She performed at a “listening party” at a private home in Berlin, Md. She was featured on Irie Radio Ocean 98.1 WOCM’s “Live Lixx at 6.” And then she made an appearance at Buxy’s Salty Dog Saloon. Who is she? She’s an indie artist who lives in California, and her name is Jenn Grinels. Jenn made the last week of my life a musical experience like no other. A beautiful songbird, Jenn frequently appears in Ocean City. Her soft songs are mostly original works, but she throws in some sing-alongs and covers, too, like “Think About It,” from the HBO series Flight of the Conchords. Jenn made me cry and laugh out loud, and I thank Buxy’s Salty Dog for booking her last week.
    It was wonderful to see musicians Blake Haley, Fresh Competition (from Bond & Bentley), and Streett and Joey Harkum (from the band Pasadena) perform at Buxy’s, too. Blake Haley lights up the deck at Micky Fins every Saturday, and I highly recommend that you hear him for yourself. Buxy’s Salty Dog has a summer full of talent on tap. Beginning in June, look for locally renowned acts like Bryan Russo, Coastal Vibrations, and the Electric Company. DJ BK and DJ Wax are also slated to entertain the crowds at Buxy’s Salty Dog in June. Check future Sonic Notes columns for details.
    The temperamental May weather is predicted to warm up this week, so stop by BJ’s on the Water and check out their dazzling outdoor deck. This weekend, BJ’s features Opposite Directions on Friday night and Full Circle on Saturday night. Also, catch the Wes Davis Band at 5 p.m. on Wednesday for BJ’s weekly bayfront party. Speaking of deck parties, Fager’s Island has Kevin Poole’s Allstar Jam booked for Monday, May 17.
    If you’re looking to kick off your summer with a little reggae music, check out Storm at Seacrets on Friday & Saturday, May 14-15. This dancehall reggae band is full of energy. Also appearing at Seacrets this week are The Movement on Friday, Jim Long Band at 5 p.m. on Saturday, and Big Bang Baby on Saturday night.
    If karaoke is your scene, plenty of venues around Ocean City give you the chance to be a shining star. Whiskers Bar & Grill in Ocean Pines presents karaoke with Donnie Berkey on Friday night, and 707 Sports Bar & Grille on Old Bridge Road in West Ocean City offers “Hey Mick” karaoke on Saturday night. Whiskers also has The Big Junk Band booked for Saturday night.
    What else is slated for this weekend? Well, lately I’ve been on a little bit of a Blues kick, so I can’t wait to get my fix at the Steer Inn Tavern on Friday night. They’ve booked “The Bushmaster” Gary Brown. I scoped out his music online, and definitely liked what I heard.
    I want to welcome Charlie’s Bayside to the Coconut Times. Located in Fenwick Island, Del., this popular hotspot has Poole & the Gang on stage on Friday, May 14, and John LaMere on Saturday, May 15. I definitely need to swing in and check out the establishment, which I’ve heard so many good things about. While I’m in Fenwick, I also want to stop by Smitty McGee’s for some delicious wings and live music by Randy Lee Ashcraft & the Salt Water Cowboys on Friday, May 14 and The Bo Dickerson Band on Sat., May 15.
    Next up on my calendar is Cruisin’ Ocean City from May 20-23. Hot rods and custom cars will fill the resort next week. Remember to visit me at the beer truck on May 22 at the Steer Inn Tavern during its 2nd Annual Rods & Rockers car and bike show. Have a wonderful week, everybody.