Take a ride with Cruisin' at Beats and Eats

Crusin' Takes the Stage Thursday Night

This Thursday night at 7 p.m., the seasoned local band Cruisin’ rolls into Frankfort Square with a setlist built on nostalgia, groove and decades of musical chemistry - ready to light up the Beats and Eats stage.

“We’re not reinventing anything. We’re reminding people why they fell in love with music in the first place,” said state Sen. Mike Moser, guitarist, co-vocalist, and founding member of Crusin’.

For more than two decades, Cruisin’ has mastered the art of musical revival. But not in a gimmicky, dress-up kind of way. It’s based on deep musicianship, tight harmonies and a genuine respect for the songs they cover. Their setlists are a love letter to rock’s golden age, delivered with the kind of groove and energy that can only come from years of playing to real people in real places.

“Well, I think everybody does some reasonable facsimile to the original. It’s not fun to play carbon copies,” Moser said. “Each person has their own talent, and sometimes the way we do it is not the way the original artist did it. Like a Beach Boys song. It’s not possible to do those note for note musically.”

At its core, Cruisin’ is a crew of longtime friends who just love making music together. Moser holds down guitar duties, joined by Fred Ritter laying down smooth, steady basslines. Mike Morris brings the groove on keys, while Tom Pennington smashes the kit with precision and punch. John Johnson adds texture and tone on guitar, and Chris Sabatka brings a unique flair with soaring violin lines that set Cruisin’ apart. Every member steps up to the mic, making rich vocal harmonies a signature part of the band’s sound.

Over the years, Cruisin’ has adapted its lineup depending on the venue and members’ availability. But this Thursday, July 31, all six will be on stage and ready to roll. Cruisin’ isn’t a full-time gig for any of them, as they have their careers, families and even other band obligations.

Cruisin’ has several upcoming area shows in the works, but Moser insisted the band is eager to play for Columbus on Thursday night in Frankfort Square. He’s hoping for another strong turnout like recent Beats and Eats nights. Zeekey’s Pork in a Boat, Judy’s Funnel Cake Truck and Regina’s Kitchen Gelato Cart will also be on hand for those seeking refreshments while they enjoy the tunes.

“We’re not necessarily going to do top 25, but we’re going to play songs you might want to hear,” Moser said, smiling. “We’re looking forward to playing with hopefully a respectable crowd. We want to play some stuff they want to hear.”