The Mill Restaurant, Iowa City

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Music at the Mill

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Mon 02.08

Open Mic w/ J. Knight

An Iowa City institution. So many great acts have played their first show ever at Open Mic. With many seasoned pros testing out new material before a live audience. Come check it out because you never know when you'll catch the next great Iowa City songwriter. To sign your act up, call J. Knight in advance at 319.338.6713. 8PM / FREE

Tue 02.09

TUESDAY NIGHT SOCIAL CLUB

w. Grand Tetons, Anna Vogelzang, Annie Palmer
Anna Vogelzang crafts tender and modern folk songs. Her arrangements are simple but thoughtful, often leaving room for her sharp voice to cut through the mix. On this tour she is joined by the equally measured and assured songstress Annie Palmer. 9PM / FREE

Wed 02.10

Burlington St. Bluegrass Band

The Burlington Street Bluegrass band is a regular house band at the Mill comprised of Iowa's best and most respected bluegrass players and their guests. The band, featuring such musicians as Bob Black, Al Murphy, Dale Thomas, Joe Peterson, Aleta Murphy, playing live bluegrass, is often joined by other great local and regional musicians. 7PM - 10PM / $5

Wed 02.10

Talk Art - Writers' Workshop

In a warm, dark room, listen to U of I Writer's Workshop student readings. There will be one poetry reading and one fiction reading. Sit back and enjoy the words of tomorrow's literary talent. 10PM / Small Cover

Thu 02.11

Jam Session w. Winard Harper Sextet

The Winard Harper Sextet, under the auspices of Hancher Auditorium, will lead a jam session with students in the UI Jazz Department. Winard Harper—master of both the drum kit and West African balafon—plays well with others. “One of my fortes,” he says “is that I play well with people, and in doing so bring out the best of people I play with. I like to give everybody a chance to shine.” His fiercely talented band features piano, bass, sax, trumpet, and a second percussionist on the African djembe and talking drum. 8PM/ FREE

Fri 02.12

Damon Dotson

Since emerging onto the Midwest music scene in 2003, Damon Dotson’s demand and popularity have soared. Dotson, who grew up in Okoboji, IA has definitely earned his acclaim from his humble beginnings. He would play backyard parties, graduations, birthdays, living rooms, and to just about anyone who was willing to listen! Often he would travel great distances for no audience and very little pay just to spread his music. However, all of his hard work is paying off! Damon, who now has a religious fan following, is known to pack college venues every time he plays. 9PM/ $8

Sat 02.13

Ha Ha Tonka

w. So Much Fun, Beast Wars
It's fair to say that Ha Ha Tonka shows are spiritual. There's a lot of energy with this group and they are certainly conjuring up something. Self-described as "foot-stomping indie rock" the band takes elements of straight-up roots and folk (kinda like Will Whitmore) and unleash it with a fiery, down-home rock n' roll wall of sound (think Drive-By Truckers). 9PM / $6

Sun 02.14

Dreamwell Theatre's Down With Love: An Anti-Valentines Day Valentines Day Cabaret

It's the perfect date night for Valentines Day sweeties and hard core cynics alike. Members of Dreamwell and other area theatres will share songs from various eras, covering lovers scorned, passions unrequited and what a completely annoying little jerk the devilish Cupid can be. 7:30PM/ $6

Mon 02.15

Open Mic w/ J. Knight

An Iowa City institution. So many great acts have played their first show at the Mill's Open Mic. Many seasoned pros test out new material before a live audience. Come check it out - you never know when you'll catch the next great Iowa City songwriter. To sign your act up, call J. Knight in advance at 319.338.6713. 8PM / FREE

Tue 02.16

TUESDAY NIGHT SOCIAL CLUB

w. Skye Carrasco, Ami Saraiya, Captain Captain
Come indulge your post-St. Vincent comedown with a beautiful night-cap of music featuring the classically-influenced leanings of vocalist / violinist Skye Carrasco. Chicago's Ami Saraiya plays as well, unfolding her eerie old timey folks songs all over our winter-coated ears. 9PM / FREE / $2 WELL DRINKS + PBR TALLBOYS

Thu 02.18

Chicago Underground Duo (Thrill Jockey Records)

w. Koplant No
Cornetist Rob Mazurek and percussionist Chad Taylor comprise the avant-garde jazz group Chicago Underground Duo. Primarily releasing their music on the impressive Thrill Jockey label, this group has explored the far reaches of improvisational and out-jazz music to excellent results. They are touring behind their latest release, Boca Negra. 9PM / $8

Fri 02.19

Brighton, MA

w. Bright Giant, The Teddy Boys
Brighton MA is a five-piece rock band from Chicago. Named for lead singer/songwriter Matt Kerstein's hometown, Brighton MA has existed in various forms since 2006. In the past year, founding members Kerstein, Sam Koentopp, and Jim Tuerk have been joined by Joe Darnaby and Jon Ozaksut to develop their most cohesive sound to date. BMA has built a reputation throughout the Midwest on a series of blistering live performances and a catalog of undeniably tuneful and well-crafted songs. In particular their shows at the Mill have been nothing short of legendary. 9PM / $6

Sat 02.20

Benefit for Russell Karkowski

feat. The Recliners & Acoustic Mayhem
On February 20th, The Recliners, Acoustic Mayhem, Will Jennings & Sam Thompson will perform an evening of music, anticipating Russell Karkowski's return to Iowa City . Please join us to celebrate and support one of the nicest people we know! Proceeds will go to Russell and his family to offset medical costs. 7PM/ $5

Sun 02.21

Awful Purdies

Benefit for Pat's Learning Adventure
Iowa City's top-notch all-female folk outfit Awful Purdies return to the Mill with a brand new record under the arms. A long time in the making, this album promises to feature intimate and assured songwriting as well as some well-plucked acoustic instruments.
EARLY SHOW: 4PM doors/ 5PM - 7:30PM showtime/ $7
(kids 15 and under get in FREE)

Sun 02.21

Study Hall (The game)

Study Hall: hosted by Travis and Andy. Teams earn points each round as they demonstrate their wealth of esoteric knowledge, manual dexterity, patience, bravery, endurance, and general willingness to look foolish in public. In the final jeopardy round, teams can wager some or all of their points for a dark horse win. Top scores earn gift certificates and a cash jackpot.
Sundays at 9 pm - food and drink specials
Pay $1 per person to play with teams up to 5 players...It should be interesting.

Mon 02.22

Open Mic w/ J. Knight

An Iowa City institution. So many great acts have played their first show at the Mill's Open Mic. Many seasoned pros test out new material before a live audience. Come check it out - you never know when you'll catch the next great Iowa City songwriter. To sign your act up, call J. Knight in advance at 319.338.6713. 8PM / FREE

Tue 02.23

Justin Townes Earle

w. Joe Pug
When we listen to Justin Townes Earle it is clear that we are listening to one of the foremost young American voices in folk music. His history unfolds like a gospel song: the son of famed musician (Steve Earle), Justin grew up in a haze, mixing raw talent with an appetite for drugs. But then there was light and he lifted himself up. He got clean and sober and focused on what he did best: playing music. Call him revived, reborn, or whatever you want -- just know that Earle is a force in contemporary folk music, capable of rendering touching, honest songs that pull as much from classic folk singers like Townes Van Zandt and Hank Williams as they do from the attitude of modern writers like Kurt Cobain and Paul Westerberg. He is joined on this tour by another new and important voice: Joe Pug.
$10 advance tix at iowatix.com [Click Here] & at the Record Collector downtown/ $12 day of show / Doors: 630PM / Show: 8PM

Wed 02.24

Burlington St. Bluegrass Band

The house band will include members such as Al Murphy, Bob Black, Dale Thomas, Joe Petersen, and Aleta "the Hammer" Murphy and other Iowa City Bluegrass giants. 7PM - 10PM / $5

Wed 02.24

Talk Art - Writers' Workshop

In a warm, dark room, listen to U of I Writer's Workshop student readings. There will be one poetry reading and one fiction reading. Sit back and enjoy the words of tomorrow's literary talent. 10PM / Small Cover

Thu 02.25

University of Iowa Jazz Performance

This is a classic monthly event at the Mill. Students and Staff from the University Jazz Dept. display their talents on stage with a variety of ensembles representing different genres in the vast jazz form. To see some of the best Latin jazz, classic jazz, bebop, fusion and more stop by this wonderful event. 8PM / $3 for students with ID / $5 for everyone else

Fri 02.26

Orquesta Alto Maiz

AKA The Salsa Band
Playing salsa, merengue, and Latin Jazz from the Heartland, The Salsa Band has given us 20 years of the greatest Salsa in the Midwest.
9PM / $7

Sat 02.27

The Vagina Monologues

Ever wonder what it would be like to hear women talk about their down there’s on stage in front of a crowd of strangers? Find out as Medical Students for Choice present the third annual production of the Vagina Monologues. Proceeds go to benefit the Emma Goldman Clinic. 6PM/ $12 with a suggested donation of $5

Sat 02.27

Death Ships

w. Datagun, Olivia Rose Muzzy, Vagabonds
Former Iowa City indie-poppers Death Ships return home. Featuring songwriter Dan Maloney and whipsmart drummer Ed Bornstein, the band promises to be in fine form with a batch of new tunes under their arms. The show will also be a birthday celebration for much-adored local songstress Olivia Rose Muzzy. Datagun and Vagabonds play as well. They may even keep their promise of forging their two bands into one unruly act. Vagagun. Databonds. Wait for it, wait for it... 9PM / $6

Sun 02.28

Study Hall (The Game)

Study Hall: An original competition hosted by Travis and Andy. Teams earn points each round as they demonstrate their wealth of esoteric knowledge, manual dexterity, patience, bravery, endurance, and general willingness to look foolish in public. In the final jeopardy round, teams can wager some or all of their points for a come from behind victory. Top scores earn gift certificates and a cash jackpot.
Sundays at 9 pm - food and drink specials
Pay $1 per person to play with teams up to 5 players.

Mon 03.01

Open Mic w/ J. Knight

An Iowa City institution. So many great acts have played their first show at the Mill's Open Mic. Many seasoned pros test out new material before a live audience. Come check it out - you never know when you'll catch the next great Iowa City songwriter. To sign your act up, call J. Knight in advance at 319.338.6713 8PM / FREE.

Sun 03.07

Study Hall-the game

Study Hall: An original competition hosted by Travis and Andy. Teams earn points each round as they demonstrate their wealth of esoteric knowledge, manual dexterity, patience, bravery, endurance, and general willingness to look foolish in public. In the final jeopardy round, teams can wager some or all of their points for a come from behind victory. Top scores earn gift certificates and a cash jackpot. Food and drink specials. Pay $1 per person to play with teams up to 5 players....unless you're afraid. 9PM / FREE

Mon 03.08

Open Mic w/ J. Knight

An Iowa City institution. So many great acts have played their first show at the Mill's Open Mic, and many seasoned pro's test out new material before a live audience. Come check it out - you never know when you'll catch the next great Iowa City songwriter. To sign your act up, call J. Knight in advance at 319.338.6713. Music begins at 8PM / FREE

Tue 03.09

TUESDAY NIGHT SOCIAL CLUB

w. Brooks Strause, Monadnoc, Light Pollution
Brooks Strause's eerie Americana sound is as chilling as it is inescapable. This up and coming Iowan folk crooner has been making a name for himself, whether it's with his captivating solo shows or through his rustic and energetic live sets. Beat-inspired storyteller and mood-setter Monadnoc returns to the Mill with the release of his new album Olive Oil and Indian Blood. 9PM / FREE

Thu 03.11

Via Audio

w. Pattern Is Movement, Oh Kuso
Via Audio are purveyors of sparkling indie pop. Ecstatic beats, bubbling synths, and chiming guitars -- they've got it all. Hailing from Brooklyn via Boston the band is on tour behind their new, energetic record Animalore (produced by Jim Eno of Spoon.) Via Audio's tourmates, Pattern Is Movement is a very engaging duo. Their setup includes a drum kit and a stockpile of awesome keyboards; their sound is an interesting collision of math-rock influences and pop music flourishes. 9PM / $8

Sat 03.13

The Woes

w. Shame Train
Hailing for New York City, The Woes boast a sound that pulls from a handful of musical threads -- the blues, bluegrass, creole, country, rock -- but stands up with its own distinctive charm. Kind of like other young bands copping old sounds (Deer Tick, Felice Brothers) the Woes hold it together with a captive voice: in this case, it's the well-worn deep drawl of lead singer and banjo-picker Osei Essed. This is whiskey music, it's party music, it's dancing with your partner music, and it's definitely staying out late music. 9PM / $6

Sun 03.14

Study Hall (The Game)

Study Hall: An original competition hosted by Travis and Andy. Teams earn points each round as they demonstrate their wealth of esoteric knowledge, manual dexterity, patience, bravery, endurance, and general willingness to look foolish in public. In the final jeopardy round, teams can wager some or all of their points for a come from behind victory. Top scores earn gift certificates and a cash jackpot.
Sundays at 9 pm - food and drink specials
Pay $1 per person to play with teams up to 5 players....unless you're afraid.

Mon 03.15

Open Mic w/ J. Knight

An Iowa City institution. So many great acts have played their first show at the Mill's Open Mic, and many seasoned pro's test out new material before a live audience. Come check it out - you never know when you'll catch the next great Iowa City songwriter. Music begins at 8PM-ALWAYS FREE. To sign your act up, call J. Knight in advance at 319.338.6713

Tue 03.16

Pretty Things Peepshow

The Pretty Things Peepshow is a vaudeville style burlesque sideshow. Their stellar cast is made up of North America’s finest talent, which includes world famous burlesque dancers, pin up models, SuicideGirls Bettina May and go-go Amy. Sexy Sideshow Siren Miss Heather Holliday and The Dapper Dan of Danger Mr. Donny Vomit. These artists have performed both together and separately all over the world. Some of their more notable accomplishments are the Vans Warped Tour, OZZFest (with OZZY Osborne). You may have seen them on stage at the Coney Island “Sideshow by the Seashore” or at Ripley’s Believe It or Not. They have appeared on television on Miami Ink, The Girls Next Door, The Discovery Channel, TLC, VH1 and QVC. They have also been seen in music videos for The Red Hot Chili Peppers, 50 Cent and Probot (Lemmy and Dave Grohl). The Pretty Things Peepshow offers you not only an amazing night of entertainment but also the professionalism that can only come from a cast of seasoned performers.
9PM / $8 advance tix at Iowatix.com[CLICK HERE] & at The Record Collector downtown/ $10 day of show

Thu 03.18

Trent Wagler & The Steel Wheels

Trent Wagler & the Steel Wheels perform Original Americana Roots Music. Their acoustic music ranges from old time, country folk, infused with elements of gospel, blues, and rock and roll. Trent has been singing since the age of 4. He grew up Mennonite, singing four part harmonies in a family gospel quartet. His musical training since then includes punk rock, jam bands, select university choirs, traditional Arabic music, and his grandfather’s harmonica. The Steel Wheels joined Trent in January of 2005, adding a fresh sound and exciting energy to his songwriting. The Steel Wheels are Brian Dickel on Bass, Eric Brubaker on Fiddle, and Jay Lapp on Mandolin. 8PM / $10

Fri 03.19

Leslie & The Ly's

w. Christopher The Conquered
Leslie Hall initally caught the hearts & eyes of America’s children when she began posting images of her world famous gem sweater collection on the interweb. Her stage show is like nothing you have seen before. Complete with video projection & 3-6 costume changes (all lovingly hand sewn by her mother), you can expect to be “beat”dazzled. Leslie’s laserbeam dance moves have been known to cause near blindness in the fans who gather at her shows. You can be sure that gay men will squeal with delight when she tumbles and triumphs never before seen dance moves. If you are lucky, it is possible that a bead of perspiration may ripple down her brow and upon your flesh.
9PM/ tickets: $10 in advance tix at iowatix.com [Click Here] & at The Record Collector downtown/ $12 day of show

Wed 03.24

Tyrone Wells

Tyrone Wells has delivered an epic pop/rock album with his second major label effort, Remain. Pursuing a more collaborative process and having added a more lush production to his singer-songwriter roots, the new album proves to be a great showcase for his powerful and emotional voice.
6:30PM Doors / 8PM Show / TIX: $12 advance tix at iowatix.com [Click Here] & at The Record Collector downtown/ $14 day of show

Fri 03.26

Fruit Bats

w. Blue Giant
Eric Johnson, the mastermind behind Fruit Bats is one of the best folk rock songwriters of our time. His 2006 record Spelled In Bones was a masterpiece of ethereal folk arrangements and stunning pop songcraft. Johnson and Fruit Bats now return with a new record called The Ruminant Band (on Sub Pop). It was one of 2009's most sublime records. The songs recall the honest grit and ambient textures of Califone and Johnson's melodies are not unlike the soaring and complex vocals of the Shins' James Mercer (which makes sense considering that Johnson is also a member of the Shins). Fruit Bats live shows are as enveloping and hypnotic as the albums. This is a gem, not to be missed. 9PM / $10 [Advance Tix - Click Here]

Sun 03.28

Roxi Copland

w. Shannon Curtis & Rae Fehring
Jazz/Pop singer/songwriter Roxi Copland makes her debut appearance at the Mill – her unique genre is probably best described in the words of one particularly eloquent reviewer as “a possibly schizophrenic but absolutely brilliant concoction of jazz, pop and soul.” We’re not quite sure if she’s better described as “Norah Jones with bite” or “Amy Winehouse sober.” Copland’s rapidly-growing resume includes opening for a number of prominent national acts, including most recently pop sensation Vanessa Carlton, jazz virtuoso Jason Lindner, and the acapella powerhouse the Manhattan Transfer. Appearing with Copland will be L.A. Singer/songwriter Shannon Curtis (described by the LA times as “...a beautiful piano player who sounds like the love child of Fiona Apple and Norah Jones”) and Rae Fehring, Iowa City’s own phenomenal indie rock artist.
EARLY SHOW: 6PM / $7

Tue 03.30

Mission Creek Festival: KRUI & TNSC Kick-Off Party

w. The Cave Singers, Birds & Batteries, The Envy Corps
Another year, another Mission Creek Festival! It's bound to be a wild week of music, books, and good times. Tuesday Night Social Club and KRUI team up to present the official festival pre-party. This is the best way to kick off the week and get your endurance built up to speed. The wonderful Cave Singers from Seattle, WA headline this show. Their music is all-heart and soul: a fiery folk sound that recalls local hero Will Whitmore but hits with the intensity of Lucero or Centro-matic. Birds & Batteries (from San Francisco) have a sound that mixes elements of California country and spacey dance rock. Much-loved Ames rockers The Envy Corps open. Also don't forget, there will be FREE PIZZA courtesy of KRUI at 8PM. First come, first serve! FREE PIZZA at 8PM / Show: 9PM SHARP / FREE

Wed 03.31

Mission Creek Festival

w. The Daredevil Christopher Wright, Sarah Mannix & the Wandering Bears, Miss Tess, The New Bodies
The Daredevil Christopher Wright is a stunning band with gorgeous harmonies, delicate folk atmospherics, and occasional moments of upbeat pop. Hailing from Eau Claire, Wisconsin these guys are becoming one of our favorite acts. They worked with Justin Vernon (of Bon Iver) on their latest album and the association makes sense: both bands find their answers in the power of lyricism and touching folk soundscapes. Sarah Mannix's indie-pop outfit takes the stage after a long absence alongside Miss Tess (with her interesting mix of pop, gothic Americana, and old-timey jazz fetishism) and the New Bodies. 9PM / $6

Thu 04.01

Mission Creek Festival

w. David Bazan, Headlights, Caroline Smith & the Goodnight Sleeps, The Poison Control Center
It's an indie-pop explosion with so much songwriting and performance talent it's a bit of a monster. This wonderful bill is headed up by the ever-intriguing David Bazan (Pedro the Lion). In support of his excellent new album Curse the Branches Bazan's band is full of energetic acoustic guitar strums, bubbling synths, and lyrics challenging Bazan's long-held religious beliefs. Mission Creek alums Headlights return with their sugary indie-pop, alongside the cunning songstress Caroline Smith and perhaps Iowa's greatest rock band ever: The Poison Control Center. This show is stacked. Get here on time. All of these bands are must-sees. Doors: 8PM / Show: 9PM SHARP / $8 [Advance Tix - Click Here] / $10 Day of Show

Fri 04.02

Mission Creek Festival

w. The Meat Puppets, Joe Jack Talcum (of The Dead Milkmen), Sam Locke-Ward and the Boo-Hoos
The Meat Puppets are a classic rock n' roll band blending elements of country, punk, and psychedelia into a sound that is undeniably gripping. If you're from the old-school, then you remember The Meat Puppets from their early albums, especially the groundbreaking Meat Puppets II. If you're from the younger generations then you might first remember the Meat Puppets when Kurt Cobain dragged them onto stage for Nirvana's legendary MTV Unplugged performance back in 1994. Either way, their music remains timeless and astonishing for any generation. Their last show in Iowa City was amazing. Joe Jack Talcum, the frontman of great '80s punk rockers Dead Milkmen opens alongside Iowa City's own Sam Locke-Ward. Doors: 6PM / Show: 8PM / $15 [Advance Tix - Click Here]

Sat 04.03

Mission Creek Festival

w. Cory Chisel & the Wandering Sons, Diplomats of Solid Sound, Sad Iron
Cory Chisel is the real deal, there's no doubt about it. His voice is like something sent down from the heavens. He sings with a tone so honest you can't believe he's so young. And then there's his band: the Wandering Sons, a collection of musicians so soulful and talented that it's a miracle they're not leading their own bands (well, some of them are!) Chisel also has the fine distinction of being the first act to ever perform at the Mission Creek Festival way back in 2006. Since then he's made a name for himself: most recently he cut a new record in Nashville, collaborating with several members of the Raconteurs to help realize his vision. The result, Death Won't Send a Letter, is both antique and modern, heartfelt and rocking. His return to the Mill promises to be one of the best shows of the season. For the occasion, soul experts the Diplomats of Solid Sound will reunite for a rare show. Doors: 8PM / Show: 9PM SHARP / $8 Advance Tix Soon / $10 day of show

Sat 04.10

Deer Tick

w. Those Darlins, Shame Train
When Deer Tick first played the Mill back in 2006 it was just young John McCauley on his lonesome, toting his acoustic guitar around the club, leaping from table to table serenading us with his heartfelt folk rock -- songs that pulled from the depths of a sharp and poetic mind. In between tunes, McCauley would tell jokes while pulling long drags from his tall glass of Makers. Now, four years later Deer Tick is a full-fledged band, a rock n' roll machine that spits out the spirit of Hank Williams, the middle finger of Johnny Cash, and the charm of Mr. McCauley himself, a rare and remarkable songwriter who shines with a voice of his own. He ain't Dylan, he ain't Neil Young, he's his goddammed self. With rave reviews from the likes of Rolling Stone, SPIN Magazine, and even NBC's Brian Williams, Deer Tick is one of the best young bands around. Their shows in Iowa City have been remarkable marathons of rock n' roll. Tennessee's Those Darlins and Iowa City's Shame Train will open. 9PM / $10 [Advance Tix - Click Here] / $12 Day of Show

Sat 04.17

Catfish Keith-Acoustic Blues Legend

Legendary cutting-edge blues singer, songwriter and slide guitarist rocks the Mill the day after Christmas. The Guardian called Catfish "a solo revelation" who was "Breaking new ground for blues", we would have to agree!8PM / $10

Sun 04.18

Captured! By Robots

Captured! by Robots is an actual band of robots that play instruments. As the story goes J-Bot couldn't get along with other people in bands (notably playing in Skankin' Pickle and The Blue Meanies), so he built himself a band of robots to back him up. Of course the robots turned evil and enslaved him forcing him to tour and degrade himself in front of crowds across the nation. This is amazing stuff and has to be seen to be believed! The robots featuring -- two different drum bots, a double necked guitar bass bot, a robot horn section and the lovable Ape Which Hath No Name, have been featured on UPN's "Strange Universe", the discovery channel's "Beyond Bizarre", Tech TV, ABC 7 6 o'clock news, and more... You should probably go look him up on You tube right now actually. 9PM / $10

Sat 07.17

Joe & Vicki Price

Joe and Vicki Price catapult energetic country blues. This is finger style guitar in the Elmore James/Muddy Waters tradition, a bit rough and tons of fun. Joe has been performing his ruff and tumble blues for over 35 years; a one-man blues tornado who can pack, command and wring-out a dance-floor with the authority of an eight-piece show band. While Price inhabits classic blues standards as if they were favorite shirts, his own deep and varied bag of original music is so formidable that noted Grammy-award nominated singer/songwriter Greg Brown has long referred to Joe as “the Buddha.”
8PM showtime-$7 admission

Thanks to everyone who supports live music.