Island Dogs featured artist: Nick Norman

Nick Norman now calls Key West, Florida his home, but it was during his childhood in Columbia, South Carolina that he first acquired his passion for music. Attending Baptist church as a child exposed him to the awe inspiring power of the choir.

Nick Norman Band

"It was how I first learned that you can truly make people feel what you feel, by believing in what you are singing. They sang from their hearts and that is something I believe that cannot be faked," Norman said.

Nick Norman performs live at Island Dogs on Saturday, November 3, 2012, at 8 p.m.

As a young man listening to South Carolina's emerging musicians of the time, such as Edwin McCain and Hootie and the Blowfish, he was also drawing from the styles of legendary artists including Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson. Inspired by an eclectic array of influences Nick created a sound all his own.

Branching out from his home state he performed on stages all over the southeast, eventually finding his way to the Southernmost city of Key West. As his solo acoustic shows were drawing crowds, Nick's song writing was steadily being fueled by the artistic vibe of the island blending with his native southern roots.

With the support of an expanding fan base eager to hear his original music, in 2010 Nick released his debut album "Hey Cheater" produced by close friends Jon Stone and Lee Brice. Shortly after the album release, Nick began to proudly share the stage with two amazing musicians, Joey Marchiano from Philly, and Key West's own "Caffeine Carl" Wagoner. Nick's vocals meshed with Carl's incomparable talent on lead guitar and Joey's meticulous groove on drums, forming the foundation of the Nick Norman Band.

Nick is currently writing for new projects and maintains a hefty national touring schedule with the Nick Norman Band. Never forgetting where he is from, Carolina is always a welcome stop on the long road.

Ultimat Ghost: The Ultimate Halloween Cocktail

We found this really cool recipe for the Ultimat Ghost on Fiji Water's website. Yeah, Fiji Water. Go figure! Anyway, enjoy!

Ultimat Ghost

1 1/4 ounces Ultimat Vodka
1/4 ounce Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur
1/4 ounce half and half
1 teaspoon grated white chocolate

1. Add half and half, simple syrup, Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur, and Ultimat Vodka.

2. Shake with ice and strain into a pre-chilled martini glass.

3. Garnish with grated white chocolate.

Jeff Clark to headline Larry Baeder’s Wednesday Night Blues Concert Series

KEY WEST, Fla. (September 17, 2012) — Jeff Clark has been a Soul, folk, funk and pop musician/entertainer for over six years, touring with Boston-based original world beat ensemble, Entrain. He brings his musical intentions to Island Dogs on Wednesday, September 19, at 8 p.m. for Larry Baeder's Blues Concert Series.

Jeff Clark

Baeder's Blues Concert Series features a different jazz or blues performer every week, local and visiting, performing alongside Baeder.

Clark has worked extensively throughout his home state of Pennsylvania, much of the northeast U.S. and across the country. These days, he can be seen riding his longboard with amps and guitars, to and from Old Town Key West gigs. Despite a busy gig schedule, Clark makes sure to play with staple Key West musicians. Together they offer superb talent and a deep repertoire.

As his writing evolves, matures and simplifies, Clark has received more and more positive feedback and higher demand for his music talent. Clark said he's becoming more averse to the island grooves, reggae and dancehall, and right now, is working on developing original bands with fewer limits.

Also at Island Dogs next week:

• Sunday, September 16, 2012: Arizona at New England at 1 p.m.
• Thursday, September 20, 2012: Tony Roberts at 8 p.m.
• Saturday, September 22, 2012: Clemson at Florida State TBD

Deb Hudson to headline Larry Baeder's Blues Concert Series at Island Dogs

KEY WEST, Fla. (September 5, 2012) -- As a versatile vocalist with decades of performing under her belt, Deb Hudson has graced hundreds of stages, performing everything from Rock, Jazz, Country and Blues to Bluegrass, Folk, and Soul. She will grace the Island Dogs stage on Wednesday, September 12, 2012, from 8 p.m. for Larry Baeder's Wednesday Night Blues Concert Series.

Deb Hudson

Baeder's Blues Concert Series features a different jazz or blues performer every week, local and visiting, performing alongside Baeder.

Hudson has sung with or recorded demos for a long list of artists and writers, including Don Everly, Tanya Tucker, Dave Loggins ("Please come to Boston"), Wynonna Judd, John Prine, Shel Silverstein ("Cover of the rolling stone"), Randy Travis, Mel Tillis, Roger Cook ("Long cool woman with a black dress"), and Elvis hit maker, Otis Blackwell.

She has also shared the stage with many of the band members of stars such as Elton John, Bonnie Raitt, Jimmy Buffett, Lynard Skynard, Alan Jackson, Merle Haggard, Tammy Wynette, George Jones, and more.

In Nashville, she was a featured singer/songwriter on The Grand Ol' Opry and TNN, and performed at legendary venues such as The Bluebird Cafe and The Nashville Palace. She toured cross-country with Opry Star, Del Reeves. Deb is a songwriter and has co-written with several songwriters, including Dave Loggins, Pamela Brown-Hayes ("I can love you better than that"- Dixie Chicks) and Shel Silverstein. She resides in Key West, Florida.

Also at Island Dogs next week:

• Thursday, September 13: Tony Durante at 8 p.m.
• Friday, September 14: LoFi's at 8 p.m. 
• Saturday, September 15: Wake Forest at Florida State 12 p.m.

ABOUT ISLAND DOGS Under the new ownership of Pat Croce and David Thibault since July 2010, Island Dogs is the ultimate come-as-you-are bar just off the beaten Canal Street path in Key West's historic downtown, featuring an outdoor oyster bar on its sidewalk front porch. Island Dogs is known for its live music, island cocktails and its specialty menu crafted by Chef Pat Dunn. For more info, visit www.islanddogsbar.com or visit us at 505 Front Street, Key West 33040.

Queen Kathleen to headline Larry Baeder's Wednesday Night Blues Concert Series

Queen Kathleen

KEY WEST, Fla. (August 30, 2012) -- Queen Kathleen--a Jazz, R&B and gospel singer originally from Chicago--is one of Key West's most colorful performers. She will headline Larry Baeder's Wednesday Night Concert Series on Sept. 5, 2012, from 8 p.m. at Island Dogs.

Baeder's Wednesday Night Blues Concert Series features a different jazz or blues performer every week, local and visiting, performing alongside Baeder.

With her signature waist-length braids, Queen Kathleen sings frequently at fundraisers, churches, nightclubs, community events and celebrations. She hosts Gospel Paradise locally at konkam.com every Saturday and Sunday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Bill Blue to headline Larry Baeder's Wednesday Night Blues Concert Series

Bill Blue

KEY WEST, Fla. (August 29, 2012) -- There's an old legend about Bill Blue that says he came to Key West with a pretty girl, a Cadillac and very little money. But ask the man himself and he'll tell you that the little money part was closer to the truth.

Since his arrival to Mile 0 in 1983 after spending 18 years on the road touring and recording, Blue has opened a music store and recording studio, and become a well-known blues performer. Now, he brings his gravelly blues to Island Dogs on Wednesday, August 29, from 8 p.m. for Larry Baeder's Wednesday Night Blues Concert Series.

Baeder's Wednesday Night Blues Concert Series features a different jazz or blues performer every week, local and visiting, performing alongside Baeder.

Blue left North Carolina for Virginia to meet blues legend Arthur "Big Boy" Crudup, who wrote Elvis's first record, That's Alright Mama, and went from an out-of-work musician to being on the road with Big Boy and Bonnie Raitt on her first U.S. tour.

Blue's career has lasted more than 30 years and has taken him to stages around the world. He signed on with the prestigious Adelphi Records, one of the best blues labels at the time in the U.S., and released two LP's: Sing Like Thunder and Giving Good Boys A Bad Name. In 2005, he released a compilation CD, Closing Time, with songs from the last 30 years.



Under the new ownership of Pat Croce and David Thibault since July 2010, Island Dogs is the ultimate come-as-you-are bar just off the beaten Canal Street path in Key West's historic downtown, featuring an outdoor oyster bar on its sidewalk front porch. Island Dogs is known for its live music, island cocktails and its specialty menu crafted by Chef Pat Dunn. For more info, visit www.islanddogsbar.com or visit us at 505 Front Street, Key West 33040.

Raven Cooper to headline Larry Baeder's Blues Concert Series

Yes, it is indeed so. Raven Cooper will play this Wednesday at the Blues Concert Series...

Raven Cooper

KEY WEST, Fla. (August 20, 2012) -- A flawless and diverse performer, Key West-based Raven Cooper performs a wide range of musical genres as a highly skilled guitarist and harmonica player--more than 500 hundred songs in six different languages, from Country and Rock 'n Roll to reggae and pop, to be exact.

Cooper will bring her original music and covers, humor and beautiful presence to Island Dogs for Larry Baeder's Wednesday Night Concert Series on August 22, 2012, from 8 p.m. The series features legendary guitarist Baeder performing alongside a different artist, both local and visiting, every week.

View the Wednesday Night Concert Series line-up

"There is no other way to describe Raven than as the most talented musician these ears have ever heard," wrote her manager David Marshall on Cooper's official website.

Also performing at Island Dogs this week on August 25 from 8 p.m. is Con Leche with its "tropical Hip Hop with a twinge of jest."



Under the new ownership of Pat Croce and David Thibault since July 2010, Island Dogs is the ultimate come-as-you-are bar just off the beaten Canal Street path in Key West's historic downtown, featuring an outdoor oyster bar on its sidewalk front porch. Island Dogs is known for its live music, island cocktails and its specialty menu crafted by Chef Pat Dunn. For more info, visit www.islanddogsbar.com or visit us at 505 Front Street, Key West 33040.

Singer/songwriter Dora Gholson headlines Larry Baeder's Wednesday Night Blues Unplugged Concert Series

KEY WEST, Fla. (August 13, 2012) -- Michigan native Dora Gholson, songwriter, co-guitarist and lead vocalist for Key West-based band Larry Baeder & The MuseGurus, is a poetic lyricist and an astonishingly engaging singer.

And on August 15 at 8 p.m., she will headline the Wednesday Night Blues Unplugged Concert Series featuring legendary guitarist Larry Baeder performing alongside a different blues artist, either local or visiting, every week.

Gholson can turn a one-syllable word into a five-syllable word that encompasses six notes and two octaves and has the vocal agility to sing all around the note and land squarely on pitch, The MuseGurus album notes note.

Gholson has a rich and heart-felt vocal sound, which she employs in a skillful and soulful manner that remains with the listener long after the performance is over. She has been singing most of her life and professionally in the Key West area since 2006.

Also at Island Dogs this week:

• Internationals — Friday, August 17, 2012: Headed by Tony Durante, the Internationals is a new Key West band that will play at Island Dogs on Friday, August 17, from 8 p.m. 
• Con Leche — Saturday, August 18, 2012: Con Leche brings its “tropical Hip Hop with a twinge of jest” to Island Dogs on Saturday, August 18, at 8 p.m.

Jazz keyboardist and regular film score contributor Pete Levin jams with Larry Baeder at the Blues Unplugged Concert Series

Levin

KEY WEST, Fla. (August 6, 2012) -- Pete Levin is a jazz keyboardist, composer, and horn player with a 15-year association with the Gil Evans Orchestra and an 8-year association with Jimmy Giuffre. As a bandleader, he produced the album Deacon Blues in 2007.

He plays the Hammond organ, Clavinet, and Moog synthesizer, and he has performed for such film and television scores as Missing in Action, Lean on Me, Silver Bullet, Red Scorpion, The Color of Money, Maniac, Spin City, America's Most Wanted, and Star Trek.

And on August 8 at 8 p.m., he will headline the Wednesday Night Blues Unplugged Concert Series featuring legendary guitarist Larry Baeder performing alongside a different blues artist, either local or visiting, every week.

Levin has also written scores of his own for Zelimo and The Dybbuk, and was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for writing the official military band arrangement of the U.S. Infantry song.

He has performed with Aztec Two Step, Jeff Berlin, Carla Bley, Brubeck Brothers, Hiram Bullock, Jimmy Cobb, Billy Cobham, Willie Colón, Kal David, Miles Davis, Angela DeNiro, Robbie Dupress, Rachelle Farelle, Bryan Ferry, Gregory Hines, Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Band, Annie Lennox, Tony Levin, Chuck Mangione, Charles Mingus, Gerry Mulligan, Jaco Pastorius, Nicki Richards, Robbie Robertson, Ali Ryerson, Salt-n-Pepa, David Sanborn, John Scofield, Wayne Shorter, Paul Simon, Lew Soloff, Jim Weider, and Lenny White.

Also at Island Dogs this week:

• Internationals -- Friday, August 10, 2012: Headed by Tony Durante, the Internationals is a new Key West band that will play at Island Dogs on Friday, August 10, from 8 p.m.
• Con Leche -- Saturday, August 11, 2012: Con Leche brings its "tropical Hip Hop with a twinge of jest" to Island Dogs on Saturday, August 11, at 8 p.m.

NY Blues Siren Nikki Armstrong headlines Blues Unplugged Concert Series

Nikki Armstrong

KEY WEST, Fla. (July 30, 2012) -- One of the most raw and passionate voices in the New York Blues and Jazz scene comes to Key West at Island Dogs on Wednesday, August 1, at 8 p.m. for Larry Baeder's newly launched Wednesday Night Blues Unplugged Concert Series.

The Wednesday Night Blues Unplugged Concert Series features legendary guitarist Baeder performing alongside a different blues artist, either local or visiting, every week.

See a full listing of upcoming Blues artists for the concert series

Also known as "Lady of Song" and host of 89.1 FM-WFDU's Blues in the Grooves on Across the Trax, Nikki Armstrong has been compared to Anita O'Day, Tina Turner, Gladys Knight, Bonnie Raitt and Janis Joplin. Noted for soulful interpretations of material from standards to rock, Armstrong performs everything from full band blues, rock and soul originals to carefully crafted jazz standard renditions with startlingly raw passion.

She studied music and voice in Boston, LA, and New York--most notably with Hal Schaefer (Peggy Lee and Marilyn Monroe)--and wrote and did session work on the West Coast and Sydney, Australia, before shifting focus to live performance.

Armstrong has performed in the New York Tri-State area for the past 15 years with her bands Whole Lotta Blues (blues/rock/funk) and The Nikki Armstrong Project (jazz/blues). And she has performed and recorded with Melvin Sparks (Acid Jazz Guitarist), Les Paul (Father of the Electric Guitar), and many others.

She has opened for The Commitments, Joan Osborne, Dave Mason, Dickey Betts, Hubert Sumlin, Ivan Neville's Dumpstafunk, John Tropea Band, Johnny A, Coco Montoya, Cornell Dupree, Parliament Funkadelic, and performed in the Florida Keys, on Caribbean Cruise ships, and can be seen regularly at BB King Blues Club in Times Square.

An important voice in the New York area Blues and Jazz scene, Armstrong served on the Board of Directors of the New York Blues & Jazz Society for over eight years as Musician Liaison when she coordinated, performed, and produced shows at Birdland, B.B. King's Blues Club, and Sirius Radio.

In 2007, Armstrong became the on-air show host of Blues in the Grooves, broadcasting every Wednesday afternoon on WFDU 89.1FM, www.wfdu.fm.  During that time, Nikki produced a number of live radio and internet video broadcasts featuring notable blues & jazz musicians, live tribute shows, and benefit shows for the victims of Katrina in New Orleans.

Armstrong has four independent CD releases: Blues and Jazz, Live at B.B. King's, Turnin' & Burnin', and New, Borrowed & Blue. Most recently, Nikki has resumed touring outside of the New York area. She will perform in Europe this fall (Sept. /Oct. 2012).

Also at Island Dogs this week:

• Tony "Baltimore" Durante plays lead vocals and guitar for the LoFi's, a 3-piece rock band of Key West transplants, and will perform solo at Island Dogs on Thursday, August 2, from 8 p.m.
• The LoFi's, a 3-piece rock band of Key West transplants that performs throughout Key West and the Keys, will hit the Island Dogs stage on Friday, August 3, from 8 p.m.
• Con Leche brings its "tropical Hip Hop with a twinge of jest" to Island Dogs on Saturday, August 4, at 8 p.m.

Ericson Holt headlines Larry Baeder’s Wednesday Night Blues Unplugged Concert Series

Ericson Holt

Due to a last-minute scheduling conflict, Ericson Holt will perform at next week Wednesday's Blues Unplugged Concert Series on  July 25. We apologize for any inconvenience.


KEY WEST, Fla. (July 16, 2012) -- With a voice that the Nashville Scene calls "Jackson Browne with more swagger", Ericson Holt comes to the Island Dogs stage on Wednesday, July 18, at 8 p.m. with his rootsy, bluesy, soul-dipped, leaning-towards-country sound.

Holt is the second guest at Larry Baeder's newly launched Wednesday Night Blues Unplugged Concert Series where legendary guitarist Baeder performs alongside a different blues artist, either local or visiting.

A brave, raw and insightful songwriter, Holt has recorded, internationally toured and had TV appearances with Grammy winners the Mavericks, and Oscar nominee and critics' favorite Allison Moorer. He has played alongside Lee Roy Parnell, Rodney Crowell, Jim Lauderdale, Lari White, Tracy Nelson, Phil Lee, Ricky Van Shelton, the Amazing Rhythm Aces, and Delbert McClinton, just to name a few.

Ericson has performed solo at B.B. King's and the Bluebird Café in Nashville, as well as numerous other venues in the Southeast, and he has also appeared live on several radio stations, including WFPK and WPLN. Before moving to Nashville, Ericson, a Virginia native, worked on the East Coast Blues and Roots Rock circuits, fronting his own bands, and playing with other popular bands such as the Meteors and Lil' Ronnie & the Blue Beats, often opening for national acts including the Fabulous Thunderbirds, Roomful of Blues, and Delbert McClinton.

In 2005, his album The Blue Side began to climb the Americana Music chart on the strength of original songs like "Lonesome River," "Tired of Waitin' Around," "I've Got Your Number," and the title track. Though it's independently released, the album reached the Top 30 during the week of April 18, the Top 5 on the Roots Music Rock chart.

Also at Island Dogs this week:

• Tony Roberts' unique sound is best described as "islandreggaebluesgospel". And he couldn't have found a better home for his music than Island Dogs on Thursday, July 19, at 8 p.m.
• Jeff Clark has been a musician/entertainer for almost six years. He brings soul, folk, funk and pop to Island Dogs on Friday, July 20, from 9 p.m.
• Con Leche brings its "tropical Hip Hop with a twinge of jest" to Island Dogs on Saturday, July 21, at 8 p.m.

The Black Cat Cocktail

In honor of Friday 13th, here's an interesting recipe to try.

Black Cat
Recipe from A History of Drinking blog by way of Hiram Walker. Photo from here.

1/3 part Kahlua®
1/3 part Hiram Walker® Anisette
1/3 part Tequila

Glass: Shot
Garnish: None

Layer slowly into a chilled shot glass starting with the Kahlua.

Guitar legend Larry Baeder to host Wednesday Night Blues Unplugged Concert Series at Island Dogs

Larry Baeder

KEY WEST, Fla. (June 28, 2012) -- Larry Baeder's dynamic musical career as a gifted and virtuosic guitarist, songwriter and producer reads like a who's who of American music over the past 30 years.

Chuck Jackson. Ashford & Simpson. Smokey Robinson. Carly Simon. Bonnie Raitt. Jazz legends Jay McShann, Illinois Jacquet, Eddie "Cleanhead" Vinson, and singer Diane "Mama" Rae. Legendary blues artists Muddy Waters, James Cotton, Junior Wells, John Lee Hooker, Buddy Guy, Matt "Guitar" Murphy, Albert King, and Dan "Elwood Blues" Akroyd. Buddy Guy and James Taylor.

Now in Key West, the legendary Baeder takes on the Wednesday Night Blues Unplugged Concert Series at Island Dogs. Every Wednesday, Baeder will host and perform alongside a different blues artist, either local or visiting.

"The Blues is America's original art form," Baeder said. "Its broad pallet means that it'll be different from week to week depending on the guest, but it'll be just as glorious."

The first show in the concert series kicks off July 11 with Key West's old man of blues, Bill Blue, with two shows at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m.

UPCOMING SHOWS:
July 18, 2012: Francois Gehin on acoustic bass tribute to blues great and Chess records writer and bass player Willie Dixon
July 25, 2012: Nashville piano great and vocalist steeped in the blye, Ericson Holt
August 1, 2012: New York Blues Siren and well-known roots DJ, Nikki Armstrong
August 8, 2012: New York piano legend Pete Levin, who has played with everyone over the last 40 years from Miles Davis and Gil Evans to Paul Simon. 
August 15, 2012: Michigan songstress Dora Gholson graces the stage with a voice from the angels and songs from the Devil.
August 22, 2012:  Ravin Cooper, Key West's favorite songbird
August 29, 2012:  The return of Richmond, Va., and Key West Bluesmen Bill Blue.

"We were incredibly fortunate to pin down Larry to work with us on this and to jam with some amazing blues artists right here on our stage," said David Thibault, co-owner of Island Dogs.

Island Dogs Featured Drink: Angry Firebomb

The guys over at Fireball Whiskey loved our Angry Firebomb so much that they're making it a signature drink in bars across Key West. And soon you'll see table tents at Island Dogs with the coveted recipe. But we're giving it to you here, so just remember: you heard it here first!

ANGRY FIREBOMB

1/2 pint Angry Orchard Cider
Shot of Fireball Cinnamon Flavored Whiskey

Pour the cider in a pint glass. Pour a shot of Fireball Cinnamon Flavored Whiskey in a separate shot glass. Drop the shot into the pint glass and pound it like a shot. Rinse and repeat as desired.

Island Dogs Featured Artist: 800 Mile Monday

Founded in 2006 in Lubbock, Texas, by Daniel Payne, 800 Mile Monday draws from a revolving door of touring and studio musicians to keep the wheels turning. In between his friendly smiles and down-home West Texas "hi you all," Payne howls and mourns his savage tales of betrayal, spurned lovers, and low down losers.

Daniel Payne. Photo Credit: 800MileMonday.com

Payne, West Texas tumbleweed that he is, spent a several years drifting from town to town, couch to storage shed, hanging out with winos, running from the law, and honing his craft every night in the bars--if he didn't pass out on the curb and blow the gig.

Sometimes it would just be him and his old Guild flat top guitar. Other times, he'd be backed by his cowpunk cohorts The Dan Family (Dan Hardick and Brett Walker) from the barnyards of Parker County.  The band's first full-length release, "In The Fertile Gardens of Freedom" debuted out of Fort Worth, Tex., in early 2010 to a positive reception among critics and fans. A U.S. tour followed and 800 Mile Monday was on the national map.

Payne spent most of 2011 touring in the U.S. and Europe with Bob Wayne and his "Outlaw Carnies" while writing his own next album "Ancient Tones" which was recorded by Andy Gibson in Nashville, Tenn., and released in January 2012. The record, captured in the traditional bluegrass style alongside Andy Gibson and Daniel Mason (both of Hank III), Chris Scruggs (BR-549), and fiddle prodigy Billy Contreras (George Jones) shocked critics with its plainspoken honesty, hard-living brutality and peerless musicianship.

Three tours into 2012 and with the growing support of loyal fans cropping up worldwide, the band continues to shine while taking its balls-to-the-wall no-let-up two hour live show to fans in the United States and Europe.

"I'm already writing the next one," Payne said with a knowing smile. "Every day when I wake up I am grateful for what I have, and for everyone I have met.  I'm living each day to the fullest because tomorrow's never sure."

800 Mile Monday performs Friday, June 8, at Island Dogs from 9 p.m.


A version of this blog post appears at 800 Mile Monday's bio by Clive O'Malley on their website.

Official Weigh-In Party for the Bone Island Fights Mixed Martial Arts event

WHAT: Official Weigh-In Party for the Bone Island Fights Mixed Martial Arts event

WHERE: Island Dogs Bar, 505 Front Street, Key West, FL

WHEN: Wednesday, May 16, 2012 from 6 p.m.

WHY: Proceeds from the May 17, 2012, Mixed Martial Arts event will go toward the Kevin Piper Jr. Memorial Fund's initiative to install a hyperbaric chamber in Key West that will prevent future tragedies of the type that claimed the life of Kevin Piper Jr. in June 2011.

Here's more info on the actual MMA event and cause...

IBIS BAY WATERFRONT RESORT TO HOST SECOND MIXED MARTIAL ARTS EVENT TO BENEFIT THE KEVIN PIPER JR. MEMORIAL FUND

KEY WEST, FLORIDA, April 25, 2012 -- Reinforcing its commitment to help meet the long-term needs of the larger Key West Community, IBIS BAY Waterfront Resort today announced that it will sponsor a Mixed Martial Arts event to benefit the Kevin Piper Jr. Memorial Fund's drive to establish a hyperbaric facility in the Lower Keys, as well as fund first aid refresher courses and establish a memorial scholarship fund in the name of Kevin Piper Jr. It is hoped that the installation of a multiplace hyperbaric chamber in the community will help prevent future tragedies of the type that claimed the life of local resident Kevin Piper Jr. in June 2011.

According to IBIS BAY Waterfront Resort general manager Tony Osborn, the Mixed Martial Arts event will take place on May 17th, 2012 at the resort and will feature 8-12 individual fights in all major weight classes. The event is being produced by MMA Solutions Global, Inc. of Fort Walton Beach, Florida.

"Our first Mixed Martial Arts Event, which was held on February 16th, raised more than $7,000 for the Kevin Piper Jr. Memorial Fund while providing the community with an opportunity to come together for a worthy cause," Osborn explained. "Based on the success of this first event we have decided to sponsor a series of Mixed Martial Arts events over the course of the next year in the hope that they will generate all of the money the Fund needs to establish a hyperbaric facility in the Lower Keys, and help prevent future tragedies."

Speaking on behalf of the Kevin Piper Jr. Memorial Fund, Kevin Piper Sr. noted that the event provides the community with a very special opportunity to once again raise money for the foundation that was set up in the memory of his son, and continue working toward the goal of getting a hyperbaric chamber in Key West.

"What IBIS BAY is doing for the Fund is incredible," Piper said. "With the exceptional donation we received from the first MMA fight, and all of the excitement that surrounded the event, we are confident that the proceeds from the upcoming bouts will go a long way to helping us achieve our goals."

According to IBIS BAY Waterfront Resort owner Chris Holland, the fighters participating in the May 17th event will be the winners of a series of Mixed Martial Arts events conducted throughout the state of Florida during the previous month. "Thus, people who attend the May 17th event can expect to see some very exciting moments," Holland emphasized.

Prior to the main event, which is expected to start at 6 p.m., there will be a V.I.P dinner from 4-6, for those who purchase a V.I.P. table for the event. The dinner will include drinks, food, and music. Regular admission tickets for the event can be purchased for $25 per ticket, while V.I.P. tables will be available for $500 and can fit up to 8 people. Reserved general admission tickets, limited to 150 seats, will be on sale for $40. The doors open at 5PM for regular admission ticket holders.

For more information on purchasing a V.I.P. table or regular admission tickets, please contact Jason Wells at (305) 849-0023.

For information regarding the Kevin Piper Memorial Fund please call or write:

Kevin Piper Jr. Memorial Fund Inc.
82 Cutthroat Drive
Cudjoe Key, FL 33042
305.304.4063

Island Dogs hosts top performers for Key West Songwriters Festival

KEY WEST, Fla. (April 2012) -- For five days, Key West's most popular drinking holes and hot spots come alive with Songwriters Festival action with over 20 free shows and 100 top songwriters. This year, Island Dogs joins the festival venue roster once again.

Now in its 17th year, the Key West Songwriters Festival sponsored by BMI is the largest festival of its kind in the world. A favorite of locals and tourists alike, attendees meet the faces, voices and stories behind the songs and jam to informal adaptations of Nashville's signature in-the-round acoustic showcases.

"Our patrons have a blast every year here at Songwriters and we're looking forward to another year of great tunes and good times," said David Thibault, Island Dogs' co-owner and general manager.

Island Dogs Songwriters Festival Line-Up

SATURDAY, MAY 5, 2012
5 P.M.

Lauren Lucas

MELISSA PEIRCE: Melissa has had 2 top ten singles and is a recipient of the 2004 ASCAP Country Music Award for writing the country single "I'm Gonna Take That Mountain" for Reba McEntire, one of the year's most played songs and a number one video hit on CMT. She released her first independent solo album "Lonesome Lullaby" this year.

LAUREN LUCAS: A Tony Award-nominated composer at 19, Lauren partnered with Grammy-winning engineer, Chad Carlson, for her critically acclaimed 2007 EP, "If I Was Your Girl". Her new record, "On With the Show", blends rootsy soul with more pop-tinged melodies and is gaining momentum with fans and critics.

JEFF BLACK: Jeff's songs have been covered by Waylon Jennings, Sam Bush and BlackHawk, whose cover of Jeff's song, "That's Just About Right", was a Top 10 Country single in 1994. Since then Black has released four of his own albums and tours widely. He also maintains his own free weekly podcast, Black Tuesdays.

6 P.M.
 

BRIDGETTE TATUM: Bridgette co-wrote "She's Country" (2009), recorded by country superstar Jason Aldean. It was the Most Played Song on U.S. country radio stations that held the #1 position on the chart for two consecutive weeks. In 2010, her song, "Loud" was the Official Theme Song for ACC Football's 2010 Season.

AARON PARKER: Two of Aaron's popular singles include "Open Season" for the "Open Season" TV show and "Anything Alabama". He grew up in a big family on a farm in Southern Alabama and says, "Everything that comes through your speakers from me you can bet has a whole lot of dust, corn, heartland south in it. It's just who I am."

BLAKE GRAY: Nashville-based Blake was signed to Blue Guitar Music in 2009. She lists her influences as Erin McCarley, Sara Bareilles, Florence and the Machine, Bryan Adams, Christina Aguilera, Jewel, Fiona Apple, Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, The Judds, Shania Twain, and The Cranberries.

7 P.M.
 

Kree Harrison

KREE HARRISON: At just 8 years old, Kree performed on the "Rosie O'Donnell Show" several times. After label signings and then enduring family tragedies that reset her musical course, the 21-year-old now writes with Nashville songwriters such as Natalie Hemby, Trent Dabbs, and Jeffrey Steele, and performs at Nashville venues like 3rd & Lindsley, The Basement, and Hotel Indigo.

PHILLIP LAMMONDS: Originally from Georgetown, South Carolina, Lammonds is currently a staff songwriter for Zavitson Music Group and a singer/songwriter/acoustic guitarist.

DEAN ALEXANDER: Writer/artist Dean signed with Stage Three Music, Inc., in 2010 plays on stages across the country, opening up for artists such as Josh Turner. He has performed as part of Laura Bell Bundy's band, live at the ACM's, Good Morning America and the Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

Featured Artist: Randy Mac

Randy Mac won't talk much about the time in his life filled with 3-piece bands, album recordings, a record label signing and music awards. And he won't talk much about life off stage. Self-promotion? Not for him. Because what's important, what truly makes him happy, is happening now--playing music live.

"I've got chapters of history, but when I come to Key West, it's irrelevant," Randy Mac said.

Seven years ago, he left Montreal to get away from the cold and ended up in Key West, cruising down Duval Street in his VW bus, kiteboard locked and loaded. Within a week, he had his first solo gig.

Randy Mac's repertoire--he plays the acoustic guitar, harmonica and bass--includes his own versions of Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Stone Temple Pilots, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Hendrix, Clapton, Neil Young, and Stevie Ray Vaughan among others.

"I survive without playing the local shtick," Randy Mac told us. "I know that it's authentic and sought after; songs that everyone knows but not what people play on the streets."

Needless to say, he doesn't play songs he doesn't like.

"I'm singing and playing four hours every day, but I'm listening, too," Randy Mac said.

With almost three decades of playing professionally under his belt, he's performed on stages from the Virgin Islands and Austria to Switzerland, France and Italy. But he keeps coming back to Key West.

"I'm doing what I want to do and it's getting better every year," he said.



Randy Mac plays tonight at Island Dogs from 8 p.m. and again on April 28. He doesn't play often, so be sure to check him out!

Here's Randy rockin' out on the acoustic guitar, playing it with a violin bow!

Hollywood glamor comes to Key West with movie shoot at Island Dogs Bar

Win a chance to be in 'Exposure' starring Corey Feldman!

KEY WEST, Fla. (March 9, 2012) -- Hollywood glamor comes to Key West with scenes from upcoming suspense thriller Exposure starring Corey Feldman to be shot at Island Dogs Bar. And bar patrons have a chance to win a spot in the movie!

On March 29, 2012, Island Dogs hosts the Win-A-Part-In-A-Movie Contest. Filming will take place at 7 p.m. at the bar, with the contest at 9 p.m.

"We chose Island Dogs based on its look, appeal, and location," said Gary Metz, executive vice president at Ft. Lauderdale-based The Movie Studio, Inc. "One of the objects was to film in the Keys and we only selected a certain number of locations to shoot at."

Exposure is a "suspense thriller with a romantic heart... showcasing South Florida and shining a much needed light on the dangers in the un-regulated modeling industry," according to the movie's website.

"This is a great opportunity to showcase Key West and Island Dog's popular laid-back vibe," said managing partner David Thibault. "We're really excited to have them here."

Gordon Scott Venters is the executive producer; Peter Langone serves as producer; Carlos Nunez is director; and visual effects supervisor is Dean Lyon (Lord of the Rings).

In Exposure, Nikki (Ali Sonoma of Spike TV's Ultimate Fighter fame) answers an ad for models wanted and leaves small town Alabama with her boyfriend Blain (Feldman) for Miami's glittering South Beach. The two connect with Seth Black, owner of the Exposure Model Agency, who promptly sets them up nicely in an oceanfront penthouse.

But Blain becomes suspicious at the couple drifts apart and models go missing. Nikki finds herself in the dark side of every model's worst nightmare. For more information on the movie, visit www.exposurethemovie.net

Island Dogs introduces a new night of chic to laid back Key West

KEY WEST, Fla. (January 27, 2012) -- Kick off the flip flops and slip on some stilettos. Switch out the shorts for a little black dress. It's time to play dress up for Key West's hottest new night of chic!

Island Dogs introduces the Little Black Dress Party, the place to be the second Wednesday of every month from 8 p.m. starting Feb. 8. Sponsored by Ultimat Vodka, the sophisticated monthly event will feature $5 Ultimat Martinis all night and dance music by DJ Chaka.

"We're billing this as a night for local ladies to dress up and get out and party. You don't get a chance to do that much in Key West--dress up, that is," said general manager David Thibault. "Plus, it's for a good cause."

Each party features a raffle; 100% of raffle proceeds will benefit a local charity. On Feb. 8, the raffle will include a gift basket of Paul Mitchell hair and spa products, $100 gift card to the Pier House Caribbean Spa and a bottle of Ultimat Vodka.

Proceeds from the first event will go to the Key West Shrine Club, which supports treatment and transportation of Key West children to Shriner's Hospitals for Children. The hospitals treat pediatric medical cases at no cost.

Super Bowl football action at Island Dogs with the SoMo New England Pats Fan Club!

KEY WEST, Fla. (January 25, 2012) -- Join the Southernmost New England Patriots Fan Club at Island Dogs for a Super Bowl Party -- New England style.

Only 61 pre-sale tickets are available at $75 per seat. Sale ends Jan. 31. Tickets after Jan. 31 will run $100.

Here's what you get:

• A seat of your choice reserved (first come; first pick)
• An official Super Bowl program from the actual game(!)
• A bucket of Budweiser, Bud Light, Miller Light or Coors Light
• A Maine lobster dinner with lobster flown in fresh from New England from Fresh Catch in Mansfield, Mass., the official seafood supplier of the New England Patriots(!) Dinner includes corn on the cob and baby red potatoes

Fresh Catch in Mansfield, Mass., is also the official seafood supplier for Island Dogs for the Super Bowl. It's going to be a Wicked Pissa Super Bowl Party at Island Dogs!

For more info on the event, come into Island Dogs for details or call 305-509-7136.

Little. Black. Dress.

Ladies, get ready to rock that little black dress Key West style. Stay tuned next week for details!

Wicked Pissa Saturdays

We're overnighting Ipswich clams straight from the Fish Market in Massachusetts just for the Pat's game this Saturday. That's the freshest catch flown straight to Key West. Know any other bars in town that do that?

And you're not just here for your good looks. Eat! Enjoy a bucket of beer and pissas special. The farther Pat's get the more fresh Ipswich clams you can expect.

In Ipswich's wild and beautiful coastal areas, clammers dig them from the flats by hand using simply a clam rake and a strong back -- just as they have for hundreds of years. These sweet softshell clams are beyond compare, traditionally steamed and served with their own clam broth. If you've never prepared this delicacy at home, it's very easy. We'll enclose foolproof directions for preparing your clam feast. Try steaming your clams in white wine or beer for a different taste.  From the Ipswich Fish Market Site (so's the pic)

Yes, we love you guys.