Uppercut Takes the Stage for Nesconset Concert Series

Be ready for a horn section to blow you away as Uppercut takes over the Nesconset gazebo for the second show of on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.

Uppercut is a nine-piece, high-energy band that mixes together funk, rock and R&B in a repertoire dedicated to the great horn bands of the last 40 years as well as their own original compositions. The band plays favorite songs from Tower or Power; Chicago; Blood, Sweat & Tears; Earth, Wind & Fire; and Steely Dan.

Uppercut started up about 15 years ago when bassist John Pandolfo and a friend answered an ad for a Chicago tribute band.

“The guy who put the ad in was terrible. So, we started a whole new band,” Pandolfo said.

The band now performs at venues across Long Island, including the Dix Hills Performing Arts Center, Eisenhower Park and Bayshore Townships.

“The musicians in the band are great. We can play any kind of music,” the bassist said.

Pandolfo, who has been playing bass since he was 14, said he chose to play this genre of music because he has always had affection for bands with horns.

“The first time I heard Chicago I was blown away,” he said. Pandolfo is also a music producer who has a recording studio where people come to play their original music.

More than 2,000 residents attended on opening night of the Nesconset Free Concert Series, sponsored by the Nesconset Chamber of Commerce and Legis. John Kennedy Jr., R-Nesconset, on July 3. Be sure to arrive early to avoid traffic and get a front row seat.

Attendees are asked to bring canned food or non-perishable food items to donate to Long Island Cares food bank, who will be on site to collect donations.

The Nesconset gazebo is located next door to the Nesconset branch of the Smithtown Special Library District at 148 Smithtown Boulevard, Nesconset.