Spread out a blanket

IT’S BEEN a good summer so far. There’s nothing like a little music outdoors on a warm, Southern California evening, and already this year I’ve heard R.E.M. at the Hollywood Bowl, Robert Plant and Alison Krauss at the Greek Theatre -- oh, and the Answer at Garfield Park in South Pasadena.

Not familiar with the last entry in that rockin’ triumvirate? Then you might consider widening your circle of concert venues.

Sure, there are music purists out there who frown on concerts in the park, who say it’s not much of a rock ‘n’ roll experience to hear a cover band pick through the KLOS playlist while kids run about, audience members talk away and people who should never dance in public shake their stuff. To which I say: You’re right.

But so what? A concert in the park isn’t just about the music.

It can be: I can’t wait for John Doe at Pasadena’s Memorial Park in August, and I saw a great Jackson Browne set for free last month at the Lummis Day Festival at Sycamore Grove Park in Highland Park. But just as often I’m going for the experience: the chance to unwind for a couple of hours, usually with family and friends, a picnic blanket, something to eat -- and whatever music might be on the menu. Country, salsa, pops orchestra, Beatles tribute -- it doesn’t matter.

Every summer, I scan the local schedules and mark down the possibilities. This year, I probably have a dozen on my calendar. I might not make them all, but that’s the best part: As much as I love going to these concerts, I don’t have to. If at the last minute I’m too busy or too lazy or a better offer comes up, no problem: There aren’t any tickets to get rid of -- and there’s always next weekend.

-- Frank Farrar