MT. MORRIS — The Mt. Morris Jamboree recently announcd the return of hometown boy Jeff Elbel and his band Ping to its bandshell stage for a free two-hour concert on Saturday, Aug. 10 from 7-9 p.m.
With its latest album The Threefinger Opera, Chicago-area roots-rockers Jeff Elbel + Ping spin penchants for storytelling and rock ‘n’ roll into an engaging album-length tale drawn from true-life misadventures. The album is defiantly optimistic and relentlessly fun, traveling a path toward peace under pressure. Its calamitous catalyst was an injury that threatened Elbel’s ability to play music. “Making The Threefinger Opera was my way to learn new ways to keep doing what I love with my extended band family,” says Elbel. “We’ll have a blast performing many of the songs in Mt. Morris.”
Ping’s material includes thrilling songs that are relatable, witty, and suitable for all ages. The upbeat, Beatlesque pop of “Unstoppable Me” has made an impact at radio and streaming platforms, with a comical video on YouTube. “Bark Along with Cody” from 2005 album The Eleventh Hour Storybook gained attention on long-running funny music program The Doctor Demento Show. Other singles including pop-rocker “Light It Up” from 2012’s Gallery album and the meditative “Goodnight, Rabbit” examine the ties that bind at home. The band’s all-acoustic debut album No Outlet with the jangling “Radio Flyer” and moody “Miracle Rain” was reissued as a vinyl LP on Marathon Records in 2022.
Ping’s sound pulls from roots and rock favorites like Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers and Delaney & Bonnie. “You’ll hear hints of anything else a fan of classic pop might like, whether it’s the Beatles, J. Geils Band, Creedence, Stones, Cake, INXS, the Kinks, or Chuck Berry,” says Elbel.
The band includes drummer Tom Sharpe of Mannheim Steamroller, percussionist Paul G. Ross, bassist Mike Choby, and singer Grace Beechy. Guitarist John Bretzlaff and Elbel have performed together since 1992, when they formed alternative rock band Farewell to Juliet in Champaign, Illinois.
Concessions for the evening will be provided by vendors including Maxson’s Manor, who will be serving chili, hot dogs, nachos, pulled pork sandwiches, cole slaw, chips, hand crafted fudge, cookies, and drinks. Grandpa’s Ice Cream and Bill's Famous Lemonade stand will be there too, all starting at 6 p.m.
Ewe and Me Acres will have a fresh produce stand with a variety of fruits, vegetables, baked goods, jams, jellies and dog treats on the Campus. Various craft and plant vendors will be open from 5-8 p.m.
Other attractions will be available on either side of the Bandshell during the concert. Encore's Old Sandstone Art Gallery will feature a new show and the new location of the Mt. Morris Historical Museum will also be open in the newly renovated College Hall.
Please bring a blanket, chair, or enjoy our benches and join the fun on our beautiful, historic Campus in the center of Mt. Morris. The location is two blocks south of Illinois Route 64 on Wesley Avenue. Enjoy the free rock ‘n’ roll concert.
