By The Time We Got To Long Grove

Photo by Pam.

When Pam and I made a last-minute decision to check out the Long Grove Apple Festival yesterday, I wasn’t really thinking about seeing live bands. Long Grove, a small suburb northwest of Chicago, is mostly known for its assortment of small shops selling gifts and crafts. Back in the 1970s, the focus was more on antiques. Long Grove merits the occasional visit because because some of the shops offer unique and fun items, and there are a few cool cafes. Overall though, it’s pretty sedate.

The ambience perks up during the Strawberry Festival and the Apple Festival, held in the summer and fall, respectively. Parking becomes virtually impossible, people crowd the streets and food vendors sell various snacks and refreshments. There were about four stages scattered around the area yesterday, and due to the chilly weather, the musicians were bundled up in heavier clothes.

The Dime Store String Band was playing the last song from its set of bluegrass tunes when we arrived. They had good harmonies, and the picking was impressive. Wish we could have seen more of them. Wind Gypsys were cranking out an authentic version of the Jimi Hendrix classic, “Voodoo Child,” which made for an interesting contrast to the area’s small town allure. They also covered The Rolling Stones and Wilson Pickett.

7th Heaven, a local copy band that’s been getting a lot of press lately, served as the Apple Festival’s headline act. They offered a compelling acoustic take on U2’s “Beautiful Day,” as well as a cover of “Only The Lonely,” the 1980s hit by The Motels. All five band members sang on a stirring rendition of Pink Floyd’s “Another Brick In The Wall,” as the crowd sang along and danced. Hey man, Long Grove rocks.

Personal Note: When Pam and I got married 14 years ago on October 5th, we went over to Long Grove with our wedding photographer to have some pictures taken at the town’s gazebo. Yesterday, we felt a rush of happiness as we went back to that same gazebo, kissed, and snapped some photos. Happy Anniversary, Pam!