Tis' not the season for national rock acts to breeze into Vail, but for those itching to hear – or play – live music, open mic night is a worthy alternative.
Loaded Joe's in Avon, Mango's Mountain Grill in Red Cliff and The Sandbar in West Vail all host open mics and while the pickings vary from week to week, there are certainly a pack of devout regulars at each venue and a surprising level of local (and transient) talent.
The beauty of open mic is that you never know what’s in store. You’ll get everything from a trio of hippies knocking out a series of bongo-laden Grateful Dead covers to singer-songwriters delivering irreverent, catchy originals.
At times, the stage can transform into a full-on rock jam, replete with a random cowboy riding the drum kit, impromptu bassist eyeing the right frets and a wall of guitarists honing their teamwork.
Mango’s Open Mic Thursdays: If you haven’t made the trip to Red Cliff, it’s high time you do. Drive up Battle Mountain beyond Minturn and make sure to cut yourself off or bring a designated driver. The event is hosted by Sexy Leo and coinciding with $2 fish tacos (they’re awesome). It’s BYOI (Bring Your Own Instrument); Amps and sound are provided for open mic beginning at 8 p.m.; 970-827-9109.
Loaded Joe’s Open Mic Sunday: Loaded Joe’s in Avon, always a mecca for stylin’ twenty and thirty-somethings, offers Paul Churchill as MC beginning at 9:30 p.m. Don’t forget there are $3 well drinks to fuel the tunes. Arrangement is also BYOI; 970-748-1480.
Sandbar’s Monday Open Mic Monday: Move over Monday Night Football … , actually, just don’t go into overtime. We want to rock out. Beginning around 9:30 p.m. (after the game), the Sandbar’s open mic brings a stack of talent, much of whom will lend their instruments and amps if you forget yours; 970-476-4314.
Video
Plum's own resident rock star Kevin Heinz stops by Open Mic Night at Loaded Joe's in Avon. Check out Kev's talent along with that of many other up-and-coming musicians in the valley.
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