We’d originally asked Daniel Ellsworth and the Great Lakes to give us five places in Nashville where they write music or get inspired. Turns out, like many of us, they are creatures of habit when it comes to creativity, and it would have been five answers of the same thing: Dan’s basement.
Instead, the Nashville band (comprising Ellsworth, Timon Lance, Joel Wren and Marshall Skinnergave) gave us their top four personal favorites, as well as the place where they meet up most (well, besides Dan’s basement)- which earns distinctly high points for including a spot where one can acquire pupusas. Two other things learned: bands who tour garner great comfort in chain restaurants, and everyone lists either Grimey’s or The Basement.
Right now, the indie-pop band is charting #18 on Billboard’s Heatseekers with their tune “Civilized Man.” But right you can listen to another track, “Shoe Fits” by clicking here. And watch video of the band live at Mercy Lounge after the jump (and the favorites).
And now, Daniel Ellsworth and the Great Lakes‘ Nashville Five:
1. Band Favorite: Pupuseria – The absolute best Pupusas around. Period. If you haven’t ever had a pupusa, you really should. It’s a Salvadoran taco-like food. They also have the best beans ever. Crucial band decisions are made over pupusas covered in hot sauce and glass bottles of coke at Pupuseria. The staff also consists of probably our favorite non-English speaking people on the planet. 340 Welch Road
2. Daniel’s Favorite: Grimey’s – A Nashville staple and hands down the best record store I’ve ever set foot in. I know this because we go to every record store in every city we play in, and it has yet to be topped. Best prices on vinyl, great staff, amazing support of local artists, and often times (and perhaps best of all) – free beer. I spend entirely too much time & money here. I can think of worse addictions…
3. Timon’s Favorite: Villager Tavern — A smoke-filled treasure in Hillsboro Village. One of the best dive beer joints in town. I don’t think there’s a better place to throw darts or chat with strange, friendly locals. The jukebox is stellar and the Shiner is always cold.
4. Joel’s Favorite: Chili’s on West End – You can’t be in a bad mood at Chili’s. Editor’s note: Yes. Yes you can.
5. Marshall’s Favorite: Drifters BBQ – Happy Hour is almost everyday (two for one Yazoo Pale Ale’s) and the patio is dog friendly and walking distance from my house. Also, it’s one of the only BBQ places in town where I can get TOFU! Editors note: Todd Snider agrees.
Watch “Bleeding Tounge,” live at Mercy:
Lockeland Springsteen 