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February 23, 2026 at 12:34 am

Bell & Field at Rams Riverhouse on June 12, 2026 in Port Byron

We’re excited to invite you to join us at Rams Riverhouse in Port Byron on Friday, June 12, 2026, from 7 to 10 PM. We always enjoy playing in places like this, where the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.

Show Details

  • When: June 12, 2026, from 7 to 10 PM
  • Where: Rams Riverhouse, 102 S Main St, Port Byron, IL 61275
  • Who: Bell & Field
  • What to Expect: Acoustic set with a relaxed atmosphere and tasty drinks.
  • Venue website: Rams Riverhouse

Bell & Field: Professional Acoustic Duo

About Bell & Field

We are an acoustic duo focused on bringing smooth harmonies and a selection of classic songs from the 60s through the 90s. Our style is easy-going, and we aim to create a warm atmosphere for everyone.

About the Venue

Rams Riverhouse is located in Port Byron, a small town that gives a cozy feeling to everyone who visits. This spot features a friendly vibe and is perfect for enjoying an evening with live music.

We hope to see all of you there. Song requests are always welcome, and we’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Bell & Field at Fernando’s Place

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BELL & FIELD LIVE!

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February 20, 2026 at 3:16 am

Bell & Field at Fernando’s Place on April 26, 2026 in Kewanee

Bell & Field at Fernando’s PlaceWe’re excited to play at Fernando’s Place in Kewanee on Sunday, April 26, 2026, from 5 to 8 PM. This spot in the heart of Kewanee offers a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine that locals really appreciate. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, burritos, or anything else, it’s a comforting place to relax and enjoy.

We love playing in settings like this, where the atmosphere is welcoming and has a deep appreciation for family gatherings. There’s something special about sharing our music in a diner that’s known for its friendly service and hearty meals. We hope to see some familiar faces! Join us! Join Fernando!

If You Are Planning To Come Out

  • Date and Time: April 26, 2026, from 5 – 8 PM
  • Venue: Fernando’s Place, 226 N Tremont St, Kewanee, IL 61443
  • Who is Playing: Bell & Field
  • What to Expect: A relaxed acoustic set in a cozy dining atmosphere
  • For more about the venue, visit: Fernando’s Place

Bell & Field: Professional Acoustic Duo

About Bell & Field

We are an acoustic duo that enjoys sharing smooth harmonies and classic songs from the 60s to 90s. Our goal is to create a laid-back vibe that makes everyone feel at home while they listen.

About The Venue

Fernando’s Place is located in the heart of Kewanee, and it has become quite a favorite among locals. Known for its authentic Mexican dishes and welcoming atmosphere, the diner features a cozy, retro-style interior that feels friendly and familiar. There’s a wide range of menu items.

It’s a great spot for families and those looking for a casual meal, and we’ve always found the staff to be attentive and warm. Kewanee itself is known for its strong sense of community, and spots like Fernando’s play a big part in that.

We hope you can join us at Fernando’s Place for some good music, delicious food, and perhaps a couple of tasty beverages. Thank you for your support, and we look forward to seeing you there!

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AFTER THE SHOW

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February 17, 2026 at 12:19 am

Valentine’s Night at Copper & Oak with Paul on Sax (and a Vanishing Voice)

Walking back into Copper & Oak on Valentine’s Day felt a little like coming back to a favorite classroom, except this time we brought the saxophone teacher with us. Our December duo show there was one of our favorites of 2025, so we’d been itching to hear what the room would sound like with Paul Weddle in the mix.

Starting the night with a group hug

Before we even unloaded a guitar or keyboard, there was this small moment that kind of set the tone for the night. Paul and his wife walked in, we all met near the bar, and without really planning it, everyone just went in for a big group hug. Not exactly rock-and-roll, but pretty on-brand for a Valentine’s gig.

Load-in at Copper & Oak is easy, and honestly, we don’t really think of it as work. While we were setting up, Joe and Michelle checked in on us, people filtered in for date night and meetups with friends, and we started talking through the plan: lean hard into love songs, give the sax plenty of room, and still sneak in some of the trio tunes we’ve been working on.

Love songs, sax features, and a quiet “My Funny Valentine”

We built the first part of the night around songs that made sense for Valentine’s Day without turning the whole thing into a Hallmark card. Paul absolutely owned the big sax moments like “Baker Street,” and it was fun to hear that solo bounce around the room with people nodding along at the bar.

We pulled out “Your Song” and “Time After Time,” which always seem to land well on nights like this. We also tried out a jazz arrangement of “My Funny Valentine.” We did it as an instrumental and it wasn’t bad for our first “go” with it. We had discussed that song earlier in the week, noting how the lyrics were about seeing someone clearly, not perfectly, and that felt pretty fitting for a room full of real-life couples and longtime friends.

Three-part harmonies and one missing Billy Joel tune

Between the love songs, we snuck in some of the trio arrangements we’ve been building with Paul. We’ve been putting in extra rehearsal time on three-part harmonies, and this was the first Copper & Oak crowd to hear them. “Leader of the Band,” “Draggin’ the Line,” and “Danny’s Song” all made the list, and “Danny’s Song” in particular felt good — that moment when you hit a blend and kind of look at each other like, “Okay, that actually worked.”

The plan was to finally play “Just the Way You Are.” Paul has that sax solo dialed in, and we’ve been meaning to add it to more sets. But mid-show, Greg’s voice decided it had other ideas.

When the voice taps out mid-show

I (Greg) hit a point where my voice just… left. No warning, no graceful fade, just gone. This happens maybe one out of every eight or ten shows when I’m not singing as smart as I should. I’ll be honest: it’s frustrating, especially when you’ve been looking forward to a specific song. We had “Just the Way You Are” sitting there on the setlist, ready to go, and we had to skip it.

I grabbed some Advil, drank a bunch of water, and after about half an hour I felt a little better, but vocally I pretty much bowed out for the rest of the night. The good thing about playing in a trio is you’re not alone up there. Tom adjusted the set on the fly, Paul stretched out a bit more on sax, and we leaned into tunes that didn’t need me to push too hard.

The crowd stayed with us the whole way. People still stopped on their way out to offer kind words and talk about songs they grew up with. One person mentioned how much they loved hearing “My Funny Valentine” done that way; another asked when we’d be back so they could bring friends next time. Those little conversations mean a lot, especially on a night when things didn’t go perfectly onstage.

 

Closing time, bean burritos, and what’s next

After we packed up and said our goodbyes to Joe, Michelle, and a few lingering regulars, we did what we usually do after a Lincoln, IL show: pointed the car toward home and found a Taco Bell. Bean burritos in hand, we replayed the night — the hug at the start, “Danny’s Song,” the harmonies that clicked, and how good it felt to be back at Copper & Oak for another live acoustic performance, this time with sax in the mix.

We’ll be teaming up with Paul again at Crescent City Tap in a few weeks, so if you’re looking for live music in Galva or nearby, that’s another chance to catch this trio setup.

And if you’ve got a bar, patio, private party, or anything else that could use some piano, guitar, harmonies, and the occasional saxophone feature, you can reach us here to talk details: https://www.bellandfieldmusic.com/book-acoustic-duo/.

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February 13, 2026 at 11:32 pm

Bell & Field at Tres Rojas Winery on August 2, 2026

Hey friends! We’re looking forward to another enjoyable afternoon at Tres Rojas Winery in Washington. With summer rolling in, it’s a great time to relax outside, maybe sip on some of their lovely dry wines, and enjoy acoustic tunes with us.

You can find us playing on Sunday, August 2, from 1 to 4 PM. It should be a nice way to wind down the weekend, and we’d love to see you there!

If You Are Planning To Come Out

  • Date and Time: August 2, 2026, from 1 – 4 PM
  • Venue: Tres Rojas Winery, 1774 E Cruger Rd, Washington, IL 61571
  • Who’s Playing: Bell & Field
  • What to Expect: An acoustic set in a relaxed atmosphere with wine tastings available.
  • Venue Website: tresrojaswinery.com

Bell & Field: Professional Acoustic Duo

About Bell & Field

We are an acoustic duo that enjoys bringing our smooth harmonies and mix of classic songs from the 60s to the 90s to our shows. We aim to create a calm and cozy environment for everyone who comes out to listen.

About The Venue

Tres Rojas Winery is located in Washington, a charming town near Peoria. They offer a selection of dry and sweet wines and allow you to build your own custom flight. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, making for an inviting experience.

We’d be really happy to share some music with you this Sunday. As always, we welcome song requests, so if there’s something you’d like to hear, let us know! Feel free to leave us comments on this post too, as we love hearing from you.

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AFTER THE SHOW

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January 31, 2026 at 10:53 pm

Requests, Walken Jokes, and a January Crowd at Crescent City Tap

We rolled back into Crescent City Tap on one of those bitter cold January nights where you question all your life choices while you’re loading gear. We’ve played this room a bunch of times now. It wasn’t packed like some of the past shows, but we also knew the folks who did come out would really be there to listen and have a good time with us.

Seven people, three hours, and a lot of conversation

I think we played to basically the same seven people for most of the night, which ended up being kind of great. They settled in, ordered their drinks, and just stayed with us. It felt less like a show and more like we’d been hired to play someone’s living room, only with way better whiskey options.

Before the gig, we met at my home, working on “Draggin’ the Line.” We usually do 3-part harmonies with our buddy Paul Weddle on sax, and we were trying to see if we could make it work as just the two of us. Harmonies felt solid, we were ready to go… and then we proceeded to completely forget to play it. Never even called it. Classic.

Instead, we ended up dusting off some songs we hadn’t touched in a while: “Bittersweet,” “And She Was,” “Leader of the Band,” and a few others that had been sitting on the bench. It was one of those nights where the set list kept changing based on whatever conversation we were having with the room.

Requests we’d never played (and one we half-played)

By mid-show we had clearly drifted into a ’70s groove, and the crowd picked up on it. Requests started coming in: “Sunshine on My Shoulders,” some John Prine, “I Fought the Law,” “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” and then teased a verse with the curveball request: “Without You” by Harry Nilsson.

We had never played any of those before. We decided to just go for it and see what happened. “Sunshine on My Shoulders” and the Prine tune came together better than we had any right to expect, and it actually felt pretty good leaning into that era for a while.

“Without You” only went as far as the first verse. Greg really likes that song but has never practiced it, so he previewed it just to see where it sat. He bailed out before it jumped up that octave.  With a little practice, that song might make it into our upcoming Valentine’s Day show at Copper & Oak.

Moms, Walken impressions, and that small-room feeling

One of Greg’s favorite moments of the night had nothing to do with the set list. Between songs he turned to me and asked, “So what are you feeling?” meaning, what should we play next. My mom was in the audience and immediately perked up: “Did you just ask him how he’s feeling? Why, is he sick?”

We had to explain that Greg was asking about the next song, not my health. Greg then joked that I had “a fever for music,” which of course led me straight into a Christopher Walken impression: “I got a fever, and the only prescription… is more cowbell.” I’ll be honest, whatever voice came out of my mouth was not Christopher Walken. Greg said it sounded more like Louis Armstrong. Either way, the whole exchange had the room cracking up.

Mom-level concern in the middle of a live acoustic duo performance is hard to beat. It’s those little unscripted things that make a quiet night feel full.

Familiar faces in Galva on a freezing night

 

Even with the small crowd, it was really good to see some people we hadn’t caught up with in a while: Teri Pankau, Annette Smith, Alan Anderson, Mike Martin, and a few others who’ve been cheering us on for a long time. My parents were there, as always, quietly anchoring a table and clapping for every song like it was the first one they’d ever heard us play.

Mike grabbed some video near the end of the night, so we’re curious to see what that looks and sounds like from the other side of the speakers. From our side, it felt like one of those Crescent City Tap entertainment nights where the room is small, the conversations are easy, and you actually have time to talk with everyone who came out.

Already looking ahead to the next Crescent City Tap show

We’re back at Crescent City Tap on Friday, February 27, this time with Paul Weddle on sax. If you’ve heard us do “Take the Long Way Home” as a duo, you know it’s fun—but when Paul comes in on that sax line, it turns into a whole different animal. We’re also determined to remember “Draggin’ the Line” before we leave the stage this time.  But we might just stick to the love songs for that day.

Bell & Field: Professional Acoustic DuoAbout Bell & Field:

We’re a piano–guitar duo that loves taking familiar songs from the ’60s through the ’90s and putting our own spin on them with harmonies and stripped-down arrangements. Nights like this one in Galva are exactly why we do it: a handful of people, some honest requests, a few surprises, and plenty of time to actually talk in between.

If you’re looking for live music in Galva or beyond and want a low-key, conversational kind of show like this, you can reach out to us here: https://www.bellandfieldmusic.com/book-acoustic-duo/.

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BELL & FIELD LIVE!

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January 31, 2026 at 10:40 pm

February 14: Live Music at Copper & Oak Bourbon and Craft Beer Bar


We hope everyone is enjoying the early vibes of February. Just in time for Valentine’s Day, we’ll be playing at Copper & Oak Bourbon and Craft Beer Bar on Saturday, February 14, 2026, from 6 PM to 9 PM.

This one is a little extra special. It’s a Valentine’s Day show, and we’ll be leaning into the mood with a set that features plenty of timeless love songs and romantic classics from years past. If you’re looking for a cozy night out (or a low-key date night), or just want to enjoy the music with family and friends, come join us in Lincoln at this warm spot known for its cold craft beer and unique whiskey offerings.

Copper & Oak has a welcoming atmosphere with an outdoor patio that’s great for sipping drinks in a relaxed setting. We’re really looking forward to playing our blend of acoustic tunes, setting the tone for the evening, and enjoying some good conversations with you all.

Show Details

  • Date and Time: February 14, 2026, from 6 PM to 9 PM
  • Venue: Copper & Oak Bourbon and Craft Beer Bar, 227 N Kickapoo St, Lincoln, IL 62656
  • Who’s Playing: Bell & Field (with special guest saxophonist Paul Weddle)
  • What to Expect: Acoustic set, relaxed atmosphere, Valentine’s Day vibes, and a setlist filled with classic love songs
  • Website: Copper & Oak Bourbon and Craft Beer Bar

Special Guest: Paul Weddle (Saxophone)

For this Valentine’s Day show, we’re excited to bring in guest artist Paul Weddle on saxophone. Paul is a renowned touring saxophonist for the legendary Classics IV (known for “Spooky” and “Stormy”), and his playing adds a smooth, soulful layer that fits this night perfectly. He has also toured with the Doobie Brothers, B.B. King, Three Dog Night, and many other music legends.

If you’ve seen us with sax before, you already know how much it transforms the room. If you haven’t, this is a great one to catch.

Read more about Paul Weddle

Bell & Field: Professional Acoustic Duo

About Bell & Field

We are an acoustic duo focused on creating a cozy atmosphere with smooth harmonies and a mix of familiar songs. We draw our inspiration from timeless classics, bringing a collection of tunes that span decades while inviting everyone to enjoy some moments together.

About the Venue

Copper & Oak is located in the Route 66 Plaza, right in the heart of historic downtown Lincoln. The bar offers a unique selection of over 21 craft beer taps along with a diverse array of bourbons and hand-crafted cocktails. The outdoor patio adds a pleasant spot for enjoying a drink under the stars, which is always a nice touch when the weather is nice.

We’d love to see familiar faces and new ones alike on February 14th. As always, we’re open to song requests and will be happy to hear your thoughts in the comments below.

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AFTER THE SHOW

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January 26, 2026 at 8:00 pm

Surprise Songs, Sax Solos, and an Extra Hour at The Phoenix

We finally made it to The Phoenix Restaurant & Martini Bar in Davenport, and our first time there turned into one of those nights where the plan just kept expanding in the best way.

A Quiet Building, a Loud “Surprise!”

When we walked into the Bix Beiderbecke building, it was quieter than we expected for a Saturday. The Phoenix had actually shut down regular service that day because a water pipe had burst in the cold. So instead of a busy dinner crowd, it was just staff, the birthday crew, and us setting up in this big, impressive room that felt even larger without the usual restaurant noise.

Once people started arriving, the place filled in nicely. It was a surprise party, so we did that funny musician thing where you’re “on” but also kind of hiding in plain sight. We played lightly while folks mingled, then stopped and waited for the guest of honor to walk in. Doors opened, everyone yelled “Surprise!”, and after the hugs and happy tears, we kicked back in with “Touch of Grey.” It was a fitting way to officially start the night.

Dragging the Line, Walking the Sax

The setlist bounced around the decades like usual, but a few songs really stuck with us. “Draggin’ the Line” locked in right away – the harmonies landed exactly where we wanted them, and you could see people’s heads start bobbing at the tables. It’s always fun when a tune that’s still “new” in our rotation suddenly feels like it’s been with us forever.

We also used the night to lean into some of the newer material we’ve been working on: “Take the Long Way Home” and “Low Rider” both got some extra love. There’s something about a private party that makes it easier to test-drive songs; you can feel the room in a more direct way. I found myself thinking, “Okay, these are sticking. They’re staying in the toolbox.”

“Spooky” was another high point. That song has a built-in mood, and we decided to push it a little further. During the solo, Paul took his sax off the stage and walked out into the crowd for an extended section. People literally turned their chairs around to follow him. It’s one thing to hear a sax solo from across the room; it’s another to have it happen three feet from your table while you’re holding a martini.

Happy Birthday, Extended Version

Later in the night, we did the required tune for the evening – “Happy Birthday” – but with the full sax treatment. Having that horn on top of such a simple melody turns it from a quick obligation into an actual song. You could see phones come out, everybody filming and singing along.

The crowd was easygoing and up for anything. Between sets, there was plenty of dancing to the house music, which is always fun for us to watch from the gear corner. A few requests came in that kept things interesting and nudged us slightly off the mental script in a good way.

When Three Hours Turn into Four

The original plan was a three-hour live acoustic duo performance. At the end of our scheduled time, the party was still rolling, and we were asked if we’d be up for another hour. We said yes, of course, and dove back in.

I’ll be honest, by the time we wrapped that extra hour, we realized we probably had enough songs in the tank to go six hours straight with no break – but we’d be wiped out puddles on the floor. Four hours was plenty, and it felt good to know the catalog is that deep when we need it.

Friends, Family, and a Late-Night Taco Bell Run

Paul brought his wife Dottie, which we always love. They’re a great pair, and it’s nice having familiar faces in the room, especially at a private event where we don’t know most of the guests. She was just getting over a cold or flu, so they headed out right after we finished while Tom and I started the usual teardown.

The owners and staff at The Phoenix were kind to us all night, especially considering they were dealing with a water issue on top of hosting a big surprise party. They mentioned being interested in having us back for a dinner show once everything’s back to normal, and we’d be glad to return. It’s a strong room for live music in Davenport – bigger than it looks in photos, with plenty of space for people to listen, talk, and still feel close to the band.

Once the last case was loaded and we’d said our goodbyes, we did what we often do after a long one: pointed the car toward Taco Bell. Not glamorous, but very effective.

Thinking About Your Own Party?

If you’re putting together a birthday, anniversary, or any kind of gathering and want a live acoustic duo to keep things moving without overpowering the room, we’d be happy to talk. You can reach us here: https://www.bellandfieldmusic.com/book-acoustic-duo/.


We’re looking forward to a special night at The Phoenix Restaurant & Martini Bar in Davenport on January 24. While it’s a private birthday party, it’s always nice to spend time in such a warm and inviting atmosphere where you can enjoy good food and drinks with friends. The Phoenix has a great reputation for their extensive wine list and their variety of gourmet dishes.

We love playing in places like this that offer a welcoming environment. The mix of contemporary flair and old-fashioned elegance makes it a perfect spot for a celebration. Plus, we hear they have delicious homemade cheesecakes that we’re excited to see!

The Basics

  • When: January 24, 2026, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
  • Where: The Phoenix Restaurant & Martini Bar, 111 W 2nd St, Davenport, IA 52801
  • Who: Bell & Field
  • What to Expect: Acoustic set in a cozy atmosphere with drinks and food available.
  • For more info, visit: The Phoenix Website

Bell & Field: Professional Acoustic Duo

About Bell & Field

We’re a duo that enjoys bringing smooth harmonies to life with a laid-back mix of songs from the 60s to the 90s. Our acoustic style draws on the essence of classic tunes, aiming to create a relaxed vibe for our audience. Your requests are always welcome!

The Room & The Neighborhood

The Phoenix Restaurant & Martini Bar is situated in the heart of downtown Davenport, inside the historic Bix Biederbecke building. This venue beautifully combines modern design with its charming old architecture. Guests can enjoy a mighty martini selection and a robust wine list, making it a popular spot for fine dining as well as special events.

Having previously been home to shops and restaurants over the years, this place now has a cozy courtyard area that adds to its appeal.

We hope guests will have a great time celebrating and enjoying the tunes with us. Remember, if you’d like to have Bell & Field for your own private event, feel free to reach out—we’d love to hear from you.

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January 8, 2026 at 3:35 am

Cerno’s on May 29, 2026 in Kewanee

Bell & Field (Tom Campbell) Performing at Cerno’sWe’re happy to share that we’ll be performing at Cerno’s in downtown Kewanee on Thursday, May 29, 2025. The warm atmosphere is just right for an evening like this, especially with the splendid back bar imported from Belgium and the inviting vibe that comes with it.

This will be a private event for an anniversary party for Tom’s parents and we’re looking forward to making it a special time for everyone involved

Show Details

  • Date and Time: May 29, 2025, from 7 PM to 9 PM
  • Where: Cerno’s, 213 W 3rd St, Kewanee, IL 61443
  • Who: Bell & Field
  • What to Expect: Acoustic set with a relaxed atmosphere; great food and drinks available.
  • Venue Website: Cerno’s Bar & Grill

Bell & Field: Professional Acoustic Duo

About Bell & Field

We are an acoustic duo featuring smooth vocal harmonies and a range of songs that will take you from the 60s to the 90s. Our aim is to create a welcoming environment where you can sit back and enjoy the music as we share some of our favorite tunes.

About the Venue

Cerno’s is located in historic downtown Kewanee, Illinois, featuring a beautiful back bar from Belgium that adds character to the space. The venue offers an extensive menu with classic grill fare and 30 beers on tap. It’s a great spot for both casual nights and special occasions.

We appreciate everyone who’s able to join us. It’s going to be a nice evening with good music and good company. Happy Anniversary Jim & Cheri!

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BELL & FIELD LIVE!

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January 8, 2026 at 2:51 am

May 30 at Tuggers, Port Byron

As we move into late spring, we’re excited to share that we’ll be playing at Tuggers in Port Byron this coming Saturday, May 30, from 6 to 9 PM. This spot has a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed evening with good company. With the scenic Riverfront dining, it’s a lovely place to spend some time.

We’re looking forward to enjoying the evening with you all and sharing some of our music. The vibe at Tuggers is always comfortable, and we like how the community comes together here.

The Basics

  • When: May 30, 2026, from 6 PM to 9 PM
  • Where: Tuggers, 201 N Main St, Port Byron, IL 61275
  • Who: Bell & Field
  • What to Expect: An acoustic set with a relaxed atmosphere; food and drinks available.
  • Visit Tuggers’ website for more info.

Bell & Field: Professional Acoustic Duo

About Bell & Field

We’re an acoustic duo focused on harmonies that blend well with a collection of timeless songs from the past few decades. Our style is casual and laid-back, perfect for evenings spent with friends.

The Room & The Neighborhood

Tuggers is situated right on Main Street in Port Byron, which adds to its charm. The Riverfront location gives it a scenic edge and the menu features good food and drinks. It’s a welcoming space where locals and visitors alike can gather.

Thanks for taking the time to read about our upcoming show at Tuggers. We sincerely appreciate those who come out to support us and look forward to sharing some music with you.

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AFTER THE SHOW

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January 3, 2026 at 4:56 pm

Low Riders, Disco Threads, and a 3‑Part Countdown at Pour Bros Moline

New Year’s Eve shows always feel a little different. Everyone walks in carrying a whole year on their shoulders and hoping the next one starts on a good note. Pour Bros in Moline has become that place for us. This was our third NYE there, and this time they went all-in on a 1970s disco theme and let us bring in our friend, saxophonist Paul Weddle. That combination pretty much guaranteed things were going to get interesting.

Bell bottoms, sax solos, and one missing voice

From the moment people started walking in, it was clear folks understood the assignment: bell bottoms, sequins, giant collars, the whole deal. There were a lot of smiling faces before we even played a note.

Behind the scenes, it was a little less glamorous. Greg was just coming off a cold and basically had no voice. So the plan became: Greg holds down the keys and anchors the songs, while Tom and Paul handle most of the vocals and harmonies.

Once Paul really dug into the sax on the first tune, the whole night snapped into place. There’s this jolt that runs through us the first time he leans into a solo—suddenly it’s not just a duo anymore, it’s this little 70s band squeezed into a corner of Pour Bros.

 

Trying out “Low Rider” and a new favorite Supertramp tune

We’d been itching to roll out a couple of new songs for this show, and the disco theme gave us the excuse.

“Low Rider” by WAR was the first debut. On paper, it’s a pretty stripped-down tune, but once we started rehearsing it, we realized how much fun we could have with it—groove locked in, percussion feel on guitar and keys, and those three-part harmonies near the end. Even with Greg’s limited voice, he jumped in on those harmonies, and it turned into this cool little arrangement that fit the 70s night perfectly. Paul absolutely wailed on the sax breaks, including that iconic line between verses. You could see people’s heads pop up like, “Ohhh, this one.”

The other new one was “Take the Long Way Home” by Supertramp. Greg and Tom had played it together before, but this time Tom had taken on all the harmonica parts. The intro alone is one of those moments where you can feel the room recognize the song within three notes. Then we hit the solo section and let Tom and Paul trade licks—harmonica answering sax, back and forth. From our side of the stage, it felt like we’d stumbled into a different band for a minute. Greg was comping away on piano while those two went at it. We all walked off saying some version of, “Yeah… that one’s a keeper.”

Power cables, backup plans, and keeping the room dancing

Of course, it wouldn’t be a New Year’s Eve show without at least one minor crisis. Before we even started, Greg realized he couldn’t find the power cable for his Bose mixer. He tried to improvise with a substitute, and it worked—right up until it didn’t. About halfway through the night, during a break, the mixer just shut off and refused to come back.

Thankfully, there was a backup mixer in the gear pile. With a little cable juggling and some quick re-routing, e had everything patched in again before the break was over. Nobody in the crowd seemed to notice. From our side, it was a small miracle and a reminder of why we always bring more gear than we think we need.

Pour Bros hospitality and a wobbly “YMCA”

One of the reasons we love doing New Year’s Eve at Pour Bros is how well they take care of everyone. They handed us drink cards so we could enjoy  some of the craft beers and wine throughout the night, reserved a table for Tom and Paul’s wives, and put each of us up at Element, the hotel attached to the venue. Knowing you can just roll your gear a few feet and crash upstairs after midnight takes a lot of pressure off the night.

After we counted down to 2026 with the crowd, we packed up, grabbed some food, and hung around to talk with folks. There’s something nice about getting to celebrate with everyone instead of immediately loading into a van and driving off into the cold.

Somewhere in that after-show haze, we decided it was a good idea to take a bunch of ridiculous photos. At one point Greg climbed onto Tom’s shoulders, which is not something we necessarily recommend as a regular band ritual. Then “YMCA” came on, and between the three of us we attempted to spell it out. The result: Greg’s wobbly “Y,” Paul’s lowercase “m,” and Tom’s backwards “C.” We are absolutely not the Village People, but we are Bell & Field with Paul Weddle, and that’s more than enough for us.

Waking up in 2026

New Year’s Day started with the excellent breakfast at Element and a little postmortem on the night—what worked, what surprised us, which songs we want to keep in the rotation. Even with Greg and Paul both fighting off colds and the mid-show mixer drama, it had been a great time. The 70s theme, the saxophone, the new tunes, the crowd in full costume—it all added up to a pretty great way to step into 2026.

If you were there, thanks for ringing in the year with us and for being part of that loud, slightly off-kilter “YMCA” at the end.

 

About Bell & Field

We’re a piano–guitar live acoustic duo that loves digging into songs from the 60s through the 90s, rearranging them just enough to keep things interesting while still letting people sing along. Nights like this one at Pour Bros are exactly why we do what we do—real people, real rooms, and a few surprises along the way.

If you’re putting together a New Year’s party, a taproom night, or anything that could use a live acoustic duo performance with harmonies, sax cameos, and a few deep-cut 70s tunes, you can reach us through this page. We’d love to see what we can bring to your place.

 

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