A Saturday Night During Playoff Season

As usual, there was an open mic and jam last night. We stayed late. That usually means that Saturday night won't be so late plus I gardened all afternoon. At 7 pm, my only wish was for a piece of carrot cake and I know that Alice's in Carp always has some.

It was odd to walk in on a Saturday night and not see it bustling. Oh well, I suppose it can't be busy all of the time. We walked up to the counter and ordered cakes and coffees.

You know, there was a time when restaurants in small towns all seemed to have a utilitarian decor and somewhat ordinary food but we are blessed with some cute and funky ones with really good food, the sort of places where you want to hang out. I got a kick out of this cup at the cash, a cute way to advertise their open mic.

I have been to this open mic many times. Friends of mine are guest hosts and they keep inviting me to come play the piano, and they have a piano there. Great! That makes a whole lot of sense rather than hauling mine out. There is just one thing you should always check...

Make sure it's in tune! (Someone warned me about this one and I thanked them profusely - disaster averted.) This open mic is crowded enough that I wouldn't dare try to fit another piano in but take it as a good sign that I'm considering the practicalities of bringing it.

Coffee and carrot cake finished, we decided to go to the open mic at Hurley's in Stittsville. I'm pretty sure there is an open mic or jam most days of the week and I have included a link for Ottawa and area below.

When we arrived at Hurley's, again, it was a little quieter than normal but the reason was right there on the TV set (right over the musicians.) It's playoff season! Don't even ask what sport; it's Canada so it's hockey.

This group was fun, a family, I think. This next lady has a beautiful and sweet voice.

And now, rocking it a bit.

Although the night started quietly, by 9:30 pm the restaurant was getting busier and more musicians were arriving. I have only shown a few here. As usual, another good show put on by host Jumpin' Jimmy Leroux!

References

Ottawa's Ultimate Guide to Open Mics in the City

Images

Photos from the iPad of @kansuze

@kansuze