Concert at Kelly Park “parties at the rock”

David Torgesen knew he wanted to do something as the summer was winding down, and about three weeks ago the idea came to him.

“Why not play music at the park?” he said.  Torgesen, who is a musician with a good presence on Spotify, among other places, invited some other musicians to play the venue as well.  While the idea started somewhat loosely, it all came together in a seamless way that couldn’t have been smoother if it had been planned for months.

Joining Torgesen on the program were Alex Ozburn, Minnarett, Rahel Leon, Slye Gentry, and members of Torgesen’s family.  

Alex Ozburn wowed the crowd with his faith-centered rap freestyle.  Those who were familiar with his work were still surprised at the intensity and polish of his performance, which was encored later on for those who had missed it.  His music can be found under his name on Youtube.

Minnarett presented, accompanied at times by Gentry, a combination of original and selected material.  Her song “Carry her quietly” was posted to Youtube over the weekend, and is an aching, touching song about loss.  

Slye Gentry performed his inimitable style, and accompanied other artists throughout the event.  He posts music to his Facebook page and Youtube.

Rahel Leon is a stage name, but a familiar face.  If you attended Caribou’s Got Talent, you might have seen her win “Best in Show.”  Her mother Melanie Bice and other members of the family were there to see perform, and they were not disappointed.  Leon is increasing her music footprint, and you can find three of her singles on Apple Music, including “No Orphans of God” about her own experience.  

David Torgesen and his daughter capped off the evening, playing against the backdrop of the lights of the city below, under a spotlight of their own.  

“Party at the Rock” was a fantastic experience, and a great way to bring local artists into people’s awareness.  Those who I talked to during the concert were all thrilled at the location and what it allowed for on the part of spectators.  With easy access to power, restrooms, seating, grass areas, a playground, and a fantastic natural backdrop to the proceedings it’s a great location for such events if the concert was any indicator.  Venues can especially be difficult to locate for musicians who are either too young to play in bars, or whose families need bigger accommodations than most small clubs will allow for.   Caribou County seems to be brimming with musical talent, and in my opinion, the more places it can be expressed,
the better!