Brad and Angel Mallen are the owners of Trouser Mouse, a Blue Springs bar and grill that features local and national music acts five nights a week. Having owned the Mouse for almost seven years, the couple says they both grew up working in clubs downtown, and opening this business gave them a chance to put their best foot forward in their community.
1 What kind of music do you showcase and who are some of the biggest acts you've had play in your venue?
Brad: We have two kinds of music: country and western, just kidding. The Mouse is focused on bluegrass, blues and rockabilly. Though, there is an occasional surprise if I am simply amazed by the artist. I would say (the biggest acts are) Trampled Under Foot, Nace Brothers, Split Lip Rayfield, Reverend Payton, The Belairs, Big Smith, Four Fried Chickens & A Coke, and Truckstop Honeymoon. There are many more… those just come to mind.
2 Do you feel like Blue Springs has been a good home for your business? Why or why not?
Brad: At first, it seemed a pretty tough sell. The name was the biggest driver. Now, people seem to understand we are here to help the community as well as provide a good atmosphere to see a show.
3 So where did the name come from?
Angel: It started as a joke between Brad & I. Years ago whenever Brad volunteered for charity groups or helped an individual in need when they tried to thank him for what he had done he would insist “that he had done nothing at all”or that “It must have been someone else” so I made jokes about a little mouse that ran around behind him doing nice things for people when he wasn’t looking. The mouse in his pocket. When we decided to open our own venue one of the main goals was to make it a place dedicated to giving back to the community so it only seemed appropriate that the bar be named Trouser Mouse after that mouse. Even our logo is a picture of Brad that has been morphed into a mouse.
4 What are some of the highlights and/or downfalls of owning a business such as yours?
Brad: The good side is introducing new music to an audience or helping them see there is an upside in our lives. We have a wonderful crew and customer base that are our family. The bad side is fighting time to see my little girl grow up. Sometimes the hours won’t allow that to happen. Still, I know I am blessed.
5 What would you most like people to know about Trouser Mouse?
Brad: We’re in this because we give a damn: whether it be a customer that needs personal attention or one of our charity events. Our crew shares similar goals and ideals. Most of them are 5+ year veterans here at The Mouse.
