The name of this all-female pop/rock quartet came like an epiphany when the four women were sitting under a blue umbrella on a beautiful, sunny Kentucky Derby Day. One of them looked up and said, “How about the Blue Umbrellas?” With that, the formation of the band was complete.

Smooth as Kentucky bourbon, the Blue Umbrellas sound is harmony-driven melodic rock that mixes colorful musical styles, from metro folk to rural rock to playful pop. It incorporates all of the influences on the individual band members: Kelly’s country, Gloria’s classical, Rhonda’s ’80s rock, and Stephanie’s folk.

The Blue Umbrellas released a self-titled four-song EP in January of 2003 and their first full-length CD in March 2004. That CD, Metamorphose, is a versatile collection showcasing rock ’n’ roll energy as well as chest-ripping ballads. Having already built a strong following in the Louisville area, the band has started touring regionally and on the East Coast.

Program 623

A visit to the Frazier Historical Arms Museum as it prepares for its upcoming opening; Simply Oaxaca, a Lexington community center and gift shop specializing in hand-crafted Mexican art; and the rock sounds of Louisville’s Blue Umbrellas. (#623)

Program 808

Northern Kentucky enamel artist Bill Helwig, UK art professor and sculptor Garry Bibbs, and music from The Blue Umbrellas and Primeform. (#808)