Kelly Parker Band to perform for HHS Project Grad

By Joseph Cyr
Staff Writer
    HOULTON — Fresh off a successful performance at the “Xtreme Muzik Tour” in Caribou Aug. 20, the Kelly Parker Band will make a return appearance in Aroostook County, playing a benefit concert for the Houlton Project Graduation Class of 2012.
    The concert is slated for Saturday, Sept. 10 at 6 p.m. at the Millar Civic Center.
    A native of Caribou, Parker has fronted various New England acts as “Black Pearl,” “The Cross Country Band (featuring David Malachowski former band leader and lead guitarist of Shania Twain)” and now the Kelly Parker Band, based out of southern Maine.
    According to the biography on her website (www.kellyparkerusa.com), Parker is “An energetic and fresh face who is edgy and atop of her game.”
    “Combining personal heartfelt songs with a contagious stage show that is high energy, Parker is making herself known throughout New England and beyond, evoking modern yet classic country with a pinch of Red Dirt, creating a sound that is uniquely Kelly Parker,” the site states.
    Parker has shared the stage with a number of big name acts in the industry including Josh Tuner, Keith Urban, Brad Paisley, Jo Dee Messina, Bridgette Tatum, Keith Anderson, Jeff Bates, Doug Stone, Joey and Rory, Darryl Worley, Steve Holy, Blackhawk, Sammy Kershaw, the Williams Riley Band and most recently Clint Black and Ayla Brown.
    In August, she also performed at the 64th annual Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland opening for Uncle Kracker.
    Tickets for the show are $10 in advance or $15 at the door and are available from the Bank of Maine branches in Houlton, Mars Hill and Presque Isle; Houlton Power Sports; York’s Book Store and Parker’s website.