Spotlight brings live music back to Huntington
Finding live music these days is a rarity amid the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Spotlight in Huntington is plugging back in. The art bar, which is next to and owned by The Paramount, has revamped its mission by offering a new gourmet burger menu with craft cocktails and live music at a dozen outdoor tables daily from 4 to 8 p.m.
“It’s been a rough couple of months,” said manager James Visalli. “Everybody is ready to get back outside and be part of the world again.”
As Phase 2 rolled out this week, singer-songwriter Brian Ripps of Rockville Centre performed a mix of covers and originals to kick things off on Wednesday.
“My life’s work is live performance. Therefore, to have been away from the stage for so long has been hard,” said Ripps who has opened for Trace Adkins, Rob Thomas and REO Speedwagon at The Paramount. “I want to add to the ambience of the village reopening.”
Friday features the musical stylings of Chelsea Takami of Amityville, who will deliver a three-hour set of her acoustic soulful indie pop.
“It’s my first gig after the quarantine,” said Takami, who opened for Chris Isaak at The Paramount last year. “I’ll be performing upbeat stuff because I’m happy to be playing again.”
Her set list will consist of '90s covers from Alanis Morissette, Jewel and Third Eye Blind plus her own music (“Rolla Coas,” “Romeo,” “Phoenix”).
Alternative rock trio MJT will take over on Saturday, June 13, playing some new originals such as “Here We Go,” “Someday in the Rain” and “Seems to Me” plus a blend of familiar tunes from The Beatles, Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder.
“This has been the longest time we haven’t played live in almost 13 years. We cannot wait,” said singer/guitarist David Godfrey of Central Islip. “This is exciting for us and hopefully that will carry over to the people watching.”
For more information, call 631-637-1225 or visit spotlightny.com.
David J. Criblez is a reporter for Newsday's exploreLI, covering entertainment-related events from local music to stand-up comedy to festivals.
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