Spring on out & soak up some sunlight at Norris
Now that we’d had a chance to adjust to that extra hour of daylight, why not celebrate the change in season with a trip out to Norris Hot Springs? Soak in the historic wooden pool and take a moment to enjoy the way spring creeps into Southwest Montana. Plans for the garden are well underway, with starts under grow lights chugging away for eventual inclusion into Norris’ famous organic meals. If your visit is timed for a sunset, you’ll notice the way the afternoon shadows are changing – summer will be here before you know it!
April is the last month before big changes settle into Norris – the campground will soon be open, the 50 Mile Grill back to serving the best locally sourced proteins, the freshest (mostly) on-site greens, and spectacular daily specials that will tantalize every taste bud in the family – with a regional microbrew or glass of wine to accompany the meal.
And if your visit happens to fall on a weekend, you can also add to the experience with the finest in regional acoustic live music from the Poolside Stage every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 7pm.
Make way for Dan Henry on Friday, April 5th. The Montana native is a singer/songwriter with a unique vocal style coupled with acoustic guitar and bluesy harmonica. He’s driven by a blues influence, but covers a wide range of music from folk and rock to reggae, and so much more.
Returning to Norris’ poolside stage is Dave Provost on Saturday, April 6th. The award-winning singer/songwriter plied his craft while engaging audiences on both coasts and points in-between for the last thirty years. His literate, world-weary lyrics sit in a roots-oriented musical context comprised of equal parts folk, country and American rock n’ roll. Funny and knowing, Provost is a memorable and engaging live performer who has shared the stage with Jackson Browne and Jesse Winchester, among others. His albums Home and My Favorite Ghost are available now.
On Sunday, April 7th, Lang Termes brings the tunes. Lang’s vocal style ranges from mellow folk ballads to growling boogie blues. His style of songwriting – both original music and lyrics – comes deep from the heart, or in some cases, bubbles up from his whimsical sense of irony. Lang’s selection of covers ranges from early country blues to the full gamut of contemporary classics. A few of his biggest influences include Muddy Waters, Woody Guthrie, Bruce Springsteen, Eddie Vedder, and Townes Van Zandt.
The Road Agents head out on Friday, April 12th. The band, composed of Jeff Peterson and Justin Ringsak, play acoustic rock n’ roll. They’re a guitar and mandolin duo people can groove to! Jeff and Justin will bring danceable, original songs about firewood, larceny, and resolve. The Road Agents’ debut EP, Dreams of Stingrays, Roadrunners, and Hangovers is available now.
Tom Kirwan is next up on Saturday, April 13th. He performs a blend of folk country and Americana. Tom’s songs evoke nostalgia of long-ago dreams and people, while weaving stories of human longing both past and present.
Enjoy the talents of Cole & the Thornes with a Sunday show on April 14th. The Mountain reggae and gypsy-infused soul band began with an infectious restlessness and a heart engraved with longing adventure. The band released its debut, Map Maker, last spring. The album is a collection of songs filled with funky grooves, sultry vocals, and empowering lyrics that capture the true meaning of being in the now. The Thornes have performed throughout the state, playing with popular reggae bands HIRIE, Sol Seed, and TreeHouse.
Further information about the natural minerals in the springs, operating hours, and the designated driver program, please visit www.norrishotsprings.com. Norris is located 34 miles west of Bozeman near the intersection of Highway 287 and Route 84. •
