Better late than never: Buffalo's Thursday on the Square finally released its schedule today. The free summer concert series draws thousands of fans, including many from Erie who appreciate high-quality bands playing outside for free. That said, this year's lineup looks especially strong.

The series kicks off with Umphrey's McGee on May 31, followed by Son Volt on June 7 and Augustana on June 14.
Also on the bill: Violent Femmes (June 21); Joan Osborne (June 28); Sam Roberts Band (July 5); moe (July 12); Nickel Creek (July 19); Old 97s (July 26); John Butler Trio (Aug. 2); Keller Williams (Aug. 9); reunited Soul Asylum (Aug. 16); North Mississippi All Stars (Aug. 23); Dirty Dozen Brass Band (Aug. 30); Romantics (Sept. 6); Anders Osborne (Sept. 13); and Dropkick Murphys (Sept. 20).

Congratulations to Ron "Preach" Williams, who just got the thumbs-up call from Rusted Root. He'll join the Pittsburgh band as a percussionist for its summer tour. Preach's first date with the Root will be May 25 (with Jimiller Band opening) at Cleveland's Time Warner Cable Amphitheater.
He plans to still honor dates for several One World Tribe shows that fit in with Rusted Root's schedule.
"I'm happy, man," said Preach. "I had a good time playing with them, a good time vibing with them. It didn't feel like an audition; we were just jamming."
He'll visit Colorado and California, among other states, during Rusted Root's summer tour.

Don't look now but Vince Neil of Motley Crue lists an Erie concert for July 12 on his web site. That's a Thursday. Putting two and two together -- this is me, just speculating -- that suggests the show is likely a free Downtown Block party event, sponsored by the Cellbock.