After a slow summer in Carrollton, the music scene is re-emerging as fall semester begins. Local hangout spots are reviving with live music and patronage seeking the different sounds of Carrollton music.
With numerous locations appealing to various musical tastes, the Carrolton’s increasingly bustling Adamson Square offers a scene for everyone. Brian Crotty, owner of the Alley Cat, is already seeing a rising number of new faces and returning students with school back in session.
“With college here, a lot of new folks are checking out bars to see what’s their new place for music,” said Crotty.
Primarily seen as the town’s indie music joint, Alley Cat presents local artists as well as musical talent from Atlanta, Athens and Alabama. Crotty maintains a variety of genres and themed nights for the entertainment of the small town scene. The bohemian bar features Jazz Night every Tuesday with performances by The Fat Cat Five. Alley Cat also hosts the well-received Open Mic Night on Wednesdays from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Alley Cat remains one of the most dominantly musical spots for nightlife in Carrollton. “We bring a little bit of everything for everyone,” said Crotty. “There’s everything from Dubstep and DJs to superhot Atlanta bands like The Winter Sounds, Back Pockets and West African Band, as well as a lot of Athens connections. With Jazz Night and Open Mic Night, we are looking for every kind of genre.”
Blue Steakhouse, also located in Adamson Square, is also putting live bands in the spotlight. One of Carrollton’s most well-known musical groups, Cowtown String Band, performs every Wednesday night from 9 p.m. until midnight at the restaurant/bar. Jason Mcpanko, fiddler of the band, encourages everyone to come out in their dancing shoes for “old timey blue grass” and good times. Cowtown delivers a highly spirited performance with folk music and charismatic country melodies, incorporating inspiration from R.Kelly to Wilco into their music. Blue Steakhouse also offers a DJ specializing in nostalgic 90s tunes and a full bar bearing $1 PBRs.
The recent addition of the AMP at Adamson Square, an amphitheater with cinematic entertainments, festivals and concerts, is Carrollton’s latest venue for music. Upcoming events at the AMP will include a performance by country singer, Bill Gentry, on Sept. 3. Gentry kicks off the end of the Free Summer Concert Series at the AMP at 7:30 pm.
For more information on upcoming music events in Carrollton, keep close watch of flyers around town.
