Sweat, Hot Food and Blazing Guitars: The Big Muddy Chili Cookoff in Photos

All photos by Brian Heffernan

Pokey LaFarge joins Mat Wilson of the Rum Drum Ramblers for a song after being called up on stage during the final set of the Big Muddy Chili Cook-Off at Off Broadway on Sunday.

Big Muddy Records has always postured itself as more of a family than a profit-driven business venture, so when Big Muddy daddy Chris Baricevic rounded up label kinfolk and friends for a music-packed cookout over Memorial Day weekend, it seemed more like a family reunion (especially with all the acts that shared musicians) than a record label showcase.

Despite record-tying heat on Sunday, more than 200 people came out to the Off Broadway patio to slurp seven rival chilies and watch twelve local and local-ish bands and artists play. The event, which was sponsored by Stag, PBR, KDHX (88.1 FM) and a host of other local businesses, boasted performances by the Rum Drum Ramblers, the Hooten Hallers, Bob Reuter's Alley Ghost, the Griddle Kids, the Trio Project, Lonesome Cowboy Ryan & Banjo Kellie, Jack Grelle and Chris Baricevic himself.

Steve Dachroeden of the Silver Ballroom took the $100 first prize for his fiery, habanero-cheese-spiked chili. Highlights from the afternoon's festivities, below -- It was all quite a toot hoot.

The Skekses perform at the Big Muddy Chili Cook-Off, while Big Muddy Records ringleader, Chris Baricevic looks on (far right).

Audience members gather around the outdoor stage on the patio of Off Broadway.

Andy Rehm's (of the Hooten Hallers) bass drum. He paints and designs most of the band's artwork and posters.

Band members Ryan Keonig and Chris Baricevic sing backup during the Bob Reuter's Alley Ghost set.