So how does a group of five local musicians — each with his own strong opinions on the matter — settle on a scant 23 songs for a run of eight upcoming concerts saluting John, Paul, George and Ringo? By treading lightly, it would appear.
“We’re dealing with a band of seasoned professionals who are also friends,” said singer-pianist Brooke Maxwell. “None of us are younger than 49, so we’re crusty old bastards. But there’s not really a band leader, and we don’t really want to have a dictatorial leader. So we made it democratic.”
Maxwell is joined in the group by Chris Frye, who will sing and handle electric and acoustic guitars for the run of livestream performances staged by Blue Bridge Repertory Theatre. They are joined by drummer Damian Graham, bassist Peter Dowse and violist Richard Moody, who will also sing. The friends play together in several incarnations around town, and are often associated with the musical hubs at Pagliacci’s restaurant and Hermann’s Jazz Club.