Young Talent Rocked the Dock at the Final Show of the Sunset Concert Series

Friday night at the dock on the end of Fair Haven Road, families, couples, teenagers and even pets gathered together in mutual appreciation for music and young talent.

After two very impressive opening acts, Elephunk, a band made up with Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School (R-FH) students and graduates, performed for the crowd of locals.

This small concert was one of five that have gone on this year in what is known as “The Sounds at Sunset Concert Series”. A few years back, the dock was refurbished and came up with the idea to hold small no-fee concerts to compliment the sunset and view at the end of the dock.

First to perform was Maris Krauss, a Junior at RFH. She covered songs by artists including Tao Cruz and Taylor Swift then performed some of her own original music. She played all of the songs with only her acoustic guitar and it was apparent the crowd was impressed by her voice.

Krauss said, “I’ve done a few performances in coffee shops but I’ve never done anything like this outside before; it was really nice.”

Next on was Avery Mandeville, a Senior at Middletown South High School. She sang and played the ukulele to songs by artists like Florence and the Machine, Regina Spektor, and the 4 Non Blondes. The audience’s applause demonstrated that her unique style was definitely appreciated.

Maudeville said of her performace, “I enjoyed it and had a lot of fun!”

At this point, the dock was filled with families and friends enjoying the music, and the scenic sunset was beginning.

Elephunk started performing at about 8pm. Luke Popielski, a recent R-FH graduate played lead guitar, Austin Ryan, another recent RFH graduate was on vocals, Mike Nociolo, a senior at RFH played the keyboard, and Ben Sherman, a Junior at RFH was on the drums. The band played about five songs and was finished just as the sun disappeared below the horizon.

The program perfectly described their style of music: “An eclectic and tasty mix of rock, blues and funk, with a dallop and a mint leaf on top (jazz).”

The guys seemed to have a lot of fun performing and definitely enjoyed the crowd’s enthusiasm for their music.

Lead guitarist Luke Popielski said, “Playing here is always an interesting time. It’s always fun to play for people that will listen.”

Mike Nociolo, the keyboardist added, “This is the prime place to play lively music.”

The concert not only demonstrated the amazing talent of the performers but it also served as a reminder of the gorgeous landscape surrounding the Rumson-Fair Haven area.

Maddie Mullan, a local student, summarized the pleasant experience: “I really enjoy being able to hear new talent, and it’s just relaxing to be out here.”