Just when you think you've heard everything, you discover NEW ODYSSEY!  Playing everywhere to the delight and surprise of their audiences, these three gentlemen perform literally on more than 30 MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS, a feat of cheerful abandon and confidence that is astonishing by any standard!  Dynamic arrangements from Beethoven to the present mixed with some of the most original treatments of comedy, musical novelty, vocal acrobatics, special effects and lighting will create an event you will never forget.

This virtuosic super group gets its roots from the prolific "show band" era of the early 1980's when it was common for top acts to perform elaborate shows consisting of diverse musical styles, dance music, comedic routines, and slots.  Together since 1978, and originally a top Midwestern nightclub act NEW ODYSSEY made the successful transition to larger venues.  They currently perform for businesses, corporations, state and county fairs, conventions, receptions, city festivals, schools, charitable functions, concerts, etc., throughout the United States.

One of the most distinguishing features of NEW ODYSSEY is their extraordinary proficiency on literally dozens of musical instruments!  These include not only traditional instruments; trumpets, piccolo trumpet, flugelhorn, valve trombone, marching trombone, bass trumpet, flutes, Sousaphone, saxophone, harmonica, roto drums, acoustic guitar, five string banjo, tenor banjo, bass guitar, electric guitars, accordion, melodica and the like, but also state of the art digital multi-midi keyboard, sequencer, and percussion set-ups.

Band members include drummer, and comic GARY TODD, keyboardist and arranger GARY POLKOW, and string expert and lead vocalist MICHAEL JAY.  Each member brings his own blend of humor and musicality to the stage.

Join the City of Portage for their Summer Entertainment Series at Overlander Bandshell. The Thursday evening concert series will feature various genres of music that will be fun for all ages. Concessions will be available for purchase.  Concerts begin at 7:00 p.m. and are free, except Damien Escobar ($15 general admission).  Parking for all shows will be available at City Hall, Portage District Library, and Portage Senior Center.  Portage Summer Entertainment Series is brought to you by the Portage Parks and Recreation Department and is sponsored by the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo and the Irving S. Gilmore Foundation.  Celebration Cinema is also a sponsor for the Glenn Miller Orchestra.  For more information on the Portage Summer Entertainment Series, visit www.portagemi.gov.