Kyle Melton, Jay Madewell and Shaine Sullivan at South Park Tavern wanted something more from the typical Open Mic night. They were looking for an all-inclusive event breaking the mold of the traditional one man with a guitar on stage. Essentially, they were looking to create the ultimate live jam session. Thus, the Rock n' Roll Play Date was devised. In this interview, Juliet Fromholt talks to Melton, Madewell, and Sullivan about the origins of the unusual Rock n' Roll Play Date.
Essentially, whether you are an acoustic singer-songwriter or the guitarist and bassist from a separate band, you can sign up for a 25-minute slot at South Park Tavern and play whatever you are feeling that night. The unique part is that the guys at South Park Tavern have the amps and drums all set up for you and are even willing to join you on the drums or keys on the spot if you need. "Just bring your guitar, sticks, and bass and the rest is all taken care for you," says Sullivan.
The charm of The Rock n' Roll Play Date lies in its improvisational jazz influence and the active participation it allows. Anyone may join in on a band's set that night to fill in for an instrument. "When you sign up for an open mic you don't know what you're going to get… but at Rock n' Roll Play Date you get thrown into that mix of having to react in the moment. It's definitely very spontaneous. You get that jazz vibe where musicians' brains click all together."
For more information or to sign up for a slot visit www.southparktavern.com. Better yet, visit South Park Tavern any Wednesday night and see it for yourself. "The best part about it is that it's free so come and check us out."
Adapted for web by Chris de la Cruz
