By Freddie Joseph
The Depot
There will be continual ski flicks on the big-screens at the Depot. Chris “Moose” Brown promises nothing but the best classic ski videos, because the Depot “works hard to keep the ART in PARTY”!
Friday Feb. 8
Gin Mill, 9 p.m.
2 Guys Drinking Beer
This is the downsized acoustic core of the Olean band West, but with a different mix of classic pop and rock favorites that will always keep you hummin’ and dancin’ (and hopefully drinkin’ some beer) with these two great entertainers.
Balloons, 7 p.m.
Mo Porter
Always a favorite here at Balloons, Buffalo’s “Ultimate Party Band” will surely keep the party going. Frontman Chuck does a mean Jim Morrison, and the whole quartet knows their rock n’ roll and will keep the dance floor full.
Madigan’s, 7 p.m.
Ade Adu
Not your average singer/songwriter/performer, Ade Adu was born in Buffalo, educated in Western New York, and has lived in West and South Africa, giving his music a more worldly feel. I first saw him perform a couple of years ago at an Allegany County fundraiser and was most impressed – and you will be, too.
Saturday Feb 9
Gin Mill, 9 p.m.
The Joe Wagner Band
Most soloists will also “upsize” to a four-piece group and Joe is no exception. His mercurial lineup keeps the repertoire interesting, including a wide range of folk, rock and blues favorites, with Joe switching between guitar and bass. Don’t miss this side of Joe.
Balloons, 5 p.m.
Route 66
An excellent classic rock band whose roots date back to 1986, Route 66 specializes in favorite, fun and danceable party rock delivered with a special touch. This group’s many accolades include Buffalo Music Awards Hall of Achievements’ “Best Classic Rock Band of the Past Decade.” Get YOUR kicks with Route 66 (Sorry, I couldn’t resist!).
The Pub – Great Valley,
10 p.m.
Oliverio
A local rock power trio consisting of dad Dan and sons, Dane and Anton, this family group performs both covers and originals from rock to country to blues to alternative as well. A real family affair.
Sunday, Feb 10
Balloons, 2 p.m.
The Sauce Boss
This guy is one-of-a-kind. He’s like Jimmy Buffett meets ZZ Top meets The Food Channel in Florida. Even Jimmy Buffett sings about him in his 1999 song “I Will Play for Gumbo.” Bill Wharton plays a raucous, Delta style of blues along with some great original songs. The Sauce Boss is the only personality that’s been featured in such diverse magazines as “Living Blues,””GQ” AND “Gourmet”! Be prepared for a spicy afternoon.
Wednesday, Feb 13
Gin Mill, 8:00 pm
Joe Wagner N’ Friends
Every Wednesday night (with VERY FEW exceptions), Joe has been playing here for 29 years! I’m doing the research to see if this is some kind of record. Along with Joe’s eclectic blend of pop, folk and rock favorites, the wings have been featured here for that time as well. You haven’t experienced EVL until you’ve seen Joe!
Thursday, Feb 14
Gin Mill, 8 p.m.
Freddie N’ Tuck
After the candy and flowers, there is no better way to finish your Valentine’s Day than by listening to some LOVE-ly music from Freddie & Rod. They’ll try to play your favorites just like the first time you heard them, to dance to or just listen to. Happy Valentine’s Day!
The Pub – Great Valley
9 p.m.
DJ Felony
One of the area’s top entertainers (he doesn’t just stand there like a human jukebox), DJ Felony has a light show, trivia, karaoke, and great music.
Madigan’s, 9:30 p.m.
Party Squad
Every Thursday night during ski season, Madigan’s hosts THE premier party band in WNY. Dave Elder & Co. keep the party going no matter how cold or snowy, and they always come through with great tunes and great times.
