Free Long Island concerts this summer
Guitarist/vocalist Tom San Filippo, 58, of Lynbrook, leads the Grateful Dead tribute band Half Step. Credit: Artie Raslich
Tired of spending hundreds of dollars to see a show? There is a way to catch outdoor concerts this summer without spending a dime.
“Trying to get Pearl Jam tickets is next to impossible. These days people are priced out with concerts,” says Pete Griesbach, 48, of Wantagh, who is the lead singer of Pearl Jam tribute band Last Exit. “When the shows get sold out, they can come see us and hear the songs they love.”
Tribute bands are the focus of this summer’s free concert roster. Some go as far as matching the original band’s aesthetic while others focus specifically on the sonics.
“We try to dress the part and get as close as possible to give people an authentic GNR experience,” says bassist Mike Ficalora, 49, of Lindenhurst, who portrays Duff McKagan in the Guns N’ Roses tribute band Appetite for Destruction.
Meanwhile, Bowie Stations' Ed Ryan, 62, of Farmingdale, goes au naturel.
“There no wigs or fake British accents, just an energetic theatrical rock show,” promises Ryan.
Here’s a guide to free concerts happening from July through early September in Nassau and Suffolk counties. Shows are open to all unless otherwise noted.
Guitarist/vocalist Tom San Filippo, 58, of Lynbrook, leads the Grateful Dead tribute band Half Step. Credit: Artie Raslich
Jones Beach Bandshell concert schedule
Field 4 at Jones Beach, 1 Ocean Pkwy., Wantagh
AUG. 30: Half Step will resurrect the music of the Grateful Dead at 8 p.m.
AUG. 31: Jimmy Buffett's music lives on through the colorful 10-piece tribute band Barometer Soup at 8 p.m., complete with a horn section, back-up singers and dancers.
More Info 516-826-5979, facebook.com/JonesBeachBandshell
Rob Pfeffer and John Ricotta portray Axl Rose and Slash with Appetite for Destruction. Credit: Appetite for Destruction
Eisenhower Park concert schedule
Field 6; 1899 Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow
SEPT. 1: The Purple Experience honors the 40th anniversary of Prince’s “Purple Rain” and other hits at 7 p.m.
More info 516-572-0200, nassaucountyny.gov
David J. Criblez is a reporter for Newsday's exploreLI, covering entertainment-related events from local music to stand-up comedy to festivals.
