Great Wide Open – Tom Petty Birthday Party

Great Wide Open brings together five seasoned Buffalo-area musicians whose combined experience spans decades of live performance, recording, and countless local stages. Mark Slimko, on lead vocals and guitar, began playing at age eight and has performed with numerous Western New York bands, while his lifelong passion for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers makes him a natural fit for the band’s sound.

Lead guitarist and backing vocalist Jeff Kocher began his musical journey at seven and has spent decades developing a powerful guitar style influenced by artists such as Randy Rhoads, George Lynch, Paul Gilbert, and of course Mike Campbell. Bassist and backing vocalist Mike Schill is a 45-year veteran of the Buffalo music scene, having performed with a long list of local bands and bringing a deep groove influenced by players including Pino Palladino and John Entwistle.

Keyboardist, harmonica player, and backing vocalist Bruce Decker has nearly 50 years of experience performing throughout the Buffalo area and is a multiple-time Nightlife Buffalo Music Awards winner for Top Keyboardist. Drummer and backing vocalist Bill Solak, who started playing at age eight, is known for his solid, straight-ahead, “in the pocket” style and has performed with a wide variety of Western New York musicians and groups.

Together, these five accomplished musicians combine decades of experience, a genuine love of live music, and a deep appreciation for the timeless sound and spirit of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. In addition to a full night of Tom Petty favorites from Great Wide Open, we’ll be celebrating with a few extra party additions: Petty-themed temporary tattoo station Themed photo booth Tom Petty lookalike contest & winner receives 2 free tickets & a Petty patch!

Come dressed in your best Petty-inspired look and celebrate the music, legacy, and birthday of Tom Petty with us! Doors open 7pm