Sprightly St. Paddy’s celebrations unfold in and around Bozeman
It’ll likely be a while before the frozen ground allows green to sprout, but there’s a certain upcoming holiday to tide us over until it does! St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Saturday this year and there’s plenty of evening entertainment in and around Bozeman to help you celebrate. So, brush up on your favorite jig, don some shamrock green, and pour into the pubs on March 17th! Here’s a look at where you can catch some great live music and events — and maybe a leprechaun or four-leaf clover!
Local piano man and guitarist Bob Britten brings a performance to the Kountry Korner Café beginning at 5:30pm. He studied classical guitar and attended Christopher Parkening’s master classes at MSU, having since played with various bands and as a solo performer for many years.
Willy James heads out to Norris Hot Springs with a poolside show at 7pm. The singer/songwriter’s vocals have the soulfulness of yesterday’s greats like John Fogerty, Bob Seger, and Waylon Jennings, with lots of power and expression. He’ll be performing mostly original songs, with some favorites thrown in.
Also at 7pm, Howard Beall & the Fake News play Red Tractor Pizza. Their music is groove-based, specifically pulling from the jazz, rock, and funk genres. They play a blend of original compositions, standards, and modern songs with the intent of creating fresh sounds while still respecting the heritage and language of those before them.
The Rialto hosts special event New Neighbors Project Films & Music with Joel Makeci at 7:30pm. Recently arrived African refugees will share their stories of assimilation since joining our statewide community. The evening will feature short films and a Q&A session with the filmmakers themselves. Afterwards, steady yourself for the wonderfully worldly sounds from Makeci, a true and mysterious musical gift from way across the waters, now at home in Missoula. Celebrate what makes this country unique by welcoming new voices, styles, and music into your lives — and meet your new neighbors!
How about some St. Paddy’s laughs? Employing what he’s labeled ‘hard funny,’ Christopher Titus is touring the country sharing his latest show, “Amerigeddon,” visiting The Ellen Theatre at 8pm. Known for leaving no stone unturned, especially within his own life and family, Titus takes his audience on a 90-minute ride that will leave them exhausted from laughter.
Catch country rockers Bluebelly Junction at the Eagles in Downtown Bozeman starting at 9pm. The group plays “rockabilly music” for their lively audiences. The high-energy band tends to veer away from slow jams, other than the occasional tune. With an arsenal of originals and personalized covers, the guys will keep you on your feet until last call.
Over the pass? Exit 288 will be rocking Chico Saloon at 9pm. The popular band performs everything from classic and contemporary rock, to blues, country, and all that’s in between. Exit 288 connects with the audience and creates a fun and exciting atmosphere. The band’s music is carefully selected to get people involved in the party and to keep the dance floor hopping!
Finally, out at Three Forks’ Sac Bar, Comstock Lode perform at 9pm. Bozeman’s best classic rock n’ roll and country western band plays covers from the ‘60s through the ‘00s. Creedence, Eagles, Green Day, Grand Funk, Elvis, Skynard, Beatles, Nirvana, Cash, George Strait, Garth Brooks, Vince Gill, Merle Haggard — just wait a couple minutes and you’ll hear an old or new favorite.
Further information about these St. Paddy’s Day and other upcoming events can be found throughout this issue of The BoZone. “Beannachtaí na Féile Pádraig oraibh,” Bozeman! •
