Winter activities come in an abundance with plenty of opportunities to get out and recreate during Montana’s coldest stretch. But some prefer to stay indoors as the snow falls and the wind howls. Plan a weekend trip to Chico Hot Springs in the new year for a chance to soak the joints, feast on some delicious grub and enjoy live music in the Saloon. Read on for a preview of the event calendar this month.
Ian Thomas & Band of Drifters are back January 6th and 7th. 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.
Band of Drifters
The following weekend features El Wencho on Jan. 13th and 14th. 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.
Paradise Valley favorites The Fossils return with a pair of performances Jan. 20th and 21st. 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.
Late this month, Valley Sons front back-to-back shows on Jan. 27th and 28th. The multi-piece will perform a variety of rock, reggae and blues tunes for its lively audience.
And looking ahead, The Dirty Shame are back at it with Chico shows on February 3rd and 4th. The outlaw country band has been a staple of the Montana live music scene for decades, known for their cutting originals and unique spins on songs by the likes of Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings and Johnny Cash, among others. They released “Best Of” compilation A Few More for the Road last year.
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. •
