Originality Rocks SRQ: Inside the Music Lovers Day Lineup
There is a powerful difference between hearing a song and feeling a story.
Welcome to a special edition of The Heart Beat. Usually, we’re talking about the rhythm of our city, but today, we’re focusing on the architects. Here at the Heart Collective Sarasota home of Heart Song Road Radio, we don’t just play music; we build it.
We’ve always believed that original music is the soul of our community. It’s the raw, unfiltered energy of a songwriter putting their heart on the line, one lyric at a time. While Sarasota is world-famous for its sunsets and its stagecraft, there is a deeper rhythm humming in our living rooms and local venues—the sound of creators who refuse to be "sound-alikes."
On Music Lovers Day, we are stripping away the cover songs to reveal the raw, honest, and original heart of Sarasota. We aren’t just preparing for a concert; we are honoring a new tradition that puts the spotlight where it belongs: on the risk-takers and the original sound creators of the Gulf Coast.
From world-touring veterans to the quiet masters finally sharing their private studio sessions, this lineup represents the very best of our Gulf Coast home. These aren't just performers—they are our neighbors, our mentors, and the creators of the songs you’ll be humming for years to come.
In this special series, we’re taking you behind the curtain to meet the artists who are writing the soundtrack of our city. From the first spark of inspiration to the final chord on stage, these are the musicians keeping the heart of Sarasota beating loud and clear.
Scroll down to meet the heartbeat of Music Lovers Day:
The Music Lovers Day Lineup:
One City. Seven Stories. One Unforgettable Beat.
Thorson Moore: The Architect of the Sarasota Sound
Kettle of Fish: The Soul of Sarasota’s "Festiblues"
The Kara Nally Band: Family, Funk, and the Perfect Batch of Originals
The Dave Turner Project: A Legacy of Groove and Giving Back
Bri Rivera Band: The Island Soul of Sarasota’s New Sound
Joey Lavallee: The Craftsman Stepping into the Spotlight
Pedro Arevalo: The Universal Soul of the Slide Guitar
Nate Howell: The Quiet Power of the Crafted Song
The Musicians and their original sounds:
Thorson Moore Music | Soulful Rock & Roll with an experimental edge. (Thorsongs)
Artist Spotlight: Thorson Moore
The Architect of the Sarasota Sound
If you’ve spent any time in the SRQ live music scene, you’ve likely felt the gravity of Thorson Moore. Known for a tone that is as distinctive as a thumbprint, Thorson is a musician’s musician—a guitarist, singer, and songwriter who doesn't just play notes; he "dials in" a soul.
The Origin Story: Originally born in Hawaii, Thorson brought that island rhythm to Sarasota at age 10. While he started his journey behind the drum kit, he eventually evolved into the master guitarist we know today. That percussive foundation still lives in his playing—there’s a rhythmic drive to his original work that keeps audiences leaning in.
The Music: Thorson’s original albums, like Mr.NoBody and Open Art Surgery, are masterclasses in "Open Minded Songwriting." His music fluidly transitions between rock, blues, and experimental textures. Whether he’s leading his own band or collaborating with local legends like Kettle of Fish, Thorson brings an "originality alone" vibe that is the exact reason we created Music Lovers Day.
"Music is freedom." – This is the mantra Thorson lives by. He isn't just playing for the applause; he’s building a community, even working toward creating a local studio to help other artists record their own stories right here in Sarasota.
The Vibe: Soulful Rock & Roll with an experimental edge.
Must-Listen Original: "Mr.NoBody" or "Innocence"
Where to find him: Check out his gear and music at ThorsonMoore.com or catch him live at his frequent Siesta Key and downtown residencies.
Why he belongs on Music Lovers Day:
Thorson Moore represents the "Heart Beat" because he refuses to be a "sound-alike." In a world of covers, he chooses to create. When he takes the stage you aren't just hearing a guitar—you're hearing years of Sarasota history and a vision for the future of original music.
The "Festiblues" are coming. Dana Lawrence is the "King of the Kettle" and a Sarasota institution. Discover why his soulful baritone has been a SRQ constant for two decades.
Artist Spotlight: Kettle of Fish
The Soul of Sarasota’s "Festiblues"
If there is one name synonymous with the pulse of live music in Sarasota, it’s Dana Lawrence. As the founder, lead singer, and rhythm guitarist of Kettle of Fish, Dana has spent over two decades steering one of the most beloved musical vessels on the Gulf Coast.
The Dana Lawrence Effect: Whether he’s leading the full five-piece band to a roaring festival crowd or playing an intimate solo acoustic set, Dana’s voice is unmistakable. It’s a soulful, grit-meets-honey baritone that carries the weight of blues, the warmth of reggae, and the high energy of rock 'n' roll. Dana is the "constant" in a band that has seen some of the world’s greatest musicians step in to play, from Jimmie Fadden of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band; Keyboard player Robin Swenson (Four Seasons, Aretha Franklin); to local legends like the late and great Greg Poulos; and drummer Pat McDonald (Charlie Daniels Band).
The Music: Kettle of Fish is famous for their "Festiblues"—a high-energy blend of deep-track covers and original anthems that feel like instant classics. Their original album, Living on Someday, is a must-hear for any Sarasota resident. It features standout tracks like "Anywhere With You" and the title track, showcasing Dana’s ability to write songs that are as lyrically thoughtful as they are danceable.
“I don’t want to sound like a retread of anything else.” – Dana’s philosophy is exactly why Kettle of Fish is a cornerstone of Music Lovers Day. His dedication to keeping the music fresh, original, and "un-retreaded" is what keeps the Heart Beat strong.
The Band: While the "Kettle" features a rotating cast of virtuosos, you’ll often find masters like Thorson Moore, Pat McDonald, Chris Guertin, and Robin Swenson among many more musical players rounding out the sound.
The Vibe: A New Orleans-style soul-stew of Blues, Rock, and Reggae.
Must-Listen Original: "Anywhere With You" (an upbeat ballad that captures the band’s chemistry perfectly).
Where to find them: KettleOfFish.net or catching one of Dana’s legendary solo residencies.
Why they belong on Music Lovers Day:
Dana Lawrence is more than a frontman; he is a community builder. By championing original music and providing a platform for other musicians to shine, he embodies everything Heart Song Road Radio in Sarasota stands for. When Kettle of Fish plays, they don't just put on a show—they host a celebration of why we love music in the first pla
They are bringing the funk and the "Pancakes!" Discover the husband-and-wife duo making huge waves with their catchiest original to date.
Artist Spotlight: The Kara Nally Band
Family, Funk, and the Perfect Batch of Originals
At the center of The Kara Nally Band is a musical partnership that goes beyond the stage. Led by the powerhouse vocals of Kara Nally and the soulful, rhythmic keys of her husband, Jeremy Egglefield, this band is a testament to what happens when talent and chemistry collide. While they are famous for turning any venue into a high-energy dance floor, it’s their original songwriting that is currently stealing the show.
The "Pancakes" Phenomenon: If you’ve been to a show lately, you’ve likely heard the crowd chanting for one song in particular: "Pancakes." This original track has become a local anthem, and the story behind it is as sweet as the title suggests. Inspired by a family vacation in the Adirondacks, the song was born when Kara’s young nephew interrupted a jam session to ask the most important question of the day: "Are the pancakes ready?!" Kara and Jeremy caught the rhythm of his voice, turned it into a hook, and a hit was born. It’s a song that captures the band’s personality—fun, relatable, and undeniably catchy.
Beyond the Breakfast Table:
But the Kara Nally Band is much more than a one-hit wonder. Leading up to Music Lovers Day, Kara and Jeremy are on a mission to share the rest of their original catalog with the public. Their music blends elements of funk, soul, and blues, all anchored by Jeremy’s masterful keyboard work (often featuring his signature keytar solos) and Kara’s ability to channel the grit of Janis Joplin and the soul of Aretha Franklin into her own unique compositions.
“We want our music to feel like a conversation with the audience.” – For Kara and Jeremy, original music isn't just about playing a set; it's about sharing a piece of their life together with the community they love.
The Vibe: Funky, high-energy Soul-Rock with a "family affair" feel.
The Fan Favorite: "Pancakes" (Warning: You will be singing this for days).
Why they belong on Music Lovers Day:
Heart Song Road Radio is all about authentic expression, and nothing is more authentic than a husband-and-wife team building a musical legacy together. The Kara Nally Band reminds us that original music can be world-class while still feeling like a neighborhood celebration.
He built a legacy with the Blue Olives, but now his original project is setting the groove. Discover how Dave Turner uses his mastery of the bass and guitar to mentor the next generation.
Artist Spotlight: The Dave Turner Project
A Legacy of Groove and Giving Back
If you want to understand the depth of the Sarasota music scene, you have to look at Dave Turner. A master of both the bass and the guitar, Dave is a veteran of the stage who has transitioned from leading the high-octane Blue Olives to his most personal and creative chapter yet: The Dave Turner Project.
The Sound of Experience:
Dave isn’t just a "player"; he’s a composer with a vast library of original work. His albums, such as The Rise and Fall of Moses McBride and Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Groove, showcase a musician who refuses to be boxed in. His music is a sophisticated blend of jazz fusion, blues, and rock, often featuring intricate arrangements that highlight his dual mastery of strings. For Dave, every original song is a new experiment in "the groove."
Music with a Mission:
What truly sets Dave apart, however, is what he does when the stage lights go down. Dave is a dedicated music teacher who believes that every child deserves a soundtrack to their life, regardless of their background. He focuses much of his energy on teaching low-income students, ensuring that financial barriers don't stand in the way of talent.
Through his advocacy and community outreach, Dave collects donations to provide high-quality instruments to kids who otherwise wouldn't have them. When you support the Dave Turner Project, you aren’t just supporting a local musician—you’re supporting a man who is literally building the future of music in our city.
“Music changes lives, but you need the right tools to start the journey.” – Dave’s commitment to his students is the ultimate "Heart Beat" of our collective.
The Vibe: Sophisticated Jazz-Fusion meets gritty Blues-Rock.
The Gear: A rare talent who is equally lethal on the bass and the electric guitar.
The Mission: Bridging the gap for young musicians through instrument donations and mentorship.
Where to find him: Keep an ear out for his latest studio releases under The Dave Turner Project and follow his work with local Title One school programs.
Help David Turner Start a Music Program for kids
Why he belongs on Music Lovers Day:
Dave Turner embodies the "Original Music" spirit by showing that being an artist is about more than just self-expression—it’s about service. His presence in our Heart Collective Team and through Heart Song Road Radio, reminds us that the music we write today becomes the inspiration for the kids who will be playing on this stage tomorrow.
From Puerto Rico to Sarasota, Bri is rewriting the local soundtrack. Discover how the hit songwriter behind "Don't You Know" built her own studio, found a band of Cuban musical legends, and collaborates with Thorson Moore.
Artist Spotlight: Bri Rivera
The Island Soul of Sarasota’s New Sound
Sarasota has always been a melting pot, but few artists have stirred the pot with as much grace and fire as Bri Rivera. Hailing from Puerto Rico, Bri arrived on the Gulf Coast with a vision: to build a career rooted in original music and to bring the rich, rhythmic textures of her heritage to the local stage.
The Hit That Started It All:
If you’ve tuned into her music or visited a local venue lately, you’ve likely heard the infectious grooves of her hit song, "Don’t You Know." It’s a track that has quickly become a local favorite, blending Bri’s powerhouse vocals with a sophisticated Latin-pop sensibility. But for Bri, one hit wasn't enough; she took her career into her own hands by building her own boutique recording studio. This is where the magic happens—where she crafts her original songs from the ground up, ensuring every note reflects her true artistic voice.
The Heart Beat: Bri is known for more than just her voice; she is known for the way she honors her musicians. Her band is a masterclass in Caribbean and Latin talent, featuring virtuoso players from Cuba and beyond. There is a deep sense of family in the Bri Rivera Band, and that chemistry is audible in every performance.
The Thorson Moore Connection: Adding even more local "royalty" to her sound, Bri frequently collaborates with our very own Thorson Moore. Thorson doesn’t just play live with her; his signature guitar work is woven into her recorded tracks, creating a bridge between Thorson’s rock-fusion style and Bri’s tropical, soul-infused rhythms.
“Music has no borders.” – Bri’s journey from Puerto Rico to Sarasota is a reminder that the best music happens when we open our hearts to new cultures and new sounds.
The Vibe: High-energy Latin-Fusion, Soul, and Tropical Pop.
The Local Anthem: "Don’t You Know"
The Studio: Bri’s self-built sanctuary where she records her original tracks.
Why she belongs on Music Lovers Day:
Bri Rivera brings a "Global Heart Beat" to Sarasota. Her dedication to recording original music and her leadership in supporting international musicians make her a vital part of the Heart Collective family. She doesn't just play music; she builds bridges between islands and genres.
The ultimate "musician’s musician" is stepping into the center. For over 30 years, Joey has been the craftsman behind Sarasota’s best tones (he even builds his own guitars!).
Artist Spotlight: Joey Lavallee
The Craftsman of the Sarasota Sound
If there is a "secret ingredient" in the Sarasota music scene, it’s Joey Lavallee. For over thirty years, Joey has been the musician that other musicians call when they need perfection. Whether he’s shredding on the LeBarge Tropical Cruises, holding down a residency at Marina Jacks, or joining forces with The Kara Nally Band, Joey’s presence is a guarantee of world-class guitar work.
A Master of the Craft:
Joey doesn't just play guitars; he understands them down to the last wire. A true gear aficionado, Joey builds his own custom guitars as a hobby—instruments crafted with a precision that matches his playing. He even collaborates with Thorson Moore on building custom guitar pedal boards, and searching for those perfect, elusive tones that define a professional sound.
The Musical Bridge:
Joey is the ultimate collaborator. When Dave Turner picks up the bass for the Dave Turner Project, Joey is often right there on guitar, creating the intricate textures that have wowed crowds at SKOB (Siesta Key Oyster Bar) and beyond. His decades of experience and also on stage with Thorson Moore have created a musical shorthand between them that is rare to witness.
A New Chapter: The Original Voice: While Joey has spent years being the "ace in the hole" for other bands, he is currently stepping into his most courageous role yet: Songwriter. A naturally humble and private person, Joey has been quietly crafting his own original music for years. For the first time, he is getting ready to share these songs with the world. At Music Lovers Day, we aren't just hearing a guitar player; we are witnessing the debut of a veteran artist finally speaking his own truth through his own music.
“The music is always a work in progress, just like we are.” – Joey’s journey remind us that it’s never too late to step into the spotlight with your own story.
The Vibe: Seasoned, soulful Blues-Rock with a "Gear-Head’s" attention to tone.
The Hobby: Hand-building custom guitars and engineering boutique pedal boards.
The Resume: 30+ years of Sarasota history, from the decks of LeBarge to the stages of Siesta Key.
The New Project: Keep an ear out for his debut original releases coming soon and featured on the Heart Song Road Radio YouTube channel.
Why he belongs on Music Lovers Day:
Joey Lavallee is the heartbeat of the "Musician’s Musician." He reminds us that original music isn't just about fame—it’s about the craft, the gear, the tone, and the courage to finally say, "This is my song."
He has taken Sarasota soul to global stages. A master of the slide and a true visionary, Pedro Arevalo is the keeper of the authentic Southern Rock flame.
Artist Spotlight: Pedro Arevalo
The Keeper of the Flame
If you look at the credits of the most influential Southern rock and blues albums of the last two decades, you’ll find the name Pedro Arevalo. A multi-instrumentalist whose mastery of the slide guitar and bass is second to none, Pedro is a true "torchbearer" for the authentic Sarasota sound.
A Legacy in the Making:
Pedro’s musical journey is inextricably linked to rock royalty. For years, he shared the stage with the legendary Dickey Betts (founding member of the Allman Brothers Band), touring as a member of Great Southern. Today, he continues that legacy, currently touring the world with Dickey’s son, Duane Betts, as a core member of the Palmetto Motel band.
The Collaborative Heart:
Despite a whirlwind touring schedule that takes him across the country, Pedro’s heart remains firmly planted in the Sarasota community. He and Thorson Moore share a deep creative bond; they have written, recorded, and performed together for years. In fact, Thorson’s signature guitar work is woven throughout Pedro’s solo albums, including the critically acclaimed And Friends Too.
A Family of Sound:
Music runs deep in the Arevalo blood, and Pedro’s brother, Jeff Arevalo, is a world-class percussionist and multi-instrumentalist in his own right. While Jeff is currently exploring a fresh chapter in his musical career after years on the national jam-band circuit—famously known for his work as a percussionist and multi-instrumentalist for the powerhouse jam-band Goose—the Arevalo brothers remain a symbol of the incredible talent that calls Sarasota "home base."
Pedro & his life partner Zooey are a musical duo known for a blend of roots music, delta blues, and folk, featuring resonator guitar, vocals, violin, and bass. They are active in the Florida music scene, frequently performing at Walt's Fish Market.
“Music is a conversation that never ends.” – Pedro’s original music, spanning albums like Folklorista Andante and Vine Street Rumba Florida, blends gritty Southern blues with an international, rhythmic flair that only a traveler of his caliber can provide.
The Vibe: Authentic Southern Rock & Blues with a master’s touch on the slide.
The Pedigree: Longtime bassist for Dickey Betts; current member of Duane Betts & Palmetto Motel.
Where to find him: Check out his solo work on Apple Music or catch him on tour with the Betts family. Catch his work on digital platforms to hear the Sarasota soul he takes on the road.
Why he belongs on Music Lovers Day:
Pedro Arevalo represents the "Original Music" mission at its highest level. He has taken the sounds of Sarasota to the biggest stages in the world and brought back a wealth of experience to share with us. Having Pedro on the lineup ensures that our celebration of original music is anchored in the very best traditions of rock and roll.
You know the voice. You know the player. Now, get ready for the music. Nate Howell is stepping into the spotlight at Music Lovers Day to share his original songs for the very first time. A must-see moment for the SRQ music community.
Artist Spotlight: Nate Howell
The Voice from the Studio Shadows
Every music scene has a "best-kept secret"—the musician that the pros talk about with hushed respect. In Sarasota, that voice belongs to Nate Howell. While you may have seen him anchoring the local scene on Saturdays with Pedro Arevalo, or sharing the stage with Thorson Moore and Joey Lavallee, you have likely only heard one side of his story. Until now.
The Craft Behind Closed Doors:
Nate’s house is more than a home; it’s a laboratory. In a private studio filled with pages of handwritten lyrics and recorded sketches, Nate has been quietly building a catalog of original music that has yet to hit the public airwaves. While he is a staple in the beloved Grateful Dead tribute band Ship of Fools (where he plays alongside Jeremy Egglefield), Nate’s own music is a departure—a deeply personal blend of soulful vocals and intricate songwriting that he is finally ready to reveal.
The Road to Music Lovers Day: Nate represents the very essence of why we celebrate original music. It takes courage to move from the comfort of familiar covers to the vulnerability of your own words. For Nate, Music Lovers Day is a deadline and a debut. He is currently in the final stages of polishing his first two original singles, working to bring those handwritten pages to life just in time for the Heart Collective stage.
“Sometimes the best songs are the ones that take the longest to tell.” – Nate’s journey from sideman to songwriter is a testament to the patience of the craft.
The Vibe: Soulful, lyric-driven Rock with a deep "Jam-Band" pedigree.
The Resume: Member of Ship of Fools; frequent collaborator with Pedro Arevalo, Thorson Moore, and Joey Lavallee.
The Mystery: Currently "unreleased." This performance will be a first-look at his private studio sessions.
Where to find him: Catch him locally on Saturdays with Pedro Arevalo & Zooey at Walt's Fish Market Sarasota.
Why he belongs on Music Lovers Day:
Nate Howell embodies the soul of the Sarasota music scene—the dedicated artist who lives and breathes the craft every single day. While we’ve known him for years as the player alongside local legends, his debut at Music Lovers Day is a special milestone. He reminds us that the best music isn't always the loudest; sometimes, it’s the songs that have been carefully nurtured in the quiet of a home studio, waiting for the perfect moment to be shared. Having Nate on this lineup is a gift to the community, offering us a first look at the original stories he’s been readying for the world.
The Heart Beat of SRQ: Introducing Music Lovers Day
When we listen to original music, we aren’t just hearing a song; we are witnessing a piece of a person’s history, their struggle, and their joy. At the Heart Collective and Heart Song Road Radio, we don't just celebrate the notes—we celebrate the bravery it takes to write them. Join us for Music Lovers Day to stand at the intersection of rhythm and soul, where the covers end and the true heart of Sarasota begins. You never know what magic—or which surprise guests—will grace the stage when the community comes together.
One City. Eight Stories. One Unforgettable Beat.
Join us at the Heart Collective Sarasota, the home of Heart Song Road Radio, to witness history in the making.
Discover the original music of Sarasota’s finest: Thorson Moore Music, Kettle of Fish, Dave Turner, Kara Nally Band, and more.