Shanda and the Howlers - the Sand Dollar, Friday July 24, 2026

 I’ve been a huge fan of the Howlers since their inception and have ranted’n’faved about them countless times here on my blog. Their distinctive brand of R’n’B/Soul with a dash of blues is always a treat and it’s been far too long since they’ve played in town so we took a little nap and headed down to the original Sand Dollar to participate in their 50th anniversary celebration!

Shanda is, of course, the powerhouse vocalist front’n’center who is hacked by one of the best rhythm sections in town with Turbo on the tubs, who can move from quietly swinging to wildly pounding, and Luke (who also writes a lot of their material) grooving on the bass along with extraordinary guitarist Trevor, who can also change from bluesy’n’moody to loud’n’garagey. Truly, person for person, some of the most talented in town.

Of course, there’s only so far talent will take you without songs but thankfully they have some of the best tunes in town, as well. They can be jumpin’n’jivin’ one minute, sizzling soulful the next, bluesy after that and even toss in some 60’s garage for good measure!

This evening they gave us two terrific sets and had the crowd dancing with them all night long! 

Sorry to say that we got there late and left after the Howlers since it had been a tough week so we missed the other acts but thank you to the Sand Dollar for another fun night with great music, drinks and pizza!