Punxsutawney Phil was certainly right to predict six more weeks of winter as far as Southwest Montanans are concerned. Though it seems like the season should be changing, we’re still in for some chilly days as our classic Treasure State winter presses on. Plan a weekend trip to Chico Hot Springs for a chance to soak the joints, feast on some delicious grub and enjoy live music in the Saloon. Here’s what’s coming up this month.
Tsunami Funk bring back-to-back shows to the Saloon on April 7th and 8th. The Bozeman-favorite group always packs the dance floor with Funk/R&B-rocking grooves. They play tunes from artists like Stevie Wonder, Pharrell Williams, Bruno Mars, Red Hot Chili Peppers, James Brown, Earth Wind & Fire, Sly & the Family Stone, Kool & the Gang, Van Morrison, Steely Dan, Bob Marley, and many more!
Paradise Valley favorites The Fossils return with a pair of performances April 14th and 15th. Known around town for their authentic hippie music, The band guarantees a rockin’ good time. The members have been acquainted for years and are connected by their love of music.
The following weekend features the return of Justin Case Band, performing April 14th and 15th. The ‘70s to ‘90s rock band covers tunes ranging from the Allman Brothers and Three Dog Night, to Stone Temple Pilots and Pearl Jam.
Ian Thomas & Band of Drifters are back April 28th and 29th. The group plays modern American roots music and encourage audiences to dance. Based mostly in Montana and Tennessee, the band also includes players from all over the country, keeping the music varied in arrangement, instrumentation and regional influences. The Drifters’ sets draw from country, folk and blues traditions with an emphasis on original songs, done in the old style.
Looking ahead, get ready for El Wencho de Mayo on May 5th and 6th. For most people, the image of an “acoustic duo” conjures images of two soft spoken musicians singing folk rock and hippie jam songs. This is not the case with the Wench. Two original members of the Clintons, John and Josh joke, “we’re half the band, twice the party!” The guys are no strangers to throwing a rocking good time. Their show is a hotdish or “badasserole” of musical genres and style.
Live Saloon music begins at 9pm. Chico Hot Springs is located in Pray, 20 miles south of Livingston. For more information and to make a reservation, visit www.chicohotsprings.com. •