By Shane O’Dwyer

Bob Dylan is one of the most influential musicians of all time, and local musicians honored him with two shows at John Henry’s Hammer Coffeehouse in Worcester on May 18.Hosted by Bob Jordan and the 524 Band, the 5 p.m. show celebrated Highway 61 Revisited, and the 8 p.m. show honored Blonde on Blonde, so those who attended both shows were treated to a sample of two phases of Dylan’s career.

The night featured bands such as Chuck & Mud, Nate Smith, Lydia Fortune, The Hipswayers, Helen Sheldon Beaumont, TJ Peavey, Donald Prange and others. As a huge Bob Dylan fan, I was more than happy to attend this event. Seeing these people play Dylan’s music onstage only brought a smile to my face. Even better ~ the music was personal and caught my ears in a perfect tone.

The event was co-sponsored by WCUW 91.3 FM, Worcester’s community radio station, and The First Unitarian Church of Worcester.

What really made this event is that the musicians obviously took just as much pleasure playing Dylan as the audience did hearing it. these musicians were really enjoying the music that they were playing, and even better everyone was enjoying hearing it. They knew whose shoes they were filling, and they went to an extent to bring the crowd a gift of great sound. Every band that took the stage was great and brought smiles to the faces below.

The Bob Dylan Birthday Bash is an annual event here in Worcester. I will be surely attending next year’s gathering, and I advise you too ,as well. Whether you’re a Dylan fan or just want to hear great local talent, the Bob Dylan Birthday Bash is a must-see.. See you next year!