“They’re not used to really having a keyboardist, so it’s going to be a real learning experience for them and me,” Barger said. “It always is when you add that kind of sound to anything, so I think as things go along, our song writing will be a little different in response to that.”

Fans got to hear that added sound Friday night at Ziggy’s, in Winston-Salem, and can catch them this Thursday after the game at the L.P. Frans Stadium, located in Hickory. Tickets for both the game and the concert are $10.

Barger will be joined by the rest of the band, including lead vocalist Doug Jones, guitarist Jimbo Chapman, bass player Rob Clay and another member from Salisbury, Gary Greene.

Greene himself is a new addition to the band, just joining in October, but music fans may remember him from another popular group.

“I’ve been touring for the past seven years with Hootie and the Blowfish, and I met Cravin’ (Melon) through Hootie,” Greene said.

While with Hootie, Greene started out on the technical end of things, handling everything from setting up the stage to merchandising before adding his skills as a drummer.

He has played congas and bongo drums, plus the tambourine, and added extra vocals to the band when they where on stage.

Adding additional sound to their tours, Greene had played in front of groups of more than 50,000 guests with Hootie and the Blowfish, including a performance at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, Ga.

Now with Cravin’ Melon, Greene has made the move from playing additional instrumental sounds, to taking center stage as the group’s drummer.

For Barger who has also played in the bands Museum and Ultraviolets, this is also a step up in the musical arena.

“Most of the bands before, we didn’t have that level of professionalism,” Barger said. “So it’s a lot different in (that)... you have a bigger fan base. You actually have to look more professional and be more professional.”

A professional nature that comes from being connected to a band that is already as established as Cravin’ Melon.

But with Barger and Greene being the new kids on the Cravin’ Melon block, fans might wonder how the established members have taken to the new guys.