The Loose Change Band Rocks Narragansett

Looking for a new place for live music since the Wheel House closed?

Narragansett is full of live entertainment venues. A local favorite among residents and University of Rhode Island students for years has been . It’s located on the beach, and it offers live music and refreshing drinks every Friday night. 

On Friday, Bon Vue hosted the Loose Change Band. The band name is common, for it seems that every city in the country has a band named the loose change band. These guys are the jam rock band from Smithfield. They were the only band to play the Bon Vue that night, and performed a few sets. 

Formed roughly 31 years ago, the Loose Change Band has never cancelled a gig. Fronted by Mark Banspach, the band has a colorful history.

They have played with many local favorites, such as Max Creek, and even influential rock legends like The Byrds. If the venue is large enough, they bring two drummers to the event, but only one was at the Bon Vue Inn this evening.

Their influences include The Who, The Rolling Stones and especially The Grateful Dead. Sometimes when they perform live, they put on a Grateful Dead Tribute show.

Luckily though, the patrons of Bon Vue were enlightened with a clever mixture of original songs and covers, including an outstanding version of Pink Floyd’s “Time” sung by bassist Bob Decorte. Vocals are usually shared between Banspach and guitarist Fred Wilkes. 

Scattered around the large bar were tip jars for the band, for anyone wishing to donate loose change. The name of the band comes from a similar idea.

Drummer Dave Battey remembers how the name came to them fondly. As he recalls, the fellas wanted to go to the liquor store one evening, but all they had was loose change – which they also considered a good name for the band.

The Loose Change Band has one album, Saturday’s Child, which was released in 1996. Banspach informed me that the band actually has about 50 original songs, and will be going into the studio in the future to record a new album.

The crowd at the Bon Vue was a collection of diehard fans, and folks looking for good music and relaxation. Among the crowd was poet and songwriter Paul J. Lizotte. He wrote a few songs years ago with Banspach, including the fan favorite “Cross of the Heart.”

The Loose Change Band puts on a fabulous performance that lasted roughly two hours. The performance was energetic, and fun to dance to, too. 

They have many gigs coming up, and their next one is at the Stick Tavern on April 29 in Glocester. They have two future dates at the Bon Vue, on May 28 and July 1. 

If you’re a fan of the Grateful Dead, or even Joe Jackson, come down to check out the Loose Change Band. Remember to leave them some loose change at the bar. 

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