The Other Guys
photo by B Payne
On a beautiful fall evening, with temperatures in the 70’s and clear skies, I decided to visit the SpringHill Suites on Riverfront Parkway to hear a band that was playing on the patio. The setting was spectacular. The hotel patio is right on the Tennessee River, with Stringers Ridge as a backdrop. The sun was just starting to set, and colors were breathtaking. Added to that, I was with the most beautiful lady in the entire crowd. How’s that for ambiance?
The band we were there to hear was The Other Guys. It featured two acoustic guitars and a pedal steel guitar. Neal Nichols, Troy Byrd, and Dave Summers make up the band. Let me tell you one thing – we really enjoyed the music. Our intention was to listen to the band for about 45 minutes, and then go listen to another band at a different location. We enjoyed The Other Guys so much we stayed until they finished their last song.
They played everything from the Beatles to Bob Dylan to Prince to the Eagles. They played a few slow songs and ballads, so I got to slow-dance with the pretty lady. (See, I am smart on occasion!) Now, you may say that the ambiance of the sunset, the river, and pretty lady coerced me into thinking the band was good, but I assure you, it was all the band’s doing when it came to the musical quality. It was like the band was a scrumptious, delicious cake. The ambiance was just the icing.
This band plays at the SpringHill Suites every other Wednesday. Dennis Massengale’s No Big Deal Band plays on the opposite Wednesdays. I can guarantee that you will like both. If there is inclimate weather, they move into the lobby. They start at 6:00 p.m., so you can still make it home for a good night’s sleep. There is no cover charge and there is a full bar on site.
This weekend, I recommend a couple of bands. Remembering January will be live at Puckett’s on Friday night from 9:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. It is located on the downtown side of the Market Street Bridge at Aquarium Way. There is no cover charge for the night. They will sell out, so you may want to go early and get a bite to eat first. This band has fantastic musicians, so don't miss it!
On Saturday Night, The Sullivan Band is at Clyde’s on Main Street. They opened for Jason D. Williams at Riverfront Nights and rocked the riverfront for thousands in attendance.
I’ll see you out and about!
Bob Payne is the Entertainment Editor for the Chattanoogan.com and talent buyer for Friends of the Festival/Riverbend. You can follow me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/davrik2000 or email me at davrik@aol.com.
The Fire Pit - Waterside Lounge
photo by B Payne