They say the key to a successful song is if it has a good beat and you can dance to it.

By extension, a successful band is one that gets the audience out on the floor to move it and shake it.

That works for Blind Date, and works for the folks who have a good time when the four-piece unit starts cranking up its blend of country, Southern and classic rock, with some well-honed originals thrown in for good measure.

The band's show at the Baltimore House in Pleasant Hills just before Christmas was a prime example of the guys' ability to make people get up and dance. It took a few numbers to warm up the crowd, but covers of tunes by the likes of Alan Jackson, Dwight Yoakam and Toby Keith brought 'em onto the floor. Then came a medley of songs that showed off Blind Date's versatility: the R&B of Wilson Pickett's "Mustang Sally," rock and roll by way of the Stones' "Honky Tonk Women," and a true dance tune in Cameo's funky "Word Up."

The set also featured a couple of the band's own tunes from "Restless," the CD released by Blind Date last year. A highlight was a rendition of "Step Inside This Heart," featuring a catchy keyboard intro by Rod Cregut and some exceptional slide playing by guitarist Dave Ursenbach, who composed the tune.

Blind Date has been around in various configurations for six years, with Rod and bassist BobbyG among the founding members. Dave came aboard shortly afterward, and drummer Pat Rush is the latest addition. The time they've played together has resulted in a tightly constructed sound, particuarly in regard to vocal harmonies. They take turns on lead vocals, which makes for some good variety (and helps reduce the strain on their respective vocal cords).

The band has some upcoming dates at the Red Fox Lodge in Hickory, where they perform on a fairly regular basis, and at some other venues. Check Blind Date's Web site for more details.

And get ready to dance.