Rainy weather has put a damper on this year’s Bridgeport Arts Council Concert in the Park series, but this Thursday’s show is expected to shine. 

Taking the stage for the 7 p.m. July 2 show at Bridgeport City Park is the Davisson Brothers Band. Comprised of Donnie Davisson (lead vocals and rhythm guitar), his brother Chris Davisson (rhythm and lead guitar), their cousin Sammy Davisson (bass guitar and vocals) and lifelong best friend Aaron Regester (drums), the band delivers a blend of southern rock, bluegrass and country which they pair with storytelling lyrics. The end result is always well-received by audiences.  

“I’m pretty sure tomorrow night will be fabulous,” said Mary Kay Greer of Bridgeport Arts Council. “I think the Davissons have an appeal because they’re just good old boys who have struggled and worked their way to get to where they are today. They’re living the American Dream and they’re from West Virginia.” 

During the past year, the Davisson Brothers Band has been pursuing a nationwide radio tour, marketing their “Jesse James” album in 60 major cities across the country. The project’s title track was released on iTunes this past November. The album was recorded in Nashville and co-produced by multiple CMA, ACM and Grammy award-winning producer Keith Stegall. 

Among signature DBB tunes are “Foot Stompin’” and “Big City Hillbilly,” both which have seen plenty of radio time. 

Throughout the remainder of this summer, the band will be performing at venues located in Maryland, Myrtle Beach, Baltimore and, of course, Schmitt’s Saloon in Morgantown. The band is also slated to perform at Jamboree in the Hills in Belmont, Ohio. 

Thursday’s show at Bridgeport City Park starts at 7 p.m. In addition to the free music, attendees can enjoy additional attractions. 

“Pat O’Mara from Brickside (Bar & Grille) will be doing food and we’ll also have inflatables set up in the back part of the park,” Greer said. “We like to offer things for kids so more families will come out and enjoy the activities.” 

The music in the park series was scheduled to kick off Thursday, June 18 with the music of Greg Harrison and John Bonnett, but that show was postponed due to inclement weather. On Thursday, June 25, the series got under way with the music of the Masons. That show was not well attended, but those who came out enjoyed the show, Greer said. 

Tom Randolph of BAC encourages attendees to bring lawn chairs, blankets and a festive attitude to Thursday night's performance. 

“It will be a really good show. The Davisson Brothers are real popular right now and I think people are ready to celebrate the fourth of July,” he said. 

The event should serve to jumpstart the season which did get off to a rough start, Randolph said. The series continues as follows: 

July 16: Dennis McClung Blues Band

July 23: Salsamba (Jazz Night)

July 30: South Mountain Soul

Aug. 6: Wyatt Turner

Aug. 13: The Grey Agents

All shows will start at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 9 has been left open as that is Benedum Festival week and the Benedum Fellows Banquet will be held that night at Bridgeport Conference Center.

Editor's Note: Above photos were taken by Ben Queen Photography during the Davisson Brothers Band's July 3, 2014 performance at Bridgeport City Park.