Scott Bradlee’s Post Modern Juke Box Plugs in at CHMH; Gene’s Place Hosts Trivia Night (Wed., 2/1/17)

1) Ever want to hear a doo-wop version of “Can’t Stop” by Miley Cyrus? How about a ragtime version of “Tainted Love?” Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox plays both as well as dozens of other jazzy covers of popular hits. To call Bradlee’s rotating ensemble, which has featured 70 different performers, a schtick would oversimplify things. Bradlee himself is a talented pianist and arranger, who cut his teeth in New York jazz clubs before beginning to record humorous yet sincere ragtime versions of ’80s songs. The result was a medley titled “Hello, My Ragtime ’80s.” A Motown Tribute to Nickelback came next, and soon Postmodern Jukebox was formed. Their first viral video was a cover of Macklemore & Ryan Lewis’s “Thrift Shop.” Many more covers and videos have followed; a version of Lady Gaga’s “Poker Face” arrives just in time for her Super Bowl concert this year. Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox plays Carnegie of Homestead Music Hall. 8 p.m. 510 E. 10th Ave., Munhall. (CM)

Trivia night packs them in at Gene’s Place.

2) Some call it a dive. Others, home. Many come for trivia night but return for the camaraderie and daily drink specials. Nestled between Atwood Street and York Way, Gene’s Place may be the best South Oakland bar that you’ve never heard of. Owner Gene Ney teaches business courses part-time at Carlow University, which makes him an educator both in front of, and behind, the bar. The clientele features an eclectic mix of Pitt students, both undergrad and grad, and Oakland natives. The three flat screens are tuned to either professional Pittsburgh teams or to Pitt athletics. For those who prefer to play rather than watch, the dartboard is always ready. The weekly draw here is “Trivia on Tap,” 9 p.m. every Wednesday. Harrison Kinzler and Mike (“Marty”) Stanis make for some tough quizmasters, but to the victors go free booze. Winners or losers, everyone leaves with knowledge gained and a smile on their face. Gene’s has recently switched to a smoke free bar. 3616 Louisa St., Oakland. (CM)

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