by Donte Kirby
Dueling piano bar Howl at the Moon recently opened at 258 S. 15th Street this week and if the opening night is any indication of what’s to come, Philly is in for a treat.
Dueling piano provokes images of two pianist, each with their pianos in hand, waiting for the handkerchief to drop to let off their best solo. Howl at the Moon delivers duel pianos but it’s more of a friendly rivalry at best.
The amazing house band doubled as host for the evening. Every member played pretty much every instrument and sung. The band takes request from the crowd, so it’s almost guaranteed you’ll hear your favorite song. All you need is the song title and artist. A few dollars wouldn’t hurt either to catch their attention. As the night goes on the pianos get covered in request slips.
A tag line of Howl at the Moon is “sing along”, which is enthusiastically encouraged by the band. So encouraged that even a Howl at the Moon bouncer near the dance floor got on stage and sung a song.
Among other things that graced the stage was a twerk off courtesy of Sir-Mix-a-Lot, trash cans for .fun and dancing bar patrons. For some, the dance floor didn’t do their talent justice.
Howl at the Moon is just a short walk from the Orange Line’s Walnut and Locust. It delivers a great night and really what more could you ask for?
