Smiley’s Sports Bar, Featuring Jason Burke and Bobbi Folk and More… Incredible Live Music at Land and Sea! The “Wild Card” Article!
Located on the Northern edge of Rockbridge County, Smiley's Sports Bar serves as a shining example of the community's passion for live music and robust American cuisine. It was Wednesday evening, February 7, I had the pleasure of experiencing for the first time an eclectic and mesmerizing performance by the duo known as Wild Card, featuring Jason Burke and Bobbi Folk.
I was anticipating a night of fantastic music, and not only did I experience that from the get-go, but also a great song new to me: "Barton Hollow." Live music performances offer so much: they can introduce new music, bring new dimensions to favorite songs and most of all they have the power to transform and elevate music in ways recordings simply cannot. Big thanks to Wild Card for introducing me to a new song and artist, and for their kick ass performance of "Barton Hollow" by The Civil Wars!
Another thing that struck me early on about Wild Card's performance was their infectious enthusiasm for the music they were sharing. Covering a wide array of artists, from Dolly Parton to Chris Cornell, each song was a journey through genres and emotions. Bobbi's powerful rendition of "Jolene" and "I Will Always Love You" paid homage to Dolly Parton's genius, showcasing her ability to capture the essence of the songs while making them distinctly her own. Her versatility shone brightly as she led one of my favorite ever versions of "Killing Me Softly," that channeled the soul of Aretha Franklin and the intensity of Audioslave with ease.
Jason seamlessly complemented Bobbi's lead with his harmonies, his pedals looping and layering, not to mention awesome guitar solos. This was especially evident in their rendition of Audioslave's 2003 hit “Like a Stone,” where he took the reins of an entire band, while Bobbi took the equally hard task and nailed the song, giving homage to legend Chris Cornell.
Jason took the lead on many songs including two of my favorites: capturing the classic rock energy of Chuck Berry in "Johnny B. Goode" as well as the intricate guitar and vocals of “Aeroplane” by Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Their choice of name, Wild Card, couldn't be more appropriate, as their setlist kept everyone guessing and thoroughly entertained, not knowing what is coming next, from the classic highs of Fleetwood Mac, to the smooth grooves of "No Diggity" where not one, but both performers rapped and sang to Dr. Dre. I enjoyed every song!
Another noteworthy aspect of Wild Card's performance was the presence of not just one, but two lead singers! Bobbi and Jason harmonized and seamlessly shared the spotlight throughout many songs.Their collaborative spirit breathed new life into songs like "Gold on the Ceiling" by The Black Keys, "Little Talks" by Of Monsters and Men, "Listen to the Music" by The Doobie Brothers, and “Sweet Dreams” by the Eurythmics, showcasing the joy and unity of music while covering many genres.
The guitar and song weren't the only elements that captured my attention. The culinary offerings at Smiley's provided a symphony of flavors that complemented the evening. Opting for a healthier choice, I enjoyed a salad topped with delicious brisket and a Diet Coke for only $11. In the past my gastronomic adventures at Smiley's have spanned the spectrum from selections from their full bar, to a variety of dishes that sing the praises of southern comfort food. My favorites: fried chicken, pulled pork quesadillas, deviled eggs, jalapeño poppers, and, of course, French fries. Other sides, too, like cheesy broccoli or macaroni and cheese, add a delightful richness to complement a main course. Amidst this array of tempting options, the brisket salad stands out as a beacon for those seeking something on the lighter side, yet still irresistibly tasty!
The ambiance of Smiley's Sports Bar, enhanced by the friendly service that is as much a staple as the food and music, invites locals and visitors alike into a warm embrace. It's a place where every night feels like a gathering of friends, whether you're there for the "best BBQ in Virginia" or to enjoy the raw, captivating energy of Wild Card.
I knew I was headed for a night of great music, having heard Jason Burke play many times before, as well as having the pleasure of hearing both Jason and Bobbi sing and play in the band, The Party Crashers. It was a privilege to attend a Party Crashers practice in early December, unfortunately, having missed their 2023 New Year’s Eve show at The Georges in downtown Lexington. It is a sure thing I will be attending and reporting on a Party Crashers show in 2024! They will be performing July 4 at the amazing Glen Maury Park main stage, or at “Friday's Alive” at Davidson Park in Lexington, VA (date yet to be determined), or back again at the Georges for New Year’s Eve in the stunning Patton Room.
In addition to Bobbi Folk - lead vocals and Jason Burke - lead vocals/ guitar, Party Crashers is composed of Bruce Allen - lead vocals and keyboard, Kenton Hoseapple - lead guitar, Wayne Humphrey - bass guitar, and Andrew Duff - drums. This is a powerhouse band, trust me, you’ll want to join me and experience them for yourself!
Tonight marked the first time Rock River Experiences covered a live artist and also took iphone videos for social media. It is a challenge to get quality photography and videography in a dark and often oddly lit bar with lots of background noise. Please bear with me, and follow and like my freshman attempts at social media video on Instagram and Facebook. We welcome guest blogs, pictures, videos about live music and also about local businesses, nature, or anything positive in and around our county!
Rockbridge County, VA is truly magical. Consider the friendly nature of its people, our rocks, creeks, rivers, waterfalls and mountain vistas that rival similar beauty in Hawaii and Costa Rica and our live music that rivals Nashville, TN and Austin, TX. Some talented artists I love and look forward to experiencing again in 2024 include: Bruce Allen and Jason Burke, Keith Bryant, Dennis Thorne, Jason Hostetter, Glen Shelton, Lil Marvin and the Martians, South Paw, David Wayne, Mojo Parker, Who Shot John, North by Burke, Hoss and the Soss, Hoss and the Boss, Gloria and Kenton, The Pick up Band, Wild Card, So Diverse, Spencer Hatcher Band, Will Reid, Steve Minter and I am sure there are many more I haven't heard yet. Please check: https://www.livemusiclexington.com/ for who is playing this week in Rockbridge County or book one of these amazing bands for your next birthday, wedding or special event.
Speaking of great music and beautiful tropical destinations… Have you ever wanted to listen to the music of Rockbridge County and Southwest VA on a 5 day Bahamas cruise? Well, you are in luck! Sept 28-Oct 1 for less than $1500 per couple you can cruise the seas while listening to Bruce Allen, Jason Burke, Will Reid, Glen Shelton, and Jason Hostetter. Bruce Allen, who hosts Open Mic Night with Jason Burke at Smileys Sports Bar Thursdays 7-10 PM, is committed to “keeping music live” on land and sea! Covid put a temporary stop to Bruce’s yearly Live Music cruise, but they are back, and tickets are still available. Check comments for more info.
I’ll be back at Smiley’s tomorrow for Open Mic Night with Bruce and Jason, where anyone is welcome to sing or play an instrument alongside Bruce and Jason. They are routinely joined by many other talented friends such as Susan and Mark Tedro, Wayne Humphrey, Brian Dearing, Stan Coffey and Tim Knick. Speaking of Tim Knick and tonight’s Wild Card performance, an added surprise was Tim, while celebrating his birthday at Smiley‘s, took centerstage as Wild Card’s drummer for several songs on and off throughout the night. Please like and follow Rock River Experience’s Instagram and Facebook account and check Reels and TikTok for footage of music from tonight and a happy birthday song and dance for Tim and his wife.
As I left Smiley's tonight, the echoes of many songs, and definitely "Barton Hollow", as performed by Jason Burke and Bobbi Folk, lingered in my mind, a melodious reminder of the discoveries and pleasures that await with live music. Smiley's isn't just a sports bar; it's a cornerstone of the Rockbridge community, a place where memories are made, and the simple joys of life—live music, food, and fellowship—are celebrated 4 nights a week: Wed, Thur, Fri, Sat even in the winter months! #Lucky #RockbrideMusicRocks!
For live music in Rockbridge County visit: https://www.livemusiclexington.com
For more info on Bahamas cruise with Bruce Allen and friends join “Keeping Music Live at Sea” Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1818518718369299
Hey people!!!!!
Good mood and good luck to everyone!!!!!
Hey people!!!!!
Good mood and good luck to everyone!!!!!
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