The first show of the Chenango Blues Association’s Free Summer Concert Series is set to kick-off at 7 p.m. tonight on the East Park stage in downtown Norwich, featuring a local favorite once again ... the New Riders of the Purple Sage, back to perform for their fifth time since 2009.

“We’ve played in Norwich many times now, in three different locations,” said guitarist Michael Falzarano, referring to West Park, the Chenango County Fairgrounds and now East Park. “The folks that come out to the show are always very enthusiastic, friendly, and they really make us feel right at home.”

Falzarano said the band first formed in 1969 – more or less as a country rock band – and the group, to this day, maintains those roots, adding how important it is for the band to stay true to its legacy and history. Falzarano explained the band members stretch out more within the arrangements of their songs, thereby in his eyes he considers the band’s musical genre “Jamming Country Rock.”

“The New Riders of the Purple Sage draw a huge crowd,” said Chenango Blues Association President Eric Larsen. “People drive a great distance to come see them, and they’re one of the best national talents that come to our area.”

Larsen – who said he is looking forward to the show himself – explained that as the years go passing by, more and more people come from even greater distances to witness the ensemble’s Norwich performances. Larsen said he knows of folks who have been following the New Riders’ tour, and continue to follow the group here to Chenango to see them play.

Gratitude was also extended to NBT Bank, which sponsors the event, allowing the Summer Concert Series to be free of charge to the public.

“I feel we have a great catalog of songs,” commented Falzarano with regard to what is vital for a successful live performance. “But the most important component is the interaction between the musicians.”