to miss this evening of fun music with heart and soul.

NOTE: Featured artists for the Saturday, July 26, concert include:

Jess Goggans, featured artist for the Saturday, July 26th, concert

Jess Goggans Band

The music of Janis Joplin, The Grateful Dead, and others defined an era. Jess Goggans will bring those sounds to life in Mentone for a fabulous Woodstock evening. Homegrown and raised in the Northeast corner of Alabama, Jess is a singer/songwriter who puts her entire soul into her music and every ounce of her heart into every single performance. Recognized for her sultry Southern Grit, soulful melodies, and high-
energy stage presence, it is said that you can literally feel her voice moving through you. She is accompanied by some of the finest musicians in the Southeast.

Dad Company

Playing everything from ’60s classic rock to country, Dad Company is a family-friendly band of five friends from Fort Payne who enjoy making music together. Formed in 2020, Dad Company invites you to make some new friends and to sing along. You’ll find out that they’re more than just a funny name.