openmikes.org

Hello I'm touring in the area from AZ. and would like to inquire about getting a slot at the open mic tonight at Lizards.

Shawn Johnson (1/2012)

E-mail Tom on Monday morning and there's a decent chance he can squeeze you in that night if someone dropped out. It worked for me the first time I went. I've been to open mics where you show up, sign up, and you still might not play (CANTAB LOUNGE!). I get that it's sort of a pain to have to sign up in advance, but it's worth knowing you'll definitely get a chance to play.

As far as the "competition" goes, half the performers voluntarily exclude themselves from it by playing covers. The other half are only partly interested in it anyway. Being in the "final three" is a nice little gold star for a job well done, but I don't think it's the reason people come and it's certainly not a reason to skip out on this open mic.

Tom is a great, welcoming host. The musicians are good, styles are varied, and the crowd is attentive to a fault. Absolutely worth checking out.

Matt (1/2011)

is there a piano or keyboard at this open mic?

Anonymous (9/2009)

Yes… stand-up piano, retuned about 1-2 times a year.

tone (4/2011)

Very Dissapointed… have to reserve a spot one month in advance, 30 performers and you have to be there to win… Most of us have to work in the morning… ;(… the judges are usually people off the street with no music sense… it is a waste of time if you dont live in the area.

Tom Faubert

Tom Faubert (8/2009)

The best open mic around. Tom Bianchi is an amazing, fun and supportive host (and sound engineer!), and the atmosphere is very supportive and cool overall. The contest aspect is BRILLIANT. Not only does it raise everyone's game, and award 50 bucks to one lucky talent at the end of the night, it keeps the audience from leaving before the end--which is awesome, especially if you have a late slot. Other places you're stuck playing to a near-empty room by the end of the night; at the Lizard Lounge everyone is waiting around to see if they won. A total blast.

Kim Davidson (7/2009)

Show all 19 comments...