Summerfest is over. This year, I went to the fest six nights and saw a total of twenty bands (that means I stayed at a stage and listened to at least a few songs — I don’t count “walk-bys”). Here are a few thoughts on this year’s festival.

Most surprising band: The Tubes. Popular in the 80’s (remember that song, “She’s A Beauty?”) The Tubes are still making music together in the 21st Century. Their live show is something else — theatrical, musically tight and they play with a sense of humor. I originally planned to check them out for a song or two, but stayed for most of their show.

Sexiest woman on stage: Shelby Lynne. She does look great, but that’s only half of it. Hearing her sing and play her songs with an emotional edge that many other musicians don’t have, makes her that much sexier.

Favorite people watching moment: That’s got to be watching the crowd at during Dark Star Orchestra’s show. Dark Star recreates, song by song, specific Grateful Dead performances. They do that so well, they attract a large contingent of Dead Heads.

Favorite show: That’s tough. Burning Spear’s performance I previously wrote about was excellent, but I think I have to give the honor to Los Lobos. I’ve seen the boys from East L.A. so many times I’ve lost count, but they never fail to disappoint. Their set at this year’s Summerfest was no exception.