It was goodbye to an old friend, if you can call a Tavern an old friend, last night.  Eighth and Rail is now a pleasant memory for those that called this one of their favorite watering holes. The building is officially under new ownership and that owner is looking for a tenant. Those that attended the final night, some in Black Tie, got something to take home at the end of the night.  You’ll probably see a few of us sporting our Eighth and Rail Goodnight Opelika Shirt.  On the back, forming a big number eight, names of bands and individuals that have played that stage over the years and the front with an old bi-wing airplane, looking a bit like a train.  Some final words from owner Richard Patton brought a tear to many eyes and the countdown to a new year with a final toast for all brought the evening to a close. Well, actually, many stayed to talk and dance a bit longer. Thanks Richard for a great night, good friends, having Miller Lite for a guy on a diet and for years of good times at The Rail! Goodnight Opelika!

Star and Micey’s first performance at Blue Canoe in Tupelo, MS was so well received that we hope to keep the band in our constant rotation of booking. The energy they brought to the stage was contagious turning an ordinary night into something exceptional. Look forward to this amazingly talented band’s return. –Meredith Martin, Blue Canoe Booking

Best known for the unique blend of soul, folk and pop found on their debut record, Star & Micey is currently producing it’s sophomore album for the Ardent Music label based here in Memphis and home to power pop icons, Big Star. The band has been a showcasing artist at SXSW for 2 years running and has been touring extensively since the release of it’s debut record in 2009! You can check the guys out at: www.starandmicey.com

Several projects the past few weeks in downtown, plus lots happening on the eating scene too. Several South 8th Street building owners got together and applied for grant money to fix and paint their building fronts. This picture shows the work in progress, which is finished now or close to it.  Come on downtown and see for yourself.  By the way, during the work to prepare the building a bit of history was revealed with the former name of the now Heritage Gifts,  A.B. Fleisher “Shoes, Clothes, Hat” under the old green paint. Over on South Railroad, The Gallery is getting some fresh paint and new awning.  In the building to the right, work continues on a new downtown eatery, Ma Fia’s, with some pretty good Italian foods on the menu.  Opening is scheduled for Nov 14th and they plan to be open from 10AM till 10PM.  To the left of the Gallery, Eighth & Rail is entering its final two months open with a big music schedule throughout November and December.  The building gets a new owner in January and no specific plans have been announced.

This week at Eighth & Rail is full of wonderful musicians, and we don’t want anyone to miss out on them!

If you come in Tuesday and pay a small fee of $10, you will get in to EVERY show the rest of the week! That would have cost $27 otherwise. Also, you will get FREE high-life from 9-10 on Tuesday and $1 high-life the rest of the week!

Tuesday, September 13: The Beggar Folk ($5) http://thebeggarfolk.com/

Wednesday, September 14: Davin McCoy & the Coming Attractions ($5)
http://www.reverbnation.com/davinmccoyband

Thursday, September 15: The Grenadines ($5)
http://www.reverbnation.com/thegrenadinesbirmingham

Saturday, September 17: The Great Book of John & Sanders Bohlke($7)
http://www.thegreatbookofjohn.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sanders-Bohlke/37698476361

Late Night Saturday, September 17: Hematovore ($5)
http://www.reverbnation.com/hematovore