Special Thursday Happy Hour beginning at 4:00pm

Slingin’ drinks…The Pride of Geneva…Rahn Dagostino!

Great drinks, great music, and yes, great conversation!…Grapefruit League, Cactus League, movies, music, canines, women, theater, bandwagon jumpers, literature, women, music, Prince, baseball, movies…and much, much more!

Happy Hour Specials - Ask Rahn for all the deals!

Also, get your tickets from Rahn for the following upcoming shows… Hannah Wicklund, Miller and the Other Sinners, Igor and the Red Elvises, YARN,  Al Olender & Greg Townson CD Release Party, and “The Titan of the Telecaster,” Bill Kirchen!

Doors 4pm, Music 8pm

A Celebration of the Music of…

Neil Young and Crosby, Stills, Nash, & Young

Neil Young…The prolific gadfly who frequently jumps from languid folk-inspired music to noisy, full-on rock & roll, while visiting any and all points in between.

Crosby, Stills, Nash, & Young….The definitive folk-rock supergroup, led by David Crosby's surreal lyrics, Graham Nash's poetic nuance, Stephen Stills' muscular playing, and Neil Young’s inspirational songwriting and playing.

This wonderful night of joyful music will feature the following musicians…

Mike Bowers on drums, Jack Moore on guitar and vocals, Jake Penna on pedal steel guitar, Pete Robinson on vocals, Rick Ruhmel on keyboards and vocals, and Tom Sylvester on bass guitar

https://www.facebook.com/events/2145979076144636

Cover: $15

Doors 11:30am, Music 2pm - 5pm

We’re opening at 11:30am for one Huge-ah St. Patty’s Party.

There’ll be drink specials all day and a Massive Post-Parade Bash from 2pm till 5pm with Live Celtic Rock by…

SISTERS OF MURPHY

They’ll be performing a musical blend of Celtic drinking songs and Rust Belt Rock ‘n’ Roll.

Sisters of Murphy

Sisters Of Murphy is a 7 piece Celtic-Rock band that hails from the city of Rochester, NY, USA.

Boasting a 20 plus year career of live shows and a host of original releases, "SOM" continues to write, record, and perform, sharing both their memorable songs and classics from legends of the "Irish" genre.

THE STORY OF SISTERS OF MURPHY

Silverdish Record's artists Sisters Of Murphy are a Celtic Rock band hailing from Rochester, N.Y. USA. Twenty plus years and 3 releases later, Sisters Of Murphy continue to perform, write, and record their fusion of Irish inspired Rock & Roll, drawing on traditional Celtic elements with lyrical themes that range from humor and fun, to passion and perception. Legendary 3HB brew master Geoff Dale calls SOM "The most fun band going in Rochester and it is not even close!" 

Sometime way back in the early 2000's, Rochester, N.Y. natives, vocalist Mark Tichenor and bassist Bruce Lish, decided to step away from performing their original rock music to form a Irish-Celtic themed party band to play gigs surrounding St. Patrick's day to celebrate their love for Celtic Rock, have some fun, and challenge themselves on stage. Their collaborative creation, Sisters Of Murphy, have since evolved to include 7 members, a legion of dedicated fans from years of live performances, and pockets of listeners of their discography around the globe. 

Musically, Sisters Of Murphy set themselves apart from their peers by writing songs that flirt with Rock, Traditional Celtic, Pop, and Alternative elements creating a modern sound that becomes a genre of their own.

In 2024, SOM continues to perform live, with shows scheduled this spring and summer. Live surprises include new original songs being introduced on stage at select shows as well as new cover songs from legends of the genre.

https://www.facebook.com/events/373087045472197/?ref=newsfeed

https://sistersofmurphyband.com/home

Doors 4pm, Music 8pm

The Wildflower Revolution

Get ready for this!

Four diverse musicians coming together to blend original music, with some favorites from their eclectic musical tastes, to explore sonic journeys rooted in feel, chemistry, and the joy of music improvisation.

From the Dead to the Delta, “TWFR” is ….

Will Schantz, guitar

Shawn Drogan, percussion

Ron Permoda, bass

and Tom Mahoney, guitar

https://www.facebook.com/thewildflowerrevolution

Cover: $10

Doors 7pm, Music 8pm

The Living Room Session

TLRS started in the living rooms of friends, the idea of Dublin-born Phelim White. What started as piano, acoustic guitar, fiddle and upright bass quickly morphed into its present lineup. The addition of Chris Coon(keys/sax), Stevie Hartman(guitar), and MF Jones(bass), rounded out the lineup and steered it towards its current mission of weaving smoothly through 60’s Blue Note jazz, 70’s funk and R&B, 80’s new wave, pop and rock and a mix of tunes from the 90’s on. They delight in bringing mostly b-sides and more obscure tunes to the party. Artists covered include :Sade, The Mavericks, Pretenders, Elvis Costello, U2, Donny Hathaway, Grant Green, Tina Turner, Depeche Mode, The Band, Leon Bridges, Morphine, Van Morrison, Bowie, The Meters, Nina Simone, ZZ Top…and much more!

https://www.facebook.com/p/The-Living-Room-Session-100068065377226/

Cover: $10

Doors 4pm Music 7pm

An Evening with Hannah Wicklund

Hannah Wicklund

Join us for a very special solo performance by the illustrious singer/guitar player/songwriter Hannah Wicklund. While most of her touring has seen her on stage with a full rock n roll band, this show will be an exploration of her songwriting and storytelling, highlighting the heart and soul within her artistry as she promotes her latest solo record ‘The Living Vault’. Don’t miss this intimate, unique experience. This show is all ages. 

Hannah Wicklund has toured since she was 16 years old, sharing stages with acts like Joan Jett, Marcus King, Deep Purple, and Greta Van Fleet, and has graced the stage at Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Festival, among many others around the world since starting her band at age 8. Her last studio record, ‘The Prize’ earned the honor of being named Rolling Stone Brazil’s #1 Rock Album of 2024, leaving much anticipation for her next studio record slated to release in 2026. Hannah’s music explores themes of womanhood and of the battle between light and dark that so many of us in this world can relate to. Through her songwriting, top-tier musicianship and a voice that carries equal parts pain and beauty, her energy is palpable and anyone who witnesses her power live is in agreement; she is a force of nature.

https://hannahwicklund.com/

Tickets: $20 advance, $25 day of show and on sale now online at https://abilene.showare.com and at the bar. Please note: there is a $5 surcharge for those under 21 years of age, to be collected at the door.

Doors 4pm, Music 8pm

Chaz & The Dazzlers

Chaz & The Dazzlers play energetic indie rock with thoughtful melodies, heart on your sleeve lyrics, and a barely restrained enthusiasm. Vintage saxophone, bouncy mandolin, and interlocking harmonies all packaged in three minute pop songs.

https://www.chazandthedazzlers.com

https://www.chazhearne.com

https://www.facebook.com/chazhearnemusic.com

https://chazhearne.bandcamp.com

Alex Courtney & The Revitalists

Rust Belt rockers, Alex Courtney & The Revitalists, are Indie-Americana with an Upstate New York flavor. Their debut EP “When We’re Grown” can be found on all the streaming platforms (search for Alex Goettel).

https://www.alexgoettelmusic.com

Cover: $10 at the door

Doors 7pm, Music 8pm

Miller and the Other Sinners

During the recording of his solo album, Poisons Sipped, David Michael Miller, members of the world famous Campbell Brothers and a small ensemble of both internationally known and talented musicians came together to form, "Miller and The Other Sinners."  

Miller and The Other Sinners is a nationally touring Southern Soul band from Buffalo, NY, bringing a blend of gut bucket delta grit, memphis soul, gospel spirit and funky rhythm and blues.  Since August of 2015, they have performed over 700 shows across 21 states and Canada from house parties to festivals.  They have an unforgettable show filled with infectious grooves and tremendous musicianship all supporting well written songs that really connect.   

David Michael Miller, founder, lead vocalist, guitarist and songwriter for Miller and The Other Sinners, is a well established musician in the Western New York music scene, for 6 years fronting the band, Dive House Union.  David has shared the stage with artists such as Tedeschi Trucks Band, Steve Miller Band, Joe Bonamassa, Jonny Lang, Gary Clark Jr., Bobby Blue Bland, Jimmie Vaughan, Shemekia Copeland, Eric Gales and many others.  He represented the WNY Blues Society in 2013 and 2014 at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis  in both the Band and Solo/Duo categories.  He continues to participate in the Blues in the Schools program in Western New York.  In 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017, he was presented with the best Male Blues Vocalist Award by Buffalo's Night Life Magazine and in 2015 was presented with the Arts Services Institute award for "Artist of the Year."  

David's has built on the successful independent release of his first solo album in 2014, Poisons Sipped, which landed in the the top 25 Blues Rock Albums of 2014 on the Roots Music Report.  His 2nd album, Same Soil, debuted at #11 the second week of July on the RMR Blues chart and then climbed to #3 with two songs in the top 50 Blues songs played worldwide on radio and internet radio.  David released a live record with his band Miller and The Other Sinners called "3 Nights at the Strand" and is in the studio currently working on a series of bi monthly releases for 2019. 

David is accompanied by a killer core of “Other Sinners" and the variation and diversity are what make the shows ever fresh and entertaining.  Some of these Sinners include, Jay Moynihan on sax and guitar (Buddy Guy's former sax player for nearly 10 years), sometimes members of the world renown Campbell Brothers, Ms Cinnamon Jones  and several other talented WNY musicians rounding out the band depending on the show.

David Michael Miller

Since he was very young and singing in church, music has always been a big part of David's life.  After learning guitar at age 11, he quickly began writing songs.  Throughout his high school and college days, David was in several bands, did an internship in Nashville and married his high school sweetheart to begin a family.  After taking a break from music for a few years, David began leading music in church services and through that started a Seattle influenced rock band called Painted by Moses. 

 This band released an EP and then after a full album on an independent label which unknown to the band, was in hot rotation on gospel music and college stations around the country.  Shortly after this, David took a break from performing music as he started his own IT business but rediscovered his blues and gospel influences during this time also developed his love for soul music. 

 He then formed the roots music band, Beautiful Bones, with his 16 year old son on drums, nephew on bass, Jim Ehinger on keys and several other talented local musicians.  This lead him to joining up with The Todd Eberwine Band that became Dive House Union, a root music jam band having released two live albums to date and that he still plays out with mostly in the Buffalo, NY area.  He has garnished several local awards for his vocals, and with both Beautiful Bones and Dive House Union, has had the privilege of sharing the stage with artists such as:

• Joe Bonamassa

• Steve Miller Band

• Tedeschi Trucks Band

• Rusted Root

• Jonny Lang

• Gary Clark Jr.

• Bobby Blue Bland

• Jimmie Vaughan

• Shemekia Copeland

• Eric Gales

• Walter Trout

• and many more...

In early 2013 David had solicited the help of producer, Jesse Miller, to record  songwriter album.  Then after losing his job in May of 2013, David made the decision to pursue his passion for music against many odds, finish the album and see where it goes.  This where the story of Miller and The Other Sinners begins.  Known for his soulful voice, passionate guitar playing (electric, acoustic, and slide), and mature song writing, David is the leader and fuel for the Sinner's engine.   https://www.millerandtheothersinners.com/

Tickets: $15 advance, $20 day of show and on sale now at the bar and online at https://abilene.showare.com

Doors 6pm, Music 7pm

With A Little Help from My Friends…

The Last Tuesday of Every Month

“Beatles Night!”

Featuring Don Christiano & Walt O’Brien

A couple of hours of great Beatles’ tunes, performed by two of Rochester’s best musicians.

See ya on Liberty Pole Way!

https://www.facebook.com/donchristiano

https://www.facebook.com/walt.obrien.5

Cover: $10

Doors 4pm, Music 7pm

Alice Wallace

"Alice Wallace, whose steady tenor is shot through with Crystal Gayle’s ache, Linda Ronstadt’s country essence" -- Holly Gleason, Pollstar

​"Wallace, who sang a dead-on lovely version of Palomino mainstay Linda Ronstadt’s “Long Long Time,” was clearly tickled to be a part of the revived history." -- Bob Strauss, Los Angeles Daily News

​"She's stunning, and McQueen 'The Cincinnati Kid' cool" - Ray Wylie Hubbard

 Here I Am, Nashvillian songstress Alice Wallace declares on her new album, released in 2024, via Mule Kick Records.  It’s a title that hints at her deeply personal, confessional songwriting style, one that invites the listener to gaze at her beating heart as each intimate secret pours out, propelled by a powerful, expressive delivery that marks her as one of the true vocal talents of her generation. 

 Alice does not hide behind the microphone, but uses it to amplify everything inside her champing to get out. She’s survived the highs and lows of life, love, and the music industry and finally produced the album she feels she was destined to make. Here I Am, she says, the real Alice Wallace.

This album marks a return to themes of self-examination after several collections that featured predominantly story songs. “I needed to make a record that was really true to myself, both for me and for my fans who have encouraged me in ways I am so grateful for,” Alice explains. “Songs are how I process. And writing this album helped me process so much of what has happened in the last few years.”

 Alice moved to Nashville four years ago after more than a decade in southern California, and Here I Am is the first of her albums to be recorded in true Music City style, backed by a lineup of world-class musicians and recorded in two whirlwind days with no rehearsal, just the way the best session players like to do it. Produced by Nick Buda (Taylor Swift, Martina McBride, Dolly Parton) the album features some of the most talented musicians Nashville has to offer. In addition to Buda on drums, the record features Grammy-winning guitarist Kenny Greenberg (Willie Nelson, Wynnona Judd, Hayes Carll), bassist Ted Pecchio (Doyle Bramhall II, Susan Tedeschi) and keyboardist Jimmy Wallace (The Wallflowers). And although Alice had never played with any of the musicians before, the combined talents in the room made for an electric experience that brought her songs to life in vibrant and unexpected ways.

 The album opens with a lone, droning organ note behind Alice’s voice as she tells of a secret she’s scared might someday be discovered.. But as the song “Imposter” builds to its celebratory peak, the listener learns it’s only Alice’s own self-doubt she’s afraid will come to light – that insidious inner voice that still tries to tell her she isn’t qualified to do what she does so well. It was actually the impending recording session with such musical powerhouses that triggered her to write about this lifelong feeling that has resonated with fans at every live show. Instead of succumbing to the fear, the song embraces it with confidence - “it’s time someone found me out.” 

 Other highlight tracks include “Bonfire,” written with Melody Walker. Alice was experiencing a bout of romantic heartbreak, but sought something more than the tired cliche of a woman bearing a torch waiting for her man. So she went bigger, with the metaphor of a beachside bonfire acting as a makeshift lighthouse harkening her lover back from sea, her clarion voice calling out over syncopated percussion and musical waves. 

 “Looking,” written with Eliot Bronson, also focuses on the search for love, but using a more modern metaphorical device, the device that’s ever-present in Alice’s hand. “Maybe the reason I haven’t found that elusive love of my life is because I walk around looking at my phone all day and am not paying enough attention to what’s around me,” Alice explains. Within the strong beat and poppy, radio-ready delivery, she vows to make an effort to see what’s right in front of her eyes, hoping the love she may have missed the first time will come around again.

 The album’s remaining tracks touch on Alice’s move to Nashville with an ode to “Fireflies,” lean into pain while finding joy with “Dancin’ to the Beat of My Heartbreak,” lament not trusting her intuition on “I Was Wrong,” and celebrate the connectedness of the natural world with the title track “Here I Am.”

 Wallace was named 2017 Female Vocalist of the Year by the California Country Awards and her voice has been called “a powerful natural occurrence… an awe-striking wonder" by Saving Country Music. She previously released four solo albums, the latest of which, 2019’s Into the Blue, earned recognition from Rolling Stone Country with the title track being named one of the Best Americana Songs to Hear Now. This was followed by Lucky Break via Side Pony, a duo project with friend Caitlin Cannon that took the pair across the United States and Europe.

 Cuttingly self-exploring, delivered with emotionality, and with just the right pop Americana sensibilities, Here I Am is Alice Wallace’s most expansive album yet. For fans of songwriters who turn personal heartbreak into musical gold and for anyone who loves a powerful, full-ranged, expressive voice, Here I Am is not to be missed.

https://www.alicewallacemusic.com/

Cover: Special Low-Dough Show- Ten Bucks at the Door

Doors 7pm, Music 8pm

Bear Bones

Bear Bones was started by Frank Boehm and Sonam Targee 25 years ago playing acoustic music. The present-day form is an eclectic mix of original dance music. Reggae, Rock, and World Beat are staples in a Bear Bones set. Frank Boehm, Peet Mugnolo, Jim Schwarz, Chris Distasio, and Kris Kimmel is the current lineup. An all-star cast including members of The Majestics, Buddhahood, and Subsoil. 

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552335939349

Nate Coffey

Nate Coffey has over thirty years’ experience as a professional musician and songwriter performing nationally and internationally. Coffey is a multi-instrumentalist and is one of the most sought after guitarists and bassists in Rochester New York.

https://www.facebook.com/nate.coffey.3/

Cover: $20 at the door

Doors 6pm, Music 7pm

Igor & The Red Elvises

Igor Yuzov was born in Germany, raised in Ukraine and studied in Russia. He grew up in the former Soviet Union, where folk music was the norm and rock'n'roll was illegal. A rebellious streak, however, led him to seek out the forbidden music. As soon as it became possible, Igor left Russia for America with his “Folk'n'Roll" band Limpopo and was personally greeted by Ronald Reagan. In 1993, Limpopo won Ed McMahon's Star Search and their popularity began to blossom. In 1995, Igor dreamed that Elvis Presley came to him and told him to start playing rock'n'roll. Igor and his Russian friends became Red Elvises and gave street performances on Santa Monica's 3rd Street Promenade. As their crowds grew larger, the City of Santa Monica ordered them to discontinue their street performances. Evolving over the years, Igor’s music has been labeled "Siberian Surf Rock” which contains humorous lyrics and grooves that forces his audience to dance. Over the past 20 years, Red Elvises have constantly toured all over the world with occasional breaks to record new music and to participate in film and television projects.

As an independent band, Red Elvises have produced 12 studio albums, two live albums, a live concert DVD, and a Greatest Hits compilation. Some of their most notable film contributions include music and or performances in “Six String Samurai”, “Mail Order Bride”, “Armageddon”, “Skippy”,  “Melrose Place”, “Fastlane", “Penn and Teller's Sin City Extravaganza”, “VH-1 Behind the Music”, and “MTV”. Red Elvises have performed for large festivals, private parties, and played on massive stages such as 2005's Live 8 Benefit Concert. No matter where they perform, Igor & Red Elvises always bring the party with them!

https://www.facebook.com/igorandredelvises/

Tickets: $18 advance, $22 day of show and on sale now at the bar and online at https://abilene.showare.com

Doors 4pm, Music 7pm

Lambert Billy

It was twenty-two years ago, a long time in a lifespan when the members of Lambert Billy recorded over twenty songs for the second in a series of solo albums by the Woody Dodge front man. The songs were at various stages of completion, some in the mixing stage others just rough tracks when the project came to a screeching halt. Flash forward 20 years to a chance meeting between producer Ken Frank, who had worked on two Woody Dodge releases and Billy. They began chatting and eventually the discussion led to Lambert Billy. Ken had played on the project and worked on the production, the two decided to head back to the studio and finish it up. Cowpunk Retro was reborn. It was hard at first, “imagine trying to get your head back to the place your were two decades earlier” Billy said, but they moved forward and the recording began to take shape. Two new songs were added “Out of Luck” and “Can’t Find Love”. Mike Iten of “Damn the Flood” was brought in on guitar along with guitarist Chris Elmore. The result can only be described as punk bluegrass. Lambert Billy will be back at Abilene Bar and Lounge on Thursday, April 16, See ya then!

https://www.facebook.com/lambertbilly1

Cover: $10 at the door

Doors 4pm, Music 8pm

Radio Americano

We’ve got a fun, multicultural dance party in store for you!

“Salsa, Soul, Rock, y Bugalu and more!

Radio Americano plays bugalu, salso, cha-cha, and English tunes with added Latin flavor. Many of these players are seasoned salsa musicians.

Radio Americano is…Adair Finucaine: vocals, vibraslap. Gardy Martinez: vocals, guiro. Luca Santana: congos. Frankie Diaz: bongos. Ian Schoenberger: drums. Angel Lopez: trumpet. Jordan Lerner: baritone sax, flute. Malcolm Williamson: electric guitar. Xavier Torres, bass.

Their approach is authentic and steeped in tradition. Their percussionists are virtuosos….But this is a band with a sense of humor, one that prioritizes fun over everything else. This is one super fun, dancey, showy band, with English speakers and Spanish speakers both loving the band.

https://www.instagram.com/radio_americano?igsh=MTVydmVuYzhucmtrbQ%3D%3D

Cover: $10 at the Door

Doors 4pm, Music 7:30pm

YARN

With their upcoming release, Saturday Night Sermon (April 24, 2026), Yarn enters a bold new chapter, blending their ever-evolving sound and layered textures with the storytelling Americana fans have come to love. The album opens with its title track, a soaring, guitar- and choir-filled introduction that sets a positive, uplifting tone for the journey ahead. From the singalong encouragement of Let the Universe to the heartfelt ballad Where We Land, the collection navigates gratitude, love, and the human condition, culminating in the reflective, comforting A Welcome New Home. Classic country, horns, gospel choirs, and dynamic arrangements bring depth and warmth, while rock-tinged tracks like Longshot, Might As Well Be King and Never Enough add edge and contrast.

Since forming in New York City nearly 20 years ago, Yarn has charted repeatedly on the Americana Music Association album and singles charts, climbed as high as number 4, and been featured heavily on Sirius XM’s Outlaw Country, including their single Traveling Kind. Their 2024 release, Born Blessed, Grateful & Alive, also spent weeks on Americana and Alt.Country radio and appeared on the Grammy ballot for award consideration.

Singer and songwriter Blake Christiana leads the band with his guitar and vocals, embodying the music he writes: “The band has officially found something really special over the past couple of years. It feels like we are finally the live band and album-producing band we always set out to be, and the message we are aiming to deliver has also found its foothold.” Alongside Blake, Robert Bonhomme (drums), Rick Bugel (bass), and Andy Thomas (lead guitar) continue to hone Yarn’s live and studio sound, and the band is only getting stronger.

Yarn’s annual music and alternative arts festival, Yarnival, celebrated its 5th year in October 2025 with resounding success at Pop’s Farm in Axton, VA, a location that will continue to host the festival for years to come. The band will tour North America in support of Saturday Night Sermon and has already begun writing the next chapter of their evolving sound.

https://www.yarnmusic.net/

Tickets: $20 advance, $25 day of show and on sale now online at https://abilene.showare.com and at the bar

Doors 4pm, Music 7pm

Al Olender

Songwriter Al Olender tries to grasp the brief, beautiful moments that make up our lives in slow-motion but finds that the tighter she holds on, the more these frames fall into a soupy blur. Change is our only constant, but what if we wanted to steep in the now? What if we could stay right here? Olender captures the anxieties of an ever-moving world with a sweet and silly sincerity on her second full-length album The Worrier, never shying away from staring the truth right in the face. Exploring anxiety, sexuality and anarchy, both in herself and in her relationships, Olender’s acoustic, bluesy melodies point to the butterflies of first crushes, the gut-punching realities of responsibility and the eternal romance of friendship.-Sammy Maine

https://alolender.com/

With Special Guest

Aubrey Haddard

 Aubrey Haddard seeks refuge in her creative discipline. Carving out a boundary-less space to explore the human experience, she creates a sonic landscape that is both epic and deeply personal. Layers upon layers of unapologetic guitars lay the foundation for Haddard’s vocals, heralded by critics as “harrowingly beautiful” (Clash Magazine) and “herculean” (The Line of Best Fit). Calling upon the inspirations of powerhouse PJ Harvey, and songwriters from Feist to Frusciante, Haddard blends the analog and the digital with eccentricity. Themes of Greek mythology and Japanese literature weave their way through her stories, inviting listeners to peek into her subconscious and share in the depths of something both raw and real.

https://www.aubreyhaddard.com/

Tickets: $25 and on sale now online at https://abilene.showare.com and at the bar

Doors 6:30pm, Music 7:30pm

Abilene on the Road presents….

Live at the Historic Academy of Medicine, 1441 East Avenue, Rochester, NY 14610

A Double Album Release Party!

Al Olender

Songwriter Al Olender tries to grasp the brief, beautiful moments that make up our lives in slow-motion but finds that the tighter she holds on, the more these frames fall into a soupy blur. Change is our only constant, but what if we wanted to steep in the now? What if we could stay right here? Olender captures the anxieties of an ever-moving world with a sweet and silly sincerity on her second full-length album The Worrier, never shying away from staring the truth right in the face. Exploring anxiety, sexuality and anarchy, both in herself and in her relationships, Olender’s acoustic, bluesy melodies point to the butterflies of first crushes, the gut-punching realities of responsibility and the eternal romance of friendship.-Sammy Maine

https://alolender.com/

Greg Townson

Greg Townson has been making music most of his life, winning fans and making friends wherever he performs. Based in Rochester, New York, his music has brought him to stages all across the United States and Europe. Over the years Greg has built up a loyal audience through his spirited performances and tireless touring.

Greg began singing and playing guitar at the age of 15 and shortly after formed The Essentials, whose broad, roots music leanings led them to collaborate with everyone from rock and roll pioneer Bo Diddley, jazz legends Bill Doggett & Pee Wee Ellis, soul singers John Ellison and William Bell, to folk legend Michael Hurley and many others. Greg's musical knowledge and expertise was sought out to provide production and songwriting work on a wide range of recording projects throughout those formative years.

Over the years, Greg's music has absorbed a multitude of influences, from doo-wop to country, from soul to standards, from blues to pop, always keeping Greg's unique take on first generation rock & roll in the forefront. Eschewing a setlist, Greg's performances keep traditional music alive in the best sense, always breathing new life into whatever genre he chooses to write and perform in, playing off an audience and never turning a performance into a museum piece.

In addition to The Hi-Risers and his solo playing, 2010 brought yet another dimension to Greg's work when he was asked to join the instrumental band Los Straitjackets.

Also in 2013, Greg released his first solo record, On Your Side. Partly recorded in London with producer Neil Brockbank, On Your Side is a collection of 12 original songs, displaying the variety Greg has always thrived on. Greg's second solo record, My Friend The Night was released in 2015. Also in 2015, a Nick Lowe/Los Straitjackets collaboration, The Quality Holiday Revue was released on Yep Roc Records. Nick & LSJ'S appeared on Conan O'Brien to promote the record.

During his long career, Greg has performed nonstop and has no plans of slowing down. "Traveling and playing for new people in new places is one of my favorite things," he notes. "I've always written songs with an audience in mind and now that i'm performing solo it's a whole new way of communicating with them. I'm thrilled by how well the shows are going and i learn something new every night. I think the audience can sense I'm having fun and they get caught up in the fun too."

https://www.facebook.com/gregtownsonmusic/

With Special Guest

Aubrey Haddard

 Aubrey Haddard seeks refuge in her creative discipline. Carving out a boundary-less space to explore the human experience, she creates a sonic landscape that is both epic and deeply personal. Layers upon layers of unapologetic guitars lay the foundation for Haddard’s vocals, heralded by critics as “harrowingly beautiful” (Clash Magazine) and “herculean” (The Line of Best Fit). Calling upon the inspirations of powerhouse PJ Harvey, and songwriters from Feist to Frusciante, Haddard blends the analog and the digital with eccentricity. Themes of Greek mythology and Japanese literature weave their way through her stories, inviting listeners to peek into her subconscious and share in the depths of something both raw and real.

https://www.aubreyhaddard.com/

Tickets: $25 and on sale now online at https://abilene.showare.com and at the bar

Doors 4pm, Music 7:30pm

Erin & Ross with their Better Angels

Erin Futterer and Ross Falzone have been writing and performing together now for over 6 years.  Their unique yet nostalgic sound reflects their diverse musical backgrounds and experiences: from the conservatory to the street, to the studio. Through their original songs and reimagined versions of standards, the duo seeks to include the audience in the magic and the mystery of the musical experience.

“…It was magic. It was Tin Pan Alley ensconced in velvet. It was a trip to the moon on gossamer wings…I was enchanted, entranced, entertained.” -Frank De Blase, “The F Word”

https://erinandrossmusic.com/

https://www.facebook.com/newkindofold

Cover: $10 at the door

"Join us at Abilene Bar and Lounge to support Changing Keys, a local independent feature film. This fundraiser concert, on May 7th at 7 pm, will feature an eclectic mix of songs from genres of classic rock, pop, and more! Featuring: Jacob French, writer/director/star of the film, who has been seen in countless local shows such as Hitmakers; Gabriela Rivera, who has become a staple of the music scene at RIT, and stars in the film as well; and Birch, an up-and-coming local band from RIT. You won’t want to miss this exciting night of live music and a chance to help support local independent filmmaking. You can read more about the film here at https://changingkeysfilm.com/ "

Instagram… @changingkeysfilm.

Doors 4pm, Music 6:30pm

Big Lake

Big Lake plays acoustic music with an Americana/Bluegrass influence. They take pride in playing a cover song and making it sound like their own. Artists that they cover include, The Dead , Stones,  Led Zeppelin, Neil Young,  Allman Brothers, Little Feat , the Band,  Jason Isbell, Tyler Childers, Sturgill Simpson, Hayes Carll, Eilen Jewel. Bob Dylan, Watchhouse, Townes Van Sandt, CCR, Tony Rice, Johnny Cash, and many others. They all love a wide range of music and styles. Another interesting thing about this group is that with the exception of their drummer, they all attended UB at the same time, so it is really fun to still be friends after all these years and to create together. They’re very excited to be playing at Abilene because they all understand the type of Music Fan you are…and they can’t wait to play for ya!

Big Lake is Jessica Guinness, lead and backup vocals, Ron Permoda, stand-up and electric bass, Fred Haas, drums, Rolf Witt, mandolin and guitar, and Todd Simonson, lead and harmony vocals, guitars…Part-time players, Ben Proctor, dobro, and Valerie Tyrell, violin

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571608207579

Cover: $10

Doors 4pm, Music 7pm

Bill Kirchen - Titan of the Telecaster!

Upon tallying how many decades he’s worked as a professional guitar slinger, Telecaster master Bill Kirchen quips, “Well, they don't make 50 years like they used to.” They don’t often make careers like his, either.
From performing with his Who Knows Pickers jug band in Ann Arbor High School’s senior talent show (also on the program: the future Iggy Pop), to birthing the Americana genre with the original “hippie country band,” Commander Cody and his Lost Planet Airmen, this affable Austinite has been everywhere, man, flying alongside some of the planet’s coolest cats — including the Jesus of Cool, Nick Lowe, and Lowe’s old protégé, Elvis Costello.
Kirchen has toured the world with Lowe, who produced an album by Kirchen’s post-Airmen band, the Moonlighters, and Costello recruited Kirchen for high-profile gigs like the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival — and even named his festival band after Kirchen’s Hammer of the Honky-Tonk Gods album. Lowe appears on that 2006 album, and its 2010 follow-up, Word to the Wise, along with Costello, Maria Muldaur, Dan Hicks and other luminaries.
Now those albums, plus Kirchen’s third Proper Records release, 2013’s Seeds and Stems, are being combined with three bonus tracks from Transatlantica, his 2016 project with pub-rock progenitor Austin de Lone, as a two-CD retrospective titled The Proper Years. Waxworks, is a vinyl best-of version of the full collection. 
A well-balanced mix of engaging originals and wonderfully rendered covers, The Proper Years admirably conveys Kirchen’s versatility as a player and singer — one of the first to mash up rockabilly, country, western swing, honky-tonk, jump blues, jazz, boogie-woogie and even the “psychedelic folk rock” he played with the Seventh Seal, the band he formed while attending  the University of Michigan. (MC5 manager/activist John Sinclair got them a dealon the ESP-Disk label, home of Sun Ra, but the band turned it down.)
Somewhere between steering Commander Cody’s “Hot Rod Lincoln” into a top-10 hit and scoring a Grammy nomination for Best Country Instrumental Performance, Kirchen dubbed his sound “dieselbilly,” wrapping his fondness for country’s truck-driving song subgenre (as in big rigs, not pickups), its intersection with the Bakersfield Sound and his own name into one memorable moniker. 
Kirchen’s right-place-at-the-right-time career has put him at the forefront of many musical movements, including outlaw country; Commander Cody’s 1974 album, Live from Deep in the Heart of Texas, recorded at Austin’s legendary Armadillo World Headquarters, made Rolling Stone’s 100 Best Albums of All Time list.  
But whatever label Kirchen’s music wears, it’s always notable for its balance of high-octane energy and deft understatement. There’s no leadfoot excess; Kirchen’s all about finesse — a sensibility absorbed from the symphonies and Broadway musicals his parents loved, along with the orchestral works he played as a school-band trombonist. Through another major influence, Interlochen Center for the Arts summer camp counselor David Siglin (who would go on to run famed Ann Arbor venue the Ark), Kirchen became immersed in folk traditions and learned to love the “big, sonorous tones” of an undistorted guitar.  “I was more interested in sounding like Doc Watson than Eric Clapton,” admits Kirchen, whose main guitar was crafted by Rick Kelly of Carmine Street Guitars from 200-year-old pine floorboards recycled from film director Jim Jarmusch’s loft. 
It’s fitting that this collection begins with his ode to that Telly-modeled “stick of wood” he calls “the bicycle of the electric guitar —the most efficient way to get from point A to point B.” That song also serves as exhibit A in a collection showcasing a central facet of Kirchen’s songwriting: his wit. If there’s a laugh to be reached for — or stooped to —Kirchen’s goin’ for it; you don’t survive years in a band named Commander Cody and his Lost Planet Airmen, or drop album titles like Seeds and Stems, without possessing a gleefully subversive, double-entendre-loving funny bone.  “I like music where at least someone onstage is smiling sometimes, fer crissake,” jokes Kirchen, who’s often grinning happily when he’s not busy singing.
But for every injection of humor, there’s an equal dose of heart (and in some cases, heartbreak). And songs like “Tell Me the Reason” or “Get a Little Goner” illustrate another truism: Kirchen often sets the saddest or mostbiting lyrics to the jauntiest melodies.  Those two were cowritten by his wife, Louise; “Goner” also features frequent contributor Sarah Brown (coincidentally also raised in Ann Arbor).
Kirchen likes collaborating; on Word to the Wise, a musical reminiscence of sorts, he tapped several favorite artists to join him, carefully selecting or writing songs for each. In the liner notes, he explains, “The criteria we used were that you had to be A) someone I had actually played with, either on stage or record, and B) not dead yet.”  Sadly, Norton Buffalo, who played harmonica with the Airmen and Moonlighters, passed away shortly after recording “Valley of the Moon” — in which Kirchen revisits scenes of his early life with Louise on a trip to attend a funeral (for Hacienda Brother Chris Gaffney, another musical mate). Dan Hicks, who delivered a note-perfect duet on the title tune — written for him —died in 2016. But as of this writing, Lowe, Costello, Maria Muldaur, Paul Carrack, original Asleep at the Wheel vocalist Chris O’Connell and Commander Cody (aka George Frayne) are still very much with us.  
Kirchen’s entertaining liner notes explain his connection to each, tracing many of these relationships directly to longtime collaborator and “mainman” Austin de Lone, who appears on all three solo albums and shares billing on Transatlanticana. Philadelphia-born keyboardist de Lone and his band, Eggs Over Easy, moved to England in 1970, urged by Jimi Hendrix’s manager, Chas Chandler. Their rootsy mix of blues, country and rock caught on — and germinated the pub rock movement, whose acolytes included Brinsley Schwarz, in which Lowe played bass. In 1972, de Lone moved to California, where he met Kirchen. Years later, de Lone wound up joining the Moonlighters and introducing Kirchen to Lowe, who produced the band’s 1983 album, Rush Hour (and introduced Kirchen to Costello). That album was engineered by Paul Riley, who eventually would produce all four of Kirchen’s Proper Records albums. 
A devoted Anglophile, thanks to two aunts who married Brits, Kirchen began recording for the label after owner Malcolm Mills promised, “I'm going to give you the best deal you've had in 25 years.”  He did, too. Mills not only supports Kirchen’s recorded output, he also supports the guitarist on stage, right alongside bassist Riley. “Where else do you get a record company where the owner plays drums, the producer plays bass, and they tour with you?” Kirchen says of his good friends. “They’re the best.”
That’s just another twist in an incredible career trajectory set in motion, according to Kirchen, by two pivotal events: the 1964 and ’65 Newport Folk Festivals. As a high-school kid on a quest to catch Mississippi John Hurt, he thumbed to the first one, then went back the following year — and witnessed Dylan going electric. “That pretty well blew away the competition for what I was going to do before, or if, or when I grew up,” he says of those experiences.
Five years later, he found himself sharing a bill with John Lennon, Yoko Ono and Stevie Wonder, when Commander Cody and the Airmen, who’d formed in Ann Arbor, played a benefit for Sinclair after he got 10 years for two joints. A mere 50 years later, Kirchen’s still having a blast. He’s even planning another tour with Riley and Mills. But releasing this package, he says, “nicely puts a bow on a whole, very enjoyable period of my life.”  
“Not that it's over,” he adds quickly. “I mean, I've got more stuff in the works.” 
Then he cracks, “Don’t tell anybody, but it's not as hard as it looks.”

https://www.billkirchen.com/official

Tickets: $30 advance, $35 day of show and on sale now at the bar and online at https://abilene.showare.com

Special thanks to our good friends at Bop Shop Records for all their support

Doors 4pm, Music 7pm

“A Couple of Wanderers” - Faith Kelly and Caswyn Moon
Faith Kelly and Caswyn Moon are two solo artists who travel together from the Catskills of New York to share their songs to everyone everywhere. Caswyn starts off with his punky yet melodic Americana with old country undertones while Faith accompanies him with her Moog synthesizer. Once he's done rockin' his set,  Faith Kelly takes over with her spacey folk rock'n'roll with Appalachian mountain roots.
A little about the show. They usually play two separate sets. Caswyn Moon begins with Faith Kelly accompanying his music with her Moog synthesizer.  Then Caswyn steps away and Faith begins her set. Just a couple of wanderers. Playing music to anyone, anywhere. For no apparent reason.

http://www.faithkelly.com/couple-of-wanderers.html

https://www.facebook.com/faith.xkelly

Mike Brown

In addition to a prolific career as a singer-songwriter, producer and multi- instrumentalist, Grammy-nominated artist Mike Brown is an incredibly dynamic and versatile collaborator. His debut record, American Hotel, was self-recorded in all 50 states over the course of eight years, and features a staggeringly diverse roster of 75 special guests, including members of: The Band, Los Lobos, The Jayhawks, Wilco, Television, Nine Inch Nails, Bare Naked Ladies, Guster, Goo Goo Dolls, The Wallflowers, Counting Crows, Sparklehorse, Gwar, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Matchbox Twenty, The Meat Puppets, Soul Asylum, Cracker, Superdrag, Whiskeytown, Morphine, Moxy Fruvous, Belle and Sebastian, 10,000 Maniacs, The Minus 5, Freedy Johnston, Letters To Cleo and Soul Coughing. 

Brown is also the founder of Temperamental Recordings, a recording studio and label based out of a former Methodist church built in 1828.  In 2011 the impressive space and collection was featured on The History Channel show American Pickers, with Brown appearing as an expert and appraiser of musical instruments and vintage recording equipment. 

In 2014 Brown released a CD with a childhood friend Zac DeCamp titled Automatic Music Can Be Fun and, with the help of Brian Grunert from White Bicycle Design Firm, was nominated for a GRAMMY in the Best Recording Package category against Jay-Z, David Bowie, Metallica, and Reckless Kelly. 

https://mikebrown.org/about

Cover: $10 at the door

Doors 4pm, Music 7pm

Brody Schenk

Brody Schenk is a rising singer-songwriter whose music blends heartfelt storytelling with a variety of musical influences. Brody’s songs are deeply rooted in humanity, nature, the universe and the beauty found in honest moments.

Hailing from Rochester, New York, Brody picked up the guitar at a young age and quickly found his voice through songwriting and musicianship. After an adolescence spent performing locally, Brody moved to Nashville, Tennessee. Never afraid to take matters into his own hands, he has self booked three national tours and performed in over twenty five states at the age of twenty.

Whether he's performing solo or backed by a full band, Brody brings a soulful energy to the stage—connecting with listeners through powerful lyrics, irresistible rhythm, and a deep passion for the craft. His latest single, “Shitty Friends” showcases his dynamic range and authentic honest approach to songwriting, earning him praise from both fans and critics alike.

Brody has had the opportunity to share the stage with artists such as Donna the Buffalo, Melvin Seals & JGB, Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad, Cory Branan, Sean Rowe, Ghost Light, Tim Reynold’s Trio, and more.

Brody is currently residing in East Nashville and focusing on writing, recording, and touring, with new music on the way.

We’re thrilled to once again be hosting Brody!

https://brodyschenk.com/

https://www.facebook.com/brodyschenkmusic/

instagram.com/brodyschenk

Cover: $10 at the Door