(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of The Augusta Press.)
Hurricane Ian had just walloped Florida, moving out into the Atlantic and positioning itself to hit the South Carolina coast. Dean and I wanted to catch some live music on the upcoming weekend but, with the threat of wind and rain from Ian on that recent Friday, we figured that we would find slim pickings due to the impending storm. On Thursday afternoon, however, a friend posted about live music that would take place that evening on the patio at Chili’s in Evans. I had no idea that Chili’s offered live music, so to Chili’s we went.
The patio was empty when we arrived, so we were seated at a table across from the area where the musician was scheduled to perform. A cool breeze blew through the open-air seating, but that didn’t stop us from taking a table there. The temperature was just right and the breeze felt great, so we settled in for a leisurely meal with appetizer, entrée and dessert.
Alan Thompson arrived shortly after we were seated and began to set up his equipment. After he had set everything up and was getting ready to begin, a blast of wind hit the patio and I grabbed for the stack of napkins on our table that threatened to launch into the gale. The wind picked up even more, and for a minute it looked like the show might be moved indoors. At the last minute, Alan decided to tough it out and give it a go on the patio. He picked up his guitar and settled himself on a stool. When he started playing, the wind died down and allowed the show to begin.
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The first song on Alan Thompson’s set list was a number by Jimmy Cliff. “Limbo” set the tone for what would become a laid back show with a fun and relaxing vibe. Once Alan began performing, more patrons arrived and took tables on the patio to enjoy music with their dinners.
Other songs Alan played included “Take Me to the River” by Al Green, “To Love Somebody” by the Bee Gees, “The Letter” by the Box Tops, and “Time of the Season” by the Zombies. His repertoire was filled with a fun mix of oldies that spanned the decades. What I particularly enjoyed was that his set list felt fresh. It was nice to hear a different batch of classic rock songs.
Friendly and engaging, Alan Thompson is a charismatic singer and guitarist who enjoys playing to and entertaining a crowd. Visit his Facebook page, Old Man Crazy, at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066573785791
Follow the Evans Chili’s location on Facebook for all of their events and promotions. https://www.facebook.com/Chilis-Grill-Bar-439397762768580
Francie Klopotic is an author, artist and music aficionado living in Augusta. She writes The Night Beat column the first and third Fridays of each month.
