Lights! Music!

The prickle-filled gardens open December nights for a celebration of lights, music, and open bars. The event felt a little more low-key this year: fewer acts, fewer lights, no dinner buffet. But smaller crowds, comfortable temperature, and good music made for a relaxing evening. It was one of my favorites.

We were greeted by the familiar Chihuly cacti as we entered the garden.

The King’s Carolers did their traditional bit as we headed along the path to the entrance. Oddly, the tenor part appears to have been sung by Jacob Marley’s ghost.

Different lighted art is featured every year. This time, it was LIGHT BLOOM by HYBYCOZO.

Mariachi Pasion greet visitors in the entrance plaza. Listen to some of their lively music.

Meet the AJ Odneal Trio. I guess I’d call their music jazz folk. Very tasteful. I liked how the sax would sometimes double the vocal line, almost like two people singing.

How to describe Kilted Spirit? They call themselves an Irish Rock Band. I’d say, brave. Who else would perform Free Bird with these instruments? (Not shown, bass and lead guitars.) Sample their sound.

Students from the Michael Patrick Gallagher School of Irish Dance. Very fun. Also a Matt Gaetz fantasy.

Irish dance strikes me as the ideal activity for someone who has had their spine fused.

HarpSynergy – Dr. Heidi and some of her students.

Vinyl Station – talented, tight, creative. Also a funny, cynical vibe from the frontman. I liked all of the acts, but these guys were my favorite. Take a listen.

If Vinyl Station hadn’t shown up, the Sahnas Brothers would have been my fave. Their Greco-Mexican background yielded a virtuosic performance. Spectacular Spanish guitar music. Check it out.

Reluctantly but hungrily we headed for the exit and a late dinner at Barrio Queen.