Bulletin Blog

…as seen on hometownheadlines.com

By Bryan Mullins

www.mullinsmania.com

TONIGHT

The 2011 Summer Poetry Night Series in the Schroeder’s Courtyard will come to a close this Thursday with an interesting twist. It will actually be a night of prose by Jake Sullins, a professor at Georgia Highlands College. He’ll be reading his short fiction piece, “12 Rounds”, recently published in The Georgia Review.

Russell McClanahan has been performing old time string band music in the Harvest Moon dining room on Thursday evenings for the better part of the last decade. He began playing there with the one and only Kasper “Stranger” Malone, a Rome legend who passed away in 2005. The duo’s performances were magic and since Malone’s passing, McClanahan has continued the tradition of sharing a piece of American culture that is rich within these North Georgia Hills. He knows that Malone is proud of the tradition that has fostered and featured numerous other artists since.

Jon Byrd is a local singer/songwriter that has earned much respect and a loyal fanbase from his acoustic performances as well as his full band shows. Each Thursday evening the downstairs bar at 333 on Broad welcomes Byrd for a night of tunes and friends. It’s almost like Cheers in there.

FRIDAY

This Friday afternoon Imagine Hair Art & Gallery Studio will host the opening reception for the Dr. Chris Hodges Art Show. Having taught hundreds of students at Rome High, Dr. Hodges is one of the most celebrated teachers I’ve ever come across. However, that is beside the point. If you are unfamiliar to Dr. Hodges’ art, you will immediately see that he is one of those rare talents that you only come cross a few times in life. His passion speaks for itself within his works.

If you just can’t make it out during the week, then you’ll be glad to know that Jon Byrd is working overtime this weekend and will be performing his acoustic music at the Moon Roof Friday night.

The 400 Block Bar is hosting an interesting combination this Friday night. Jerry on the Moon has played some killer shows this year and they are returning to the 400 Block Bar for a pre-holiday season romp. And they’ve invited a friend. Chattanooga-based Lon Eldridge picks and sings old time blues, ragtime, and jazz like a first language. I recommend checking out some tunes online and then the show. Any blues and early Americana fan is in for an unexpected treat.

Whenever Scratch Off John comes to town, one thing is for certain. Wherever they land is going to be rocked. This is a collection of avid classic rock enthusiasts that aren’t afraid to crank it up and deliver and they’ve got the skills to do so. They’ll be dabbling in everything from Pink Floyd to the Allman Brothers Band at 333 on Broad.

SATURDAY

Scott Thompson has got a busy schedule on Saturday night. Fans of Scott’s will have a great opportunity to see the many sides of his musical prowess. He’ll start off with a solo acoustic performance at Johnny’s New York Style Pizza. After that fans can head over to the upstairs lounge at 333 on Broad and catch Scott and his friends in full band form.

Thunderbolt Patterson is the dynamic duo of David Bell and Tim Bowen. If you’ve seen them perform before then you don’t need me to tell you about them. If you haven’t, you wouldn’t believe how much music these guys can make with just the two of them, and their extended arsenal of interesting instruments. They’ll be at the Moon Roof Bar this Saturday.

Looks like the 400 Block Bar will surely be hopping this Saturday night considering that the John Lee Hookers will be stopping by to throw down. This is Clay Broome’s latest combo that pays homage to the great early blues singers as well as the rockabilly swing that it collided with to form rock & roll.

Schroeder’s Courtyard will be lifting off this Saturday night with the sci-fi tinged experimental space rock of Dingus Con. This is a side project with members ofPrecious Lemons and My Ninja. You never know where these guys are going to take you but chances are you’ll really enjoy the ride.

-Hear Bryan and Matt D weekdays from 7-9 a.m. on The Ridge 95.7 FM.

By Bryan Mullins

www.mullinsmania.com

TONIGHT

Russell McClanahan & the mOOn Crew perform old time string band music in the dining room at Harvest Moon Café. McClanahan has played with many talented people over the years and continues to keep what has become a tradition alive.

Local songwriter and acoustic musician Jon Byrd will perform in the back bar at 333 on Broad. This is a family friendly dinner performance that’s just right if you’re looking to wind down from a crazy week and enjoy some solid acoustic music in a laid back environment.

FRIDAY

Cory Tucker is a local singer/songwriter that always draws a crowd with his soulful acoustic work and smooth vocals. You never really know what genres Tucker will pull from which has earned him a loyal fan base. On Friday night he will be performing at Johnny’s New York Style Pizza.

Donny Hammonds is one hard working dude. He gigs constantly all over the region and pulls songs from a huge catalog of favorites that are nonstop crowd pleasers. He performs acoustically Friday night at the Moon Roof Bar. There’s a good chance that if you name it, he’ll play it.

After the Crash is an Alternative pop rock group that has been touring all over the country for the last five years. Their continuous travels have finally led them to Rome and they will be blowing up the stage this Friday night at 333 on Broad. If you are a sucker for late ’90s alt rock hits then you’ll love these guys.

The folks at the 400 Block Bar will be having a good time with It’s My Island, a two-man band that was formed last minute for last year’s St. Patty’s Day party at the 400 Block Bar. Unsurprisingly, folks couldn’t get enough of the power duo of Stephen Smith and Ian Griffin and they continue to play to this day, and will perform Friday night at the 400 Block Bar.

SATURDAY

It is time for the 4th Annual Rome Beer Festival to return to Heritage Park this Saturday afternoon. For beer aficionados it is a fine way to show support for the Rome Area Council for the Arts, as they will be able to sample over 50 beers while enjoying the musical flavors of four local bands. Backswing, Jerry on the Moon, Muletide Perkins Trio and The Strange will all add toast worthy soundtracks to an event that Romans have come to love.

This is a perfect time of the year for music under the stars and who is better equipped to astound listeners in the Schroeder’s Courtyard than the legendary Glenn Phillips Band. This will be a rare and special ’70s Time Capsule performance featuring songs from Glenn’s first three albums (1975-1980). The band will also be joined by guest David Byrd on pedal steel who played with Glenn in the ’70s. For early fans of Glenn’s music, this is a must see. I suspect that those of use who missed those days will enjoy it just the same.

Jon Byrd is a busy guy and for that we are grateful because he is an excellent acoustic artist that people have really come to love and enjoy. I’ve come to find out that some folks only check my website to see when and where Jon is playing. This Saturday evening he’ll be at Johnny’s New York Style Pizza.

If you’re a Cory Tucker fan and you just couldn’t make it out to Johnny’s on Friday night then you have another opportunity to catch him at the Moon Roof Bar on Saturday. Or you could just do what some fans will be doing and catching both nights.

The Rome Symphony Orchestra directed by Dr. Richard Prior, is proud to present the vocal talents of soprano Indra Thomas. She will sing Gershwin and Barber with the Orchestra at their Saturday evening performance at Rome City Auditorium. The Orchestra will also perform Brahms’ Symphony No. 1.

Daddy Irv is a group that squeezes about as much talent into a room as you can when it comes to performing classic hits that sprawl over multiple genres and decades. They will be playing at 333 on Broad Saturday night.

As the Americana crave continues to sweep the United States it’s safe to say that one of the finest pickers and singers in Appalachian folk rock dwells right here in Floyd County. Scott Warren effortlessly breathes soulful southern rock and blues into every performance without hubris. He’s assembled a mighty cast of musicians to chime in as Scott Warren & the Booze Mountaineers will be add layers of goodness to the 400 Block Bar this Saturday night.

-For more, please click www.mullinsmania.com

-Hear Bryan and Matt D weekdays from 7-9 a.m. on The Ridge 95.7 FM.

…as seen on HometownHeadlines.com…

By Bryan Mullins

www.mullinsmania.com

So we’ve come to the conclusion that there is quite a bit of local talent in the area and that is exciting. However, I know there are many more talented individuals out there that are looking for the right moment to show us what you’ve got.

Well, Johnny’s New York Style Pizza is offering up an opportunity to take part in a series of Open Mic Night performance beginning tonight. The show is hosted by local favorite and pro Scott Thompson. Each performer plays two songs and the top two artists will be invited back for another at the end of the night. Anyone interested should e-mail Johnny’s at info@johnnysrome.com.

The Rome Area Songwriters Association will return to the Schroeder’s Courtyard for their monthly concert. This group has been celebrating and showcasing the art of original songwriting for over a decade now. Tonight’s performance includes Gene Brigham, Rick McKee and Jeremy Guider.

Russell McClanahan & the mOOn Crew summon up Appalachian roots with old time string music in the Harvest Moon dining room. McClanahan is not only a local musician but also a local historian that he plays the same kind of music that has been played since Rome’s earliest days which is a testament to his passion for this community as well as the music.

Up the street at 333 on Broad there will be another group of music loving diners gathering to hear the music of acoustic artist Jon Byrd. Byrd has become a local favorite and is perfect for the comfy downstairs bar at the 3′s.

It is time for one of my favorite events of the year! The 8th Annual Rome International Film Festival kicks off tonight with the opening film at DeSoto Theater. This year’s opener, Sahkanaga, is a “fictional exploration of a scandal that rocked a tight-knit community in the Appalachian foothills of Northwest Georgia.”

FRIDAY

The Rome International Film Festival will be showing blocks of independent films all day at DeSoto Theater and Heritage Hall. Get your hands on a program so you won’t miss what you want to see. Sometimes the hardest part is deciding between two interesting blocks that are showing at the same time. That’s not a bad problem to have if you ask me.

There will also be some great live entertainment for filmgoers and filmmakers as Broad Street venues host excellent artists this weekend.

Dingus Con is a band that merges members from two other extremely talented groups (Precious Lemons and My Ninja) and comes up with a sound all their own. You really never know what you’re going to get with these guys, which is why I think filmmakers will especially like them. They could definitely spice up a flick with some interesting soundtrack material that is raw and real. See them at Moon Roof Bar.

Jordan Hallquist is a Chattanooga singer/songwriter who has been coined as “honest and transparent music for the soul.” His influences range from Bo Diddley to Neil Young and he enjoys fronting a band and getting loud as well a playing living room style acoustic sets which is what he’ll be doing at Johnny’s New York Style Pizza this Friday.

Gareth Asher & The Earthlings is an exciting group that excels in acoustic Southern soul. Asher hails from Bowdon but now lives in Atlanta and has recently enjoyed great success sharing the stage with popular Southern rock artists like Sister Hazel, Collective Soul, and Shawn Mullins. He’ll be bringing his band of earthlings to 333 on Broad.

Here’s another band that is perfect for RIFF weekend. Atomic Boogie is a rockabilly swing and jump blues band that pays homage to the origins of rock ‘n’ roll like a crossover between the sounds of Sun Records in Memphis and Chess Records in Chicago. After sitting in theater enjoying films all day, you’ll want to stop by the 400 Block Bar for a taste of the good boogie.

SATURDAY

Film blocks will continue to be shown all day in the Rome International Film Festival. The closing Night & Awards Ceremony will be held at Heritage Hall to celebrate the Best of the Fest. Following the ceremony is a final film block entitled Zombies in the South! Zombies are more popular than ever in cinema and this block will celebrate Georgia filmmakers take on the undead. Oh, and come as you are or come dressed as your favorite zombie.

Brent McDonald is an Atlanta area singer/songwriter that is one of the fresh faces that Johnny’s New York Style Pizza has helped bring through Rome over the last year. He stays very busy being involved with multiple bands but truly loves playing acoustic solo performances which is what he’ll be doing Saturday night.

If you’re having a classic rock itch you can scratch it this Saturday at the Schroeder’s Courtyard with the return of The Hip Knotics. This band consists of members of one of Rome’s favorite tribute band, The Beatless. They’ve branched out into performing an array of other great tunes from other great bands of the time, as well as adding some great original material as well.

You may have seen Stephen Smith recently performing a merengue dance at the Rome Celebrity Dance Challenge, which was very impressive. Well, if you come out the Moon Roof on Saturday night you will see a completely different side of Stephen’s talents, and this one he’s been doing for years. Let’s just say this guy can wail on the blues and adds ad nice roots blues vibe to songs from other genres as well.

Bent in Bama is a band of young dudes that hail from the great state to the left. They have a very fresh approach to their blend of country and rock that manage to blend a driving and commanding sound with a smooth laid back approach. These guys have turned a lot of folks on over the past year and will return to the 400 Block Bar on Saturday night.

Babe’s Bayou is a group of good ol’ country boys from Adairsville that have become known for putting on one heck of a show over the years. They really amp it up and put on a professional show and they’ll be doing that Saturday night at 333 on Broad.

-Hear Matt D  & Mullins weekdays from 7-9 a.m. on The Ridge 95.7 FM.

 By Bryan Mullins

www.mullinsmania.com

TONIGHT

Russell McClanahan & the mOOn Crew will continue one of Rome’s favorite more recent traditions, which is performing old time string band music to the dinner crowd at Harvest Moon.

Jon Byrd will perform acoustic originals and favorites in the downstairs bar at 333 on Broad, which is becoming another one of Rome’s cherished weekly events.

FRIDAY

The final show of an excellent First Friday Concert Series will bring the one and only Georgia Blues Brothers to Bridgepoint Plaza Friday evening. These guys are the ultimate pranksters and put on an exciting show every time. This is definitely one the whole family will enjoy.

Scott Warren & the Booze Mountaineers will bring their roots fueled Appalachian rock to 333 on Broad. The guitar playing and soulful booming vocals of Warren are enough to make for an excellent show. Add the all-star cast of the Booze Mountaineers and you’ve got an absolutely awesome band.

Sarah Peacock is a countrified pop vocalist and songwriter that is not afraid to bring it to wherever she’s at, which is all over the place. Touring nationally with over 200 dates a year, the Atlanta native is returning to Johnny’s New York Style Pizza this Friday night.

The Moon Roof will be jumping this Friday night Kid Dynamite! This powerful swamp rock & roots blues duo hails from Valdosta and packs plenty of punch to go around. This is the kind of stuff that it’s quite alright to break a sweat to.

My Ninja is back in action at the 400 Block Bar with one of the freshest sounds around.  This time around it’s a Celebrity Night in which everyone is invited to dress up as their favorite celebrity. Is this a primer for Halloween. Even if you don’t want to dress up you won’t want to miss these guys.

SATURDAY

The 22nd Annual Running Water Powwow Cherokee Homecoming and Ripe Corn Festival will be held this Saturday and Sunday at Ridge Ferry Park. This is a great family event that involves intricate competitive Cherokee dance, educational events, storytelling, song, and so much more. It’s a must for Northwest Georgians if you’ve yet to attend.

Scott Thompson is one of Rome’s favorite singer/songwriters known for putting on a great show every time whether he’s with his country rock band Peachtree Station or playing a friendly and intimate solo acoustic performance which he’ll be doing this Saturday evening at Johnny’s New York Style Pizza.

The Moon Roof Bar is excited to host the dynamic duo of Thunderbolt Patterson. David Bell and Tim Bowen are excellent multi-instrumentalists that put on quite a performance of great originals and deep covers from the roots of rock & roll.

Jon Byrd is another one of Rome’s favorite acoustic artists but this Saturday night he’ll be joined by a full band and playing in the upstairs lounge at 333 on Broad. Fans of Byrd’s solo acoustic shows are sure to enjoy this group.

Muletide Perkins Trio is looking forward to returning to their old favorite stomping grounds at the 400 Block Bar. Their country rock infused sound that they like to call “barnyard slop rock” usually ends up all over the floor but they always clean up before they leave, whatever that means.

The Armuchee Bluegrass Festival will be held this Saturday and Sunday on the grounds of the Armuchee Saddle Club. This is another great family affair that includes top shelf regional acts including Grass Backwards, The Weeks Family, Carl & Buzzy, and The Skyliners. The Armuchee Bluegrass Festival is the oldest festival of it’s kind in Georgia.

-For more, please click www.mullinsmania.com

-Hear Bryan and Matt D weekdays from 7-9 a.m. on The Ridge 95.7 FM.

…as seen on HometownHeadlines.com…

By Bryan Mullins

www.mullinsmania.com

TONIGHT

The monthly Poetry Night in the Schroeder’s Courtyard falls this evening revisiting an earlier series called Speaking of Tuscaloosa. The occasion features three Tuscaloosa poets and donations are graciously accepted to benefit the Tuscaloosa Tornado Relief Fund, as they are still recovering from the devastating tornado in late April. The visiting poets this time are A.B. Gorham, and Brian Oliu.

Russell McClanahan & the mOOn Crew will pick old time string band music in the Harvest Moon dining room. Jon Byrd is one of Rome’s favorite acoustic artists and he’ll be playing originals and favorites from multiple genres in the downstairs bar of 333 on Broad. Both of these have become very welcome Thursday night dinner events.

FRIDAY 

If you’re looking for some good grub and dinner music then definitely keep Johnny’s New York Style Pizza in mind as they’ll host the unquestionable talent of Backswing, consisting of Lee Shealy and Alan Smith.

Kevn Kinney is one of Georgia’s favorite musical treasures and his band rocks. They’ve been criss-crossing the Southeast with their nitty-gritty roadhouse sound for years, playing to the most diverse crowd you’ll find, not to mention that his legendary band Drivin N Cryin just released a brand new album. This guy is as real as it gets when it comes to the honest American songster and loves small town gigs just as much as sold out arenas. We’re looking forward to the Kevn Kinney Band’s Friday night performance at 333 on Broad.

The Moon Roof Bar is proud to host Clay Broome’s blues drenched rockabilly ensemble, the John Lee Hookers. This is Broome unleashed with his former student Chris Carter on bass and Chuck Harris holding it down on the kit with the ease. If you love the raw side of early rock ‘n’ roll then these guys are a must.

It looks like we are taking it back to early American music no matter where you go on Friday night because The Rick Byers Band is returning to the 400 Block Bar with their Southern rock and country combo that tends to lean towards that early ’50s and ’60s country and western sound. He has earned a reputation around town to put on one heck of a show.

EmJay Qubed features members of the local world fusion group Devidasa with a more stripped down lineup of Jeffrey Lidke on percussion, multi-instrumentalist Marc Johnson, Josh Stephenson on the keys, and Jim Watkins on guitar. This is a fresh groove and world music oriented sound that can be seen and heard this Friday night in the Schroeder’s Courtyard.

SATURDAY

It’s finally time for the Rome Celebrity Dance Challenge, a fundraiser benefiting the essential efforts of the Sexual Assault Center of Northwest Georgia. This is going to be a showdown including the likes of familiar local faces including veterinarian Dr. Dan Pate, retired Shorter University president Harold Newman, City Commissioner Duane Reed and many more including my main man Matt D! I can’t wait to see these guys break it down for the greater good this Saturday evening at the Rome City Auditorium.

Kneckdown is tried and true one of Rome’s favorite bands, whether it’s just Chris and Jay delivering the goods on their acoustics or if they’ve got their band full of tremendous talent. These guys are always having a great time whenever they play and it has proven to be contagious. This Saturday night you’ll get a chance to catch the stripped down version in the comfy confines of Johnny’s New York Style Pizza.

Ben Deignan and Suburban Soul is an Atlanta-based pop rock and soul band that has been making massive amount of commotion over the last few years with a solid band that drops some really funky tunes over Ben’s original tunes that have earned high remarks from members of Collective Soul and Blues Traveler frontman Jon Popper. They’ll be laying down a nice groove at 333 on Broad this Saturday night.

McNary is a thoughtful and soulful Atlanta based pop trio that seems to dwell amongst a dreamy landscape while presenting down to earth lyrics. They’ll return to the 400 Block Bar this Saturday.

-For more, please click www.mullinsmania.com

-Hear Bryan and Matt D weekdays from 7-9 a.m. on The Ridge 95.7 FM.

…as seen on HometownHeadlines.com… 

By Bryan Mullins

www.Mullinsmania.com

Dinner and music has become a staple in downtown Rome thanks to Harvest Moon Café and 333 on Broad.

The Harvest Moon dining room will host the old time string band music of Russell McClanahan & the mOOn Crew, a group of Skilled musicians loyal to the early Appalachian sound.

Acoustic artist Jon Byrd will perform at the downstairs bar of 333 on Broad for a later but still family friendly dinner show that has become a pre-weekend highlight to many.

Rex Garner will lead an open mic that usually consists of an excellent gang of top shelf pickers at Café 212 in Rockmart.

FRIDAY

Chattanooga songwriter Jordan Hallquist has been playing around the southeastern U.S. for over five years and has been building a solid fan base in the regions that he’s frequented. He’s currently working on his third CD. He has no problem fronting a full band but also excels at solo acoustic performances, which he will be doing at Johnny’s New York Style Pizza this Friday.

Jason Lyles is another Chattanooga songwriter but is no stranger to Rome as he’s been performing here for the better part of the last decade. His original songs and covers are an upbeat power pop and alternative medley that flat out sounds great and he’s got some great CD’s for sale that hopefully he’ll bring with him to the Moon Roof Bar on Friday.

Bent in Bama is a young but extremely talented four piece band that has been invading Rome from the west over the past year. They bring a surprisingly fresh blend of country and rock that really makes for a driving yet smooth sound all at the same time. They have been a great addition to the local music scene and will return to the 400 Block Bar on Friday.

There’s no doubt that 333 on Broad will be hopping Friday night as they’ll host Jerry on the Moon, a group that has quickly become a force to be reckoned with over the last two years. Their combination of alt rock, improv funk jams, and solid original songwriting has left many a friend and fan plum tickled and wore out…in a good way.

SATURDAY

Cedartown bred Sam Hunt has been making a name for himself for some time now whether it be on the football field or on stage performing his down home country rock all over the Southeast. He’ll be at 333 on Broad Saturday night with his backup, the Second Chance Band and a bunch of folks who can’t wait.

Jon Byrd has not become one of Rome’s favorite singer/songwriters by accident. Attribute much hard work, first-rate talent and skill, and being a cool guy that feels right at home playing for you and your friends and you’ve got a Byrd in flight. Sorry Jon, had to do it, especially with your day job and whatnot. He’ll blend a grand selection of favorites and originals at Johnny’s New York Style Pizza on Saturday.

Donny Hammonds is an acoustic country and Southern rock artist loaded with tunes. You name it, this guy can play it and he does all over the place and fortunately he’s included Rome into has many gig dates. Saturday night it will be at the Moon Roof Bar.

CRBI will be hosting their annual River Revelry at Heritage Park that is always a great time because there’s good people, BBQ, brews, great music, and an essential organization in this day in age. This year the music is from Red Eye Jedi and Jerry on the Moon. Both of those bands are on fire and both kept in time by kit master Jedd Lovell. Rome’s location on this three river convergence has been celebrated for way longer than our historical records can provide, which adds to the authenticity of this biodiversity bash.

-Join Mullins and Matt D on The Ridge 95.7 FM weekdays, 7-9 a.m.

…as seen on HometownHeadlines.com… 

By Bryan Mullins

www.mullinsmania.com

Russell McClanahan & the mOOn Crew will perform old time string band music for the dinner crowd at Harvest Moon, which has become a downtown tradition.

The Rome Area Songwriter’s Association will return to the Schroeder’s Courtyard to host this month’s Songwriters Night. Tonight will feature two of the original members that are honest songwriters through and through, David Elliott and Gary Greene.

Jon Byrd continues his Thursday night residency in the downstairs bar at 333 on Broad. This is a family friendly evening dinner show that is perfect for a weekend wind down. Byrd has earned his spot as one of Rome’s favorite songwriters and acoustic performers.

FRIDAY

Jordan Hallquist is a Chattanooga-based singer/songwriter that has been playing all over the Southeast over the last five years, blending all styles of American music and building a solid fanbase in the many cities that he frequents. Friday night he will perform at Johnny’s New York Style Pizza, another fine venue that is introducing fresh faces to the Rome music scene as well as featuring some of Rome’s favorites.

Backswing returns to the Moon Roof Bar to effortlessly perform their groovy tunes that cross all multiple musical genres. With this guys your liable to hear anything from “Walking in Memphis” to “Little Red Corvette.”

Schroeder’s Courtyard will host an evening of Northwest Georgia slop rock with Muletide Perkins Trio along with Graham and Vann. Both bands are deeply rooted at Schroeder’s and began their dubious adventures in the famous courtyard. The fact that their first show of this year’s courtyard season falls on a full moon eve in the dog days of summer is probably not an accident. Come sweat and howl with the Floyd County freaks.

If you want to get a quick lesson into the roots of rock ‘n’ roll then all you have to do is show up to the 400 Block Bar this Friday night and check out Atomic Boogie. Their name is derived from a ’50s radio show that was the first to have the audacity to combine black and white American music. With Atomic Boogie you get a mix of that raw soulful Chess Records Chicago blues and the rockabilly rumble that emerged from Memphis’ Sun Records, and a bit of all the other pieces to the rock ‘n’ roll pie.

Daddy Irv is a Northwest Georgia music supergroup featuring the likes of Lee Shealy, Clint Ledford, Bill Carroll, Randy Baker and Jon Ledford. If you recognize these names then you can also appreciate the combined amount of talent that builds the foundation of this ultimate party band. The list of influences and catalog is too vast to even begin to mention. Daddy Irv will take the stage at 333 on Broad this Friday.

SATURDAY

In the Rome singer/songwriter community, there is an remarkable individual that not only acts as an amazing songwriter, but also one heck of a storyteller. The Schroeder’s Courtyard is proud to host the Grand Imagineer Gary Greene as he celebrates the release of his new album simply entitled “Songs & Stories.” The musicians that appear on Gary’s album are of an all-star cast of friends some of which will be there to perform with his band, the Green-Go’s.

Brent McDonald is a singer/songwriter that has recently moved to Georgia from Columbia, S.C., where he grew up listening to Motown and beach music. He’s been dead set on making music ever since and he has already made quite a name for himself in the Georgia songwriting community. He’s another fresh face that will appear at Johnny’s New York Style Pizza.

HootN’Annie is a group of fearless young ladies that mix splendid inventive songs with a varied range of tunes that you won’t hear anybody else play. It’s perfect that they will be performing at the Moon Roof on a hot August full moon.

Another one of Rome’s optimum assemblages will appear at the 400 Block Bar this Saturday night. Thunderbolt Patterson is the duo of the David Bell and Tim Bowen, two modest guys that have every right in the world to not be modest, which makes them particularly cool. Living in a world of cynics and critics, this is one of the only bands that I’ve never heard a bad thing about.

The Stevie Monce Band has been playing all over the Southeast non stop and is returning to 333 on Broad this Saturday. Stevie is a go getter who decided in 2007 that he was going to make music that people could really enjoy and relate to. His ambition has paid off well as he has earned much respect among many Georgia artists and listeners.

-Join Mullins and Matt D on The Ridge 95.7 FM weekdays, 7-9 a.m.

..as seen on HometownHeadlines.com..

By Bryan Mullins

Mullinsmania.com

TONIGHT

The City Club above Old Havana is hosting a special performance tonight featuring Gypsy Wind, a Florida-based acoustic newgrass, swing, and gypsy jazz ensemble that carries their listeners across borders and time. Also performing are The Groundhawgs, Northwest Georgia’s own bluegrass and old time string band started almost a decade ago by the brothers Clark and Clayton Jones. This should one that you won’t want to miss if you have a love for fine acoustic music.

Thursday evenings just wouldn’t be the same with out the Russell McClanahan & the mOOn Crew at the Harvest Moon, featuring some of the areas finest string band pickers and players. This has become one of Rome’s richest new traditions.

333 on Broad is working on a dinner tradition of its own, featuring one of Rome’s favorite singer/songwriters Jon Byrd on Thursday evenings in the downstairs bar. This is also a family friendly show.

Johnny’s New York Style Pizza is holding an open mic night on the first Thursday of every month starting tonight. Local favorite Scott Thompson will host this opportunity for new faces to share their talents.

FRIDAY

One thing to look forward to at the beginning of each summer month is the First Friday Concert Series. This Friday the series presents The Infinity Show Band. I’m not sure what they mean by infinity but it could very well be used to explain their catalog and variety of genres that they play including Motown, R&B, disco, beach, country, blues, reggae, rock ‘n’ roll, jazz, Latin and Zydeco just to name a few. These guys are serious professionals known all over the Southeast as knowing how to shine at any occasion. (7 p.m., Bridgepoint Plaza, free).

The Moon Roof Bar is thrilled for the return of the John Lee Hookers this Friday night. Clay Broome is a blues and rockabilly guitar powerhouse that has formed this talented combo in order to pay homage to the delta blues greats, honky tonk heroes, and rockabilly ramblers that have defined Southeastern music and gave birth to rock ‘n’ roll.

Thomas Tillman is a Georgia boy through and through and has lived all over the state in his life which has allowed him to soak up the rich and diverse music that can be found in different regions of the state. He has made a name for himself in Nashville and is one of 333 on Broad’s biggest draws. They are very much looking forward to his return on Friday.

The 400 Block Bar is pleased for the return of It’s My Island, which started as a one-show band for a St. Patrick’s Day party. It turned out to be a huge success and they’ve been playing by that name ever since. The duo consists of the combined talents of Stephen Smith and Ian Griffin.

Johnny’s New York Style Pizza has done a great job of bringing in fresh names and great new talents to Rome. Friday night they are excited to welcome Sarah Peacock, who keep a tight schedule playing all over the country and internationally. The Atlanta-based country rock vocalist is recently released a new album that was recorded at Eddie’s Attic in Decatur.

SATURDAY

The Moon Roof Bar will have Cory Tucker on Saturday. Cory is a local singer/songwriter that plays a mix of blues, country, and acoustic soul. He plays a lot of stuff that you wouldn’t expect to hear, and has built up quite an audience in the last few years.

Scott Warren will bring his merry band of Booze Mountaineers to the 400 Block Bar this Saturday night with the intentions of filling the room with the wholesome sound of Appalachian Rock that Warren has honed in on for years. A local staple to the existence of a music scene in Northwest Georgia, Warren is a local powerhouse and his recent conglomerate of regional talent is a must see.

Curiosity Shoppe is another band that has been rocking the Southeast for some time now, at least since the mid-90s. They have made a name for themselves as the ultimate party band and have recently had some huge shows at 333 on Broad. They’ll return there this Saturday night.

Scott Thompson is yet another one of the areas finest performers and is equipped to play any room. Johnny’s Pizza is a perfect spot for him to play his acoustic show loaded with favorite covers and his own originals that have become favorites as well.

-More Mullins: Check his website, MullinsMania, for expanded entertainment coverage. Join Mullins and Matt D on The Ridge 95.7 FM weekdays, 7-9 a.m.

…as seen on HometownHeadlines.com…

By Bryan Mullins

www.mullinsmania.com

It’s time for this month’s Poetry Night in the Schroeder’s Courtyard featuring local author and columnist Raymond L. Atkins, Georgia State University radio DJ K.B. Kincer, and Atlanta poet Robert Pfeiffer.

Russell McClanahan & the mOOn Crew recollect Appalachian roots with old time string band music in the Harvest Moon dining room, while Jon Byrd performs acoustic favorites and originals in the downstairs bar at 333 on Broad. Both are family friendly performances that have become staples in Rome’s rising music scene.

FRIDAY

Backswing is back in full swing at the Moon Roof Bar this Friday night, a place that they have set the mood for many an excellent evening with their effortless unfolding of some of the finest songs ever written from multiple genres.

To say that Jerry on the Moon has had a great year is like saying golf is an outdoor sport. I don’t really know what the means but I do know that Jerry on the Moon has been building some serious momentum over the last couple of years and have been adding more material with each show that has recently been known to cause people to flat out get their groove on. They will return to the Schroeder’s Courtyard for a night of good vibes and great tunes.

It’s sure no secret that Clay Broome’s latest blues drenched rockabilly ensemble, the John Lee Hookers, have no regard for library etiquette when on the stage. Chuck Harris is an ace on the drum kit and the low end from bassist Chris Carter perfectly rounds out this rowdy and unreserved homage to the blend of early delta blues and that countrified rock that spawned out of Memphis and the Southeast as a whole in the 50’s. The 400 Block Bar is Friday night’s stomping ground.

Bones Bash 2K11 will be held at 333 on Broad on Friday night and will host DJ Slick Rick spinning all the best dance music to keep the party hopping, including all your favorite old school hip hop tracks that defined the late 80’s and early 90’s. If you don’t know Bones, which you probably do, just know that he knows how to throw a party. This will be like a house party on steroids that everyone is more than welcome to attend.

SATURDAY

Tired of hearing about debt ceilings? Well 333 on Broad is going to raise the roof in a much more exciting way on Saturday night with a double feature of some super fun and fearless bands. Shotgun Scooter provides one of the freshest sounds from the Nashville underground with their rich blend of old school country, bluegrass, and rock & roll. Local wildcats Muletide Perkins Trio will begin the evening with their barnyard Georgia slop rock that hits right at home in this neck of the woods.

The Moon Roof Bar will host the soulful country blues and Appalachian rock of Scott Warren & the Booze Mountaineers this Saturday night. Warren has been absorbing music since he was a youngster and his passion for it is undeniable. The band he has accumulated is top shelf.

Donny Hammonds is one hard working musician that plays all over the region. He’s got a huge collection of songs and chances are if you name it, he will play it. He’ll be at the 400 Block Bar on Saturday.

-More Mullins: Check his website, MullinsMania, for expanded entertainment coverage. Join Mullins and Matt D on The Ridge 95.7 FM weekdays, 7-9 a.m.

…as seen on HometownHeadlines.com…

By Bryan Mullins

www.mullinsmania.com

TONIGHT 

Enjoy dinner and some music at some of downtown Rome’s finest establishments.

Russell McClanahan & the mOOn Crew have been celebrating old time string band music for the Thursday night Harvest Moon dining room crowd for years now. It has become one of Rome’s finest treats. McClanahan originally performed these shows with local legend Stranger Malone who passed away in 2005. Malone would sure be proud of the talent that McClanahan gathers weekly since his passing.

Jon Byrd has maintained a late dinner show residence in the downstairs bar of 333 on Broad. This is a later dinner that is family friendly but perfect for folks trying to wind down from a busy week. Byrd has become one of Rome’s favorite performers.

FRIDAY

Chattanooga based alternative pop rock singer/songwriter Jason Lyles returns to the Moon Roof Bar Friday night. He’s been a staple in the Rome music scene through better or for worse and always puts on a great show. If you like the ’90s alt rock sounds reminiscent to Matthew Sweet then Lyles is right up your alley.

Francisco Vidal has also been an important thread in the fabric of our local music scene for years now. He is not only one of the Atlanta area’s favorite and most respected singer/songwriters, he has been highly influential in bringing many other great acts into Rome. He will receive a warm welcome this Friday night in the lounge at 333 on Broad.

Yet another very important piece to the local puzzle of live music will be performing at the 400 Block Bar Friday night. Scott Thompson will be performing with a recent gathering of some of the area’s finest musicians for this one, like Jedd Lovell, Bill Carroll and Bobby DeHart. Should be a good one.

Yes, I know it sounds crazy, but yet another one of the area’s favorite and most respected musicians will be lighting up the stage at DJ’s Tavern this Friday. That’s right, the pink man Clay Broome will be bringing the blues drenched reckless rockabilly sounds of the John Lee Hookers to the stage. Clay Broome and boredom are antonyms. Think pink!

I can’t talk about all these fine artists without mentioning David Elliott. He has established himself as not only a great songwriter but an exquisite guitarist. His performance successfully combines the two talents and is perfect for a listening room like Cups & Mugs on Broad Street.

SATURDAY

Saturday night brings some exciting opportunities, one of which is the return of The Hip-Knotics! These guys are mostly made up of members from Rome’s favorite tribute bands, The Beatless, specializing in classics and rarities of The Beatles. Now that they have conquered that, the group has been restructured, renamed and now features a catalog from multiple artists of that sweet classic rock genre. The original material is a collection of gems as well.

The Moon Roof Bar is glad to bring back the local indie folk artists called HootN’Annie. These young ladies are fearless and full of fresh spirit that translates well into their collaboration of fresh rare covers and memorable originals.

McNary is an Atlanta-based three piece that has put on some great shows and accumulated some satisfied listeners around Rome with their modern pop and alt rock blend. They’ll be returning to the 400 Block Bar this Saturday night for another round.

Well, I don’t know much about MissUsed but I do know that the band features Jay Bradshaw previously of Down Stroke and Bag Of Bonz. That’s enough to let me know that this crew is not afraid to crank it up and bring it directly to your face and eardrums. They will visit Rome for the first time this Saturday at 333 on Broad.

-More Mullins: Check his website, MullinsMania, for expanded entertainment coverage. Join Mullins and Matt D on The Ridge 95.7 FM weekdays, 7-9 a.m.