Chesapeake Beach, MD – They proclaim themselves as “Maryland’s Best Rock, Reggae and Funk Band” and now they are ready to take Southern Maryland by storm. The only thing, it seems, that can stop them, is an actual storm. That’s kind of how Mad Planet’s gig at Chesapeake Beach Resort and Spa played out Sunday, Aug. 12. Everything was going great until a few bolts of lightning, thunder and a steady rain brought the show to a close.

When the skies were calmer, Mad Planet entertained a receptive gathering with their covers of songs by such acts as UB40, Men at Work, Steve Miller Band, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Foreigner and Jason Mraz. They even performed a decent rendition of Rupert Holmes campy classic “The Pina Colada Song,” substituting the Rod ‘N’ Reel for O’Malley’s as the rendezvous spot.

This summer, Chesapeake Beach resident Tony Scott joined the group as bass guitarist. Mad Planet is fronted by vocalist/guitarist Greg Viola.

With hopes for much clearer skies, Chesapeake Beach Resort and Spa’s “Rock the Dock” series resumes Thursday, Aug. 16 with “Time for a Change-Motown Review.” The outdoor performance is from 7 to 10 p.m. On Sunday, Aug. 19 New Censation will be featured under the band shell from 4 to 8 p.m. On Thursday, Aug. 23, “A New World Record-An Electric Light Orchestra Tribute” will play from 7 to 10 p.m.

For more information on Rock the Dock and other upcoming entertainment visit the resort and spa’s web site.

Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com