Include Norris Hot Springs in your resolutions for 2019

Relación Brevisima, new to Norris on Friday, January 11th
It’s that time of year. Have you resolved to reduce stress? Eat better? Spend more quality time without electronics? Bond with the ones you love? Check all those off the list with a visit to Norris Hot Springs.
The ancient Babylonians are said to have been the first people to make New Year’s resolutions, some 4,000 years ago. They also made promises to the gods to pay their debts and return any objects they had borrowed. These promises could be considered the forerunners of our New Year’s resolutions. If the Babylonians kept to their word, their (pagan) gods would bestow favor on them for the coming year. If not, they would fall out of the gods’ favor – a place no one wanted to be (courtesy of History.com).
Despite the tradition’s religious roots, today’s New Year’s resolutions are a mostly secular practice. Instead of making promises to the gods, most people make resolutions only to themselves, and focus purely on self-improvement. According to recent research, while as many as 45 percent of Americans say they usually make New Year’s resolutions, only 8 percent are successful in achieving their goals.
You can improve your odds by visiting Norris Hot Springs for a deliciously nutritious meal, prepared with care by the staff who utilize locally sourced protein and fresh organic produce gathered from the onsite garden. Much of the harvest has been stored to appear in specials throughout the winter – offering you a taste of summer on the snowiest days. Pair your meal with a craft beer or glass of wine from their extensive selection for a meal delivered to you poolside. The soothing Water of the Gods will take care of the relaxation, self-care and stress-reduction you may have resolved to work on. And every Friday, Saturday and Sunday gives you a chance to soak, enjoy a meal and the best in live acoustic music at 7pm.
Neil Filo Beddow takes us into the new year on Friday, January 4th. He plays original folk rock for the soul, and describes his guitar style as the “West Dakota stutter.” His lyrically scrambled iambic pentameter can be politically bent, spiritually seeking, and tongue-in-cheek humorous with just a twist of serious.
Joe Schwem follows on Saturday, January 5th. He’s a singer/songwriter from Bozeman who plays a mix of originals and eclectic covers ranging from Americana to rock, and sea shanties to show tunes – all songs with stories and feeling. Joe is often joined by his sons, Jack and Harry, on guitar, mandolin, bass and harmony vocals.
Nathan North returns Sunday, January 6th. A Billings performer, Nathan uses loops to create complex and wonderful songs. He’ll be performing originals and notable covers.
The next week kicks off with Relación Brevisima, new to Norris on Friday, January 11th. The trio blends guitar, trumpet and looping technology for a unique experience. The songs are performed in Spanish and Portuguese, making for a cool, cultural sound.
On Saturday, January 12th join Restless Pines. The guitar and violin folk duo composed of Chad Ball and Sarah Crossman play original folk/roots and Americana music. The pair have played together in the Red Mountain Band for the last few years.
Travis Yost, a Norris favorite, returns on Sunday, January 13th. Also known around town as Love is a Dog from Nebraska, Travis is a musician, engineer, and producer from Missoula. He’s performed all over the West as a solo artist, and with other performers including Tom Catmull, Stellarondo, and NextDoorPrisonHotel. Travis has guested on Eric Funk’s 11th & Grant and performed at Red Ants Pants. He’s shared the stage with James McMurtry, Alejandro Escovedo, The Decemberists, The Lumineers, Jason Spooner, Martin Sexton, Wartime Blues, Sallie Ford, Jason Isbell, Dale Watson, and Brandi Carlile – to name just a few. He performs thoughtful sad stories with happy endings, on top of guitar and looper acrobatics.
Heather Lingle is back on Friday, January 18th. She’s a Montana-based singer/songwriter. A truly American roots writer, her music encompasses heartache and conquest that reflect the rugged independence of the West through good times and bad. Triumph always. She’s a soulful, rebellious, genuine Americana artist. Her latest album, Wild Blue, is available now.
Check out the Americana of Bozeman-based duo Sweet Sage on Saturday, January 19th. Comprised of Amanda Stewart (vocals, guitar) and Garrett Kuntz (banjo, mandolin, guitar), they’ll perform acoustic, alternative, and country covers – not to mention one or two originals.
Weston Lewis closes out the weekend on Sunday, January 20th. Lewis plays with a number of local bands, solo performances, and as a sit-in lead guitarist for artists including The Andrew Hand Band, John Sherrill, The Electric Sunday, Lang Termes, Mathias, and MOTH. His solo sets are comprised mostly of acoustic rock covers and some of his original songs. In band settings, he likes to play funk, jazz, country and more.
As always, for more information about operating hours, the designated driver free soak program, winter menu and more, please visit www.norrishotsprings.com. The hot springs are located 34 miles west of Bozeman near the intersection of Highway 287 and Route 84. The Norris staff wishes all a very happy 2019! •