Billy and the Showmen Bring the Funk to Rye Town Park

Billy and the Showmen started off in the 1960s playing gigs at places like the Rye Youth Center. More than 40 years later, they're returning here tonight for a performance at Rye Town Park.

"We played at country clubs in Rye and Greenwich, and we were the only band back then to perform in tuxedos," mused Billy Frenz, current musical director, guitarist and vocalist of the band.

The Greenwich-based group was formed in 1963. The eight-piece band now includes original members as well as new musicians as young as 30. They include:

• Billy Frenz (Musical Director/guitar/vocals)
• John Caminiti (Drums/vocals)
• Rocky Fidelibus (Bass)
• Brian Curley (Keyboard/vocals)
• John Serio (Tenor Saxophone/vocals)
• Scott Harper (Baritone Saxophone)
• Billy Losier (Trumpet)
• Bobby Carleson (Trombone)

Frenz said his favorite covers are songs from Blood, Sweat and Tears, Tower of Power and the band's Motown repertoire, which includes songs by famed artists like Rick James, Marvin Gaye and Otis Redding. Their full sound comes from a horn section, including trumpet, saxophone and trombone, and is rounded out by keyboard, guitar and drum rhythms.

The band has made a name for itself over the decades. They've performed at small venues like Lyon Park in Port Chester and larger events like Connecticut Governor Dannel Malloy's inaugural ball earlier this year, where Frenz said the group returned to its roots by wearing tuxedos.

A good crowd for Frenz is one where a transformative experience occurs.

"There's a blank face at the beginning of the night, but when you start playing the music, you see who's with you," he explained. "There's clapping and heads nodding. And then their feet start moving and people start dancing."

Tonight's performance, sponsored by Rye Town Park and Friends of Rye Town Park, will be held at the park's South Pavillion from 7:30 - 9 p.m. The event is free, but a $2 parking fee applies.