Little Manatee River Jam makes its 6th annual appearance on the river |

It’s time to cash in on this spectacular “fall” weather here in the Tampa Bay area. This weekend is the 6th Annual Little Manatee River Jam, sponsored by WMNF 88.5 Community Conscious Radio and the Little Manatee River Canoe Outpost.

Music starts Friday, November 20th, at 6:30 until 10. Saturday’s lineup extends from 2 PM until 11. The campground is a magnificent oak-covered area perfect for picnicking and camping. (Call ahead. Camping space may be sold out.) Check the poster for all relevant information. but now let’s talk about…

THE MUSIC!

FRIDAY

7:00 – 8:00 Ari and Nicholas are two members of Ari and the Alibis. This duo will be performing flamenco music and lots more.

8:20 – 9:20 Under the Willow claim to hail from Chicago, but Florida might claim them as natives. This outstanding quintet plays socially conscious bluegrass and folk with flair, originality and grace. And that’s not mentioning two gorgeous voices. Their self-titled album is excellent.

9:40 – 11:00 The Hummingbirds are another Midwest group masquerading as Floridians, and we are more than happy to claim them! Their motto: Southern Charm, Detroit Grit. Their beautiful folk stylings will close Friday night, with band in tow! Their most recent album is 13 Days.

SATURDAY

2:00 – 3:00 Dean Johanesen has been a mainstay in the area for years, even though he claims Long Island as his hometown. We knew him first as a member of x and now as a solo artist. His recent CD is a fine sample of what he does. Rock? Americana? Gypsy swing? He’s got it all.

3:15 – 4:15 Under the Willow will be playing under the oaks! Again!

4:35 – 5:35 Talk To Mark starts with two violins. Got your attention, huh? This sextet will surprise you with their range and style. Great vocals, guitars. You’ll see!

5:55 – 6:55 Ari and the Alibis = jazz + blues + soul. Just be prepared, because they plan to bowl you over with their amazing Sarasota sound! Their live album The Show was recorded last year.

7:15 – 8:40 The Damon Fowler Group has headlined numerous blues festivals and played shows for dedicated fans and newbies alike. Fowler is a monster on guitar and lap steel, and his sweet soulful voice delivers the blues directly to you. His newest album is Sounds of Home. He is the king of the LMRJ.

9:00 – 10:00 Have Gun, Will Travel have been delighting audiences with their indie/folk take on Americana and rock. Science from an Easy Chair is their excellent new album.

10:20 – 11:20 Dropin Pickup can only be described as eclectic. Most other definitions just miss the mark. They are a magical amalgam of jam, swing, rock, jazz and… more stuff. Their performances at a number of recent St. Pete collectives have been knock-outs. They’ve earned this festival-closing slot.