I'm doing my research for an upcoming trip to Cape Cod to visit relatives and then a work seminar in Cambridge. I'm very happy that the Mon night will have some of the Club D'elf guys playing in Cambridge! I was really hoping to finally see d'Elf in thier own hood, but this is the next best thing.
If I can get my relatives interested, it looks like Harry's Blues Bar is the option for Cape Cod on the weekend.
http://www.harrysbluesbar.com/
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=170978309&MyToken=41a8f78c-a345-4804-86f1-45f7fa8d76ac
http://www.capecodmusic.com/events.cfm
http://www.capecodmusic.com/venues.html
http://www.allcapecod.com/ccic/entrtain.html
Mondays May 12, 19 & 26, 2008
Grand Fatilla (Mike Rivard (double bass), Roberto Cassan (accordion), Matt Glover
(elec mandolin) & Fabio Pirozzolo (perc & voice)).
Atwoods Tavern, 877 Cambridge St, Cambridge, MA. 617-864-2792.
9 pm - 12 am. Free!
www.atwoodstavern.com
Modern Global Music on shuffle...Argentian Tangos, Italian Tarrantellas, Turkish
Sufi sacred songs, Irish reels, Moroccan trance, Bulgarian dance music, and music
from composers Hermeto Pascoal, Astor Piazzola, as well as originals from the band
members.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Haden/Iverson/Motion + Galactic 5/7/08
I took off today just so I could sleep in and continue recovering from jazzfest. It was originally going to be Lettuce and then Galactic, but the Lettuce show got moved to the 11th. That gave me a chance to get to the Vanguard for a wonderful jazz trio.
I took a 1.5 hour nap and then headed over to the Vanguard. It was my first time seeing Charlie Haden. The trio also included Ethan Iverson and Paul Motion. Wow! Haden is phenomenal and now I know I have to see his Quartet West during JVC jazzfest at Le Poisson Rouge. It was great, but definitely a good idea to go well-rested. It was pretty mellow but quite engaging. They are all top-notch and I'm so glad I made it.
It was also cool that I was way up front, right behind Iverson. I could see his right hand moving along the keys and had a good view of Haden as well. I could see Motion good enough.
It turned out I was sitting next to a Parisian with the same profession as me who loves jazz and is here visiting for a month. I gave her some tips on where to go and asked her about Paris jazz. I'm sorry to say the Cafe 7 Lezards that I loved closed. She said the neighbors in that area (the Marais, near the Temple) are uptight about noise and that's why it closed. Bummer. Especially since Paris is loud period. The vespas are noise. I'm so glad I got the chance to get there because it was a wonderful place with great tea and a nice, laid back vibe.
Then I went to BBs for a late night after-jammy's Galactic show. They played from about 1 to a little after 3. It was good, but nowhere near the level of the Tips show (as I already anticipated) or even their jazzfest set. The crowd was into it and dancing and giving what they could, but understandably pretty tired after a long night of Jammy's music and awards shows and many recovering from jazzfest. It was still fun and a helpful transition for getting back into normal life.
The Jurassic 5 rappers didn't thrill me, I could have done without them. An 8 yo guitar player sat in and did Crazy Train. Apparently there is a youtube vid of this kid that everyone is talking about. He is very good, but in my opinion, didn't need to sing. I guess he's one of our future shredders. It will be interesting to see how he evolves, as I think of another child guitar protege, Derek Trucks.
Cochemea sat in for one and was great. Grace Potter came out toward the end for Whole Lotta Love.
It was very annoying how they kept turning on the lights in the crowd. Is that just a NY thing? It don't seem to see that obnoxiousness anywhere else I go. It's really bad in the wee hours of the morning. I keep trying to remember to bring sunglasses, but it's a hassle to carry them around.
I definitely enjoyed the drum solo most of all. I also can't get over how I never get sick of Galactic. There's lots of bands I have to be careful how much I see them. There have been times where I've left Galactic because the particular night wasn't doing it for me, but I never seem to get sick of the music. I'm also recalling a road trip about 6 years ago where we rented a car for the day and I said I'd bring the music. My friend couldn't get over how I brought about 20 cds and at least half of them had Galactic on them. I had brought a lot of NOLA compilation cds as well as Galactic. That's when I realized I really love them.
Anyway it was a fun night and it's great to have a day to sleep in after working the last 2 pretty tired.
I took a 1.5 hour nap and then headed over to the Vanguard. It was my first time seeing Charlie Haden. The trio also included Ethan Iverson and Paul Motion. Wow! Haden is phenomenal and now I know I have to see his Quartet West during JVC jazzfest at Le Poisson Rouge. It was great, but definitely a good idea to go well-rested. It was pretty mellow but quite engaging. They are all top-notch and I'm so glad I made it.
It was also cool that I was way up front, right behind Iverson. I could see his right hand moving along the keys and had a good view of Haden as well. I could see Motion good enough.
It turned out I was sitting next to a Parisian with the same profession as me who loves jazz and is here visiting for a month. I gave her some tips on where to go and asked her about Paris jazz. I'm sorry to say the Cafe 7 Lezards that I loved closed. She said the neighbors in that area (the Marais, near the Temple) are uptight about noise and that's why it closed. Bummer. Especially since Paris is loud period. The vespas are noise. I'm so glad I got the chance to get there because it was a wonderful place with great tea and a nice, laid back vibe.
Then I went to BBs for a late night after-jammy's Galactic show. They played from about 1 to a little after 3. It was good, but nowhere near the level of the Tips show (as I already anticipated) or even their jazzfest set. The crowd was into it and dancing and giving what they could, but understandably pretty tired after a long night of Jammy's music and awards shows and many recovering from jazzfest. It was still fun and a helpful transition for getting back into normal life.
The Jurassic 5 rappers didn't thrill me, I could have done without them. An 8 yo guitar player sat in and did Crazy Train. Apparently there is a youtube vid of this kid that everyone is talking about. He is very good, but in my opinion, didn't need to sing. I guess he's one of our future shredders. It will be interesting to see how he evolves, as I think of another child guitar protege, Derek Trucks.
Cochemea sat in for one and was great. Grace Potter came out toward the end for Whole Lotta Love.
It was very annoying how they kept turning on the lights in the crowd. Is that just a NY thing? It don't seem to see that obnoxiousness anywhere else I go. It's really bad in the wee hours of the morning. I keep trying to remember to bring sunglasses, but it's a hassle to carry them around.
I definitely enjoyed the drum solo most of all. I also can't get over how I never get sick of Galactic. There's lots of bands I have to be careful how much I see them. There have been times where I've left Galactic because the particular night wasn't doing it for me, but I never seem to get sick of the music. I'm also recalling a road trip about 6 years ago where we rented a car for the day and I said I'd bring the music. My friend couldn't get over how I brought about 20 cds and at least half of them had Galactic on them. I had brought a lot of NOLA compilation cds as well as Galactic. That's when I realized I really love them.
Anyway it was a fun night and it's great to have a day to sleep in after working the last 2 pretty tired.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Le Poisson Rouge
It really looks like this place is going to be awesome. They use Brown Paper Tickets, in which the fees are $1.99 and a portion of that is donated to an organization in the community. So far, the only potential downside I can think of is if they don’t let you dance. I have a feeling they do given some of the gigs they’ve booked.
https://www.brownpapertickets.com/producer/8035
Events and info for (le) poisson rouge
Address: 158 Bleecker St
New York, NY 10012
Email: info@lprnyc.com
Web:
http://lepoissonrouge.com
(le) poisson rouge is a multimedia art cabaret founded by musicians on the site of the historic Village Gate. Dedicated to the fusion of popular and art cultures in music, film, theater, dance, and fine art, the venue's mission is to revive the symbiotic relationship between art and revelry; to establish a creative asylum for both artists and audiences.
LPR prides itself in offering the highest quality eclectic programming, impeccable acoustics, and bold design. The state-of-the art performance space offers full flexibility in multiple configurations: seated, standing, in-the-round, and numerous alternative arrangements. A work of art itself, the physical facilities are the embodiment of the experimental philosophy that drives the venue.
LPR is a source you can trust for exposure to visionary work, people of character, and a consistently dynamic environment. We invite you to immerse yourself in a nightlife of true substance and vitality. Bring open mind and drinking shoes.
Join us on MySpace or Facebook
***ALL TIMES LISTED ARE DOOR TIMES.***
https://www.brownpapertickets.com/producer/8035
Events and info for (le) poisson rouge
Address: 158 Bleecker St
New York, NY 10012
Email: info@lprnyc.com
Web:
http://lepoissonrouge.com
(le) poisson rouge is a multimedia art cabaret founded by musicians on the site of the historic Village Gate. Dedicated to the fusion of popular and art cultures in music, film, theater, dance, and fine art, the venue's mission is to revive the symbiotic relationship between art and revelry; to establish a creative asylum for both artists and audiences.
LPR prides itself in offering the highest quality eclectic programming, impeccable acoustics, and bold design. The state-of-the art performance space offers full flexibility in multiple configurations: seated, standing, in-the-round, and numerous alternative arrangements. A work of art itself, the physical facilities are the embodiment of the experimental philosophy that drives the venue.
LPR is a source you can trust for exposure to visionary work, people of character, and a consistently dynamic environment. We invite you to immerse yourself in a nightlife of true substance and vitality. Bring open mind and drinking shoes.
Join us on MySpace or Facebook
***ALL TIMES LISTED ARE DOOR TIMES.***
Jazzfest @ Night 2008
Wed night I went to the Megalomaniacs Ball, but I missed the 1st 2 acts, Marco Trio and Maelstrom Trio. I got there just in time for Go Go Jungle. That was pretty good, I love how different it is. And, 3 percussionists is always a good thing for me. Mark Sutherland was there playing the sax. I do wish he played a little more. I also wish they would let him sit in on the other bands.
I was thinking about running over to Chickie Wah Wah for some of Kirk Joseph’s Sousapalooza and skipping the Stanton Moore Trio, which I’ve seen way too many times. The “problem” was they were doing an incredible job of changing the set pretty quickly and I figured if I got there during setbreak, it wouldn’t be worth it. That’s OK because I did enjoy the Stanton Moore Trio which had Robert Walter on organ and Will Bernard on guitar. I was even really enjoying Robert on the bass lines. I have seen it a few too many times, though.
The setbreak for Garage a Trios was longer. I should have known because Stanton needs breaks since he plays so intensely. I enjoyed it, especially the last 45 minutes or so. It went until 4am, which was a good way to start off my fest music experience. They played a lot of stuff off of their new album they are working on. You could see a lot of Marco influence in the new stuff. It kind of changes the band a bit. They’re a little happier and a little sentimental. I can’t really remember that much since it was so long ago, almost a week ago with too much music in between. The last 45 minutes or so had the old intense stuff.
They were very excited about this show and let us know this was the 1st annual Megalomaniacs Ball. I could see it evolving into something more. I do also wish they had Brian Coogin come and sit in on the later stuff. I didn’t get to see him at this trip, and he’s one of my favorites.
I also want to say whoever was doing lights for that show, did a great job. I wish they could give the Sullivan Hall guy a lesson. They did have the lights shining out into the crowd, but they pointed them up so they didn't shine in our faces. It was also a little more subtle. At the end, Stanton had us give a hand to the setup guys, who did do an excellent job.
Thurs night didn't work out for me. I woke up too late for the Maple Leaf show and it was too early for Trombone Shorty at Tips, which was sold out. I decided to take the night off because I knew Fri was a big day and a big night.
Yes, Fri was an amazing night of great music. Mule and then over to the Maple Leaf for some Vidocavich, Marco, and Mike Gordon. I was very impressed with Mike Gordon for the first time. I just have too many Phish biases so I never gave him much of a chance. I also can't help wondering if part of it was due to Johnny V, who tends to bring out the best in the people he plays with. It was fun and grooving. They were going to have special guests, starting with Reid Matthis, but I was ready to REALLY get down at Galactic, so I left for Tips around 4ish.
Galactic is always at their best, most energetic, and happening when they play late night at Tips. It was awesome. I've done the music til the sun comes up enough that I didn't need to stay til the end. I actually enjoyed the rappers a lot. They brought the energy level up even more and were good. I chalk part of that up to the late night vibe.
I was exhausted at the fest on Sat. I did get a nap and then it didn't matter what I felt like at Mule. The music was so incredible I was fully awake for that. That show was enough for me that night.
It all caught up with me Sun night. I realized too late that Dumstaphunk was going to be an incredible show to be at, and I couldn't get a ticket. I was going to do Astral Project and then just hang out on Frenchman, possibly doing all the shows over there. But, my body wouldn't have it. I fell asleep, woke up at 10 to the alarm and just couldn't do it. I finally got a good solid 7 or 8 hours and was able to get to Howlin Wolf for Zigaboo at 4am. I made the most of it, but it was somewhat disappointing. When they were playing funk, it was fun to dance and I could get into it. However, at some point he brought out these 2 singers and let them sing a lot and played slow tunes. I had to stand outside for that and really wanted to get away from the music. It turned out 4am was the 2nd set, which is not how it used to be in the past. They ended a little before 6, and told us we had to leave the club. Wierd.
I did have a conversation at Zig about how this year, we all collectively seemed older and more mellow. I didn't realize it and thought it was just me. Whatever, it was still a great time and I can't wait til next year.
I was thinking about running over to Chickie Wah Wah for some of Kirk Joseph’s Sousapalooza and skipping the Stanton Moore Trio, which I’ve seen way too many times. The “problem” was they were doing an incredible job of changing the set pretty quickly and I figured if I got there during setbreak, it wouldn’t be worth it. That’s OK because I did enjoy the Stanton Moore Trio which had Robert Walter on organ and Will Bernard on guitar. I was even really enjoying Robert on the bass lines. I have seen it a few too many times, though.
The setbreak for Garage a Trios was longer. I should have known because Stanton needs breaks since he plays so intensely. I enjoyed it, especially the last 45 minutes or so. It went until 4am, which was a good way to start off my fest music experience. They played a lot of stuff off of their new album they are working on. You could see a lot of Marco influence in the new stuff. It kind of changes the band a bit. They’re a little happier and a little sentimental. I can’t really remember that much since it was so long ago, almost a week ago with too much music in between. The last 45 minutes or so had the old intense stuff.
They were very excited about this show and let us know this was the 1st annual Megalomaniacs Ball. I could see it evolving into something more. I do also wish they had Brian Coogin come and sit in on the later stuff. I didn’t get to see him at this trip, and he’s one of my favorites.
I also want to say whoever was doing lights for that show, did a great job. I wish they could give the Sullivan Hall guy a lesson. They did have the lights shining out into the crowd, but they pointed them up so they didn't shine in our faces. It was also a little more subtle. At the end, Stanton had us give a hand to the setup guys, who did do an excellent job.
Thurs night didn't work out for me. I woke up too late for the Maple Leaf show and it was too early for Trombone Shorty at Tips, which was sold out. I decided to take the night off because I knew Fri was a big day and a big night.
Yes, Fri was an amazing night of great music. Mule and then over to the Maple Leaf for some Vidocavich, Marco, and Mike Gordon. I was very impressed with Mike Gordon for the first time. I just have too many Phish biases so I never gave him much of a chance. I also can't help wondering if part of it was due to Johnny V, who tends to bring out the best in the people he plays with. It was fun and grooving. They were going to have special guests, starting with Reid Matthis, but I was ready to REALLY get down at Galactic, so I left for Tips around 4ish.
Galactic is always at their best, most energetic, and happening when they play late night at Tips. It was awesome. I've done the music til the sun comes up enough that I didn't need to stay til the end. I actually enjoyed the rappers a lot. They brought the energy level up even more and were good. I chalk part of that up to the late night vibe.
I was exhausted at the fest on Sat. I did get a nap and then it didn't matter what I felt like at Mule. The music was so incredible I was fully awake for that. That show was enough for me that night.
It all caught up with me Sun night. I realized too late that Dumstaphunk was going to be an incredible show to be at, and I couldn't get a ticket. I was going to do Astral Project and then just hang out on Frenchman, possibly doing all the shows over there. But, my body wouldn't have it. I fell asleep, woke up at 10 to the alarm and just couldn't do it. I finally got a good solid 7 or 8 hours and was able to get to Howlin Wolf for Zigaboo at 4am. I made the most of it, but it was somewhat disappointing. When they were playing funk, it was fun to dance and I could get into it. However, at some point he brought out these 2 singers and let them sing a lot and played slow tunes. I had to stand outside for that and really wanted to get away from the music. It turned out 4am was the 2nd set, which is not how it used to be in the past. They ended a little before 6, and told us we had to leave the club. Wierd.
I did have a conversation at Zig about how this year, we all collectively seemed older and more mellow. I didn't realize it and thought it was just me. Whatever, it was still a great time and I can't wait til next year.
Fairgrounds 2008
It's too much to write about everything. I like to wander and check out as much as I can. If it's really great, I get pulled in and stay til the end of the set. I bail quick if I'm not feeling it. I also bail often when they change it up, I was feeling it last song, but now is the time to move on kind of thing.
I found myself in the Blues Tent a lot for the 1st half of Thurs. It wasn't too crowded, and I kept getting sucked in there and would stay til the end when I did. I also got sucked in for Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes. It was the strings. Someone was playing a cool looking cello and there was a violin and it all sounded wonderful. That's the first time I liked them, although I usually didn't give them much of a chance. I caught the 1st half of Bonerama, which was good. That was my only time seeing Mark Mullins this year. That was wierd because he used to be in so many bands. He may still be in a lot, I just wasn't there for them. I loved the PBS set. At first I was disappointed when Paige McConnell sat in for several songs, but he sounded good once we could hear him. The little I caught of Geronimo Hunters Mardi Gras Indians was awesome. Donald Harrison was awesome, and it's too bad I left to try Panic once again that day.
Panic wasn't any good. I went back and tried a few times, and they just weren't doing it for me at all. It was also strange when they had the Wild Magnolias up there. I'm not sure if anyone from Panic was even on the stage during that part. I was so bored I decided I was done with them for the day.
Friday was a wonderful fest day. I was more settled in and there was more pulling me in and getting me to stay. Eve's Lucky Planet at the Congo Stage was an excellent way to start my morning. Eve plays bass and sings, there's also an awesome electric banjo, keyboards, and drums. They jammed a lot and ended with a rhumba. They said they play at Apple Barrel. I want to make sure I try to see them again when I go for an off weekend.
I caught the entire tuba woodshed with Kirk Joseph and Matt Perine. It was really awesome. It was cool to see the difference in thier styles. Matt is more into melody and Kirk is more into rhythm. It also made up for my missing Sousapalooza the night before.
Papa Grows Funk was awesome! I usually love their fairgrounds sets. They had such a groovy funk going on. I can't see them too much anymore because I overdid it. So, I was really ready for them this year.
I hadn't planned on making it to the Bad Plus, but they sucked me in! They were phenomenal! I would like to see them play slightly larger venues every now and then, I'm talking larger than the Vanguard. There was a great energy exchange between them and the crowd going on.
I saw the John Butler Trio in the rain and it was awesome. It didn't rain very much and actually felt good after being in the sun for so long.
Sat was my too tired day. It's harder for me to settle in. Luckily Henry Butler delivered with a smoking and phenomenal funky jammy band! I don't know who the bass, guitar, and drums were, but they were really excellent. I think those 3 should be in a lot more bands. That guitar could definitely fill the void in the Funky Meters. I have to get their names at some point, but I was very impressed. It was also great to see Henry in that light. I've only seen him doing jazz or solo piano. I heard the night before he did a great set at Donna's with a Dixieland band. He was awesome when he sat in with Mule both nights. We really need that jazzfest band to come to NYC, they would be awesome here, if only people knew to come.
Sat was nasty at the Fairgrounds. It had rained a lot overnight and it was very muddy. The mud smelled like horseshit, which I don't remember from previous years. I was glad I had a little detergent with me at the hotel that I travel with because I had to wash my clothes, hat, and bag. It made the day more challenging. Luckily, it wasn't too bad the next day.
There was only one other great highlight that day, in spite of my trying lots of different music. It was a spontaneous percussion/chanting/tamborine jam in the Grandstand over by the drums. There was a big circle of people getting down and it was awesome!
Sunday was an awesome day at the fest. I saw bits and pieces of some good music. Finally got sucked in to stay til the end for Sonny Landreth, which was awesome as usual. I also made it to the last 30 minutes of Vernel Bagnen's Jelly Roll and Me. That was great, really great. In the jazz tent, and it was awesome. I already mentioned in my very very best of post how wonderful Abigail Washburn & the Sparrow Quartet was. I ended up in the jazz tent for a while at the end. There wasn't many people in there, and there were people dancing up a storm off to the side. I had to join them. There were so many people up there. Ben Ellis, Rebirth, tons of horns, a few drummers, a guitar, and some pianos. It was great for a while.
Derek Trucks Band sounded awesome from outside the Blues Tent. I'm so disappointed they stuck them in there. I listened to a good bit of Greensleeves which was great and then started to leave with a little of the post jazzfest blues.
That is absolutely hands down the best festival. I had a conversation earlier in the week with a guy who thinks Norway is better because the music quality is much better. I do understand that, given the level of the music I see in NYC. However, the diversity, chance to get turned on to new things, and the FOOD make jazzfest unequivically the best thing going. I do hope to get to Norway at some point, though.
I found myself in the Blues Tent a lot for the 1st half of Thurs. It wasn't too crowded, and I kept getting sucked in there and would stay til the end when I did. I also got sucked in for Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes. It was the strings. Someone was playing a cool looking cello and there was a violin and it all sounded wonderful. That's the first time I liked them, although I usually didn't give them much of a chance. I caught the 1st half of Bonerama, which was good. That was my only time seeing Mark Mullins this year. That was wierd because he used to be in so many bands. He may still be in a lot, I just wasn't there for them. I loved the PBS set. At first I was disappointed when Paige McConnell sat in for several songs, but he sounded good once we could hear him. The little I caught of Geronimo Hunters Mardi Gras Indians was awesome. Donald Harrison was awesome, and it's too bad I left to try Panic once again that day.
Panic wasn't any good. I went back and tried a few times, and they just weren't doing it for me at all. It was also strange when they had the Wild Magnolias up there. I'm not sure if anyone from Panic was even on the stage during that part. I was so bored I decided I was done with them for the day.
Friday was a wonderful fest day. I was more settled in and there was more pulling me in and getting me to stay. Eve's Lucky Planet at the Congo Stage was an excellent way to start my morning. Eve plays bass and sings, there's also an awesome electric banjo, keyboards, and drums. They jammed a lot and ended with a rhumba. They said they play at Apple Barrel. I want to make sure I try to see them again when I go for an off weekend.
I caught the entire tuba woodshed with Kirk Joseph and Matt Perine. It was really awesome. It was cool to see the difference in thier styles. Matt is more into melody and Kirk is more into rhythm. It also made up for my missing Sousapalooza the night before.
Papa Grows Funk was awesome! I usually love their fairgrounds sets. They had such a groovy funk going on. I can't see them too much anymore because I overdid it. So, I was really ready for them this year.
I hadn't planned on making it to the Bad Plus, but they sucked me in! They were phenomenal! I would like to see them play slightly larger venues every now and then, I'm talking larger than the Vanguard. There was a great energy exchange between them and the crowd going on.
I saw the John Butler Trio in the rain and it was awesome. It didn't rain very much and actually felt good after being in the sun for so long.
Sat was my too tired day. It's harder for me to settle in. Luckily Henry Butler delivered with a smoking and phenomenal funky jammy band! I don't know who the bass, guitar, and drums were, but they were really excellent. I think those 3 should be in a lot more bands. That guitar could definitely fill the void in the Funky Meters. I have to get their names at some point, but I was very impressed. It was also great to see Henry in that light. I've only seen him doing jazz or solo piano. I heard the night before he did a great set at Donna's with a Dixieland band. He was awesome when he sat in with Mule both nights. We really need that jazzfest band to come to NYC, they would be awesome here, if only people knew to come.
Sat was nasty at the Fairgrounds. It had rained a lot overnight and it was very muddy. The mud smelled like horseshit, which I don't remember from previous years. I was glad I had a little detergent with me at the hotel that I travel with because I had to wash my clothes, hat, and bag. It made the day more challenging. Luckily, it wasn't too bad the next day.
There was only one other great highlight that day, in spite of my trying lots of different music. It was a spontaneous percussion/chanting/tamborine jam in the Grandstand over by the drums. There was a big circle of people getting down and it was awesome!
Sunday was an awesome day at the fest. I saw bits and pieces of some good music. Finally got sucked in to stay til the end for Sonny Landreth, which was awesome as usual. I also made it to the last 30 minutes of Vernel Bagnen's Jelly Roll and Me. That was great, really great. In the jazz tent, and it was awesome. I already mentioned in my very very best of post how wonderful Abigail Washburn & the Sparrow Quartet was. I ended up in the jazz tent for a while at the end. There wasn't many people in there, and there were people dancing up a storm off to the side. I had to join them. There were so many people up there. Ben Ellis, Rebirth, tons of horns, a few drummers, a guitar, and some pianos. It was great for a while.
Derek Trucks Band sounded awesome from outside the Blues Tent. I'm so disappointed they stuck them in there. I listened to a good bit of Greensleeves which was great and then started to leave with a little of the post jazzfest blues.
That is absolutely hands down the best festival. I had a conversation earlier in the week with a guy who thinks Norway is better because the music quality is much better. I do understand that, given the level of the music I see in NYC. However, the diversity, chance to get turned on to new things, and the FOOD make jazzfest unequivically the best thing going. I do hope to get to Norway at some point, though.
The Very Very Best of Jazzfest 2008
I had a great time. I realized I was continuing with the strings. Right before, I had been seeing a lot of strings and I feel that was still the case this fest. It was also about the bass for me this year. I kept noticing the bass and really grooving on it. I don’t know if it was my state or if I was just in the presence of better than usual bass playing.
I am so glad I chose to just do Wed-Mon this year. It worked really well for me. I also now prioritize sleep as it’s no longer fun when I’m utterly exhausted. The only time I had that was Sat at the fest, and I still got some good music, it just would have been more enjoyable if I was well-rested. I also don’t need to do everything since I get so much great music all the time. It was 4 fests ago when I realized I don’t have to wait until next year when I have a whole city of music waiting for me at home.
Mule was definitely the superb highlight. I realized I had to get tix when they were hyping it up. They haven’t disappointed yet, when they intend to go all out, it’s usually stellar. The venue isn’t so hot, but it was easy to get up front where the sound we pretty good. Since the music had me captivated most of the time, it didn’t matter what the venue was like.
I loved both nights, the whole thing. Things did take a turn for me and get super phenomenal around the last hour of the 1st set and the entire Sat night. They said they were originally only allowed to go until 2:30, but then they said 3. Fri nights encore was at 3 and Sat night ended by 3.
The superstar of both nights was Andy Hess. That’s saying a lot, given the greatness of basically everyone playing. The only one who had no business being up there is Ian Neville. I keep forgetting Brian Stoltz is out of The Funky Meters and that means they are no longer one of my favorite bands. It was a no brainer to stop at the Wolf on my way out on Sat to sell that ticket.
I was a little bummed they took Hess off the stage for a few and let Mike Gordon play. Simply due to wanting the superstar back on, not due to Gordon. I will say Gordon impressed me later that night at The Maple Leaf.
It looks like there’s going to be a DVD of those shows. That over the head swinging camera was obnoxious and I thought the guy was going to hit someone with it at some point. There’s got to be a better way.
The best of the fest for me was Abigail Washburn & the Sparrow Quartet featuring Bela Fleck, Casey Driessen, and Ben Solee. I had left Santana due to boredom and I can't remember where I was heading when I was pulled into the Fais Do Do stage by the sound of incredible banjo playing. 2 banjos, a fiddle, and a cello, and it was stellar. It had a good crowd, but not too crowded. I was able to get up front and felt like I had enough space. It was phenomenal. I think I got the last hour of the 75 minute set. Each of these musicians are phenomenal. It was really cool how at different times Abigail would introduce a band member, giving a little bio and then they'd play one of thier solo songs. I thought that was classy. And, they are phenomenal solo artists. Both the cello and the fiddle sang in the solo, and they are good solos. Both solos were very danceable. Abigail is a great banjo player and has a good voice as well. It was also perfect to be outside in the sun, which didn't feel too hot, and it just filled me with joy.
I am so glad I chose to just do Wed-Mon this year. It worked really well for me. I also now prioritize sleep as it’s no longer fun when I’m utterly exhausted. The only time I had that was Sat at the fest, and I still got some good music, it just would have been more enjoyable if I was well-rested. I also don’t need to do everything since I get so much great music all the time. It was 4 fests ago when I realized I don’t have to wait until next year when I have a whole city of music waiting for me at home.
Mule was definitely the superb highlight. I realized I had to get tix when they were hyping it up. They haven’t disappointed yet, when they intend to go all out, it’s usually stellar. The venue isn’t so hot, but it was easy to get up front where the sound we pretty good. Since the music had me captivated most of the time, it didn’t matter what the venue was like.
I loved both nights, the whole thing. Things did take a turn for me and get super phenomenal around the last hour of the 1st set and the entire Sat night. They said they were originally only allowed to go until 2:30, but then they said 3. Fri nights encore was at 3 and Sat night ended by 3.
The superstar of both nights was Andy Hess. That’s saying a lot, given the greatness of basically everyone playing. The only one who had no business being up there is Ian Neville. I keep forgetting Brian Stoltz is out of The Funky Meters and that means they are no longer one of my favorite bands. It was a no brainer to stop at the Wolf on my way out on Sat to sell that ticket.
I was a little bummed they took Hess off the stage for a few and let Mike Gordon play. Simply due to wanting the superstar back on, not due to Gordon. I will say Gordon impressed me later that night at The Maple Leaf.
It looks like there’s going to be a DVD of those shows. That over the head swinging camera was obnoxious and I thought the guy was going to hit someone with it at some point. There’s got to be a better way.
The best of the fest for me was Abigail Washburn & the Sparrow Quartet featuring Bela Fleck, Casey Driessen, and Ben Solee. I had left Santana due to boredom and I can't remember where I was heading when I was pulled into the Fais Do Do stage by the sound of incredible banjo playing. 2 banjos, a fiddle, and a cello, and it was stellar. It had a good crowd, but not too crowded. I was able to get up front and felt like I had enough space. It was phenomenal. I think I got the last hour of the 75 minute set. Each of these musicians are phenomenal. It was really cool how at different times Abigail would introduce a band member, giving a little bio and then they'd play one of thier solo songs. I thought that was classy. And, they are phenomenal solo artists. Both the cello and the fiddle sang in the solo, and they are good solos. Both solos were very danceable. Abigail is a great banjo player and has a good voice as well. It was also perfect to be outside in the sun, which didn't feel too hot, and it just filled me with joy.
Monday, May 5, 2008
Mule 5/2 & 5/3/08 Setlists
More later, but these shows blew me away.
This looks like it, but I found it on the internet and may not be 100% correct. I had to correct Walter Wolfman Washington in both setlists, which came from 2 different sources (Wolfman Walter Washington and Wolfman Walter Williams).
It was also 3 horns from Dirty Dozen, not the whole band.
Andy Hess!!!!!
Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans, LA 5 /02/08
Set 1
Smokestack Lightning with John Butler
Wandering Child
Dear Prudence* with Jake Cinninger
That's What Love Will Make You Do with Henry Butler and Roosevelt Collier
Perfect Shelter
Spanish Moon with Dirty Dozen Brass Band and DJ Logic
Death Don't Have No Mercy with Dirty Dozen Brass Band and DJ Logic
Brighter Days
Child Of The Earth
Grinnin' In Your Face with Ruthie Foster
A Million Miles From Yesterday with Ruthie Foster
Set 2
Nutbush City Limits* with Grace Potter and Scott Tournet
Whole Lotta Love* with Grace Potter, Scott Tournet and Rich Vogel
Ain't No Love In The Heart Of The City* with Walter Wolfman Washington
Streamline Woman
Brand New Angel
Loser-> with Mike Gordon and Steve Molitz
Terrapin Station Jam-> with Mike Gordon and Steve Molitz
Loser with Mike Gordon and Steve Molitz
I'm A Ram
Unblow Your Horn/Reblow Your Mind with Cyril Neville
Gilded Splinters* with Papa Mali, Ian Neville and Cyril Neville
Fortune Teller* with Cyril Neville and Papa Mali
Larger Than Life
Sco-Mule with Tim Greene
Encore
Mule with Tim Greene
*first time played
5.03.2008 Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans, LA
Set 1
Unring The Bell
Blind Man In The Dark
You Got Me Hummin'* with Dave Malone
Parchman Farm* with Dave Malone
Come Into My Kitchen with Bela Fleck
Fortunate Son* with Ivan Neville & George Porter
Sailing Shoes with Ivan Neville & George Porter
Hey Julia* with Ivan Neville & George Porter
Sneakin' Sally Through The Alley with Ivan Neville & George Porter
When The Levee Breaks with Kirk Douglas & Owen Biddle
Gold Dust Woman with Grace Potter
Who Knows* with Grace Potter & Brendan Bayliss
Feel Like Breaking Up Somebody's Home with Sonny Landreth
Goin' Out West with Eric McFadden
Set 2
Africa (New Orleans) with Ivan Neville, Stanton Moore, Cyril Neville & Eric Krasno
32/20 Blues with Count M'Butu, Kofi Burbridge & Eric Krasno
The Sky Is Crying with Walter Trout, Count M'Butu & Henry Butler
Everyday I Have The Blues* with Walter Wolfman Washington, Yonrico Scott & Count M'Butu
Three String George with Count M'Butu & Yonrico Scott
Thorazine Shuffle
Encore
Soulshine Gospel Intro
*first time played
This looks like it, but I found it on the internet and may not be 100% correct. I had to correct Walter Wolfman Washington in both setlists, which came from 2 different sources (Wolfman Walter Washington and Wolfman Walter Williams).
It was also 3 horns from Dirty Dozen, not the whole band.
Andy Hess!!!!!
Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans, LA 5 /02/08
Set 1
Smokestack Lightning with John Butler
Wandering Child
Dear Prudence* with Jake Cinninger
That's What Love Will Make You Do with Henry Butler and Roosevelt Collier
Perfect Shelter
Spanish Moon with Dirty Dozen Brass Band and DJ Logic
Death Don't Have No Mercy with Dirty Dozen Brass Band and DJ Logic
Brighter Days
Child Of The Earth
Grinnin' In Your Face with Ruthie Foster
A Million Miles From Yesterday with Ruthie Foster
Set 2
Nutbush City Limits* with Grace Potter and Scott Tournet
Whole Lotta Love* with Grace Potter, Scott Tournet and Rich Vogel
Ain't No Love In The Heart Of The City* with Walter Wolfman Washington
Streamline Woman
Brand New Angel
Loser-> with Mike Gordon and Steve Molitz
Terrapin Station Jam-> with Mike Gordon and Steve Molitz
Loser with Mike Gordon and Steve Molitz
I'm A Ram
Unblow Your Horn/Reblow Your Mind with Cyril Neville
Gilded Splinters* with Papa Mali, Ian Neville and Cyril Neville
Fortune Teller* with Cyril Neville and Papa Mali
Larger Than Life
Sco-Mule with Tim Greene
Encore
Mule with Tim Greene
*first time played
5.03.2008 Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans, LA
Set 1
Unring The Bell
Blind Man In The Dark
You Got Me Hummin'* with Dave Malone
Parchman Farm* with Dave Malone
Come Into My Kitchen with Bela Fleck
Fortunate Son* with Ivan Neville & George Porter
Sailing Shoes with Ivan Neville & George Porter
Hey Julia* with Ivan Neville & George Porter
Sneakin' Sally Through The Alley with Ivan Neville & George Porter
When The Levee Breaks with Kirk Douglas & Owen Biddle
Gold Dust Woman with Grace Potter
Who Knows* with Grace Potter & Brendan Bayliss
Feel Like Breaking Up Somebody's Home with Sonny Landreth
Goin' Out West with Eric McFadden
Set 2
Africa (New Orleans) with Ivan Neville, Stanton Moore, Cyril Neville & Eric Krasno
32/20 Blues with Count M'Butu, Kofi Burbridge & Eric Krasno
The Sky Is Crying with Walter Trout, Count M'Butu & Henry Butler
Everyday I Have The Blues* with Walter Wolfman Washington, Yonrico Scott & Count M'Butu
Three String George with Count M'Butu & Yonrico Scott
Thorazine Shuffle
Encore
Soulshine Gospel Intro
*first time played
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