Illustration by Eva Putnam

Quincy, Massachusetts: Fun City

While you're cruising the Strip (Hancock Street), make sure to check out Quincy's longest-running Open Mike

The famous Paddy Barry's Open Mike is just plain fun for novice and veteran alike, as anyone who's had the pleasure will attest. People at Paddy's really appreciate live music, and the owner has given gigs to a couple of people he's heard at the Open Mike.

Don't forget to experience the Little Red Smokehouse in Carver, which offers some of the best barbeque around. The owner, chef Bob Dillon (go ahead, make a crack about his name; he enjoys it) is a gracious host, and makes sure everyone has a great meal and a great time. He's also a discriminating music lover, so I feel honored to be in his regular lineup.

I'll be teaming up with Marty Querzoli again. I first met Marty when he dropped into the late, great Tuesday Open Mic at C.B. O'Hanley's. About a year later (give or take a half hour), he called and asked if I could team up with him at a gig in Scituate. The rest is history. Man, it's a blast to play with him. Marty and I will be back at the Mill Wharf soon.