June 28, 2003

Summerfest Day 3

So far, Summerfest's attendence is about 15% below last year. That's not a bad thing because being situated on a mile-long strip of lakeshore, there's only so many people that can pack into the place. One reason for the drop off may be re-focusing of musicians and events away from a younger crowd. But another is the competing Country USA festival in Oshkosh one-hour north. If it rains tomorrow, that would hold pack even more people from going to the lakefront. So, if you don't like being surrounded by 90,000 of your friends and you're willing to get wet, tomorrow just might be the day for you to go.

Now, on to the Day 3 highlights.

Headlining the Marcus Amphitheater is Tom Petty. Opening for him his rock/blues pioneer Bo Diddley. They start at 7:30. Ryan Irelan reviewed Petty's The Last DJ, his musical shot at Big Music.

Canadian punk/metal goofy guys, Sum 41 are at the Harley-Davidson Roadhouse.

Dated alt-rockers Everclear perform at the Miller Lite Oasis. Bill Sherman reviewed Slow Motion Daydream.

Sevendust brings their nu-metal churning to the Mountain Dew Rock Stage.

For country fans, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band goes fishin' in the dark at the North Shore Bank Landing.

Finally, Little Richard flails away at his piano giving fans a good-old rock and roll show at the Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard.

The last five all start at 10:00 p.m.

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OnMilwaukee has posted a review of Peter Gabriel's Thursday night concert.

"Gabriel Kicks off Big Gig on an "Up" Note"