By: Jackie Sheridan
Posted In: Entertainment
Photo credit: Jackie Sheridan
Hot Like Fire, a reggae and soca dance band, has won over Newport crowds during their weekly performances at The Rhino Bar.
WHO TO SEE: Those Guys
WHY: A favorite with Salve students and locals alike, this five-man-band is a blast to see with friends. Playing covers like Coldplay’s “Clocks,” to a medley of Duran Duran hits with crisp vocals, clear guitar riffs, and fantastic keyboard solos provides a rocking good time on those Newport club nights. The searing beat of the drums gets everybody moving, and if you’re looking to shout the lyrics to your favorite popular song, seeing this 9-year-old Newport band is where it’s at. “They play a great variety of current and classic cover songs,” said Ellen Stracensky, Salve Regina junior. “And they always play our requests, which is great!” WHERE/WHEN: The Garden Grille, One Pelham East, The Rhino Bar and Grille, and Christie’s throughout March and April. See them at Christie’s on March 11 for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Check out www.thoseguysnpt.com for full schedule. WHO TO SEE: Hot Like Fire WHY: They’re New England reggae at its best. Cool, calm rhythms of the Caribbean soothe grooving crowds. The award-winning reggae and soca dance band has entranced Newport crowds with original jams that echo Steel Pulse and blow a tropical breeze through the streets of downtown. Soulful vocals and melodies in songs like “Hot Like Fire Tonight” are reminiscent of island life, and an audience can’t help but relax when this quintuplet takes the stage. WHERE/WHEN: Reggae Night at The Rhino Bar and Grille, every Thursday at 10 p.m. For other listings, check out their website: www.hotlikefire.net. WHO TO SEE: The Booze Brothers WHY: Think Jimmy Buffet, but much cooler. With the slogan, “A Drinking Band with a Music Problem,” this band/comedy troupe plays originals and jokes with the audience. Although looking for a laugh, this quad of jesters does create serious music, like “Dead Flowers,” quiet and deep tunes that set you sailing into the sunset of a summer night. Self-described as “experimental,” this band will get your feet moving and will keep you entertained. So if you’re looking for some comic relief with a dash of talent thrown in, the Booze Brothers make for an interesting night. WHERE/WHEN: Every Sunday at One Pelham East. Also March 11 at Studio 3 and Christie’s on March 17. Check your local listings for other popular bands playing in Newport, including ContraBand, acoustic rock, and The Ravers, “Newport’s reggae band.” And remember to circle a night on your calendar to head downtown and support the locals. All that reading and writing can wait just one more night.
