Chico hosts nights of New Orleans blues, funk & other Saloon sets
‘Tis the season for in-state road trips and recreational outings! Park County-goers are flooding to the Yellowstone to float, deep into the Absaroka Bearooth for some backpacking, and over to Chico Hot Springs for weekend getaways. With fantastic live entertainment in the Saloon every Friday and Saturday night, you can kick up your heels – and soak them too. Here’s a look at who’s headed to the Paradise Valley watering hole.
New Orleans-based Delta blues artist John Fohl brings a special Thursday show to Chico on June 20th at 7pm. A Montana native, the singer/songwriter and guitarist has performed alongside artists like Dr. John, Clarence ‘Gatemouth’ Brown, Shemeka Copeland, Charlie Musselwhite, Bo Diddley, the Blind Boys of Alabama, the Cherry Poppin’ Daddies, Johnny Sansone, and Shannon MacNally, among others.
Mighty Big Jim and the Tall Boys return to Chico on Friday and Saturday, June 21st and 22nd. Heavily influenced by Tom Petty, Bruce Springsteen, The Allman Brothers and The Band, this roots rock n’ roll group jams many originals and covers. Veteran singer/songwriter Jim Devine fronts the band with Casey Malkuch (guitar), Jon Redlin (bass), Jayson Eslick (drums) and Katelynne Eslick (vocals). The band’s self-titled debut is available now.
Solidarity Service follows with a special Sunday show on June 23rd at 8:30pm. Performing funky rock and reggae, the group is a big band with a big sound. Featuring the songwriting of Mike DeJaynes, lush and lovely harmonies, and a groovin’ rhythm section, Solidarity Service is guaranteed to fill the dance floor. Expect to hear and experience conscious lyrics and poly-rhythmic poetry, crazy covers, and well-crafted originals. Come enjoy the show!
Under the Bleachers rock the house Friday and Saturday, June 28th and 29th. The band consists of Scott Williams (guitar), Tim Borsberry (drums), and Chris Heisel (bass). They have an intensely diverse song list, a result of their diverse origins. Tim hails from Helena, Chris from Great Falls, and Scott is a transplant from Los Angeles. A look over the band’s song list will show they keep up with today’s hits – and have been playing yesterday’s since they were a ‘hit’ the first time!
Chico Saloon music begins at 9pm, unless otherwise noted. Chico Hot Springs is located in Pray, 20 miles south of Livingston. Come sip, soak, and swing! For more information, visit www.chicohotsprings.com. •