Last weekend on the way back to Huntsville, Alabama, I had a chance to stay with some dear friends in Birmingham. As part of the "Hey! How've you been!" we went out for a night at Still Water Pub. It was there I saw not only more good souls from my friends' wedding, but old high school mates. Met some great new friends too.I'd heard Jasper Coal mentioned quite a few times over the past couple years, but never seen a show. Needless to say, these guys put out some spirited Irish music that made you want to toast, dance, drink and get rowdy. Are they talented? Definitely! They really enjoy what they do, and that carries over so well during the show. So much so, the curious from the next room would walk in and stay for a song. Then they'd realize they were in a room full of crazy Irish and Scots, kilts, Guiness and all. Hearty times and fine music indeed.
It gets better.
During the evening The Ian Sturrock Memorial Pipe Band played some stirring and inspired marches. This band consisted of bagpipers (just a couple this night), a snare drummer, and a bass drummer (a Cleopatra-haired, enthusiastic gal named Boom Boom who is just plain cool across the board). I'm told there are several bagpipers accompanying Ryan Morrison, a very accomplished master in the state of Alabama. Like, Jasper Cole, these folks kept it fun and lively. They also put out a very moving rendition of Amazing Grace.
Oh wait, there's more.
During all this revelry, Molly Hand, of the Alabama Academy of Irish Dance, jumped up for some impromptu accompanying dance. Think River Dance and it's that style. Molly not only danced as entertainment at my friend's wedding a couple years ago, but she is a teacher at the Academy and master in her own right.
Toward the end of the night I bumped into a high school buddy of mine, local Birmingham musician Derek Nolin. Derek just recently formed an 80's cover band that sounds promising for those of us in the Keytar set. With Derek's theatre and music background, this should be a fun show. Congrats to him and will check out the show soon.
As you can see, this night was an Irish Hat Trick of just good old fun and entertainment. It was also a big treat. If you enjoy anything Celtic, Irish, Scottish, Ren Faire, or the like, check out all these good folks.
Big thanks to Jasper Coal, Ian Sturrock Memorial Pipe Band, Molly Hand, and Still Water Pub for a great job and excellent hospitality!
Here's where to get your Irish eyes a smilin':
Jasper Coal - http://www.jaspercole.com/
Ian Sturrock Memorial Pipe Band - http://ismpb.com/
Alabama Academy of Irish Dance - http://www.aaiddance.com/home.htm
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