March 29, 2024

Small Town Superheroes closes out Thunder Nites

Wrapping up the Thunder Nites concert schedule is Small Town Superheroes, a central Iowa group that formed in 2006. The ’80s and ’90s cover band will play this Friday in its first appearance at Thunder Nites.

Small Town Superheroes, previously known as Alliance, changed names after the addition of lead singer Amy Barnes-Simmons.

“Alliance has a long history dating back to 1984. Current keyboard–vocalist and drummer-vocalist were original members of Alliance, and played night clubs, proms and other events until around 1987 when members of the band went different directions,” Terry DeJong, drummer and vocals in the band said. “After a few years continuing the once a year reunion, the group changed bass guitarist and lead guitarist and began playing on a regular basis again in 2003, then adding lead vocalist Amy Barnes Simmons and changing the name.”

The current line up includes DeJong on drums and vocals, Barnes-Simmons with lead vocals, Bob Edwards on lead guitar, Dr. John Hoekstra on bass guitar and vocals and Tim DeJong on keyboards and vocals. The group primarily plays classic rock covers from the ’80s and ’90s but has added some newer country cover since Barnes-Simmons joined the group.

“All of the members simply love music and performing. We all keep the group and our schedule where it’s fun, which is why we don’t book a lot,” DeJong said.

Small Town Superheroes enjoys playing the large, outdoor venues because of the bigger and more diverse crowd.

Aside from the normal bar gigs, Small Town Superheroes has played the Iowa State Fair free stage for 12 years, the Indianola and Ottumwa balloon race festivals, many community Friday after Five’s and Bike Night type events, Summer Splash and New Year’s Eve parties at Honey Creek Resort, among others, DeJong said. Prior to playing in Newton this week, they will be playing the RVTV Iowa vs. Iowa State tailgate party in Albia.

Thunder Nites, which began in 2011, runs from May through September on the second Friday of each month. It brings more than 800 motorcycles and thousands of people to the square from 6 to 10 p.m. to enjoy food, beverages and entertainment. It is put on by the nonprofit organization The Weekend Pit Stop.

Contact Staff Writer Jamee A. Pierson at (641) 792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com.