Feature Porch Performers

Blue Diggity:   Since 2021, Blue Diggity has hit the bluegrass music community with an enthusiasm and dedication that has given them a reputation as one of the hottest bands on the scene. This four piece band composed of Isaiah Childers on guitar, Bailey Stephenson on banjo, Lilli Gadd on bass, and Jimmy Hall on mandolin demonstrates proficiency instrumentally, vocally, and as entertainers. Blue Diggity performs a variety of bluegrass covers, classic country, original material, and thrilling instrumentals. Their distinct sound is a result of their affinity for the traditions and roots of bluegrass music as well as their appreciation for more contemporary influences. Blue Diggity has a high-energy approach to the stage that will draw any audience member into the show.

Fat Tuesday: Bio Coming Soon

R2D2: Roger Semer: Singer, songwriter, and guitarist. Roger began singing at the age of four when his mother would teach him and his brother, Rob, vocal harmonies. Roger continued singing throughout his early years playing in his band though high school. He has been featured on “Breakfast with The Beatles” in Denver, CO. His friend and radio host, Archer Dusablon, hosted a program on 99.5 The Mountain on which he recorded several Beatles songs that were broadcast regularly on that station. He continues to sing in the Semer Brothers Band which has become a favorite act around the Willard area. He is a multi-instrumentalist with over fifty years experience as a professional musician.
 
Robin Holthouse: Singer. Robin has been singing in church since she was a young child. Music has always been a big part of her life. She, along with her husband Ken, has spent most of her life raising their five children, and now she’s enjoying 13 grandchildren. Robin decided she would like to venture out and sing in some public venues. She began singing with Roger Semer as “Roger n Robin” in 2014. She has also performed with the Semer Brothers Band, SHaK, and R2D2
 
Dean Kastran: Singer, songwriter, and bassist. He is a cofounder and gold record recipient for his work with the 1960’s band The Ohio Express. He has shared the stage with bands such as The Who, The Beach Boys, Herman's Hermits and many other classic rock bands of that era, and has appeared on Dick Clark’s American Bandstand as well as New York's famed Carnegie Hall. He is also a former member of many locally popular bands such as Flite, Back In The Saddle, Just Passin’ Thru, The Caffiends, and EKG.
 
Dennis Eggerton - Singer, songwriter, guitarist, and mandolinist.  He is the former lead guitarist and vocalist for the rock band Justus and the contemporary Christian rock bands Back in the Saddle and Just Passin’ Thru, and the Caffiends.  He has been an opening act at the Bluebird Café in Nashville, Tennessee. Currently, he performs in the duet EKG with his band mate Dean Kastran, in the quartet R2D2, and the country band Van Waylon. He is a multi‑instrumentalist with over forty years experience as a professional musician

The Third Degree: Based in Central Ohio, this band features a talented female vocalist who brings the classics from the 60s, 70s, and 80s to life. Their lively performances are filled with energy and nostalgia, captivating audiences of all ages. With a mix of well-loved hits and hidden gems, they create an unforgettable experience that has everyone singing along and dancing.

HALL & EYER: Hall & Eyer are a musical Duo from the Mount Vernon, OH area.  They have come together to form a multi-talented duo playing classic rock favorites, with country, pop, and R&B too.  Electric & acoustic guitar, keys, blues harp, harmonic vocals, and a back-beat that will make you want to move your feet are the signature of this fun & entertaining duo.

SIX MILES TO NELLIE: Bringing the sound of generations of storytelling through music, Six Miles to Nellie features lead vocalist Courtney DeCosky; songwriter/guitarist Jeffrey Williams; bassist Michael Wolfe; drummer and vocalist Les Harmeyer; singer/songwriter John Schnabel; Robert Shipley on keyboards; and Terry Martin on steel guitar. Each band member brings with them not only a passion for music but an aim to breathe new life into traditional Americana; while keeping its authenticity alive.

YOHNDER & SUTCH: Sutch Harrison was a nomad, roaming the landscape in search of accomplishment and mellifluence when, by chance, John-Paul Yohnder answered the call to righteous james and melodies, and thusly, a duo was formed - solidified by b-side covers, warm vocal harmonies, and the love of music. That is all to say, they're both from Knox County and have been friends since high school.

The Chalants: Based in Mount Vernon, this four-piece band brings vibrant energy and a sense of humor to every performance. Featuring Leah, Chris, Steve (aka Point Five), and Matty Pancakes, their sound draws from classic rock, 60s psychedelia, and an eclectic mix of musical influences. They hone their craft in Chris and Leah’s basement, where their French bulldog, Peter, adds his own charm—chewing toys and lounging at Matty Pancakes’ feet. Whether on a porch or a stage, their music creates a welcoming, joyful atmosphere that’s sure to delight.

Alan Duffy: Based in Central Ohio, After the Gold Rush is a talented group of musicians dedicated to celebrating the timeless music of Neil Young. Alan Duffy's voice channels Young’s distinctive sound, the band delivers mesmerizing performances that transport audiences back through decades of iconic music. With a repertoire that encompasses Neil Young's greatest hits, After the Gold Rush captures the true spirit of his artistry. Their shows invite fans to sit back, relax, and relive the magic of Young's legendary songs. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to his music, an evening with After the Gold Rush promises a heartfelt tribute to one of rock’s most influential figures. Join them for a journey through the rich soundscapes that define Neil Young's legacy. Solo or Duo shows also available.

Echo: ECHO is a trio consisting of Chris Petee, Jeff Putnam and Heather Petee. All three are veterans of the music scene in Knox County and each has well over 25 years of experience performing in various groups and solo. The group blends their voices in three-part harmonies and solo voices, all three can sing lead and harmony; they play mainly folk and soft rock selections from the 1960’s, ‘70’s and ‘80’s with a full set consisting of the music of Peter, Paul and Mary. Heather Petee – performed in multiple bands for over 40 years, including: Elixir (performing American Music of the 1800’s with a twist for over 15 years here in the Knox County area), Owl Creek (with Sarah Goslee Reed) – playing all original material mainly written by Heather and Sarah, as well as organized the Chautauqua series in Knox County and at the Foodstock Concerts for over 10 years (at the Memorial Theater benefiting Food for the Hungry). Heather plays a variety of instruments. Jeff Putnam – Jeff has also performed for many years in the Knox County area in various musical combinations including tributes to the Beatles, Bob Dylan, the Eagles and Peter, Paul and Mary as part of the Foodstock Series. He has portrayed Buddy Holly, Woody Guthrie and Hank Williams Sr. as part of the Chautauqua Series. Jeff plays lead and rhythm guitar, sings and arranges music. He has also performed on stage in theater production in Knox County. Chris Petee – has been performing on stage for many years including Chautauqua Characters, organizing the Chautauqua and Foodstock Series, and portrayed Rosemary Clooney. She performs solo singing the music of Clooney and music of the 1940’s and 1950’s, with emphasis on the Big Band Era. She was a member of Elixir for over 15 years, singing, playing guitar, guitjo and multiple percussion instruments.

Songwriter Porch Performers

VERNON SCHUBEL: Singer-songwriter Vernon Schubel has been playing live music ever since forming his first band a few weeks after seeing the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan show. In the 70s and 80s he played both as a solo artıst and in numerous bands in Oklahoma, Virginia and Michigan where he opened for musicians as diverse as Bob Seger, Ravi Shankar and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band.  In 1989,  he moved to Knox County in Ohio, where he has performed both as a soloist and in bands, including TJ Lewis and the Bluestones. Schubel, who also performs as These Things Too, a rotating musical collective which includes his son Mehmet Ali, who plays drums and guitar, and other local artists, plays a diverse variety of music designed to appeal to multiple generations.  Accompanying himself on claw hammer and finger-style guitar, his live sets include “Boomer” classics by artists like Neil Young, John Lennon, Leonard Cohen, Pink Floyd and, especially, Bob Dylan; modern and contemporary “Indie” music including songs by Big Thief, Lucy Dacus, AJJ, the Mountain Goats and Neutral Milk Hotel; and his own original material rooted in classic 60s folk and rock.  For the last few years Vernon Schubel/These Things Too has played regularly at the Happy Street Brü Werks in Mount Vernon, Ohio, as well as other venues in the region where he has developed a  solid local following.

Evan Abood: A stylistically unique Alternative Indie Rock artist from day one, Evan Abood has been singing, performing, and playing music as long as he can remember. Throughout the course of his musical career, he has won over music lovers from many different genres and all walks of life. His music is fresh and dynamic with hints of soul , grunge and 70's rock. An artist at heart, Evan states that, "songwriting and performing music is my passion and my way of expression. It's how I sort through the world around me."

Kacy Sommers and Savanna Shai: Kacy Sommers and Savanna Shai are a folk duo whose music blends storytelling with rich harmonies and a unique, electric but velvet sound. Both Kacy and Savanna write introspective and honest songs rooted in connection and the human experience. With intricate guitar picking and intimate harmonies, they bring depth and emotion to every song. Inspired by artists like Gillian Welch, Damien Jurado, Joni Mitchell and Townes Van Zandt, their music reflects the creative energy of the places they’ve lived- Denver, Asheville, Seattle, and now Gambier, Ohio. Together, they create an intimate listening experience rooted in connection, simplicity, and shared emotion.

Community Porch Performers

RamJet: www.steveramjetramsey.com

Souljourners: SoulJourners is a husband and wife duo of Jim Harder on banjo and Sally Berger on guitar, who play a mix of Americana, bluegrass, and gospel music.  They have been singing together for over 35 years in choirs and with friends.  As they neared retirement they began taking banjo and guitar lessons and have honed their skills playing in jams with friends. They are members of the national WoodSongs Front Porch Association and host the local chapter of SongFarmers of Mount Vernon, Ohio.

ENGLISHMAN JOHN: John Locke, AKA Englishman John, was bestowed the nick name when he ran an Open Mic Night in Ashville Ohio for many years. As a solo performer he likes to include a little comedy and plenty of audience participation. His music tastes range from folk music, country and western, rock and roll and anything in between. For many years he sang with the Sea Shanty Crew, The Hardtackers, touring the US and Canada at Tall Ship Festivals and other venues. He is also an amateur wildlife photographer and golfer, the least said about the latter the better.

Chris Cline: Chris Cline is a life long Knox County resident who is passionate about great music that tells a story. As a child he remembers his dad playing in local county, rock, and bluegrass bands. So, it’s no surprise that these styles of music make up what he loves to listen to and play. As someone who took up playing and singing much later in life, Chris loves to share and perform songs that have impacted his him through the years. Come along for the ride as he plays an acoustic mix of classics we all know, a few deep tracks, some newer tunes, and several originals.

Kelly Lauth: Kelly Yerxa Lauth has been performing on stage for over 30 years, both acting and singing, with degrees in theater and music. Kelly has led on vocals but also regularly played keyboard, drums, and bass guitar in her band, The Manifolds. While living and playing in Pittsburgh, the band developed the pattern of regularly switching roles and instruments on stage and on their albums, each taking turn as songwriter and musician, and collaborating on over 20 original recording projects that each form part of the kaleidoscopic whole. Kelly has performed on stage in musicals (with roles like “Belle” in Beauty and the Beast, “Morticia” in The Addams Family, and “Nancy” in Oliver! for MTVarts productions), in classic and modern plays, and in various musical acts. After over 20 years, she continues to collaborate with her husband and bandmate, Kevin. Kelly’s main role now is enjoying raising 3 beautiful daughters: Maura, Rona, and Zaeva.