Andy Frasco & the U.N. to headline Old Ben Bash Aug. 30
The City of Kokomo has announced the lineup for its 2025 Summer Concert Series, a free, all-ages music series held in downtown Kokomo’s Foster Park. The final piece of the series is the Old Ben Bask, taking place Aug. 30 and featuring Andy Frasco & and the U.N. with Fresh Hops.
Note that the Haynes-Apperson Festival’s musical line-up has not yet been announced.
Running from June through September, the Summer Soundtrack in the Heart of Kokomo series will bring together national and regional acts alongside local food vendors and community activities, creating enjoyable evenings of live music.
“This concert series has grown into one of Kokomo’s premier summer events, not only showcasing amazing music but also strengthening our community spirit,” Kokomo Mayor Tyler Moore said. “It’s a point of pride that renowned artists choose to perform here. Kokomo’s cool, dynamic vibe and welcoming atmosphere truly set our city apart.”
Building on that foundation, the artistic vision for this year’s series is diverse.
“We’re thrilled to present such an outstanding lineup this year,” said Kyle Gibson, who was tapped by the city to curate this year’s series line-up. “From the dynamic performance of The Blooze Brothers to the raw energy of Everclear and the innovative sounds of Local H and Sponge, every act has been carefully chosen to create a truly memorable summer experience for our community.”
The 2025 lineup includes:
Saturday, June 7: Summer Concert Kickoff with The Blooze Brothers and Tyler Lance Walker Gill
The Blooze Brothers is a high-powered, choreographed, 11-piece show band from Chicago, known for its dynamic performances spanning swing, Motown, soul, R&B, and classic rock.
Tyler Lance Walker Gill delivers high-energy, honky-tonk music with a sharp wit, blending classic country influences with modern storytelling.
The evening’s performances will begin at 6 p.m.
Saturday, July 19: Holler in the Heartland featuring John R. Miller, The Buffalo Wabs & The Price Hill Hustle, and Darrin Hacquard
Headlining this evening of Americana music will be John R. Miller, a West Virginia-based singer-songwriter celebrated for his blend of country, blues, and folk-rock.
A Cincinnati Americana/folk band, The Buffalo Wabs & The Price Hill Hustle will bring its energetic, roots-driven sound, while Darrin Hacquard’s storytelling and diverse musical styles will bring old time, psyche-rock, country, and spaghetti western vibes to the stage.
The evening’s performances will begin at 5 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 30: Old Ben Bash featuring Andy Frasco & The U.N. with opening act Fresh Hops
A Los Angeles-based blues-rock band, Andy Frasco & The U.N. is renowned for its high-energy performances and eclectic fusion of blues, rock, and soul.
Frontman Andy Frasco leads the ensemble with dynamic showmanship, often engaging audiences in what has been described as “orchestrated chaos,” resulting in infectious and entertaining live shows.
The band has an extensive touring history, performing approximately 250 shows annually. The band has graced the stages of numerous festivals, including Wakarusa and Electric Forest, earning acclaim for its spirited performances.
In addition to musical endeavors, Andy Frasco hosts the “World Saving Podcast,” featuring interviews with musicians, comedians, and other public figures, further showcasing his multifaceted talents.
Fresh Hops is a funk-fusion-rock band from northwest Indiana, known for its high-energy performances and genre-blending sound that incorporates jazz, bluegrass, classical, metal, and progressive jam rock influences. Known for their improvisational prowess and genre-defying performances, they create an electrifying live experience that keeps audiences engaged and dancing.
The evening’s performances will begin at 6 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 27: End of Summer Banger featuring Everclear, Local H, and Sponge
The evening’s headliner, Everclear, is an alternative rock band known for its ‘90s hits “Santa Monica” and “Father of Mine.”
Joining them will be Local H, an innovative rock duo from Illinois that’s recognized for its unique setup and distinctive sound. Sponge will round out the evening of rock with its hits “Plowed” and “Molly (16 Candles Down the Drain)” from the ‘90s, delivering a nostalgic yet energetic performance.
The evening’s performances will begin at 5 p.m.
Kokomo’s Summer Concert Series is free and open to everyone. Along with live music, concertgoers can enjoy local food, drinks, and a welcoming outdoor atmosphere. The evenings are smoke-free and family-friendly; ideal for those on a date night or spending time with family or friends.
All shows will be performed in the Kokomo Performing Arts Pavilion at Foster Park, 721 E. Superior St. While therhttps://kokomosummerseries.come is some bleacher seating available, those attending are encouraged to bring a lawn chair and blanket for a perfect evening under the stars.
For more information on the series and full event details of the performers, visit kokomosummerseries.com.