If you missed out on Kentwoodpalooza–a festival-style celebration of the arts–make it a point to be there next year. Hundreds of teens from Kent County gathered to play music, show their created films, recite poetry, offer seminars and showcase the Arts. It all took place at Kent District Library’s Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch on June 12 from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m.
I got the opportunity to cover local bands and was so thrilled with the talents I witnessed. The three teenage bands possessed the stage with youth and vibrancy. December Assembly, Phantom Ivory, and Virgo played original songs with their own unique styles. They showcased a wide range of talent. 
Big Dudee Roo followed up with the final act of the evening. They are a local band from Wayland that started their music careers just like the teenage bands that began the evening. Their music is rock and roll with folk and grunge mixed in. Their music comes through as honest and genuine. Members of the band offered seminars earlier in the day in guitar and songwriting.
I really enjoyed the concert. The teenagers gave it their all with unbridled enthusiasm and a great sense of originality. I left wanting to hear and see more of all the bands. Big Dudee Roo could have played longer. They are a popular local band with a nice following. They showed a great desire to entertain and cared about their audience and how they were enjoying the show. I am so glad I didn’t miss it.
Don’t miss WKTV’s video coverage of Kentwoodpalooza on Saturday, June 21 at 12:30 p.m. on channel 25.
