Amy Manette plays the Indian Island Winery

Amy Manette, a musical five-some from Mankato, played at the Indian Island Winery on Saturday, Sept. 26. This jazz and blues group has played all over mid- and southern Minnesota since 2013 and with the big brains in the band it’s no wonder they’ve stayed together so long. Dr. Andrew McNamara, an orthopedic surgeon in Mankato, plays keyboard. Dr. Brad Holmberg, a retired dentist, is on electric and acoustic guitar. Marvin Topp, a truck driver for Volk Transfer takes care of drums and vocals. David Urness, former orchestra director for Mankato East High School, is on bass. The fifth band member and lead vocalist is, of course, Amy Manette, Director of Business Development for All American Foods. 

 

Manette said, “It started out with just me and Marv, but we’ve grown since then.” The group was well dressed, black button shirts and ties and polished shoes. Manette herself was in a dress and fit right in with the men of her band.

 

Band members say their goal is a mellow sound. They’ve played at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival, Crooners Supper Club in Minneapolis, Blues on Belgrade and the St. Peter Blues Fest. Said Manette, “We do jazz and the blues, mostly cover tunes but we make them our own. Andrew does all our arrangements.” They could’ve played any music, but they chose the blues. Marv did want to inform everyone, “We do not do the big band stuff from the 40s, no Sinatra or Martin or Miles Davis. If you think of us, think Beth Hart or Etta James.” He thought for a few moments before adding, “Nora Jones would be another good one we take after.” McNamara was asked which his favorite venue was to play and he replied, “Besides the Indian Island Winery, I really like playing at the Grand Cabaret in New Ulm. You can tell they really take the time to listen there.” Topp stood next to him as the musicians finished their sound check, he nodded and said, “When you’re there you can feel you’re playing to an informed audience.” A group of spectators arrived; the women were carrying wine glasses, and the men were carrying glasses of beer and menus to order while the music started. The lights were dimmed and the band began playing “On Broadway,” originally recorded by The Crystals in 1962. A smooth sound flowed from the Indian Island Winery as the band took over the room.

 

Manette wanted her fans to note, “We have a Christmas show coming up at Crooners in the Cities on December 5. Or you can check us out at www.amymanette.com.”