The Portage Fill Band

Comprised of about 20 Islanders ranging from professional musicians to amateurs, the community musical group is celebrating its 41st anniversary this year. Charter member Lou Engels still plays in the band.

Engels remembers how Monty Sewell, who once played with Louie Armstrong, helped found the band back in 1973. Engels said that Sewell owned a music store where Blooms & Things is now located.

“The band has pretty much been the same over all the years,” Engels said, “except we have a bigger group of musicians to choose from now. All the seats are occupied.”

When Engels was asked if he gets any special treatment for being the sole charter member still playing in the band, he said, “Yeah, they mention me every once in a while, when the old gray beards get up to play.”

Portage Fill rehearses twice a month in the Williams Heating garage, thanks to the generosity of Dennis Williams, one of the horn players. “We’re the Island’s longest running garage band,” said band member David Hackett.
Friday, April 29th, 8pm
The Red Bicycle Bistro & Sushi. All-age’s ’till 11pm, 21+ after that. Free cover!