Carmichael-based Wasted Space band rocks a baby boomer crowd in Carmichael Park. Musicians are Scott Katzman, Frank McClory, John and Michelle Barnes, Linda Ingoglia, Mike Roser and Sherman Applegate

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - A blockbuster performance by the rock group Wasted Space was last weekend’s penultimate show in the Carmichael Park concert season. The series ends this Saturday (June 27) with a performance by rock big band Hipper than Hip,

Wasted Space entertained a 1400-strong crowd with tunes that included Rolling Stones, Doobie Brothers and Janis Joplin covers. In echo of the group’s 1970s groove, a sea of tie-die tee shirts rocked.

The Carmichael-based group’s name is a quirk of quick-thinking. While its musicians rehearsed in a paint shop storage space, a customer asked for their stage name. Drummer and group founder Johnnie Barnes looked at his surroundings and blurted “Wasted Space!” The name stuck like a coat of latex, as did the rainbow palate of their performance shirts.

Barnes is a third-generation carmichaelite. His mom was among local children who made adobe bricks during the historical construction of Carmichael Presbyterian Church. She later married his dad in the chapel she helped build.

Though the band’s following extends over Northern California, hometown concerts are highlights in their schedule. “It’s special when we play here,” said Barnes. “My wife (singer Michelle Barnes) and I love to see neighbors and friends in the audience.”

In all, the 2026 park music series has offered eight rock concerts and a June weekend of symphonic band performances.

Hipper than Hip kicks off the season finale this Saturday at 6 pm. Admission is free and dancing is encouraged. Donations to sustain the series are accepted. Food trucks will offer on-site sustenance.

Concert sponsors include Sanborn Real Estate, Carmichael Recreation and Park District, Food in the Hood 916, Buck Family Automotive, Supervisor Rich Desmond, KZAP Radio, Carmichael Parks Foundation and Carmichael Kiwanis. For information, visit www.carmichaelpark.com.