Bolton Street Tavern in Marlborough, MA, is quickly becoming a renowned destination for those seeking a vibrant night out, especially if you’re a fan of live music and classic rock. This local tavern recently hosted a performance by the popular cover band, The Chills, proving once again its commitment to providing top-notch entertainment. For anyone in or around Marlborough looking for a lively atmosphere and great tunes, Bolton Street Tavern offers a fantastic experience.
Bolton Street Tavern isn’t just another bar; it’s a venue that understands the importance of good music in creating a memorable night. Located in the heart of Marlborough, it provides a welcoming and energetic setting for music lovers. The tavern regularly features live bands, and The Chills’ recent performance was a perfect example of the caliber of acts you can expect to see gracing their stage.
The Chills performing live at Bolton Street Tavern in Marlborough, Massachusetts
The Chills, a band known for its talented musicians, brought their repertoire of rock anthems to Bolton Street Tavern, much to the delight of the crowd. This isn’t just your average cover band; The Chills boast a lineup of musicians with impressive backgrounds. Drummer and vocalist Bonk Coelin’s resume includes performances with The Bruce Marshall Group and Viper, among others. Bassist and vocalist Stephen “Sharky” Beccia has played with Anxiety and Uncle Wally. Guitarist and vocalist David Allyn Steele is well-known from Boston Brats and Trash Broadway, a band that was a significant presence in the Boston music scene during the early journalism days of many local writers. This level of experience translates into a high-quality performance that goes beyond simply playing covers; they bring a genuine passion and skill to each song.
Close-up shot of The Chills' drummer Bonk Coelin performing at Bolton Street Tavern
During their set at Bolton Street Tavern, The Chills delivered a setlist packed with instantly recognizable rock classics. The energy in the tavern was palpable as they kicked off the night with The Black Crowes’ “Hard to Handle,” immediately setting a high-energy tone for the evening. The band effortlessly moved through a set of crowd-pleasers, demonstrating their versatility and ability to connect with the audience.
The Chills guitarist David Allyn Steele playing a solo at Bolton Street Tavern Marlborough
Highlights from the first set included a captivating rendition of Modern English’s “I’ll Melt With You,” the ever-popular Queen’s “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” and a standout performance of “Sweet Home Alabama.” It’s in these nuances, like the subtle guitar textures added to “Sweet Home Alabama,” that showcase the band’s musicality. These aren’t just rote covers; The Chills inject their own flair and musicianship, making each song feel fresh and engaging, a key characteristic that sets exceptional cover bands apart. The enthusiastic crowd at Bolton Street Tavern clearly appreciated this extra level of artistry. The setlist continued to impress with hits ranging from “867-5309” to “Superstitious,” and from “Your Mama Don’t Dance” to “Fooled Around and Fell in Love,” culminating in a powerful closing with Grand Funk Railroad’s “Some Kind of Wonderful.”
Audience enjoying The Chills' live music performance at Bolton Street Tavern
Even as the night progressed into their second set, starting with Billy Idol’s “Dancing With Myself” and The Rolling Stones’ “Honky Tonk Woman,” the energy at Bolton Street Tavern remained high. The Chills were scheduled for three sets, promising a full night of rock and roll for those who stayed late into the evening. Bolton Street Tavern provided the perfect backdrop for this energetic performance, with its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to live entertainment.
The Chills bassist Stephen "Sharky" Beccia performing at Bolton Street Tavern stage
For anyone seeking a reliable spot in Marlborough for live music, Bolton Street Tavern stands out. While The Chills’ upcoming schedule may be best checked on their Facebook page or by contacting the venue directly, Bolton Street Tavern consistently offers a lineup of talented musicians and bands. Beyond The Chills, Bolton Street Tavern is a venue worth visiting for its overall ambiance, friendly staff, and dedication to providing a great night out. Whether you’re a local resident or just passing through Marlborough, make sure to check out Bolton Street Tavern for a dose of live music and a fantastic tavern experience. It’s more than just a bar; it’s a community hub for music and good times.
