Eighth & Rail is a dessert cafe' and tavern located on South Railroad Avenue in historic downtown Opelika, Alabama. The venue is approximately 9 miles from the University of Auburn's campus in Auburn, AL. Students often come hear music they can't hear in their college town.
Artists are usually booked at least two months in advance. Local draw isn't necessary, but it definitely helps. The venue provides local press links and contacts the artists can work on to help their >...
Eighth & Rail is a dessert cafe' and tavern located on South Railroad Avenue in historic downtown Opelika, Alabama. The venue is approximately 9 miles from the University of Auburn's campus in Auburn, AL. Students often come hear music they can't hear in their college town.
Artists are usually booked at least two months in advance. Local draw isn't necessary, but it definitely helps. The venue provides local press links and contacts the artists can work on to help their draw.
Built in 1870, the building has been restored to its Reconstruction-era grandeur where the original pressed-tin ceiling and heart pine floors instill in the visitor an immediate sense of history. The architect, Suzanne Fields, and the owners were meticulous in their attention to detail in this important restoration project.
Reclaimed materials from area houses were used to create an atmosphere of comfort and elegance. Old bricks from the area plantation are now employed as pillars supporting the 18 inch crown molding over the bar area. The result is Old South dragged into the present.
Eighth & Rail has become a must-play venue for traveling musicians, in part, because of the unique setting created on the stage. The stage is lined with a dozen hundred year old doors, which were saved from demolition projects. The aforementioned heart pine and plantation brick complete the seemingly rustic vignette. It is only when an artist begins to play that he or she, along with the audience, will sense that this is no ordinary juke joint.
They have spent the better part of the past few years researching, designing and restoring Eighth & Rail. Inspired by the interiors of some of the great boutique hotels of the world, the goal was to create a place that feels comfortable and elegant, similar to your own living room. They invite you to sit back, relax, and let us make your night out and enjoyable one.
Prominent past performers include Shawn Mullins, Kevin Kinney, Zee Avi (Brushfire Records), Matt Hires, Nathan Angelo, Micah Dalton, Jon Black, David Berkeley, Red Letter Agent, Five Star Iris, Act of Congress.
The typical set length is 90 minutes, starting at 9:30 pm and going to at least 11:00 pm.