Gordon Biersch 25th Anniversary “Big Bands, Brews & BBQ” Event

Just in case you haven’t yet heard, Gordon Biersch is celebrating their 25th anniversary year by hosting a “Big Bands, Brews & BBQ” event tomorrow, Sat, May 18 from 2-7 p.m. at their brewing and bottling facility at 357 East Taylor Street (not to be confused with the Gordon Biersch brewery restaurant in downtown San Jose).

I wrote an article about this event in this week’s Metro issue, which includes several quotes from Dan Gordon himself. Dan shared some other things as well. First, he talked enthusiastically about the trio of groups scheduled to perform at the anniversary bash, including:

• The San Jose Jazz Festival All Star Big Band featuring drummer Tommy Igoe and vocalist Kenny Washington at 2:30. Dan added, “Kenny is simply amazing and a regular performer at New York City’s Lincoln Center.”
• Pacific Mambo Orchestra – a 19-piece band led by pianist Christian Tumalan and trumpeter Steffen Kuehn at 4. Dan added, “They have to be one of the top five salsa groups out there."
• Carlos Reyes and his Super Group featuring Santana vocalist Tony Lindsay at 6. Dan shared, “Carlos is a virtuoso and plays Paraguayan harp and electric violin.”

Dan also talked about the risks taken in opening the brewery restaurant in downtown San Jose, back during some tough economic times; for instance, the brewpub at the location Gordon Biersch was taking over lasted just three months. Fortunately, Gordon Biersch has lasted much longer and has continued to call San Jose their home.

For ticket information for the 25th anniversary bash, click here.