When Blondie was admitted to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame two years ago, I really thought that the soon-to-come scene was scripted. And God bless 'em if that was the case. But according to those with this type of information, such was not the case. After 30 million albums sold, and a string of Number One hits stretching over three decades (has it really been 30 years since Parallel Lines?), the group fronted by one of the most iconic singers in the history of pop was ready to take its place alongside the all-time greats - and deservedly so.

The band has been variously described as New Wave, rock and power pop; but the description that seems best to suit the band's mix of rock, disco, reggae, great hooks and good lyrics can be borrowed from a Nick Lowe album title: Pure Pop for Now People. With catchy pop, there's not a lot of difference between "Now" then and "Now" now. The beat goes on.

Considering the brilliant band's collection of tumultuous relationships, if all went smoothly during the induction ceremony, it wouldn't be...well, right. One of the group's many disgruntled former members, guitarist Frank Infante, confronted singer Debbie Harry and begged her to let him play with the band once again, for old times' sake. "Not tonight," said a stern Harry. "Can't you see my band is up here?"

Her legendary band comes to town - actually into UPAC in Kingston - June 10, as part of the Parallel Lines 30th Anniversary Tour. Before there was [Your name here], there was Madonna. Before the Material Girl, there was Ms. Harry. On your way to the gig, maybe pop in Harry's recently released fifth solo set, Necessary Evil - a nice and eclectic collection of tunes held together by her presence.

Ticket prices are $60 (Golden Circle); $45 (center orchestra/loge) general admission or $40 for Bardavon members; and $40 (rear orchestra/loge) general admission or $35 for Bardavon members. Get them at the Bardavon box office at 35 Market Street in Poughkeepsie, (845) 473-2072; through the UPAC box office at 601 Broadway in Kingston, (845) 339-6088; or through TicketMaster at (845) 454-3388 or www.ticketmaster.com.