Beth Israel Hosts Third Annual Battle of the Bands

The event may be called Battle of the Bands, but local groups J.D. and the Blades, The Rube Goldberg Solution and Til September will be working collectively to deliver a wide range of entertaining rock sounds at Beth Israel this Saturday at 7:30 p.m.

Those in attendance will hear everything from classic rock to modern party rock.

In addition to the music, the event will include a massive silent auction—featuring over 140 items from gift cards and movie tickets to hotel stays and sports memorabilia—that offers attendees a wide range of small and big ticket items to bid on.

“It’s a really neighborhood kind of event where it’s like you’re going to a club, but you don’t have to mess with a long drive and the parking and all that,” event organizer Liz Schuman said. “It’s a great night out to hear music you know with friends and family.”

There will also be a cash bar and a food spread consisting of fruits, veggies, sweets and other various treats.

Proceeds from the event, which costs $22 in advance or $25 at the door, will go to support Beth Israel and its programs within the community.

Scott Willens, the lead vocalist for Til September and a Beth Israel congregant, said he had no trouble gathering his group together when the other band members learned of the event’s popularity.

He also said it will be interesting to have his congregation see him in a bit of a different role.

“It’s usually kind of a surreal experience, like ‘that’s not how I pictured you,’” Willens said. “I’m kind of on the smaller side so when I belt out something on a higher register like Journey or Boston or Styx, I don’t think it’s what people are expecting—usually in a good way.”  

For more information, check out the Battle of the Bands’ Facebook page.