The Bats

The Lexington Herald-Leader described The Bats as “a best bet.” After all, it’s not often that Rock ‘n Roll meets cabaret meets comedy, all done with tight vocal harmonies and skillful musicianship. As one audience member put it, “ . . . it’s a magical combination.”

The Bats promise to get you laughing and get your feet moving. They sing of love lost, weight gained, growing older, retail therapy and everything else life throws their way. Vocalists Missy Johnston, Marilyn Robie and Susan Thomas hold the front line, blending beautiful harmonies into entertaining and hilarious songs and patter. Melanie Johnson, veteran rock guitarist and Bats’ songwriter, steps forward with powerful vocals but shy enthusiasm. Marianne Sherman adds earthy humor, a booming bass line and a growing list of original Bats’ tunes. And three very brave men--Craig Cornwell on drums, Jim Gleason on stunt guitar, and Harold Sherman on keyboards--attempt to get a word in edgewise. The band’s CD, “Some Settling May Occur,” captures their usual irreverent worldview.

The Bats have performed in venues large and small, for the public as well as for private functions. They recently opened for New York-based singer/songwriter Christine Lavin, at an event sponsored by the Richmond Area Arts Council.