Phil Circle: Performance Calendar

Friday, December 16th, 2011

Bottle and Barrel

It's time for my last show of the winter... well until the ones in Florida come January.

It's Phil Circle's White Christmas show!Along with a full line up of great local musicians like Olaf Lind of Evergreen Grass Band and Lucas and the Coolhand Saints on fiddle, I'll have Frankie from JFT Party band on electric guitar, and mi familia, Megan Corse-Circle on voice and percussion and "Pops" Corse on keys.

We'll even do a short set of music from the classic Irving Berlin movie "White Christmas". Of course (Corse?) we'll knock out you and a long list of original material (including "Living in the Chippewa Valley") and cover tunes through the decades... the ones prior to this one.

Since "White Christmas" is based on two Army Vets who create a musical sensation and then give the greatest gift (of appreciation and musc) to their old General, any Vets who show will be given a FREE CD in appreciation for their contribution to our country. Honestly, I can't even imagine the sacrifice, even with family and friends who've served... hell, I just play guitar and sing. Thank you.

Please join us for a celebration of the season that lends itself to the possible name Kwanzahnukamasolstice... pronounce it right at the show and get a free cd as well, just for laughs.See you there!

Friday, November 11th, 2011

Hat Trick Lounge

After a couple acoustic sets by myself and another guest,

we'll all be jumping on the stage for a long night of classic rock thrown together for a crew of old pros and alumni of Macalaster (myself excluded, as I went to Columbia) known collectively as The Simpletones. I'll be doing the rare plug in of my favorite electric guitar, a Burns of London Brian May Signature Model, and will also spend a fair amount of time just singing. It's like old times and other than my lovely wife, I'll be the youngest in the the group.

I'm looking forward to this night!

Join us!

There is NO COVER!

Friday, October 28th, 2011

Bottle and Barrel

WHYS Radio, 96.3 is a great community radio station in Eau Claire.

Both my wife and I have appeared live on various of their shows.

This evening, I'll be appearing with my full band and will be followed by the fantastic Mary Cutrofello.

Don't miss this one!

All proceeds benefit WHYS and there will be raffles all night long as well.

Bottle and Barrel/Pizza Plus is in downtown Eau Claire across from the Ramada/Civic Center.

Wednesday, October 26th, 2011

Red Parrot

Just days leading up to Halloween weekend,

but I don't expect to be dressed any different than usual. Sorry, I'm saving up.

Come warm up to FREE live music and cheap ass beer!

Here's the link to a map.

Saturday, October 22nd, 2011

Trempeleau Hotel

Megan and I always have a great time at this historic old hotel on the banks of The Mississippi River.

We also stay the night, so for those who come to the show, we'll be hanging out afterwards and visiting...

and drinking.

Take Rte 93 from Eau Claire straight south. If the water hits your hubcaps, you just passed the hotel.

Saturday, October 8th, 2011

Elmhurst Private Event

Yes, I do weddings!

Wednesday, September 28th, 2011

Red Parrot

Back for a night of FREE acoustic music at this great venue!

My wife, yes, wife, also works here, but this evening will be joining me on stage.

The map...

Tuesday, September 27th, 2011

Pine Hollow Audio

It's a pleasure to be included in this on going series that features various songwriters from the area.

Evan Middlesworth owns and runs Pine Hollow, recorded my song "Living in the Chippewa Valley" and has joined me various times on stage, both with lap guitar and drums.

Here's the map link.

Thursday, September 22nd, 2011

Whiskey Dick's Tiki Bar

The Autumnal Equinox (ish) and I'll be jamming with new and established material.

Need a map?

Saturday, September 17th, 2011

Bottle and Barrel

Working into the second year of the EC Band in The EC!

Join us!

Saturday, September 10th, 2011

Indiana Dunes

I'm available for private events.

In this case, I'm playing acoustic for a wedding ceremony and reception.

Feel free to contact me about our special event.

Thursday, September 8th, 2011

Whiskey Dick's Tiki Bar

Closing in on fall and the last of the gigs at the Whiskey Dick's Tiki Bar!

Join us!

Map

Sunday, September 4th, 2011

Unity Church

At the kind request of the church, I'm playing a few songs as part of their Sunday service.

Friday, September 2nd, 2011

Whiskey Dick's Tiki Bar

I promise that I'll be cheerful and out going at this one,

but I am dedicating this show to my Mom.

Lilias Caroline Wagner Circle

April 26th, 1928 - August 28th, 2011

She gave me the music.

I miss you Ma

Saturday, August 20th, 2011

The James Sheeley House

Back from our wedding in Chicago,

Megan and I will wear our tux and gown for a Chippewa Valley wedding celebration

at this great establishment. Eat their food! It's spectacular!

We'll be back with the same line up as last time...

Evan Middlesworth on drums and lap steel guitar and Bill Corse on keys.

Here's your map!

Friday, August 12th, 2011

Gallery Cabaret

Megan and I will be getting married two days after this show out in Busse Woods.

So, this my last show as an unmarried man.

I'll be bringing in a couple friends (or more) to sit in.

You might call this our rehearsal dinner, but we've already worked out the material.

See you there!

And the map looks like this.

Thursday, August 11th, 2011

The Spot (in the SSBB)

This is the second to last show before Megan and I get married and it's our good friend Tony Boylan's B-day!

They're having a Phil Circle pre-party at 8 p.m., a one-hour open bar featuring well cocktails, wine some bottled beer and some tap beers. (This is a high-end beer place so some of the exotic taps that go for $10 each, like Delerium Tremens, Kwak, etc., won't be included, but there is Miller Lite, Shiner Bock and probabaly a Leinenkugel product. This IS a Wisconsin bar in Chicago after all!

This place has great food, including some densely caloric Wisconsin faves, fried cheese curds, the Totcho platter -- tater tots pimped out like a nacho platter -- really good steaks, French dip sandwiches and more!

Thursday, August 4th, 2011

Whiskey Dick's Tiki Bar

As Megan and I near our wedding date, we're knocking out a few last minute shows.

The Map Link

Wednesday, August 3rd, 2011

Red Parrot

That's right folks!

After this show, Megan and I are off to Chicago to get married, then off on our honeymoon!

See you in a month!

Peace

Sunday, July 24th, 2011

R & R Bar on Lake Cornell

Friday, July 15th, 2011

Bottle and Barrel

Thursday, July 14th, 2011

Whiskey Dick's Tiki Bar

It's Bastille Day in France and jam time in Altoona.

Acoustic music all night!

Click here for directions

Saturday, July 2nd, 2011

Whiskey Dick's Tiki Bar

Dave Power of Meridene will sit in on drums for this one, along with Bill Corse on keys and the lovely Megan.

Thursday, June 30th, 2011

Phoenix Park

I'll be playing an opening set for this annual concert series hosted by Volume One.

It'll be strictly original material, it's free, and all ages may attend!

I've heard great things about this outdoor venue and the music they bring.

I look forward to this one a great deal!

Here's a map for ya!

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Thursday, June 23rd, 2011

Whiskey Dick's Tiki Bar

And we're baaaacck!

Here's the map

Wednesday, June 22nd, 2011

Fischer's On The Green

And here we come... back for another show at this high dining establishment that prides itself in bringing great music in... from acoustic to jazz. Well, I kinda hit all ends.

Sunday, June 19th, 2011

R & R Bar on Lake Cornell

Saturday, June 18th, 2011

The James Sheeley House

My first show (of several, I hope) in the hometown of Leinenkugel's!

This is a great room. I've seen plenty of acts here and had their food...

I recommend both!

I'll be with a small acoustic line-up for this gig across from the Chippewa River (the falls are upstream).

Also attending will be my good friend and a Chicago Icon, Mike Stack.

Mike's repertoire of covers is unbelievable, as is his solo show... Richie Havens comes to life!

Here's a map

Wednesday, June 15th, 2011

Red Parrot

We're baaack...

at the old Jimmy Woo's Pagoda for another raucous show.

Friday, June 10th, 2011

Bottle and Barrel

Thursday, June 9th, 2011

Whiskey Dick's Tiki Bar

It's volleyball time at Whiskey Dick's and that means they put live acoustic music at the Tiki Bar!

Map

Wednesday, June 8th, 2011

Fischer's On The Green

You never know who might show up at this fine dining (and drinking) establishment to sit in with the band.

There's only one way to find out!

Come on by!

By the way, the food is excellent!

Saturday, June 4th, 2011

Brewer's Center Tavern

Just had to walk up the street to this bar for show number two in southern Wisco!

Acoustic music all night long!

Friday, June 3rd, 2011

Clayt's Corner Bar

It's my old high school friend's birthday and he invited me to come play a couple shows in Albany, Wisconsin.

This is show number one!

It'll be myself and the lovely Megan singing and shaking.

And here's the link to a map.

Sunday, May 29th, 2011

R & R Bar on Lake Cornell

2 miles from where 124 out of Chippewa Falls Ts with HWY64 heading to Cornell.

8 miles from Cornell and 8 from Bloomer.

Join me on at the tiki bar facing Lake Cornell for a nice Sunday afternoon.

Wednesday, May 25th, 2011

Fischer's On The Green

Here's a class joint with lots of great food and, well, music.

Seriously, some of the best food in The Chippewa Valley!

Saturday, May 14th, 2011

Bottle and Barrel

We return without trepidation, to this, the pizza and brew capital of downtown EC.

Come, join in the fun and trouble.

The Ramada is directly across the street if you need a room.

Saturday, April 30th, 2011

Trempeleau Hotel

Well, there's a vague memory of the last show here... for everyone. It's a Phil Circle acoustic thing with Megan Corse sitting in and a friendly crowd. Next thing anybody knows... um, nobody knows, but that it was a great show. On the beautiful northern end of the Mississippi across from Winona, MN, this is an incredible venue with great food and great folks. Take the trip.

The food is fantastic.

So are the drinks.

Rooms start as low as $40.

This hotel was founded in 1871 and many recent legends have played there... cool place.

Friday, April 29th, 2011

Harmony Corner Café

Fellow teacher from Eau Claire Music School

and local musician Brandon Covelli asked me to join in the jams this evening.

I said yes.

There will be a long list of UWEC masters, EC icons and, um, me.

Music in the early evening for free and all the ages may attend to our tip jar.

Sunday, April 24th, 2011

Bird's Nest

With two other acts TBA, I'll be in town at a great venue for food, drink and music!

Friday, April 22nd, 2011

Gallery Cabaret

An evening of rotating acoustic acts with multiple sets by each.

I'll do a set, then Ted Wulfers, then Rooster from Machine Gun Mojo, then we start over.

All night long.

Thursday, April 21st, 2011

Ohio Tavern

All I can say is that anything can happen at this legendary haunted tavern in the Mad City.

Thursday, April 14th, 2011

Red Parrot

They'll help me to the stage with my walker as I make my way to half a decade short of half a century.

This will be the big birthday bash show number two at the other regular venue I bring the band to in The EC.

Come one, come all!

Saturday, April 9th, 2011

Acoustic Cafe

I often get last minute calls like this one for a gig, usually covering for a cancellation.

So, here I'll be for an acoustic set before heading down the street for show number two!

All ages may attend this one.

They serve good food, coffee, beer, etc.

Saturday, April 9th, 2011

Bottle and Barrel

Don't ask, I'm old.

Well, maybe if you look through my various posts and such, you'll figure it out.

We're having the first of two birthday shows.

My actual date is April 12th.

Saturday, April 2nd, 2011

The Cabin

Showing up for a 2 hour free show at The Cabin at University of Wisconsin in Eau Claire.

All Ages may attend.

Tell all the campus!

CDs will be available.

Thursday, March 31st, 2011

Red Parrot

Eau Claire Music School has a program to sponsor young students who show musical talent, but can't afford lessons called, you guessed it, The ECMS Student Sponsorship Program.

I've put together this event to raise money for this program and will be playing alongside several other local acts and members of the ECMS faculty, of which I am one.

A portion of money from the door, the club pay, tips and raffle will all benefit students in need.

Come out and support this great cause for music education.

Friday, March 25th, 2011

Bottle and Barrel

And we're baaaaccckkk!

From 10pm til 1am, I and the band will entertain with special guests.

Join us for cheap drinks, food and great entertainment!

Saturday, March 19th, 2011

The Edge Pub and Eatery

With one day left in winter, I'm sure we'll be whoopin' it up.

Bill will be with me again on keys.

Friday, March 18th, 2011

The Edge Pub and Eatery

Come to The Edge Pub and Eatery.

Drop in for the food, stick around for the music and drinks.

Saturday, March 5th, 2011

Acoustic Cafe

Along with two other local artists, I'll be playing a solo set.

Saturday, February 26th, 2011

Trempeleau Hotel

I look forward to visiting this historic old hotel on the river for an evening of acoustic music!

Plus, we get to stay the night!

Saturday, February 19th, 2011

The Edge Pub and Eatery

Show number two at this fine new venue in Chippewa Falls.

Friday, February 18th, 2011

The Edge Pub and Eatery

Saturday, February 12th, 2011

Acoustic Cafe

The first of two shows this day.

This one is all ages and free!

Come for the food, have a beer or coffee, stay for the following acts.

Saturday, February 12th, 2011

The Corner Bar

My girl Megan tends the bar at this fun little neighborhood bar, but this evening she's joining me to sing.

We've come to feel very welcomed in this town of 3,000.

We welcome the opportunity to entertain these fine folks.

Saturday, February 5th, 2011

Bottle and Barrel

I'm looking for another obscure bottle of booze on their shelf to take to a Chicago friend.

Last one was Inferno Vodka, with two huge peppers in the bottle... for eight years it sat.

Anyhoo, come join us for another great party with pizza and beer... and music

Thursday, February 3rd, 2011

Red Parrot

Well, the last time we played here was a huge party and the music had me smiling all night!

Come join us for another evening of raucous musical fun.

Three hours of originals and covers spanning decades and styles.

Saturday, January 29th, 2011

The Edge Pub and Eatery

It's Bill on keys, myself on acoustic guitar, for a night of originals and covers.

Friday, January 28th, 2011

Bottle and Barrel

We're in here two weeks in a row for various line-ups of The EC Band.

There's never a cover and they serve food.

Sunday, January 23rd, 2011

Eau Claire Music School

Here's an opportunity to not only learn from an accomplished songwriter with nothing but good reviews to his credit, but to also interact with other beginning, aspiring & accomplished songwriters as part of a forum.

If you've never written a song before, join us and hear from professionals on ideas to begin the process.

If you've written songs and are looking to expand your repertoire or are running into roadblocks, allow myself and others in attendance to share our ideas. Or simply bring your music for polite input from others you can trust to tell you where your craft is going.

From my more than twenty years as a critically acclaimed songwriter, one thing I've come to understand is that each of us has our own creative voice, no two of us interpret the human condition in the same way. As fellow artists, however, we can all certainly benefit each other with input as to how we've achieved our art. I've been asked to "teach" songwriting and inevitably refuse. While the skills required for playing and understanding music can with question, be taught, I find it dubious when anyone assumes they can teach a specific "formula" for songwriting. I do, however, find that the experience of one one creative person can be shared in a productive way with another aspiring artist. It's through this latter approach that I've found a successful approach to coaching people into and through the process of songwriting. It's a mindset and the skills are something you find in this process. Every songwriter I've ever spoken to has affirmed that it changes constantly, but that there are things to keep in mind throughout.

Saturday, January 15th, 2011

The Abbey Pub

The Flabby Hoffman Show is filming and I'm one of the acts!

Dis guy is da shit...

yup, just typed that.

Flabby brings a fabulous combination of political and irreverent humor to the stage as he and Sloop Biederman host a long list of musical acts interspersed with games of no purpose where you win useless trinkets and the opportunity to brag over nothing and be on T.V.

It's a helluve lotta fun. This must be my 5th or 6th show with Flabby Hoffman, to say nothing of the number of shows I simply attended. Join us and warm this potentially cold January night at one of the most famous Irish Pubs in America, in the big room baby!

You can pick up advance tickets by going online to The Abbey's website.

Friday, January 14th, 2011

Ohio Tavern

The last time I played here, my fiance and I chose our date for our wedding.

She shook dice with family and friends present!

The Ohio is not only haunted, it has historic significance in that there's a vault in the basement put in by Elliot Ness during the days of Prohibition.

Pretty cool place and really great people.

Friday, December 31st, 2010

Porters Restaurant and Bar

This is a place you can bring the whole family to.

Come have a late dinner and ring in 2011 with us.

I understand that the bars stay open all night for NYE, so I expect we'll just be getting started when the show is done. I'll be acoustic with Megan jumping up on some stuff, and I'll feature more new material.

Even if we don't see you, have a safe and happy New Year!

Peace.

Saturday, December 25th, 2010

Red Parrot

All done with the family?

Come join me and all the holiday bar flies for an evening of acoustic music!

Thursday, December 23rd, 2010

U.S. Beer Company

I'm joining several other acoustic acts for an extravaganza of live music.

I have no doubt you'll be hearing some holiday material too.

Here's a map link.

Wednesday, December 22nd, 2010

Quenchers

Back in July, I played my farewell to Chicago here with an all night show.

It was a great time with lots of old and new friends.

Now, I'm coming back for the holiday and have another show here.

I'm playing a solo set (maybe duo) and enjoying a few of their 300+ varieties of beer.

This used to be a regular haunt of mine, since I lived down the street, so I look forward to being back in the neighborhood and seeing some of the other regulars and making some new friends.

Peace in this and all seasons.

Here's a map link.

Sunday, December 12th, 2010

WHYS Radio Live Show

Whiskey Bob Taylor, Matteo and I will appear live on Snap Shot's show for an hour talking about the blues and playing a few songs. I'm sure we'll also be recovering from the previous night's show, ha.

Saturday, December 11th, 2010

Bottle and Barrel

This will be a night to remember in Eau Claire!

I invited Whiskey Bob Taylor and Matt "Matteo" Steinmetz to come up for the weekend to play some authentic Chicago blues. Whiskey Bob learned from Honey Boy Edwards how to play Delta blues on his steel guitar, and Matteo learned his style of harmonica from Jr. Wells.

Of course, I'll be doing a set and some other local blues cats will come sit in with us.

This is a rare night, please come join us. The guys will be staying at my house for the weekend, so who knows... there may be more jams.

Here's a map link.

Whiskey Bob Taylor and Mad Dog Matteo drove up from Chicago for this show and hit the biggest storm Eau Claire has seen in something like 30 years. They spent more than two hours sitting still on the interstate as snow blew around and began to bury the car. Bob said once they arrived, "I thought Matteo was gonna have to slice me open (he's fairly large) and crawl inside me to keep warm." Of course, Matteo commented that he DID have his knife with him. Well, the traffic finally moved and they made it to my house with enough time to warm up (blues for have a few drinks) and jump in Bill the keyboardist's 4x4 and run to the show. I'm very appreciative to Bottle and Barrel for not canceling the show when other local venues were. Fortunately, they ended up having a decent night and both the bar and locals are still talking about it. Thanks EC!

Friday, December 10th, 2010

Acoustic Cafe

What can I say?

I have fun every time I play here and it's the first place I played upon arrival in Eau Claire.

All ages may attend.

Here's a map link.

Thursday, December 9th, 2010

WHYS Radio Live Show

I'll be on with Sean Hartnett in promotion of our Saturday show.

Thursday, December 9th, 2010

House of Rock

And we're back kids!

It's Songwriter Night at House of Rock across from UWEC on the (in)famous Water. St.

This is a great music room in a great music town... I know, You don't even realize how lucky this town is.

Come find out.

Thursday, December 2nd, 2010

Red Parrot

I'll be bringing in the new Eau Claire band line-up for a winning night of great music covering all styles, including original material of my own. We'll be joined by award-winning sax player Sue Orfield, too!

Bring extra money for the shake-a-day. I've won $30 a couple times!

Here's a map link.

Everyone in the audience who's seen me play live said they've never seen me smile so much. That's how great this show went... from song one, the band was amazing. Dave is a gifted drummer and Sue Orfield was inciting me to smash things. I can't wait to do this again!

Wednesday, November 24th, 2010

Ohio Tavern

Wow!

I love this place!

My first show in here was attended by friends and family from Madison and even Chicago!

After I was done, the bartender walked over and said, "so, when ya comin' back?"

And here it is!

It's a local dive with a reputation for being haunted. Several ghost hunters actually hang out at the place, the owner among them. Drinks are cheap and people are friendly and varied.

Join us for Black Wednesday and give thanks for free music, new friends and ghosts...

Here's a map link.

There's this game in Wisconsin bars called shake-a-day, where you can win money or drinks from shaking dice. Well, at this show, Megan had plenty of family present who were bugging us to finally choose a date for our wedding. Over the microphone, I told her to shake the dice for it.

"8"

Okay, August!

"14"

August 14th!

Then after the applause died down and her Uncle Chris confirmed it was a Sunday, she yells across the bar,

"Can I shake for the year?"

Of course, the answer was no. We're on for August 14th, 2011 to get married in Chicago!

Saturday, November 20th, 2010

Eau Claire Music School

Thursday, November 18th, 2010

Acoustic Cafe

Third show here at the first place I played in Eau Claire.

All Ages may attend, so please do!

Sunday, November 14th, 2010

Eau Claire Music School

The definitive approach to making your own career in music on your own terms.  From the real life experience of working professional songwriter Phil Circle — a resource and media packet will also be provided at the event.

You may not need or want a major record deal and this workshop will show you why and instruct you on how you can make it on your own terms, while maintaining your integrity.

Read Phil Circle's blog on the music industry to learn more.

715.514.0475 or email info@eauclairemusicschool.com

For more information or to
BUY ADVANCED TICKETS
Advanced Tickets $10
At The Door $15 (Subject to availability)

Are you a student at UWEC or CVTC?

Students get in for $5 in advance or $10 at the door.

Saturday, November 13th, 2010

Eau Claire Music School

Each month Eau Claire Music School will organize a couple jams centered around a theme. This November our theme is "Blues". Tunes will be picked from various blues standards. If you know your 12-bar blues, or can handle a tune like "Helpless" (Neil Young) then you'll fit right in!

Registration required.

Dates: Nov. 13 & 20 (Saturdays)
Young Adult Jam 2-4pm
(middle and high school students)
Adult Jam 4:30-6:30pm
Cost: ECMS students - $6, General Public - $12 (includes BOTH sessions)

Jams are conducted by Phil Circle.

This is a great opportunity for anyone aspiring to play with other musicians and/or hit the stage.

Saturday, November 13th, 2010

The Corner Bar

My partner Megan (see the cover of "All That I Am) tends the bar at this fine neighborhood establishment, aka small town dive. ;)

We've become fast friends with many folks here, including Recruiter John, whose girlfriend Lucinda is the owner and a Staff Seargant at Fort McCoy in Tomah.

They'll both be there for the party!

Megan will be singing on a few and her Dad Bill will sit in on keys.

It's 10 minutes from Chippewa falls and 30 from Eau Claire, just off US-53 and Hwy 40.

Here's map link.

Friday, November 5th, 2010

Bottle and Barrel

The first time we played in here it was rockin' top to bottom with a hard partying group of locals!

I sure hope you can join us for show number three.

Go read the "after the event" section on past shows for the stories.

Friday, October 22nd, 2010

Harmony Corner Café

I'm not playing at this event, although they do play me on their station.

I'm actually volunteering to help with the event and handle the raffle.

Got an item you'd like to donate for public radio to keep going?

Contact me here.

Otherwise, drop by this event and enjoy the other musical acts that are playing.

Saturday, October 16th, 2010

The Bird's Nest

Just one night!

Just one night!

I'm dropping in to visit my Mom and some friends and my buddy Ryan handed me a set time last minute. I've been filling last minute slots for years here, this time, they handed me one.

I haven't played a show in my hometown since early August.

I'm sure hoping to see some old friends and make some new ones this night.

And remember, join my guest book for free stuff!

Thursday, October 14th, 2010

Bottle and Barrel

Bottle and Barrel does a weekly songwriter feature on Thursdays.

This night is all me, all night.

Free Music!

$1 Jello Shots!

Other cheap drinks!

Food!

Did I mention there's no cover?

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Sunday, October 10th, 2010

The Eau Claire Music School Workshop

This is the definitive approach to surviving--no, succeeding--as an independent musician in today's musical and economic climate. Some of what you'll walk away with:

Building an Effective Musical Act

Touring

Booking and Promoting Yourself EFFECTIVELY

Creating the Best Recordings and SELLING

Maintaining a Career and Respect for YOURSELF

And a Great Deal MORE

By the end of this three hour workshop (includes a Q&A), you'll wonder why you ever thought of seeking a major record deal. Once you've seen the numbers and how the mainstream music industry works, you'll be convinced you don't. You can DO IT ON YOUR OWN TERMS!

Contact The Eau Claire Music School to book seats in advance. Space is limited!

Saturday, October 9th, 2010

Acoustic Cafe

Here's my first (of many, I hope) return to the first place I ever played in Eau Claire.

This is all ages.

This is a free show.

They serve drinks and food--thus the "cafe" in the name.

They always have live music--thus the "acoustic" in the name.

I'll no doubt be walking down the street to Bottle and Barrel afterwards or heading to visit Megan's bar in Bloomer (literally named The Corner Bar), so join me and we'll make a night of it!

Friday, October 8th, 2010

Ohio Tavern

This place has a cool history. I'm looking forward to playing here.

Maybe I'll be accompanied by some ghosts, but only if they practiced their parts.

Check out their history and see ya there!

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Friday, October 1st, 2010

Harmony Corner Café

It's always free to enter here and worth the walk in.

When I'm on break, the owner Greg jumps on stage and knocks out jazz on the piano.

They have cheap beer, great coffee, and a decent menu.

It's free to enter, but donations are encouraged.

Friday, September 24th, 2010

Bottle and Barrel

Since I can't get the band from Chicago up here...

I'll grab some local cats and we'll burn down the bar by 1am.

Here's a fun place I've already haunted...cheap ass drinks and cool folks.

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Saturday, September 18th, 2010

The Corner Bar

With the lovely Megan working behind the bar, I'll be working from the far corner.

We'll be in competition all evening for your attention.

So, here's how to handle it:

Go to the bar, ask Megan for a drink and some friendly advice.

Turn to watch and listen while I perform (and she'll join me).

Buy CDs.

Repeat until closing time.

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Friday, September 17th, 2010

Eau Claire Music School

All ages may attend this all evening event with 100% of proceeds going to the Eau Claire Free Clinic.

I'll be playing around 5:30, but come enjoy all the music.

Food and beverages will be available too.

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Friday, September 10th, 2010

Harmony Corner Café

And here we go!

I'm in town less than a week and have three gigs...this is number two.

I walked in the cafe to put up some posters and leave flyers, got to talking to the owner and had a show booked before I left. Cool place. One of the owners is a jazz pianist and wants to sit in.

I'm liking it here so far. Nice looking area. Friendly people. Lotsa gigs!

Hope to see you.

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Saturday, September 4th, 2010

Acoustic Cafe

As I'm gonna be in Eau Claire until the cold weather hits, I expect I'll be playing several more shows before I leave. But this one is my first! And how appropriate that it's at the first venue I walked into upon arriving a week prior to this show. I'm looking forward, as always, to meeting new people and playing a room that's new to me. All ages may attend. I play from 7-8pm.

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I can never complain about a full house for my first gig in a new town. Add to that how young and receptive the bulk of the audience was and the tasty lentil and garlic soup...I'll be back here. But first I should focus on the other three or four shows I have coming right up in Eau Claire.

Liking this town so far!

Thursday, August 19th, 2010

Betsy's Bar (in the back of District 301)

I checked out this place online and it's received some great reviews, so don't be thrown by the fact it's in the back of a larger club (of an apparent dance nature) in the middle of downtown Austin. Enter District 301 and go to the cooler Betsy's Bar in the back.

I'm playing a 45-60 minute set for The Talent Loop Showcase and they'll be making a video of it for their website, so come join in and enjoy the cheap drink options:

$1 Bud Lites

$2 Lone Stars

$3 Well Drinks

Put that in your pipe and smoke it...but you'll have to step outside, since you can't smoke in Austin bars.

Now this was a great time! Before even hitting the stage, I was hitting it off with some great new people, including the guys from The Talent Loop, based in Austin. They've put together a video from the show and are really dedicated to their local scene. Austin is a great town, and I love that a full four city blocks in the heart of downtown is dedicated to music venues. Gotta love it. I'm looking forward to spending much of my time, downtime and gig time, here.

Monday, August 9th, 2010

Lindberg's

The last time I played here was my first and my older brother Bob joined in along with my harmonica player, friends from in town showed up donning Phil Circle t-shirts, my biological father who I didn't meet until I was 25, showed up, and the venue was really good to us.

Needless to say, I look forward to returning to this fine corner bar with an outstanding concert sound and lighting system over their full stage. This show will be bringing me into the 3rd week of road shows as I head toward New Mexico.

Can't make it, but wanna help out? Make a donation below.

Sunday, August 8th, 2010

Llywelyn's Pub-Soulard

I've been through St. Louis literally a hundred or more times.

I've stopped for food, gas and bathroom breaks.

I made a new and good friend in a hotel parking lot there.

I even went to my niece's wedding there.

But I've never played a show in St. Louis...until now!

Let all the Missourians you know about this one and the following night in Springfield!

Tuesday, August 3rd, 2010

R Bar

It's been about five years since I played in NYC and I look forward to coming back!

This is near where CBGB was, which is one of the venues I played on my last two visits, right before they closed. I'm taking the Staten Island Ferry in and jumping the train north.

Can't wait!

Monday, August 2nd, 2010

John and Peter's

I'm heading quickly across the river from where I'm staying in Princeton with my sister to play a quick set.

If you're in the area, come by and say hi!

If not, contact me here and say hi!

So, Megan and I stroll in and there are about six people in the downstairs bar where the music happens. When 9pm rolls around, there are about eight and a guy named Cecil gets up and knocks out some great vocal and keyboard work. Then I hit the stage, now there are about ten people.

By the end of my set, there's raucous applause. Megan (who joined me for Letter To A Friend) and I glance down at the crowd, hands above our eyes to shield our vision from the lights, and the room is packed.

As I left the stage, a couple just off stage right commented about our Little Blue Honda Tour. The guy said he's been trying to convince his girl to do the same thing...hit the road in your car and go from city to city just playing shows. She expressed trepidation. I quoted Megan...

When we were in the Everglades last week in my friend's boat, we got this close (arms spread loosely) to some gators. Megan said, "it's terrifying, it's awesome, it's terrifying, it's awesome." That's kinda what the road is like. And that's why you have to do it.

I also sat and traded tips for the road with another touring solo artist.

This was a really great show and experience in a quaint little tourist town on the Delaware River, just miles from where George Washington crossed with his troops on Christmas Eve to rout the British and change the course of the war after Thomas Paine inspired them with:

These are the times that try men's souls, the summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will oft shrink, etc.

Hmmm...the Little Blue Honda Tour continues...

Thursday, July 29th, 2010

Parson Jack's Cafe

I haven't been to Charleston since I was a kid. My parents were in a church while I walked down the street in The Ashley, a neighborhood. I heard a radio announce from an open car window that Reagan had been shot. Hopefully this time around, nobody makes any attempts on any lives while I'm there.

I'm looking forward to seeing this beautiful town once again.

Tips are always appreciated.

Wednesday, July 28th, 2010

The Backstage Lounge

I don't know if Tom Petty is in town, he wouldn't answer his cell when I called.

But, I'm still playing a solo set before the other two acts hit the stage.

If you're in the area or know someone who is, drop by!

Monday, July 26th, 2010

Turn 3 Sports Bar

I'm making two stops this evening; one here and then another in Ft. Lauderdale for a later set.

Hope y'all can make one of 'em!