Surfing Star Musician Donavon Frankenreiter To Deliver Encore Performance At Fort East Martello

Back by popular demand, acoustic-smooth, feel-good musician and surfing star Donavon Frankenreiter and his band will hang ten into the southernmost city on Sunday, March 13, for an outdoor evening concert event at historic Fort East Martello, 3501 S. Roosevelt Blvd, kicking off with local favorites Miguel Perez and Jeff Clark.

Frankenreiter’s previous Key West concert was rained on but not rained out with tropical storm Erika, and devoted fans arrived in slickers and rain-boots to enjoy his concert, which are known for his intimate, folky, and relaxed coastal vibe that at times ramps up for upbeat dancing in front of the stage.  His current tour launched the same day his new album, “The Heart”- an intimate, 11-song contemplation of love and life— was released. The charismatic performer will offer nearly ten years of solo hit recordings in addition to highlighting his recent release, which is underscored with a musical simplicity and a broad emotional perspective.

“While we really experimented with lots of different styles and instruments in our last album, in this one, we kept it simple and got back to the basics,” he said.

Hosted by Key West Art & Historical Society and Key West Concerts, the show is part of The Society’s “Music at Martello Series”, a program established to promote the arts and bring live music to the Keys and foster the Fort as a community venue.  Concertgoers may bring low-profile chairs or blankets for the “backyard casual” setup that will include Shipyard Brewing, wine, soft drinks and Irie Island Eats.

“If you missed him last year, now’s your chance to hear why his fans will follow him, literally, to the end of the road,” says Key West Concerts co-producer Evan Haskell.

“His music has such wide appeal. You’ll be hard pressed to find anyone that doesn’t like his vibe,” he continues, comparing him to rockers Jack Johnson and G. Love, both whom Frankenreiter has shared the stage with in the past.

How exactly does he maintain his ability to keep cultivating that essence that makes him so popular among his fans?

“Doing what I love,” he says.  “It’s not really that hard.”

The concert is sponsored in part by We Cycle, WonderDog Productions, Eden House, Nine-One-Five, Isle Style, and Rum Row.  Portions of the evening’s proceeds will help fund KWAHS initiatives.

Discounted tickets can be purchased in advance for $30 at www.KeyWestConcerts.com or at the door for $35; children under 12 admitted free. Doors open at 4:45. Local favorites Miguel Perez and Jeff Clark will kick off the jams at 5:45 with Frankenreiter taking the stage at 7p.m. Food, beer, and wine from some of Key West’s best vendors will be available. BYO chairs and blankets are encouraged for the “backyard casual” setup that will include some hay bale seating.

Key West Art & Historical Society members can call 305.295.6616 x 106 for special member-priced tickets and to join KWAHS to receive member benefits.  Parking will be available for $5, bike parking is free. For more information, contact Adele Williams at 305.295.6616 x 106.  Your Museums.  Your Community.  It Takes an Island. 

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