by Neil Miller ,The New York Extra/TheNYExtra.com
When I first heard that KJ Farrell’s was closing this week, via rumor and it’s FB page, I was deeply saddened as others, by the impending loss to the Long Island Music Community. The Long Island Live music scene is likely the best and most vibrant of any in the country, and drives ,up to Covid, a thriving business of clubs.
Kjs opened 15 yrs ago and it gave the start to the up and coming bands that now are Long Islands favorite. Acts like Streetfighter, The Legendary Murphy’s, The Allmost Brothers Band, Petty Rumors all played there. And of course, there was Wonderous Wednesdays. Kevin Sheehan , in his parting quote to The New York Extra ,thanked all his staff , patrons, and musicians that made the experience what it was.
KJS was always home base for its dedicated fans, and its the music lovers that made Farrell’s what it was. Many friendships and romances had their start on the dance floor there. Every Wednesday night was Wonderous Weds, where Kenny Forgione and his band played. Never a cover band that would play a set playlist, you never knew what you were going to get. It could Yes, The Allman’s ,The Beatles and everything in between and played well. Good friend Maddi Stone expressed her grief on face with this quote, ” Im heartbroken that the best club is closing and that the Usual suspects( a coin termed by kjs customers for themselves) will have no where to go. Maddi also met her soulmate Richie Naso there too.
It was packed this last Wednesday as friends gathered for the last of these nights. Many expected tears, but the joy of music and companionship soon pushed these emotions to the side. There will be music until this Saturday ,but wonderous Wednesday will be no more. Enjoy some stills and a video from this last Wonderous Wednesday!
