Monday, August 4, 2008

Metter's finds life in old O’Donold’s location

By Katie Libecco

WARREN — Friday, an old venue came alive with a new scene and atmosphere as Metter’s Bar hosted a grand opening.

The Drummond Family band played jazz, blues and rock numbers on an improved tiki bar patio.

Nicholas Sainato was the drummer for the three-piece band, with Dan Drummond on bass and Dennis Drummond on guitar.

The latter and Sainato will head to Berklee School of Music in Boston in the fall.

But Friday they entertained a crowd of more than 100, inviting other musicians onstage to substitute a member or add in their own instrument. (Such as jazz flute.)

Owner Jimmy Metter (pronounced: meet-er) opened the bar in June and has started to book bands for the outside stage. That stage is also host to an open mic night on Wednesdays.

In the winter, Metter says they’ll host blues groups indoors. He says he plans to “frequently” have bands play, meaning Warren has a new venue.

Inside, the old O’Donold’s interior has been completely redone. Framed print-outs of Web pages about Warren’s history hang on the walls above new tables. The only reminiscent aspect of the former tenant is the solid oak bar.

There’s also a flier for an Aug. 16 Trumbull County bar tour, which Metter’s is a part of. Other bars participating include Bailey’s, My Bar II, Tommy Dogg’s, La Villa Madrid, Blue Magoo’s and Leon’s.

To take part, the cost is $20 and T-shirts are $10. There will be a bus for participants and a food spread at the half-way point. Tickets are available at participating locations.