Ready picnic baskets -- Tunes is coming

After a successful 2005 series, the free Tunes at Twilight returns on May 19 with Brother Henry, an eclectic trio led by twin brothers whose members count Ben Folds among their friends. Their music has been compared to the likes of old and new school pop acts like R.E.M., Crowded House, the Byrds and Barenaked Ladies.

The series is held at the Courthouse Gazebo on Lorimier Street.

"It's a perfect way for us to start things out," said series organizer Larry Underberg. "They remind me a lot of the Everly Brothers in terms of the harmonies and things they do; they're a real entertaining group. You listen to their CD with a smile on your face."

The series was able to double its audience last year, something that Underberg attributes to the number of high profile artists that were booked, as well as word of mouth spreading on the series.

"Attendance has gradually grown year after year. [Boston's bassist] Kimberly Dahme set a record for attendance, she had over five hundred people," Underberg said. "The series is just beginning to develop a personality. More and more people are seeing it as a place to hang out on a Friday evening."

The series is divided into two parts, with the first part ending on June 23. Those performances will begin at 7 p.m. The second half will be kicked off by Dahme, who ended up being the biggest draw for the series, on Aug. 11. Because of earlier darkness, the second half will begin at 6:30 p.m..

Those not familiar with the series can expect a number of things, said Underberg. They should bring something to sit on, like a blanket or lawn chair and maybe something to eat, although there is a good chance that vendors will be back this year. The performers always hang around after the show, talking to the audience and selling their CDs and other merchandise.

Underberg feels that the selection of artists is what really drives the series.

"There seems to be an appreciation for the talent of the artist, more than a particular genre of music. People are enjoying the opportunity to enjoy music they don't typically see."

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2006 Tunes at Twilight schedule:

~ First session: 7 to 8 p.m.

May 19 -- Brother Henry

May 26 -- Claude Bourbon

June 2 -- The Laws

June 9 -- Jim Reilley

June 16 -- Kevin Gordon

June 23 -- Dana Cooper

~ Second session: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 11 -- Kimberley Dahme

Aug. 18 -- Steve Schaffner

Aug. 25 -- Ken Gaines and Karen Mal

Sept. 1 -- Lila Nelson/Amelia White

Sept. 8 -- Stephen Simmons

Sept. 15 -- Jordan Chassan