Eric Neznik to close out Music in the Park

Returning home Eric Neznik, will present the final concert in the Staples Music in the Park series on Sunday, Aug. 16, at 7 p.m. The series is made possible with a gift from the Staples Host Lions Club. (Submitted Photo) Staples native, Eric Neznik, will return home to close out the Staples Music in the Park series with a concert on Sunday, Aug. 16, at 7 p.m. The concert will be held in the Northern Pacifi c Park across from the Government Center at 611 Iowa Avenue NE, Staples. In case of inclement weather the concert will move to Centennial Auditorium, 401 Centennial Lane.

Now based in Nashville, country singer Eric Neznik will be performing in his hometown for the first time in a number of years. "I'm excited to have a chance to come home and play some songs for my friends and family," Neznik said when asked about his upcoming performance. "It's been a long time since I've had a chance to play in Staples, so now I'm just praying the weather cooperates."

Eric's music is best described as contemporary traditional country. It isn't difficult to pick up on infl uences like George Strait, Alan Jackson and Merle Haggard when listening to Neznik's music. Those traditional leanings have certainly made life interesting for Eric in today's country music world. "Up until a few years ago, I never would have guessed that the most difficult way to make it in country music would be to sing… country music." Neznik said with a grin. But he continues to play shows and market his music to a wide-ranging audience.

Upon returning to Nashville after his time in Staples, Neznik will immediately be back in the studio to finish recording his next album.

"It's been almost four years since I last released an album, so I'm excited to get some new music out there," he said. Several of the songs from the upcoming album will be featured at his Aug. 16, performance. Additionally, pre-sale copies of Neznik's new album titled, "Check, Check… Is This Thing On?" will be available at the show. To visit Eric in cyber space be sure to browse his MySpace page: www.myspace. com/ericneznik.

For information on other concerts in the area check out the Staples Motley Area Arts Council's website at: www.staplesmotleyarts. org

The Music in the Park Series is funded by the Staples Host Lions Club. The series is organized by the Staples Motley Area Arts Council, with the assistance of the Staples Motley Public Schools and the City of Staples