For one night only the Wailers transformed Rockville, MD in to Kingston, Jamaica

The Wailers, Rockville, MD 5/22/09

Not many musicians could take the stage in a suburban parking lot, sandwiched between a metro station, movie theater, and moonbounce, and create a Caribbean beach party vibe.  But the Wailers did just that Sunday evening at the Rockville Hometown Holidays celebration.

Some audience members prepared as if they were taking a trip to the beach with blankets and coolers, folding chairs and beach balls, but most of the audience came to dance late in to the night.   The family affair, with a stage sponsored by a beer company, was free and open to the public. 

With a discography that spans decades, the band played well in to the evening.   Audience members were treated to hits including "Exodus", "Jamming", "One Love, "Get Up, Stand Up", "Heathen" and "Three Little Birds." They proved that music can bring a diverse audience "Together As One," the 12th song of their set.

Energetic front-man Elan Atias fits right in with the band known primarily for backing Bob Marley.  It is hard to believe that Atias is a California native, his vocals and dancing would lead one to believe that he hails from a small Caribbean island.

Before the Wailers took the stage, a small group of kids educated the audience about hunger and asked for donations to the I WENT HUNGRY foundation. During the show Elian Atias reminded the audience that it only takes 25 cents to feed a child and again asked that everyone donate.