In light of several area bar/music venues that are being forced to shut down live music due to ASCAP licensing fees, this weekend’s post is all about the music and the musicians in Maine just trying to make a living. Keep rockin’ in the Free World.

The Wicked Woods

Friday, September 2—Rockland

Rock City Café invites The Wicked Woods, up from Portland to play. Their influences range from from Classical to Classic Rock and Jazz, to Metal and Pop. Every song is different yet played with the same clarity and precision that is their signature sound. The show starts at 7 p.m.

Free Concert with James McMurty

Saturday, September 3—Union

Savage Oakes Vineyard and Winery is hitting on all sixes with their summer concert series and they’re not done yet. James McMurtry, who is currently touring this summer is landing at the Vineyard and playing a free concert at 2 pm. An American rock and folk-rock/Americana singer, songwriter, guitarist, bandleader, and occasional actor, the guy is multi-talented. One of the Monkees (Michael Nesmith) has this to say about him: “James McMurtry is a true Americana poet—actually he is a poet regardless of genre.” Bring your chairs and blankets.

The Tune Squad at Theshers Brewing Co.

Saturday, September 3—Searsmont

If you haven’t ventured out yet to see Midcoast’s latest brewery and tasting room in Searsmont, now’s your chance. The Tune Squad will be at Thresher's Brewery this Saturday for a night filled with Blues, Brews & BBQ! Thresher's Brewery will be serving up the best craft brews around & The Grinning Dog will be parked alongside cooking up some of their delicious BBQ!  Goes from 6-9 p.m.

Creatives/Maker Meetup

Saturday, September 3—Rockland

Welcome to the second Maker Meetup for Midcoast makers. What is a Maker? Here’s a definition. Basically, it’s a gathering for highly creative types. They invite you to meet some of the Makers who will present at this year’s Midcoast Mini Maker Faire, where you can talk informally about your own ideas. The event takes place at The Steel House in Rockland from 5pm-7pm. Light snacks and soft drinks will be provided. BYOB.

Killer Road Trip: Boothbay Harbor Fest’s Tasting Passport

Friday, September 2 to Sunday, September 4—Boothbay

For only $15, and beginning with a kickoff party at 4 pm, you can spend an entire weekend with your tasting passport and duck into 10 Boothbay locations and get a taste of a signature dish, listen to original music and enjoy the atmosphere. In addition, check out the Spirit of the Maine Cocktail Competition on opening night, a fun competition shows off the talents and creativity of our local Mixologists, and offers Cocktail Enthusiasts some delicious adult entertainment!  For tickets and schedule visit: boothbayharborfest.com/#!a-taste-of-local-flavor/cldl

 Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com