Looking for a fantastic night out with great music in Marlborough, MA? Look no further than Bolton Street Tavern, a premier venue that consistently delivers top-notch live entertainment. Recently, I had the pleasure of catching The Chills, a phenomenal cover band, at this lively tavern, and it was an evening to remember. While I don’t often review cover bands, The Chills, featuring seasoned musicians with impressive pedigrees, are an exception that deserves the spotlight, especially when performing at a local gem like Bolton Street Tavern.
The Chills performing live at Bolton Street Tavern, Marlborough, MA, capturing the energetic atmosphere of the venue.
The Chills: More Than Just a Cover Band
What sets The Chills apart is the exceptional talent and experience of its members. This isn’t your average weekend cover band; these are musicians who have honed their craft over years in the music scene. Bonk Coelin (drums, vocals) boasts a resume that includes performances with The Bruce Marshall Group and Viper, among others. Stephen “Sharky” Beccia (bass, vocals) has a similarly extensive history, having played with bands like Anxiety and Robbin Banks. And David Allyn Steele (guitar, vocals) brings his experience from the Boston Brats and Trash Broadway, a band that was a significant presence in the Boston music scene during my early journalism days. This collective experience translates into a tight, professional, and incredibly entertaining live performance every time they take the stage at venues like Bolton Street Tavern.
Close-up shot of The Chills band member playing guitar energetically at Bolton Street Tavern, highlighting the band's musical talent.
A Night of Classic Rock Anthems at Bolton Street Tavern
The Chills’ setlist at Bolton Street Tavern was a masterclass in crowd-pleasing rock anthems. They kicked off the night with The Black Crowes’ “Hard to Handle,” immediately setting an energetic tone for the evening. Throughout their first set, they seamlessly transitioned through a range of recognizable hits that spanned decades of rock history. Highlights included a soulful rendition of Modern English’s “I’ll Melt With You,” a spirited take on Queen’s “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” and a standout performance of “Sweet Home Alabama.” What impressed me most was how The Chills added subtle nuances to these classic songs, demonstrating their musicality and making each performance uniquely engaging. This is the hallmark of a truly great cover band – they don’t just replicate songs; they reimagine them with their own flair, perfectly complementing the vibrant atmosphere of Bolton Street Tavern.
Image of The Chills performing a song with vocal harmonies at Bolton Street Tavern, showcasing the band's vocal and instrumental skills.
The appreciative crowd at Bolton Street Tavern was clearly loving every minute, singing along to favorites like “867-5309,” “Superstitious,” “Your Mama Don’t Dance,” and “Fooled Around and Fell in Love.” They closed their first set with a powerful rendition of Grand Funk Railroad’s “Some Kind of Wonderful,” leaving everyone wanting more. Even into their second set, which started with Billy Idol’s “Dancing With Myself” and The Rolling Stones’ “Honky Tonk Woman,” the energy in Bolton Street Tavern remained high, a testament to The Chills’ ability to keep the party going late into the night.
Enthusiastic audience enjoying The Chills' performance at Bolton Street Tavern, illustrating the lively and fun atmosphere of the venue.
Why Bolton Street Tavern and The Chills are a Winning Combination
Bolton Street Tavern provides the perfect backdrop for a night of live music. It’s a welcoming and comfortable venue that fosters a great sense of community, making it an ideal spot to enjoy local bands like The Chills. The combination of Bolton Street Tavern’s inviting atmosphere and The Chills’ exceptional musical talent creates an experience that is far more than just going out to a bar – it’s about enjoying quality entertainment in a friendly, local setting.
The Chills band performing on stage at Bolton Street Tavern, with the venue's interior visible, giving a sense of the tavern's ambiance.
Don’t Miss The Chills at Bolton Street Tavern and Other Local Venues
If you’re looking for a fantastic night of live music, keep an eye on Bolton Street Tavern’s event calendar and The Chills’ Facebook page for upcoming shows. While their Facebook page might not always be immediately updated, you can often find their gigs listed on venue websites like Chopsticks in Leominster and The PPC in Chelsea. Whether it’s at Bolton Street Tavern or another local spot, seeing The Chills live is always a guaranteed great time. For classic rock covers performed by seasoned pros in a fantastic local venue, Bolton Street Tavern and The Chills are a combination you shouldn’t miss.
