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WILKES-BARRE — What do you get when four musicians walk into a bicycle shop?
A show, of course.
That’s exactly what customers and bicycling enthusiasts got if they ventured into Around Town Bicycles on Saturday. The musicians that played included Justin Mazer and Al Smith of the nationally touring American Babies, Dylan Skursky of Cabinet, and Nick Driscoll of the Indigo Moon Brass Band.
When asked about the event, co-owner Rich Adams, 43, spoke plainly about the gathering.
“It’s party time,” he said.
Adams explained that the event was “spring kickoff party” to celebrate the spring season kicking into full swing. He also said it was a way to express appreciation for the store’s customers. He added that the store tries to have a similar event each year.
“People don’t see each other over the winter time, at least a lot of cyclists don’t,” Adams said. “It’s always very exciting when you get to go to a fun party with people who you know, but haven’t seen in a long time.”
Co-owner Tom Jones, 55, explained that he usually books the bands. He said that the four musicians for this year’s event were a “natural fit” and their schedules allowed them to perform at the event. He said he typically tries to get different styles of music, ranging from bluegrass to jazz.
“I love music,” he said. “I love, love music.”
Attendees filled the bicycle shop shoulder-to-shoulder. Some nodded their heads or bounced their knees to the beat, while others danced in place.
Adam Detweiler, 38, Lisa Detweiler, 31, and Keri Markley, 31, all made the trip from Jim Thorpe to attend the event. The trio explained that they were fans of Cabinet, and they heard about the event on Facebook.
Keri said that it was the most unique venue she had ever seen for a show.
“I think it’s awesome,” she said.
Adam Detweiler agreed.
“When you ride your bike, you listen to music,” he said. “You might as well listen to music where you buy your bike.”
Markley and Lisa Detweiler were also surprised that a variety of free food, ranging from chips and cheeses to pizza, was there for attendees. Lisa also liked how friendly the owners were.
Though it was only shortly after the band had started playing, she gave the event a glowing review.
“It already exceeded my expectations,” Lisa Detweiler said.
