At the last open mic at Witherbee's we were gobsmacked by the talent that this Thursday evening tradition attracts. Under the guidance of Mark Piper, who did a full hour himself, we heard a variety of performers play country, rock and a bit of blue grass. We also heard a very cool version of Aerosmith's "Dream On", performed by 15-year-old Erin Milsom. Erin was making her debut and she totally rocked it! She also performed the Rufus Wainwright song "Hallelujah", accompanied by her mom, Lesa Milsom.

There's a really nice vibe in the room (It's the upstairs bar area) and you feel like you are part of an intimate family gathering. Erin won't be there tonight  -- she's in Appalachia on a church a service project -- but we hear she will be back in August.

Thursdays. Witherbee's Carriage House, Route 9, 6 pm.