Patrons packed the second-floor space at Messy Jessy’s Bar and Grill in downtown Aberdeen on Friday evening as a parade of musicians cranked up the noise in honor of The Daily World reporter Matthew N. Wells.

The eight-act rock concert was put on as a display of gratitude for Wells, who has written extensive articles on the talent and personality behind Grays Harbor’s rising music scene this year. The musicians added to their appreciation by arranging for Wells to fly his own guitar home from Illinois, and awarded him a new guitar amp, band apparel and a homemade chocolate cake.

“He’s been photographing, doing articles, and really blowing up our music scene around Aberdeen and the entire county,” said Wil Russoul, a musician and director of the Downtown Aberdeen Association, as he commended Matthew during an intermission on Friday. “There’s a lot of people in this room that he’s featured with profiles on what we do here.”

Following the intermission, Russoul handed Wells a Yamaha Stratocaster, and Black Shepherd, the rock trio on stage, burst into Bob Segar’s “Old Time Rock and Roll” as Wells plucked along and provided strong supporting vocals.

The Stratocaster, which was signed by Kurt Vanderhoof of the band Metal Church, was given away to a lucky member of the crowd.

“Friday was a truly amazing night,” Wells said on Monday. “I want to thank everyone who helped plan the night and who showed up. It really makes me feel appreciated.”

Clayton Franke / The Daily World Guests filled Messy Jessy’s Bar and Grill in downtown Aberdeen on Friday, Dec. 15 to witness an eight-act rock show honoring The Daily World reporter Matthew Wells.

Matthew N. Wells / The Daily World The Bad and Ugly plays at the Matthew Wells appreciation show at Messy Jessy’s Bar and Grill on Dec. 15.