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Four Man Trio to perform at Rock 'n' Roll Revival

This is the first time the New England Doo Wop Society has hosted an event such as this. Reminder Publications submitted photo
By Lori Szepelak

Correspondent



CHICOPEE A "battle" of musical groups from New York and New Jersey will set the stage for the New England Doo Wop Society's spring rock 'n' roll revival later this month.

Robert Belniak of Agawam said what sets this show apart from others in the past is the "Battle of the Groups," pitting New York and New Jersey musical groups against each other. Belniak serves as president of the New England Doo Wop Society.

"This is the first time we've ever done this," he said during an interview with Reminder Publications.

The 1950s and 1960s show is planned on March 15 at the Castle of Knights on Memorial Drive. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for the buffet, with the show starting promptly at 8. Menu items include pasta salad, Caesar salad, roasted potatoes, carrots with maple glaze, pork loin with stuffing and gravy, bread pudding, ice cream and assorted cakes and beverage.

"This show will appeal to everybody who attends because there is nobody else in the area putting on oldies concerts like the Society," added Belniak.

Belniak noted that attendees who sign up or renew their membership in the New England Doo Wop Society will also have a chance to win a free membership for two or two free tickets to the June 6 show featuring Kenny Vance & the Planotones.

The featured group on March 15 will be Vito and the Salutations from Brooklyn, N.Y., along with Shades of Soul from Westchester, N.Y., and the Four Man Trio from northern New Jersey.

"We signed Vito and the Salutations up last year because they had just reformed and have two original members, Shelly Buchansky and lead singer Vito Balsamo," said Belniak, noting the group is known for their hits including "Unchained Melody" and "Gloria."

"Balsamo was 15 when he recorded 'Unchained Melody,'" added Belniak.

Shades of Soul are "a cappella kings" according to Belniak, and are best known for the songs "Amen" and "When We Get Married."

"Four Man Trio do great cover versions of the 50's and 60's tunes and have a truly harmonic sound," added Belniak.

A new twist on the revival show will include a surprise local singer making his debut that evening, according to Belniak. In addition, the popular 50/50 Raffle is also planned.

Tickets for the show only are $25 per person and $23 for Society members and can be purchased at the door. The cost for the show and buffet is $37. Reserved seating is available by calling Belniak at 786-1929 or Gary Jones at 478-0901.

For more information on the New England Doo Wop Society, go online and visit www.newenglanddoowopsociety.org.