WILMINGTON — Smokin' J's Flood Fest, a concert featuring a cast of Vermont, Massachusetts, and Louisiana musicians, will take place on Friday, Oct. 28, from 6-11 p.m. at Smokin J's Real Memphis Barbeque, 167 Route 100 North.
The surprise musical guest of the evening is Chip Wilson, a staple of the New Orleans music scene. Wilson was devastated by the effects of Tropical Storm Irene on Vermont, and offered to help raise money for those affected by the flooding.
“I lived in Vermont for over 20 years, and returned to New England for a while after [Hurricane] Katrina,” he said. “I played almost 20 fundraisers for the Gulf states, and Vermonters particularly were very generous. I think it's time for payback.”
Wilson, who began his career in Manchester, said he is looking forward to his return to his roots in support of the flood victims. Additionally, he has participated in a number of Vermont flood benefits in New Orleans since August.
The concert proceeds will go to Twice Blessed Thrift Store, of downtown Wilmington. Since 1997, proprietor Mary Jane Finnegan has assisted residents of Wilmington and its eight surrounding towns with food, clothing, payments of rent, mortgages, utilities, medications, medical bills, funeral expenses, and more.
The musical lineup is headlined by the Lonesome Brothers of Northampton, Mass.
Joining the roster is Rocky Roberts & Friends. Roberts, longtime guitar tech for Neil Young, is touring with My Morning Jacket and fit the benefit into his schedule before flying to Europe.
Kim & Sharon, of Guilford, will will kick off the concert at 6 p.m., followed by Tom Woodbury, a recording artist from Brattleboro. Dave Wolinsky, of Wilmington, will perform.
Clayton Sabine, who has played with Woodbury and members of Rocky Roberts & Friends, will be joined by Aaron Chesley, owner of Headroom Stages of Brattleboro.
“I am so lucky that I was able to reopen the restaurant so quickly, said Kelley Tutless, owner of Smokin J's. “I want to help the people who really lost a lot.”
Tutless offered her establishment as the venue for the benefit, and she and her partner, Kent, will provide a buffet that includes “real southern” pulledpork sandwiches, beans, cole slaw, and rolls.
Admission is by donation ($10 suggested).
For more information, contact Tutless, or for advance tickets, call Smokin J's at 802-464-0085.
To make a tax-deductible donation, send a check to: Twice Blessed, P.O. Box 1094, Wilmington, VT 05363.