I have never thought of myself as a groupie but I just may have to reconsider after visiting Hemingway’s on the Marietta Square last weekend to see a high school acquaintance perform. I’m ready to pack my bag and become a camp follower of sorts.Jeff Pike is a bona fide Woodward Academy man having matriculated all twelve years at my alma mater. He and I weren’t friends in school as far as I can remember. In fact, he was a year ahead of me, and I doubt he ever knew who I was until we linked up on Facebook mainly because at one time we shared academic space – evidence enough that we are family of sorts…something akin to being blood brothers or sisters for life.
Right?
Actually…..I had seen several of Jeff’s Facebook updates regarding where he was performing next, so decided to see what the fuss was about and share some more space with him.
I’m glad I did.
First, the venue – Hemingway’s is a wonderful neighborhood bar and restaurant located on the square in Marietta, Georgia with lots of atmosphere. It’s been around since 1993 and is dubbed Atlanta’s “Parrothead Paradise” by the Atlanta Journal. There are plenty of tables inside and out on the patio yet the place isn’t too large. As Goldilocks would say the place is just right.
A long stacked stone bar was occupied with various patrons of all ages when I arrived, so I found a quiet table in the back where I could see the stage. The staff was moving about the place serving everyone with a smile, and doing exactly what I like – they look you in the eye and they check back often. Of course, as I looked around the place and noticed the molded tin ceiling tiles and the exposed foundation rock that can be seen as you traverse the stairs to the restrooms, I wondered about the history of the location…however, that will have to be another story for another time.
Now on to the Jeff Pike Trio, or JP3….This particular Sunday the trio consisted of Jeff Pike and Chaz McDonald…sadly, the third member James Cobb , was absent, but I’m sure I’ll meet up with him soon enough since I’ve decided to become a groupie.
One thing is for sure…..they know showmanship is more than standing on a stage and strumming a guitar.
Jeff expertly words a room making each and every person free welcome and takes the time to greet every person during his breaks asking for requests, visiting with people he’s performed for before, and getting to know new folks. He even make Elementaryhistoryteacher….ME…..who tends to stick to herself wallowing in her quirkiness with iphone and her current writing project (Yes, I take it everywhere I go) feel special and welcome. Thanks, Jeff!
Jeff and Chaz’s performance was just plain fun for laid back entertainment. Each set was filled with interplay between the audience and the performers that included several requested songs from the catalogs of Bob Segar, the Allman Brothers, Elvis and the Eagles. The best part of the afternoon was the Jimmy Buffet favorites such as It’s 5 O’clock Somewhere and A Pirate Looks at Forty The afternoon evaporated all too quickly while soccer and baseball flickering on the large screen televisions scattered about Hemingway’s melted into golf. Song after song rocked me, relaxed me, and reminded me of times long past. Outside cars rushed by, people meandered down the sidewalk and families frolicked in the park as we became lost in the entertainment.
You can find out more about Jeff Pike and his wonderful career at his website found here and more about A1A, Jeff’s band that is known far and wide for presenting the Official and Original Jimmy Buffet Tribute show here.
Go on.....find out where Jeff will be performing next. Share some space with him. You won't regret it.
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