Something Different

Over the last few months I’ve been out and about, checking out live music in the QC and writing about it. One of the highlights of my adventures has been noting all of the different ways live music can be enjoyed here. This week I’m going to recap some of the acoustic acts in the area and the venues where I’ve seen them.

Danika Holmes may have moved to Nashville, but
she's still a QC girl and plays here often.

You’ve probably noticed a few names that have had multiple mentions on this blog. I have the opportunity to sing with Lee Blackmon at least once a month, so I always mention where he is, just in case someone might want to know where to find me, of course. Danika Holmes has had several mentions – she’s just recently moved from the QC to Nashville to pursue her music career. Part of the reason I try to catch her often is that I have a feeling she is one of those who will make a decent career of her music. Her original work is very good, and the songs she does cover are extremely well done. She is devoted full time to that career as well.

 

Chuck Murphy is just plain everywhere!

Chuck Murphy is another regular here. Chuck is… well… he’s Chuck. I like his moxy.  Other local acoustic musicians I’ve seen include Retro Ron, David G. Smith, Sunflower Slim, Tim Stop and Maureen Carter. Dave Smith is another full-time musician, and his work is all original. He splits his time between the QC and Nashville, and touring too of course. Maureen is a member of the Busted Chandeliers and works at the RME. I had the opportunity to see her at lunchtime on my birthday a couple of weeks ago. Her solo acoustic work really shines.

Maureen Carter went solo at the RME Community Stage

There are so many local places that offer venues to the acoustic musicians. The RME comes to mind right off the bat – their community stage is the perfect set up for acoustic music. The Grape Life in Davenport has live music every week, and most of the time they host acoustic acts. Many of the local vineyards and wineries offer live music, though most of them only offer it in the summer as an outdoor venue. Cool Beanz is a great place to catch live music – they host acoustic acts as well as bands. DaVinci’s began hosting live music this summer – and more often than not you will catch an acoustic act there. I’ve seen acoustic acts at Rozz-tox, Barrelhouse 211 and Bleyart’s as well.

This weekend:

Tonight is another jam night. I won’t be at Muddy’s for a couple of weeks, but hope to get back there once in a while.

Friday – Simon Says Uncle is playing at Purgatory’s Pub, Justin Morrissey is at the 11^th street Precinct and Generations in Moline has Grand Larsony. Chuck Murphy is playing Rustic Ridge in Eldridge, RIBCO has a three-for with Eleven fifty-two, Pilot Down and Dynoride. Just Chords is at DaVincis, Night Light is playing Bleyart’s.

Saturday – Chris Avey is at The Muddy Waters, Jim the Mule is playing Mulligan’s, 11^th Street Precinct has Cosmic.  3 non Cops are playing RIBCO, Crossroads is at Purgatory’s, and The Funnies are playing Martini’s.

You never know where I might turn up – so watch this space for new information next week!