MUSICIANS TAKE TO THE STAGE FOR BAY JAM 29 THIS SUNDAY

Local musician Leah Sutter has graced stages in the Upper Keys from Florida Keys Brewing Co. to Baker’s Cay Resort. NATALIE FLAMM/Contributed

Live musical performers representing Florida Keys rock, jazz, reggae, blues and more, along with student bands from Island Music School, will take the stage for Bay Jam 29 on Sunday, April 14 at Islamorada’s Founders Park.  

Presented by Islamorada Community Entertainment, the outdoor concert takes place at the ICE Amphitheater at Founders Park, MM 87, bayside, on Plantation Key. Doors open at 10 a.m. and live performances are scheduled from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Bay Jam 29’s lineup features Caribbean-influenced jazz by the Bill Todd Trio. Their music is inspired by 30 years in the South Florida, Los Angeles and Nashville music scenes. The genre-bending cover band Uncle Rico, formed in 2011, plays a variety of music in the Upper Keys, from pop, country, classic rock and alternative. The Lower Mat Cats will play some fun rock and country tunes, while the Key Largo Jam Band will bring a group of 10 musicians playing upbeat music. 

Other performances include some reggae-tinged blues by Jimmy Hawkins; more blues by Felix the Catt and the Lady A Blues Band; Leah Sutter’s acoustic pop; popular Keys performers the Barstool Sailors and The Carousers; and the flamenco-infused guitar fusion of David Feder, Bay Jam’s founder and longtime guiding spirit.

Bay Jam attractions also include artisan booths, festival souvenir merchandise, cold locally crafted beers and food truck selections.

Attendees can bring lawn chairs and blankets, or enjoy a swim at the bayside beach. Well-behaved leashed pets are welcome, but coolers are not permitted.

General admission is free, although donations are welcomed. Parking is available at Founders Park for $10.

Event proceeds help fund in-school programs and arts and music scholarships for Upper Keys high school students. ICE events have contributed nearly $1 million toward the grants.