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End of an Era: Mystic Shake says farewell

By Bonnie Bucqueroux on November 21, 2010


Dick Johnson, Dick Rosemont, Ben Hassenger & Pat Molloy

Sunday, December 5 will be the last time you can “shake your cans” with Mystic Shake. The ever-popular local band will host its farewell concert from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Sir Pizza Grand Cafe on the corner of North Grand River and Turner Street in Old Town. (Download their poster here.)

Drummer Dick (Flat, Black & Circular) Rosemont and his artist wife Jane are relocating to Santa Fe. Current bandmates Ben Hassenger, Pat Molloy and Dick Johnson decided that it was better to go out on a high note than look for a replacement for Rosemont, a founding member of the eclectic aggregation.

The group started out as “Rockin’ Rhythm and Reggae,” but soon expanded its repertoire to include rock, folk, blues, jazz and world music. Over the years, area musicians including Glenn Brown, Phil Throop, Bruce Landrick, Steve Miller (no, not the “Space Cowboy” Steve Miller or the punk rockers, but the saxophonist), Tim Alteri, Stan Werbin, Greg Bloy, Mike Lynch and Mike Skory were members of Mystic Shake. Brian Hefferan and Karl Pestka have also guested on albums. (Is there anyone around town who has not played with the band?)

The end of an exuberant era (and a good reason to lure Dick and Jane back for a reunion concert someday).

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Bonnie Bucqueroux retired from Michigan State University's School of Journalism to devote herself to pushing the boundaries of online storytelling. A National Magazine Award winner, Bucqueroux built her first website in 1996. She is credited with having the first campaign blog of any candidate running for federal office when she ran for Congress as the Green Party candidate for District 8 in 2000.

4 responses to “End of an Era: Mystic Shake says farewell”

  1. Ben Hassenger
    November 22, 2010 at 9:22 am |

    Thanks Bonnie. We’re really looking forward to having a fun time on December 5 and saying goodbye to Dick in style!

  2. Candice Wilmore
    Candice Wilmore
    November 23, 2010 at 10:13 am |

    If you want some simple joy, locals, make it over for this.

  3. Ben Hassenger
    November 24, 2010 at 11:32 am |

    We are looking forward to sharing this special day with all of our friends and fans - it’s going to be a blast!

  4. Isabella Rowan
    November 30, 2010 at 7:50 am |

    OMG! I’m crying ‘cuz you’re breaking up and laughing at the memories of your wonderful concerts at the Cap on Lake Lansing Road. You guys serenaded me through three years of college as I did my homework at the Cap. I fell in love with you guys and your quirky, fun, uplifting music. You played my graduation party, remember?! I wrote about you for City Pulse, too. I live in Detroit now, but I’m going to try to make it back for your Farewell Party. This is an event not to be missed. Mystic Shake will forever rock on in my heart.

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