I got a sneak peek Monday night at Howl at the Moon, the latest nightspot set to open in the EpiCentre.
The concept, which has 13 other locations across the country, is a rock 'n' roll dueling piano bar that focuses heavily on staff and audience interaction.
Song-request slips sit at every table (just try to stump the entertainers, GM Dickson Hunley challenges) and the staff will break out into impromptu dance routines for certain songs.
I caught the wait staff, bartenders and door guys practicing their new moves to such tunes as "Greased Lightning" and "Love Rollercoaster." Even without a packed house, they were clearly having a good time. One young woman leading the group advised them that when they're in front of a live audience later this week, the cheesier the better: "If you were a cheerleader, put your perma-smile on."
If you've been to another Howl, the Charlotte location looks pretty similar -- think traditional bar with lots of wood detailing, dark green walls and lighted beer signs. The focal point is the small stage with the dueling piano, drum set and guitars. Anyone is invited up with the band to entertain the crowd between sets and Hunley tells me the bar is always looking for more entertainers.
It opens this Friday. I'll be out of town, but I'm sending a couple of friends to scope it out for me. I'll have a full review in next Friday's CLT section of the Charlotte Observer.
8 comments:
a piano bar is a great concept for downtown and "might" bring in a slightly older crowd. i've been to the howl at the moon in chicago and while somewhat touristy, it's fun for something different.
I can't believe dueling piano bars are still an interest for people.
It opens Thursday, the 19th.
This so-called 'Paid to Party' girl is just downright awful.
Actually, the June 19 party is an invite-only gig that Elevate is hosting. I wrote about it in last Friday's CLT. The official grand opening party to the public is Friday. That's what the GM told me and that's what all the banners around town say.
this is the same concept as "Crocodile Rocks", a piano bar in the Waterfront in Norfolk. Lots and lots of fun--think of it is group karaoke, but without the pressure of having to carry a tune, and with lots of fun songs that everyone knows. I'm sure this will be a great place to hang out and have fun.
I hate piano music, so I definitely won't be going to this place.
piano bars are fun and something different. never boring. this should be a cool addition to uptown.
Briefly stopped by but turned around and left when I saw the crowd Saturday night. The Epicentre is an absolute zoo these days. I've got to think some of the old hot spots are going to have to work hard to keep customers, or they'll be gone pretty quickly.
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