Blind Pig and Eight Ball Saloon

Continuing our night after Zingermans, we wanted to entertain our guest with some live music. The Blind Pig - (on First street near Washington) had some average to OK bands playing, so we thought we’d go check it out, even if just for a bit of a laugh. The spot has in the past been host to John Lennon, Jimmy Hendrix, and was considered a favorite venue for the late Kurt Cobain.

On arrival there didn’t seem to be any rush for the first band to get set up, so we headed downstairs to the Eight Ball Saloon. I didn’t even know this place existed, so was stoked to find an underground bar that had dart boards, pool tables, some casual booths, and on that Tuesday night - $1 beers.

My wife had joined us by that point, so after handing over an ID in exchange for some darts, Sierra and I put the other guys in place and won a game of around the world. The place was really cool. The patrons all seemed really laid back, and anyone seemed like they could fit in, or belong there. It was alternative and punky, but also appropriate for a couple of old men who just wanted to have a drink and play some darts or pool.

An hour later we went back upstairs to the Blind Pig and found we missed the first band completely. The second act, Black Jake & the Carnies, brought the 50 or so patrons away from their tables towards the stage to see the band's "polk-funk" set. They were a local band from neighboring Ypsilanti, and really brought the place to life with their enthused dancing on stage - especially their crazy accordionist. The bold on the floor joined in, and started jigging around and even some dosey-does were executed to our group’s amusement.

By the time the main act, Longhorn Slim (a singer songwriter), came out we were about ready to call it a night. The guy walked out onto the stage like Jason Mraz (complete with the cool hat). He waltzed around as if he owned the place. His confidence and assumed fame was the highlight of the night. He came down off stage and sung in the crowd, danced with his endearing middle-aged women fans and even changed his shirts on stage a couple of times. The comedy club around the corner couldn’t have provided us with more laughs. We hung around for three of his songs, and then decided to bail. All in all it was a great night out - so much so, that my three guests went back with reinforcements the following night. Not for the repeat show of Longhorn Slim, but for some more darts and pool.

Ratings -

Location/Parking : 4/5

Ambiance : 4.5/5

Value: 4.5/5

Music: 2.5/5 (that particular night)

Overall: 3.875/5