Behind at least two of the greats, Adelaide free music institutions Billy Bob's BBQ at the Grace Emily on Monday nights and the Proton Pill at the Lion Hotel on Wednesday nights is our own Billy Bob. If Bill was a footballer, he would be Gary Ablett, understated, humble but always the best player on the team.
Everlasting fun with Billy Bob Rankine
For those in the know, Bill Rankine is just about the finest guitar player we have, among a suite of great Adelaide guitarists who regularly match it with interstate and overseas visitors.
His iconic double slouch white hat symbolically struts many a stage, front bar and winery around Adelaide. You can still get the t-shirts at the Grace Emily.
The band, Proton Pill is named after Billy's role model from the 1960's tv show,
Roger Ramjet. The link is to be Episode 1 if you what to go deeper.
Eric "Touch
I started my devotion to this Wednesday night away from the TEEVE at least 12 years ago, and back then Billy said he had been playing there since 1996, a detail he now denies. But I remember that conversation and I am if no-one else is celebrating the 'Pills" 20 years in residence. The current line-up includes Tim Wilkison on bass, Jamie Jones on drums and Eric "Touch" Santouci on vocals and horns.
Tim on Bass, Jamie on Drums
Some of the songs have changed, but some regulars over my 12 years are comfortingly the same.
If you haven't made it along then, this is the year. There is no better entertainment in Adelaide free or otherwise, and it's on every Wednesday night after Dinner until around 11. They even let me on the dance floor. Outrageous.
Dancing for everyone every Wednesday Night
