Earlier this month, a mysterious message appeared on the Bluebird's MySpace page: "Last Bluebird Show Ever" -- followed by a note that says, "Closed for Remodel." Because the town needs another club closed like it needs a hole in the head, I got in touch with proprietor Mike Cracchiolo to get the scoop.
Annie Zaleski: I see that you guys are remodeling next year. What exactly does this entail?
Mike Cracchiolo: It's a pretty extensive list, but arguably the most important developm
I braved insane paint fumes, the cold and impending vacation and trekked to the new Firebird to snap some photos of its new! and! improved! appearance! Proprietor Mike Cracchiolo and pals were still busy at work painting the place and gussying up the bar, but the venue should be all spiffed-up by the time Thursday's show with Gil Mantera's Party Dream, Jason and the Beast, Thor Axe and Superfun Yeah Yeah Rocketship. The rest of the opening weekend promises to be loads of fun -- Friday's shindig
REVIEW BY BOB MCMAHON; PHOTOS BY NICK SCHNELLE
Jimmy Vavak, Riddle of Steel bassist. More photos here
Notes were flubbed, lyrics were dropped and it was sometimes hard to hear the bass melody, but damn if it wasn't great to see Riddle of Steel play again. The group spent most of this decade rocking St. Louis with extended chords, rapid-fire drumming, tricky guitar/bass interplay and the occasional hypnotically beautiful ballad before calling it quits last September. Fortunately, the trio
