Local band the Shady Cats will perform at 6 p.m. Friday at the Bartholomew County Public Library Plaza.
For a group that sometimes includes Beatles tunes in its classic pop-rock set lists, the Shady Cats probably could do no better than performing the 1966 hit single “Paperback Writer” for its 6 p.m. Friday free concert date.
That’s because the hourlong performance, part of a summer series, will unfold at the Bartholomew County Public Library Plaza, 536 Fifth St. in downtown Columbus. Vocalist and bass player Darrell Strahl, who has performed there with another group in the past, is uncertain what to expect in terms of a crowd.
“I think that that really just depends,” Strahl said.
The three previous free concerts drew appreciative audiences, according to Jason Hatton, library director.
He estimated that attendance has ranged from 150 to 300 people. The 150 number for the opener with local group Laughing Jack was substantial considering that the annual Memorial Day Weekend SALUTE! concert with the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic was unfolding a few blocks away.
“I think people crave live music — and what a better place to enjoy it than on the library plaza?” Hatton said.
Besides Strahl, the Shady Cats, together for about two years, include lead vocalist/mandolin/banjo player Mike Vargas, drummer Richard Maddaloni, guitarist Shaun Maddaloni, guitarist Bryan Autry, and guitarist Tim Anderson.
The group normally includes a set list peppered with Rolling Stones, Eagles, Tom Petty, Credence Clearwater Revival and other artists. Members hope to present about 10 to 12 tunes ranging from the ’60s to the ’80s, though a specific set list had yet to be decided in time for this section.
“We’d obviously like to get some more gigs locally,” Strahl said.
His influences range from the Eagles to George Thorogood to Stevie Ray Vaughan.
One of the tougher challenges for the band is a basic one of varying schedules.
“It can be pretty tough just to get six people together at the same time for a rehearsal,” Strahl said.
About the concert
Who: Classic rock cover band the Shady Cats
When: 6 to 7 p.m. Friday
Where: Bartholomew County Public Library Plaza, 536 Fifth St. in downtown Columbus
Information: Facebook page for Shady Cats On the Plaza
