Still basking in the afterglow of Graham Parker's solo show at Tupelo last night, I asked a friend, "Why can't a room like this make it in Lowell?" Come May 1st, we may all have a chance to find out when Hot Day at the Zoo christen the"Friday Night Concert Series" at Gemstones, Lowell's hottest new night spot. Upstairs from the Blue Shamrock, Gemstones is an ultra cool room with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, a huge stage, and a 300+ capacity complete with free VIP seating. Gemstones Live, the brain child of Hot Day mover and shaker Mike Dion, has one clearly defined purpose: to revitalize the live music scene in Lowell. That is the kind of singular vision necessary for any, successful venture. Under the wing of his own production company, Emerald City Productions, Dion hopes to re-establish downtown Lowell as a viable venue showcasing local, regional, and national touring acts.
Besides HDATZ on May 1st, Jen Kearney and the Lost Onion play Gemstones on May22nd to celebrate the release of their much anticipated new CD Year of the Ox. The fun continues when Boston based HI8US bring their soul laden "groove pop" to Gemstones on May 29th. While the Village Smokehouse dabbles in live music on Thursday and Mickey's tries to figure out whether it's Mexican or Irish, sports bar or music room, Friday nights at Gemstones may be THE music haven we've all been hoping for. Best of luck Mike!
I've heard rumors about Gemstones, but haven't had a chance to stop in there yet. Lowell is really void of a dedicated music venue and hopefully this place can live up to many peoples' expectations. I know my initial trepidation has to do with the fact that it's upstairs from the Shamrock. What a dump.