The Nugget Newspaper - News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

The award-winning tribute band Petty Fever will return to Sisters at Hardtails Bar & Grill on Saturday night, August 17, from 9 to 11 p.m.

Frank Murray has been recreating the music of Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Tom Petty for years — but no year has been as significant as the past year after the legendary rocker’s death at the age of 66, just days after coming off what had been announced as his last major tour.

“It’s been a real positive experience,” Murray said. “Really great acceptance from the crowds; more than I ever would have expected.”

There seems to be a great hunger to see the music of Tom Petty performed live.

“All year long, every show has been sold out or packed,” Murray said.

Murray understands and appreciates the audiences’ enthusiasm.

“They’re just great songs, no matter how you look at it,” he said. “The guy was a phenomenal songwriter. There’s just nothing like experiencing the songs live. It brings out the best of them.”

Murray has played Hardtails each summer for several years. He said next Saturday’s audience will get to hear some Petty songs they didn’t hear last year. While the core hits are always in the set, Murray said, “I try to add stuff from his catalogue that some of the really hardcore Petty fans want to hear. Deeper cuts.”

Tickets are available at BendTicket.com or at Hardtails — $10 in advance; $15 at the door. For more information visit

http://www.hardtailsoregon.com.

(Note: A previous version of this story listed an incorrect start time. This show starts at 9 p.m.).