R Michael Rhodes & His Band Kept Sunday Funday Going Strong at The Brew on Broadway

By: Jura Daubenspeck

After a full-blown weekend of fall activities in Denver, as well as some startlingly warm temperatures, I think we can safely say that everyone wanted to continue the party as long as they could. Come Sunday afternoon, the sun was shining more than ever, and there was a warm breeze tickling my skin. I couldn’t think of a better excuse to head on over to a brewery for delicious pumpkin ale and easy listening music, so I made my way to The Brew on Broadway to see singer/songwriter R Michael Rhodes and his band play some of their tunes.

Though a bit off the beaten path for Denver residents, The Brew on Broadway on South Broadway in Englewood has a bit of something for everyone. With a wide selection of craft beers, freshly brewed coffee, tasty bar snacks, and a dog-friendly beer garden to enjoy it all in, it’s the perfect neighborhood spot to gather at for a little Sunday Funday relaxation.

R Michael Rhodes and his band, comprised of Nick Morgan (guitar), Joe Armenta (four-string guitar), and Don Kalil (drums), soothed the souls of everyone at The BoB. Having just released his solo EP After All These Years in September, the almost two-hour set showcased some of Mike’s recently released music including “The Only Song,” “Please Remember Me,” and “Sunday Mornin’ Breeze,” as well as new band originals like “Whiskey Nights,” “Evil Woman,” “Chasin’ Ghosts,” and “Where Are You Now?”

Listen to R Michael Rhodes' latest EP:

All four musicians were in-sync, relaxed, and genuinely seemed to be having a great time playing for their friends, family, and everyone guided inside by their music. They played some cool covers too: “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” “Lyin’ Eyes,” “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” “Somewhere with You,” and even had everyone in the bar singing along with “Proud Mary.”

Staying true to form, Mike and his band paid homage to great musicians like the Eagles, John Denver, Neil Young, and Garth Brooks, yet still maintained their own stylistic flair. With playful, personal anecdotes between each song, and hoots and hollers from attendees, the overall vibe of their show matched the weather perfectly, warm and bright.

All in all, Mike’s performance at The BoB was the perfect wrap-up to my weekend. Between the sunshine, fall beer, friendly faces, and relaxing music, there’s not much else I could have asked for.

I can’t wait to hear what’s in store next for Rhodes as he continues to work on new material for recording. Check out R Michael Rhodes’ website and his Facebook for more updates on upcoming performances and releases.

-Jura

All photos, videos, and embedded tracks per the artist featured and those credited. This feature was edited for brevity and clarity by BolderBeat.