Music
1. John Butler Trio (not HENRY Butler!) at Gentilly on Friday.
2. Ruthie Foster at the SoCo Blues Tent on Saturday
3. Jumpin' Johnny Sansome's Harmonica Revue at the SoCo Blues Tent on Friday
4. Honorable mention: The Raconteurs, Amanda Shaw & the Cute Guys, John Prine, St. Joseph the Worker Music Ministry, Kenny Wayne Shepard, Papa Grows Funk, Jimmy Buffett
Food
1. Lamb chops at Orleans Grapevine on Monday night; a very nice restaurant find
2. Red fish at Herbsaint on Friday night where Diane from 'Frisco tells me about a jazz mass at St. Augustine Church
3. Stuffed chicken wings at NOLA on Thurdsay night while meeting Shirley MacLaine (sort of)
4. Honorable mention: cheeseburger/baked potato/Monsoon at Port of Call early Sunday afternoon, loaded up Lucky Dogs anytime/any Quarter street corner (can I get an amen, Gumbo!), oysters at the bar at Bourbon Street Oyster House, late morning Bloody Marys at Lucy's Retired Surfers Bar in preparation for the day's events
Miscellaneous
1. Jazz mass at St. Augustine Catholic Church on Sunday morning while my compatriots slept in.
2. Humble pie at Ryan's Irish Pub pool table (revisionist history may yet declare us winners).
3. The odyssey that was Johnny Gumbo and Oriana (from Oregona); much too involved to explain, you'll have to trust me on this one. Me too!
4. Honorable mention: "Coffee? Are we talking about COFFEE?" (waiter at Pat O'Brien's, in his best Allen Iverson persona, reacting to my drink order late Monday night)
Comments invited.
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Goin' home day...
More perfect weather this morning. Warm, no humidity. Gumbo and I stroll across Canal and up Decatur to Cafe Du Monde around eight. Perfect timing for they do not serve outside until now. Quiet bustling about, the city back to normal, regular tourists and regular business people shuffle in and out, newspapers under their arms. We are seranaded by a street guitarist strumming Beatles songs just outside the cafe. Gumbo has to leave for the airport around 11:30; the PHS and I have a late afternoon flight, so there will be time to go over to the Louisiana Music Factory to pick up some music. Way too crowded yesterday, where crowds packed the store for the afternoon concerts.
Back at the hotel via the Riverwalk, we pack up and it's exit time for the Gumbo. Tears, sobbing all around. Or not. In any event, the legend that is Johnny Gumbo shuffles off to the Great Northwest. The PHS need more time to beautify, so I'm off to Decatur again to the LMF. Quiet, but quite a few of us looking for some good stuff to bring home. I'm told Ruthie Foster sold out fast. I settle on:
I retire to the Attiki Bar looking out on Decatur for an Abita Golden (they are out of Abita Amber) while I look over my cache. The Studs leave a message on my cell (I can't get the damn thing to ring) that they are off to Luke on St. Charles for lunch, but I've overeaten all weekend and I'm tapped out at this point. So I walk around the Quarter for awhile before rendezvousing with PHS back at the Louisiana Music Factory, where we see Allen Toussaint, crisply dressed in a pin-striped, grey suit and sandals, stroll in, looking for a Jimmy Buffett CD! Damn, left my camera back at the hotel with my stored luggage, so we missed a chance at a group shot (sans the Gumbo) with him. My bad.
Finally, music acquired, it's up Decatur to purchase jewelry at Java House Imports and then Jazz Fest 2008 is history. See y'all next year.
Approaching Cafe Du Monde for our annual coffee and beignets.
Insider's view of Cafe Du Monde Tuesday morning while listening to a street musician playing Beatles tunes on acoustic guitar. Gumbo tips the gent as we leave. Street cred.
Steamboat Natchez
Steamboat Natchez docked along the Mississippi River.
Just some historic building on Decatur Street during our Tuesday morning walk.
St. Louis Cathedral at Jackson Square viewed from Riverwalk across Decatur.
Harrah's New Orleans- no reason other than we were passing on our walk back from Cafe Du Monde.
The legendary Fashion Cafe - now a Walgreens
Back at the hotel via the Riverwalk, we pack up and it's exit time for the Gumbo. Tears, sobbing all around. Or not. In any event, the legend that is Johnny Gumbo shuffles off to the Great Northwest. The PHS need more time to beautify, so I'm off to Decatur again to the LMF. Quiet, but quite a few of us looking for some good stuff to bring home. I'm told Ruthie Foster sold out fast. I settle on:
I retire to the Attiki Bar looking out on Decatur for an Abita Golden (they are out of Abita Amber) while I look over my cache. The Studs leave a message on my cell (I can't get the damn thing to ring) that they are off to Luke on St. Charles for lunch, but I've overeaten all weekend and I'm tapped out at this point. So I walk around the Quarter for awhile before rendezvousing with PHS back at the Louisiana Music Factory, where we see Allen Toussaint, crisply dressed in a pin-striped, grey suit and sandals, stroll in, looking for a Jimmy Buffett CD! Damn, left my camera back at the hotel with my stored luggage, so we missed a chance at a group shot (sans the Gumbo) with him. My bad.Finally, music acquired, it's up Decatur to purchase jewelry at Java House Imports and then Jazz Fest 2008 is history. See y'all next year.
Monday, May 05, 2008
It's Monday already?...
Monday concerts at the Louisiana Music Factory:
12pm- Eric Lindell
1pm- Ellis Marsalis Quartet
2pm- Spencer Bohren
3pm- 007
4pm- Cyril Neville & Tribe 13
5pm- Henry Butler
6pm- Tab Benoit
Cyril Neville & Tribe 13 performing at a packed Louisiana Music Factory on Monday afternoon.
The Ellis Marsalis Quartet at the Louisiana Music Factory on Monday afternoon. Note the concert poster to the right with the Beatles as the opening act for Little Richard.
Pool at the late opening Ryan's Pub brought heartbreak for Gumbo and Johnnyk as the Pool Hall Studs withstood a furious comeback (down two games to zero) only to see it slip away in the tiebreaking game. However, the philosopher Johnny Gumbo, beaten but unbowed, says despite the defeat the sun will still come up tomorrow.
Dinner at Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar & Bistro. A very nice find.
12pm- Eric Lindell
1pm- Ellis Marsalis Quartet
2pm- Spencer Bohren
3pm- 007
4pm- Cyril Neville & Tribe 13
5pm- Henry Butler
6pm- Tab Benoit
Pool at the late opening Ryan's Pub brought heartbreak for Gumbo and Johnnyk as the Pool Hall Studs withstood a furious comeback (down two games to zero) only to see it slip away in the tiebreaking game. However, the philosopher Johnny Gumbo, beaten but unbowed, says despite the defeat the sun will still come up tomorrow.
Dinner at Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar & Bistro. A very nice find.
Sunday, May 04, 2008
Sunday, Bloody (Marys) Sunday...
can I get an amen!
Up early for Mass. Yep, you heard it right, brothers 'n sisters. While dining at Herbsaint on Friday night, Diane from 'Frisco told of a wonderful jazz Mass service at a small, African-American Catholic church off of Rampart, so I thought I'd give it a try. Actually, the others were also interested in going, but their morning sleeping schedules do not allow for it. It is a glorious two mile walk on a Sunday morn, down to Canal, up Canal to N. Rampart, up N. Rampart past the Louis Armstrong Park to Gov. (chainlocked, looking a bit in disrepair) to Gov. Nichols, where I find St. Augustine Catholic Church of New Orleans. Its website describes the church as "....St. Augustine’s Catholic Church in the Treme neighborhood of New Orleans, Louisiana, advocates and celebrates freedom from sin and oppression. Since it’s dedication in 1842, St. Augustine has been a church of the free black citizens of New Orleans, welcoming both free and slave as worshippers. It continues today as a beacon of humanity and spirituality, both a history lesson and an example of 21 st century Christianity in action."
The doors of the church are open for me (both literally and, I am hoping, figuratively), so I step inside, only to find it empty save for several musicians practicing up at the front. Damn! Sorry, I meant darn it! A friendly, stately lady welcomes me to St. Augustine Church, and I ask if there will be a Mass this morning. Oh yes, and you picked a good one, a Jazz Mass at 10 o'clock. Thank you, Ma'am.
What to do? I decide to walk around to pass the time, crossing over Rampart back into the French Quarter. A call to Gumbo to see if he is awake enough to make it at ten brings an curt, inaudible response that I take as a no. I grab a coffee to go and call The Reet to give her an update, walk around the just awakening Quarter a bit, then head back to St. Augustine. When I arrive, the place is a beehive of activity. I'm handed a hymn book by one of the well-dressed greeters and slide into an empty pew in the back. The church is long, high-ceilinged, with two rows of pews from the back to about half way to the front, then an open area where a small altar table is set up facing the congregation, then the pews continue to the front, but no one is sitting in those. There are also pews on the sides, just three deep, facing the center. There is an elevated area in the front where traditionally the altar would be. This is presently filling with musicians and a chorus of about ten men and women. I decide to move up front (third row, over to the right) for a better view. In a few minutes others squeeze in next to me, so I end up in the middle.
St. Augustine Catholic Church seen from Claude Street (from Wikipedia)
The Mass starts with a procession from the back to the alter table with two youngsters leading carrying the cross and other essentials, followed by two priests. The band and chorus swing into action and the whole place starts singing and clapping and moving to the beat. The traditional elements of the Catholic Mass are present: readings by a nervous, teenage young man; a sermon about the Ascension, Communion. Two of the well-dressed greeters, older gentlemen, carry a large wicker basket lined with a linen cloth and place it in front of the altar table while the priests take seats. The band and choir starts up and, after a slight hesitation, everyone, at random, walks up to the basket to throw in an offering. I slide out of the pew along with my pewmates and toss in a twenty. When the activity is complete, the greeters take the basket over to the priest for his approval, then cart it off to a side room. When it's time for the sign of peace, no timid handshakes with a couple neighbors here - the place explodes in song as people get out of their seats and roam all around the place singing and hugging and kissing! I hold back on the hugging and kissing, but shake the hand of darn near everyone in the church including the two priests. My energetic neighbor, a woman possibly in her 40's, does give me a hug. This goes on for about ten minutes before order is restored.
After Communion, and a rousing When the Saints Come Marching In (also the St. Anthony High School Crusaders' basketball entry song, Fats Domino version, which was pretty cool), numerous acknowledgements were handed out. Any birthdays out there? No? Finally, after much prodding, a middleaged man stood up and was treated to a 15 minute, full-blast version of Happy Birthday. To wrap things up, everyone joined in the procession back out into the sunshine while the music kept playing. Pretty cool.
Well, it's about 11:30, so I call Gumbo for a what's up and find that everyone is off to Lucy's for their morning veggies (the bloody marys are loaded with them!). Then it's off to Port of Call for a big old burger,a fully-loaded baked potato and, of course, a Monsoon. Alrighty.
Sunday's lineup looks like this:
2:35-1:30pm Sonny Landreth at Gentilly Stage
2:15-3:15pm Snooks Eaglin at Southern Comfort Blues Tent
3:20-5:00pm Santana at Acura Stage
3:35-4:55pm The Raconteurs at Gentilly Stage
3:45-4:55pm Keb' Mo' at Southern Comfort Blues Tent
5:30-6:50pm The Derek Trucks Band at Southern Comfort Blues Tent
5:35-6:55pm The Radiators at Gentilly Stage
5:40-6:55pm The Neville Brothers at Acura Stage
5:45-7:00pm Amanda Shaw & the Cute Guys at Sheraton New Orleans Fais-Do-Do Stage
Out to the fairgrounds by two in time to start the day with Snooks Eaglin in the Southern Comfort Blues Tent. Then must catch Jack White and the Raconteurs. The Nevilles are closing for the first time since Katrina and there's been some backlash against them, even talk of an organized booing when they are introduced.
The Raconteurs do not disappoint. They are loud, but in touch with this predominantly younger audience.
Up early for Mass. Yep, you heard it right, brothers 'n sisters. While dining at Herbsaint on Friday night, Diane from 'Frisco told of a wonderful jazz Mass service at a small, African-American Catholic church off of Rampart, so I thought I'd give it a try. Actually, the others were also interested in going, but their morning sleeping schedules do not allow for it. It is a glorious two mile walk on a Sunday morn, down to Canal, up Canal to N. Rampart, up N. Rampart past the Louis Armstrong Park to Gov. (chainlocked, looking a bit in disrepair) to Gov. Nichols, where I find St. Augustine Catholic Church of New Orleans. Its website describes the church as "....St. Augustine’s Catholic Church in the Treme neighborhood of New Orleans, Louisiana, advocates and celebrates freedom from sin and oppression. Since it’s dedication in 1842, St. Augustine has been a church of the free black citizens of New Orleans, welcoming both free and slave as worshippers. It continues today as a beacon of humanity and spirituality, both a history lesson and an example of 21 st century Christianity in action."The doors of the church are open for me (both literally and, I am hoping, figuratively), so I step inside, only to find it empty save for several musicians practicing up at the front. Damn! Sorry, I meant darn it! A friendly, stately lady welcomes me to St. Augustine Church, and I ask if there will be a Mass this morning. Oh yes, and you picked a good one, a Jazz Mass at 10 o'clock. Thank you, Ma'am.
What to do? I decide to walk around to pass the time, crossing over Rampart back into the French Quarter. A call to Gumbo to see if he is awake enough to make it at ten brings an curt, inaudible response that I take as a no. I grab a coffee to go and call The Reet to give her an update, walk around the just awakening Quarter a bit, then head back to St. Augustine. When I arrive, the place is a beehive of activity. I'm handed a hymn book by one of the well-dressed greeters and slide into an empty pew in the back. The church is long, high-ceilinged, with two rows of pews from the back to about half way to the front, then an open area where a small altar table is set up facing the congregation, then the pews continue to the front, but no one is sitting in those. There are also pews on the sides, just three deep, facing the center. There is an elevated area in the front where traditionally the altar would be. This is presently filling with musicians and a chorus of about ten men and women. I decide to move up front (third row, over to the right) for a better view. In a few minutes others squeeze in next to me, so I end up in the middle.
The Mass starts with a procession from the back to the alter table with two youngsters leading carrying the cross and other essentials, followed by two priests. The band and chorus swing into action and the whole place starts singing and clapping and moving to the beat. The traditional elements of the Catholic Mass are present: readings by a nervous, teenage young man; a sermon about the Ascension, Communion. Two of the well-dressed greeters, older gentlemen, carry a large wicker basket lined with a linen cloth and place it in front of the altar table while the priests take seats. The band and choir starts up and, after a slight hesitation, everyone, at random, walks up to the basket to throw in an offering. I slide out of the pew along with my pewmates and toss in a twenty. When the activity is complete, the greeters take the basket over to the priest for his approval, then cart it off to a side room. When it's time for the sign of peace, no timid handshakes with a couple neighbors here - the place explodes in song as people get out of their seats and roam all around the place singing and hugging and kissing! I hold back on the hugging and kissing, but shake the hand of darn near everyone in the church including the two priests. My energetic neighbor, a woman possibly in her 40's, does give me a hug. This goes on for about ten minutes before order is restored.
After Communion, and a rousing When the Saints Come Marching In (also the St. Anthony High School Crusaders' basketball entry song, Fats Domino version, which was pretty cool), numerous acknowledgements were handed out. Any birthdays out there? No? Finally, after much prodding, a middleaged man stood up and was treated to a 15 minute, full-blast version of Happy Birthday. To wrap things up, everyone joined in the procession back out into the sunshine while the music kept playing. Pretty cool.
Well, it's about 11:30, so I call Gumbo for a what's up and find that everyone is off to Lucy's for their morning veggies (the bloody marys are loaded with them!). Then it's off to Port of Call for a big old burger,a fully-loaded baked potato and, of course, a Monsoon. Alrighty.
Sunday's lineup looks like this:
2:35-1:30pm Sonny Landreth at Gentilly Stage
2:15-3:15pm Snooks Eaglin at Southern Comfort Blues Tent
3:20-5:00pm Santana at Acura Stage
3:35-4:55pm The Raconteurs at Gentilly Stage
3:45-4:55pm Keb' Mo' at Southern Comfort Blues Tent
5:30-6:50pm The Derek Trucks Band at Southern Comfort Blues Tent
5:35-6:55pm The Radiators at Gentilly Stage
5:40-6:55pm The Neville Brothers at Acura Stage
5:45-7:00pm Amanda Shaw & the Cute Guys at Sheraton New Orleans Fais-Do-Do Stage
Out to the fairgrounds by two in time to start the day with Snooks Eaglin in the Southern Comfort Blues Tent. Then must catch Jack White and the Raconteurs. The Nevilles are closing for the first time since Katrina and there's been some backlash against them, even talk of an organized booing when they are introduced.
The Raconteurs do not disappoint. They are loud, but in touch with this predominantly younger audience.
Saturday, May 03, 2008
It's Saturday, and it's POURING!...
Up early after a good night's sleep (unlike some of my contemporaries), I hear the window of our hotel room being pattered with rain. I go to the window to investigate and see the rain coming down in sheets. Damn.
But, not to worry, by the time we get to Lucy's Retired Surfer's Bar, the sun is out and everything is good. From our cubes perusal, we come up with the following game plan:
1:50-2:50pm The Dirty Dozen Brass Band at Congo Square "My Louisiana" Stage
2:15-3:05pm The Dixie Cups & their Cayenne Pepper Band at Acura Stage
2:15-3:20pm Ruthie Foster at Southern Comfort Blues Tent
3:35-4:45pm the subdudes at Acura Stage
3:45-5:00pm Marcia Ball at Gentilly Stage
3:45-5:00pm Bobby McFerrin and Chick Corea at WWOZ Jazz Tent
5:30-7:00pm Jimmy Buffett and the Coral Reefer Band at Acura Stage
5:30-6:55pm Kenny Wayne Shepherd at Southern Comfort Blues Tent
5:35-7:00pm Diana Krall at Gentilly Stage
A little on the later side today, but we are out at the Fairgrounds around 1:30pm and, because of our decision to buy all our tickets yesterday (which did not look like a good one a few hours ago), we waste no time in line. A good thing too, it's going to be very crowded today. Ruthie Foster at 2:15 in the Blues Tent is the pick of the day, so we walk past the grandstand, past the Gospel Tent. But, no, we can't pass without sampling the St. Joseph the Worker Music Ministry! The joint is rocking! We are able to stay for one number before feeling the urgency to get a spot for Ruthie. The Pool Hall Studs peel off to get some food, so Gumbo and I walk around to the far right side of the tent to position ourselves in the same spot as we did Friday for Jumpin' Johnny. TWO EMPTY SEATS! We take them. The Southern Comfort Blues Tent gets filled up fast. Ruthie strolls out onto the stage with her all-female band, straps on a guitar, offers a warm welcome and proceeds to kick our asses for the next hour. Soul, blues, gospel, reggae, all mixed together in a wonderful performance that has the whole tent on its feet. She does a sweet version of Lucinda (she calls her friend, Cindi) Williams' Fruits of My Labor. John Butler, you've got Ruthie so very, very close behind you. What a start to Saturday!
While the PHS catch the subdudes, Gumbo and I make our way down to hear some of Marcia Ball's set, catching some zydeco along the way. The last set of the day will be crazy at Acura for Jimmy Buffett. Mark says I must see some of Kenny Wayne Shepard and we all want to see Diana Krall. While we stand with 50,000 of our closest friends waiting for Jimmy Buffett, we hear an announcement that Churchill Downs, which also owns the Fairgrounds, will be transmitting the Kentucky Derby race over the large screens near the stage. Pretty cool. Buffett is in great form, everyone singing along, fins going to the left and to the right everywhere! But we've got work to do. Mark says Kenny Wayne Shepard is a must see, so we say ciao to the parrotheads to find the SoCo Blues Tent. Mr. Shepard doesn't disappoint. Not a singer, in the Carlos Santana tradition, he blisters through his solos, getting hoots from the packed crowd at completion. Good choice.
Now we're off to catch the final half-hour of Diana Krall at Gentilly, not an easy hike at this point, but mission accomplished in good time. Diana is finishing up a number as we arrive to the left of the stage, in the same general area where I saw the John Butler Trio and John Prine yesterday. She looks and sounds great. Another number has us hooked, but she suddenly gets up and waves goodby. WTF! She's lured back to do a brief encore, then an indifferent exit. Very strange, and VERY disappointing. Anyway, it's off to Brook's Seahorse Saloon just outside the Gentilly Blvd exit to await our cab ride back while tasting an Abita Amber.
Another good day of music despite Ms. Krall (I must tell Elvis of her behavior).
USA Today report
Ruthie Foster at the SoCo Blues Tent on Saturday
St. Joseph the Worker Music Ministry at the Gospel Tent on Saturday
Scene at the Acura Stage prior to Jimmy Buffet
Diana Krall finishing up her abreviated set at Gentilly
One-half of the Pool Hall Studs waiting for Jimmy Buffett
Johnny Gumbo posing with new friends
Savoy Family at the Fais-Do-Do Stage
Dancing in the mud to the Savoy Family at Fais-Do-Do
Sorry, Gumbo, she's with the band
But, not to worry, by the time we get to Lucy's Retired Surfer's Bar, the sun is out and everything is good. From our cubes perusal, we come up with the following game plan:
1:50-2:50pm The Dirty Dozen Brass Band at Congo Square "My Louisiana" Stage
2:15-3:05pm The Dixie Cups & their Cayenne Pepper Band at Acura Stage
2:15-3:20pm Ruthie Foster at Southern Comfort Blues Tent
3:35-4:45pm the subdudes at Acura Stage
3:45-5:00pm Marcia Ball at Gentilly Stage
3:45-5:00pm Bobby McFerrin and Chick Corea at WWOZ Jazz Tent
5:30-7:00pm Jimmy Buffett and the Coral Reefer Band at Acura Stage
5:30-6:55pm Kenny Wayne Shepherd at Southern Comfort Blues Tent
5:35-7:00pm Diana Krall at Gentilly Stage
A little on the later side today, but we are out at the Fairgrounds around 1:30pm and, because of our decision to buy all our tickets yesterday (which did not look like a good one a few hours ago), we waste no time in line. A good thing too, it's going to be very crowded today. Ruthie Foster at 2:15 in the Blues Tent is the pick of the day, so we walk past the grandstand, past the Gospel Tent. But, no, we can't pass without sampling the St. Joseph the Worker Music Ministry! The joint is rocking! We are able to stay for one number before feeling the urgency to get a spot for Ruthie. The Pool Hall Studs peel off to get some food, so Gumbo and I walk around to the far right side of the tent to position ourselves in the same spot as we did Friday for Jumpin' Johnny. TWO EMPTY SEATS! We take them. The Southern Comfort Blues Tent gets filled up fast. Ruthie strolls out onto the stage with her all-female band, straps on a guitar, offers a warm welcome and proceeds to kick our asses for the next hour. Soul, blues, gospel, reggae, all mixed together in a wonderful performance that has the whole tent on its feet. She does a sweet version of Lucinda (she calls her friend, Cindi) Williams' Fruits of My Labor. John Butler, you've got Ruthie so very, very close behind you. What a start to Saturday!
While the PHS catch the subdudes, Gumbo and I make our way down to hear some of Marcia Ball's set, catching some zydeco along the way. The last set of the day will be crazy at Acura for Jimmy Buffett. Mark says I must see some of Kenny Wayne Shepard and we all want to see Diana Krall. While we stand with 50,000 of our closest friends waiting for Jimmy Buffett, we hear an announcement that Churchill Downs, which also owns the Fairgrounds, will be transmitting the Kentucky Derby race over the large screens near the stage. Pretty cool. Buffett is in great form, everyone singing along, fins going to the left and to the right everywhere! But we've got work to do. Mark says Kenny Wayne Shepard is a must see, so we say ciao to the parrotheads to find the SoCo Blues Tent. Mr. Shepard doesn't disappoint. Not a singer, in the Carlos Santana tradition, he blisters through his solos, getting hoots from the packed crowd at completion. Good choice.
Now we're off to catch the final half-hour of Diana Krall at Gentilly, not an easy hike at this point, but mission accomplished in good time. Diana is finishing up a number as we arrive to the left of the stage, in the same general area where I saw the John Butler Trio and John Prine yesterday. She looks and sounds great. Another number has us hooked, but she suddenly gets up and waves goodby. WTF! She's lured back to do a brief encore, then an indifferent exit. Very strange, and VERY disappointing. Anyway, it's off to Brook's Seahorse Saloon just outside the Gentilly Blvd exit to await our cab ride back while tasting an Abita Amber.
Another good day of music despite Ms. Krall (I must tell Elvis of her behavior).
USA Today report
Friday, May 02, 2008
Johnny Gumbo Piano Shirt Friday!
morning has broken
The 2nd annual Johnny Gumbo Piano Shirt Friday (it's really an accordion shirt) kicked off with an early morning walk, which was not the greatest idea considering I would be standing/walking for about 6 hours at the Fairgrounds. But logic is apparently not my strong suit, so I travel up Magazine over to St. Charles. Note that the cable cars are back running on St. Charles. Warm, partly cloudy. The forecast is for 50% rain. Better be prepared with cheap, condom-looking plastic rain ponchos like the ones on the album cover of the Pool Hall Studs' classic Where the hell did the gumbo go?.
Back to the room to cleanup, dress and meet at Lucy's Retired Surfer's Bar on Tchoupitoulas for pre-game Bloody Marys. Gumbo and I arrive first and are into our second before the tardy Pool Hall Studs arrive. Out come the cubes to plan the day's music. Gumbo has his cubes all noted:
1:25-2:25pm Jumpin' Johnny Sansone's Harmonica Revue at Southern Comfort Blues Tent
1:55-2:55pm Papa Grows Funk at Acura Stage
2:00-3:00pm John Boutté at WWOZ Jazz Tent
3:30-4:30pm Ingrid Lucia at Allison Miner Music Heritage/Lagniappe Stage
3:50-4:55pm Trombone Shorty & Orleans Ave at Congo Square "My Louisiana" Stage
5:40-7:00pm John Prine at Gentilly Stage
Good choices, Gumbo. Very tough call on the John Prine v. Stevie Wonder matchup to finish the day (and that's not even throwing Terrence Blanchard at the Blues Tent into the mix), but I agree with Gumbo. The Studs will opt for Stevie, so we've got it covered. I tell the boys that I MUST catch the John Butler Trio on the recommendation of Garrett, who proclaimed their concert to be the very best he's ever attended. It's agreed that we will abide by the suggestion. Also, I might consider Richard Thompson, who gave a great show back in the 90's at Toad's (Dave H, you remember that one?).
Bloody Marys drained, we walk down to Canal to get our condom rain pouches and cigars (not for me), then call Garland (our personal driver with the chicken/beer) to take us out to the Fairgrounds.
Johnny Gumbo and piano shirt Friday noon at Canal.
Jumpin' Johnny Sansone's Harmonica Revue
We arrive at the Fairgrounds around 1:30 and get our tickets, all opting to buy three days at once to avoid having to get in line on Saturday and Sunday. We're here! It appears to be very crowded for a Friday. First stop is the SoCo Blues Tent to catch Jumpin' Johnny Sansone's Harmonica Revue, not because we've heard of him, but because it's a great name! The tent is packed; no seats available, but we work our way over to an aisle to the right of the stage and stand. Not a bad view. Well, Jumpin' Johnny is kicking ass up there with his band. I reach for my trusty camera to shoot some video and am told via flashing message that the batteries are exhausted. Great, I go out walking for a couple hours and the batteries have been just sitting in the camera, and THEY are exhausted! And, of course I have about a dozen new batteries in my bag - back at the hotel. Wonderful planning, JK! But not to worry, they have a General Store somewhere in the fairgrounds, so I might have a chance to get some replacements. We stay for the end of Jumpin' Johnny's set and agree that he was a great start to the festival.
good battery hunting
After sampling some file gumbo and assorted other shared Papa Grows Funk lures us to the nearby Acura Stage where they are funking up the place to a large, appreciative audience. I leave the group to search for batteries; we can communicate by texting, but without my glasses I can't read anything. A security volunteer points me in the direction of the General Store and along the way I check out this year's tee-shirts. I will NOT buy the official one again (burned two times already), for they end up too stiff and really not practical. There are some good ones here, though. Note to pick one up. There's the General Store! Five bucks for 4 AA batteries and I'm back in business. I decide to make my way to the Gentilly Stage (2nd largest) for the John Butler Trio. On my way I stop at the Sheraton New Orleans Fais-Do-Do Stage to take in some Chubby Carrier & the Bayou Swamp Band.
respect, y'all
I make my way to the left side of the stage, wedging into a decent position about 30 yards from the stage. The others are on their way, but it's so crowded we won't hook up. Sound checks completed, the diminutive Butler and his two mates walk out on stage to the roar of this younger crowd. He welcomes everyone and shouts out some respect for the city and it's people - the birthplace of jazz, rock 'n roll, hip-hop, all began here, y'all - respect! And he fires up the crowd with You can be better than that (see video above). Fabulous show! All three members, Butler on guitars, Shannon Birchall on bass and Michael Barker on drums, are powerhouse musicians and the energy of the performance is breathtaking. A guest keyboard player joins them for much of the show. Even when it starts to rain, nothing bothers the enjoyment ("Just a little water, it's all good, y'all").
you are what you are and you ain't what you ain't
We stay at Gentilly for John Prine while the Studs go back to Acura for Stevie Wonder. I'm guessing the crowd at Acura must be immense, because there are far fewer here now than for the Butler show. Prine comes out dressed in black, a bit of A Johnny Cash look, with another electric guitar play to accompany him. Always a big fan, I've never heard him in concert so I'm excited for the opportunity. We are able to get a good vantage point again and settle in for some wonderful entertainment. Prine is a storyteller, a philosopher, reminds us of early Dylan, not much range in his voice, but so expressive. Loved the Bonnie Raitt hit Angel From Montgomery, the humorous Dear Abby, the poignant Sam Stone. Again, a great show. We agree that every act we saw was a winner today. We exit to the bar just outside the Gentilly exit and wait for the Studs, who arrive in a bit to say Stevie, after a slow start, put on a great show. A call to Garland and we're on our way back to the hotel filling ourselves with fried chicken wings.
Herbsaint
A quick freshen up/change and we grab a cab out to Herbsaint on St. Charles St. for dinner. We dine at the small bar, where Diane from Frisco tells me of a jazz mass I should try this Sunday. Excellent Redfish special. That's all for me, folks. Garland drops me at the hotel (it's midnight by now), on the way to drop Gumbo and the Pool Hall Studs at Frenchmans Street.
Tee shirt booth under threatening skies
The 2nd annual Johnny Gumbo Piano Shirt Friday (it's really an accordion shirt) kicked off with an early morning walk, which was not the greatest idea considering I would be standing/walking for about 6 hours at the Fairgrounds. But logic is apparently not my strong suit, so I travel up Magazine over to St. Charles. Note that the cable cars are back running on St. Charles. Warm, partly cloudy. The forecast is for 50% rain. Better be prepared with cheap, condom-looking plastic rain ponchos like the ones on the album cover of the Pool Hall Studs' classic Where the hell did the gumbo go?.
Back to the room to cleanup, dress and meet at Lucy's Retired Surfer's Bar on Tchoupitoulas for pre-game Bloody Marys. Gumbo and I arrive first and are into our second before the tardy Pool Hall Studs arrive. Out come the cubes to plan the day's music. Gumbo has his cubes all noted:
1:25-2:25pm Jumpin' Johnny Sansone's Harmonica Revue at Southern Comfort Blues Tent
1:55-2:55pm Papa Grows Funk at Acura Stage
2:00-3:00pm John Boutté at WWOZ Jazz Tent
3:30-4:30pm Ingrid Lucia at Allison Miner Music Heritage/Lagniappe Stage
3:50-4:55pm Trombone Shorty & Orleans Ave at Congo Square "My Louisiana" Stage
5:40-7:00pm John Prine at Gentilly Stage
Good choices, Gumbo. Very tough call on the John Prine v. Stevie Wonder matchup to finish the day (and that's not even throwing Terrence Blanchard at the Blues Tent into the mix), but I agree with Gumbo. The Studs will opt for Stevie, so we've got it covered. I tell the boys that I MUST catch the John Butler Trio on the recommendation of Garrett, who proclaimed their concert to be the very best he's ever attended. It's agreed that we will abide by the suggestion. Also, I might consider Richard Thompson, who gave a great show back in the 90's at Toad's (Dave H, you remember that one?).
Bloody Marys drained, we walk down to Canal to get our condom rain pouches and cigars (not for me), then call Garland (our personal driver with the chicken/beer) to take us out to the Fairgrounds.
Jumpin' Johnny Sansone's Harmonica Revue
We arrive at the Fairgrounds around 1:30 and get our tickets, all opting to buy three days at once to avoid having to get in line on Saturday and Sunday. We're here! It appears to be very crowded for a Friday. First stop is the SoCo Blues Tent to catch Jumpin' Johnny Sansone's Harmonica Revue, not because we've heard of him, but because it's a great name! The tent is packed; no seats available, but we work our way over to an aisle to the right of the stage and stand. Not a bad view. Well, Jumpin' Johnny is kicking ass up there with his band. I reach for my trusty camera to shoot some video and am told via flashing message that the batteries are exhausted. Great, I go out walking for a couple hours and the batteries have been just sitting in the camera, and THEY are exhausted! And, of course I have about a dozen new batteries in my bag - back at the hotel. Wonderful planning, JK! But not to worry, they have a General Store somewhere in the fairgrounds, so I might have a chance to get some replacements. We stay for the end of Jumpin' Johnny's set and agree that he was a great start to the festival.
good battery hunting
After sampling some file gumbo and assorted other shared Papa Grows Funk lures us to the nearby Acura Stage where they are funking up the place to a large, appreciative audience. I leave the group to search for batteries; we can communicate by texting, but without my glasses I can't read anything. A security volunteer points me in the direction of the General Store and along the way I check out this year's tee-shirts. I will NOT buy the official one again (burned two times already), for they end up too stiff and really not practical. There are some good ones here, though. Note to pick one up. There's the General Store! Five bucks for 4 AA batteries and I'm back in business. I decide to make my way to the Gentilly Stage (2nd largest) for the John Butler Trio. On my way I stop at the Sheraton New Orleans Fais-Do-Do Stage to take in some Chubby Carrier & the Bayou Swamp Band.
respect, y'all
I make my way to the left side of the stage, wedging into a decent position about 30 yards from the stage. The others are on their way, but it's so crowded we won't hook up. Sound checks completed, the diminutive Butler and his two mates walk out on stage to the roar of this younger crowd. He welcomes everyone and shouts out some respect for the city and it's people - the birthplace of jazz, rock 'n roll, hip-hop, all began here, y'all - respect! And he fires up the crowd with You can be better than that (see video above). Fabulous show! All three members, Butler on guitars, Shannon Birchall on bass and Michael Barker on drums, are powerhouse musicians and the energy of the performance is breathtaking. A guest keyboard player joins them for much of the show. Even when it starts to rain, nothing bothers the enjoyment ("Just a little water, it's all good, y'all").
you are what you are and you ain't what you ain't
We stay at Gentilly for John Prine while the Studs go back to Acura for Stevie Wonder. I'm guessing the crowd at Acura must be immense, because there are far fewer here now than for the Butler show. Prine comes out dressed in black, a bit of A Johnny Cash look, with another electric guitar play to accompany him. Always a big fan, I've never heard him in concert so I'm excited for the opportunity. We are able to get a good vantage point again and settle in for some wonderful entertainment. Prine is a storyteller, a philosopher, reminds us of early Dylan, not much range in his voice, but so expressive. Loved the Bonnie Raitt hit Angel From Montgomery, the humorous Dear Abby, the poignant Sam Stone. Again, a great show. We agree that every act we saw was a winner today. We exit to the bar just outside the Gentilly exit and wait for the Studs, who arrive in a bit to say Stevie, after a slow start, put on a great show. A call to Garland and we're on our way back to the hotel filling ourselves with fried chicken wings.
Herbsaint
A quick freshen up/change and we grab a cab out to Herbsaint on St. Charles St. for dinner. We dine at the small bar, where Diane from Frisco tells me of a jazz mass I should try this Sunday. Excellent Redfish special. That's all for me, folks. Garland drops me at the hotel (it's midnight by now), on the way to drop Gumbo and the Pool Hall Studs at Frenchmans Street.
Thursday, May 01, 2008
Oh, those Pool Hall Studs, they are SO good!...
Arrived at the Louis Armstrong Airport about 1:30pm. Mark immediately dials up our transportation connection and, after a quick beer while waiting for the bags to arrive, we are on our way into town with complimentary fried chicken and beer. Nice touch.
Some lunch at Mother's as Johnny Gumbo arrives from the great Northwest, then we head into town, ending up, Surprise!, at Ryan's Pub. I know we kick some serious ass last year, but the Pool Hall Studs have been working out hard, and squeezed out a 4 games to 3 victory. They have been strutting around like peacocks ever since.
Dinner at Emeril's Nola, then saw Jon Cleary piano soloing at the Hotel Monteleone on Royal Street, before heading back for the night.
Celebrity sightings- Shirley MacLaine (close enough) at Emeril's Nola
Some lunch at Mother's as Johnny Gumbo arrives from the great Northwest, then we head into town, ending up, Surprise!, at Ryan's Pub. I know we kick some serious ass last year, but the Pool Hall Studs have been working out hard, and squeezed out a 4 games to 3 victory. They have been strutting around like peacocks ever since.
Dinner at Emeril's Nola, then saw Jon Cleary piano soloing at the Hotel Monteleone on Royal Street, before heading back for the night.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
If Gooley had been pitching, there would have been no catch...
Took a trip down to Hamden last Friday afternoon with coach-on-the-field Gino to see the old our teammate, Dan Gooley, get outcoached and eyewitnessed this catch. In fact, I was standing right next to the guy who filmed it. QU had a 2-1 lead with two outs when the catch occurred.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Back as the closers at Jazz Fest....
Neville Brothers reign as first family of funk by Kim Ruehl (Billboard)When the last spit of Abita beer has been squeezed from a tap in the Jazz Fest 2008 food court next Sunday, New Orleans will get back to its roots -- celebrating the close of another Jazz Fest with the Neville Brothers, there to mark their 30 years as a band. "The Neville Brothers are not just local heroes," says Scott Aiges, director of programs for the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation, the group that sponsors the festival. "They're an institution. They've been the closing act on the biggest stage at Jazz Fest for as long as I can remember."
Indeed, for as long as they can remember, the Neville Brothers have been laying down the funk all over town. Even before they got together as a band, Art Neville says, "we were always the Neville Brothers. That was one of the biggest things we had." It all started one Friday the 13th in 1977, when 13 musicians from the 13th Ward -- four of them surnamed Neville -- took to the stage at a new club in uptown New Orleans called Tipitina's and proceeded to bring the house down. - complete article
Monday, April 28, 2008
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Late for the Sky (Pilot), with apologies to Jackson Browne...
Morning has broken:
Less than a week to go before Jazz Fest, but this is a weekend not to be wasted. Up at dawn for a 7:07 tee time. Chilly! But it's good to be back playing with Steve, Vin and Gino (substituting for the injured Keith), putting up our usual lackluster numbers. Three birdies, though, not bad for the initial 18 of the season (mixed in with a nine, tree trouble, on the par five 6th hole). But, Jesus, it's cold! Where is that mid-week, summer-like warmth?
Pre-game:
Showered, shaved and fed, The Reet and I pick up Sharie & the Little Guy at 2:45pm for the short trip over to Hubbard Park to catch the 4pm Eric Burdon & the Animals' performance at the 2008 Meriden Daffodil Festival. The morning of golf has not allowed time to catch either Christine Ohlman & Rebel Montez or Plantsville's own The Sawtelles, who went on around noontime. We drop off the young ladies at the park entrance and make our way slowly to the bottom of the hill where we park at Maloney's Pub, then hike the half mile back up the hill. It is now quite warm as the sun has suddenly awakened, and I lose the ESPN sweatshirt, wishing I had left it in the car, and don the sunglasses.
Still an hour from showtime, so we sample the craft booths, with The Reet and Sharie picking up some jewelry along the way. I make my way over the the Food Tent, where River City Slim & the Zydeco Hogs are performing. Keith and I caught these guys at the 2007 Apple Harvest Festival and liked them alot. Zydeco is infectious, toe-tapping music. The others catch up shortly to hear a few numbers, but the Hogs don't seem to have the same zip for us today. Knowing it's close to showtime, we hike back over the hill to the Bandshell Stage to stake out our turf for the show. Not much room left, but Keith finds us a small opening in the crowd where we can sit on the grass (we were too lazy to bring chairs, shame on us). Since we are positioned behind those who DID bring chairs, we will have to stand during the performance, but that's ok.
Enough Rope to hang ourselves:
Hmmmm, we wait. And wait. A half-hour passes before some guy steps to the microphone to announce that "...Eric Burden is close to Meriden" so please be patient. Here we go, close to Meriden my ass. More waiting, the crowd gets restless as Announcerguy reappears with the news that, while we wait for Eric (Godeau?), we will be 'rocked' by a band called Rope. Allllllrighty. For Rope (two of whose members, according to the Festival band notes, play with Animal Hilton Valentine in a Connecticut band called Skiffledog), this is both difficult, having an impatient audience, but an opportunity to play before a large crowd, so the power trio launches into some grinding, distorted guitar-based rock that is initially passable, but ultimately painful. As it becomes obvious that they will play their complete set (they were scheduled to follow Burden), an exasperated woman seated behind us pleads, "Make them stop!" Thankfully, they eventually do.
Finally!:
But now Announcerguy tells us that we must have additional patience while they set up for Eric, and suggests that we (a) save our seats, (b) go buy a hot dog, (c) buy a Rope CD, normally $30, but on sale to us, because we've bonded so well, for $5. Although a savings of $25 is difficult to pass up, I do just that. I don't buy a hot dog either. Christ, it's getting chilly again. I am now thankful I didn't leave the ESPN sweatshirt back down the hill in the car!
Announcerguy gives it up to Announcerguy2, a WPLR DJ, who tells us to give it up for Eric Burdon & the Animals. Well, ok. Eric looks older, but fit, with grey, crew-cut hair and sunglasses, which are needed only for appearance for the day has once again turned overcast and quite chilly. "Where's Hilton?" someone cries out from in front of the stage. Burdon, somewhat annoyed, retorts, "I don't KNOW where Hilton is. Ask his wife!" I guess the only other original Animal will not be joining us!
In this dirty old part of the city, Where the sun refused to shine
People tell me there ain't no use in tryin'
Now my girl you're so young and pretty, And one thing I know is true
You'll be dead before your time is due, I know
Watch my daddy in bed a-dyin', Watched his hair been turnin' grey
He's been workin' and slavin' his life away, Oh yes I know it
(Yeah!) He's been workin' so hard, (Yeah!) I've been workin' too, baby
(Yeah!) Every night and day, (Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah!)
We gotta get out of this place, If it's the last thing we ever do
We gotta get out of this place, 'cause girl, there's a better life for me and you
My expectations for this show are high, much higher than for oldies acts that typically are "and you all remember what you were doing when you heard this one!" crap (like The Turtles at the 2006 Daffodil Festival). Burdon is, at his core, a blues singer, having continued to perform with various incarnations of War, the Animals and his own bands over the years. I am not disappointed. He is in fine voice, still powerful, growling. And his band (Red Young/keyboards, Billy Watts/guitar, Eric McFadden/guitar, Paula O'Rourke/bass and Tony Braunagel/drums) is solid, better than solid, taking full advantage of their many solo opportunities. No pedestrian run-through of the greatest hits here. Each song is stretched, kneaded, with an overriding sense of deep respect for the music, especially the blues, as is obvious with Burdon's comments prefacing a Memphis Slim number (I forgot which) and John Lee Hooker's Boom, Boom, Boom.
Many of the hits (Baby let me take you home, Don't let me be misunderstood, It's my life), but with other stuff worked in over the ninety minute show. A Mardi Gras number, then an a capella snippet of Do you know what it means to miss New Orleans preface a rousing House of the Rising Sun to close the show. For an encore, EB gives some love to Tina Turner (doesn't mention Ike) with River Deep, Mountiain High and then another number I didn't recognize. Great show, worth the wait!
We gotta get out of this place:
The group is completely frozen as we make our way down to the car, catching a brief glimpse of Burdon being whisked into a white stretch limo behind the bandshell. It's late, going to have to blow off the annual Rotary bowling night, but can't help it. We top off the evening with some tasty Italian at Lido's. A very good day.
Less than a week to go before Jazz Fest, but this is a weekend not to be wasted. Up at dawn for a 7:07 tee time. Chilly! But it's good to be back playing with Steve, Vin and Gino (substituting for the injured Keith), putting up our usual lackluster numbers. Three birdies, though, not bad for the initial 18 of the season (mixed in with a nine, tree trouble, on the par five 6th hole). But, Jesus, it's cold! Where is that mid-week, summer-like warmth?
Pre-game:
Showered, shaved and fed, The Reet and I pick up Sharie & the Little Guy at 2:45pm for the short trip over to Hubbard Park to catch the 4pm Eric Burdon & the Animals' performance at the 2008 Meriden Daffodil Festival. The morning of golf has not allowed time to catch either Christine Ohlman & Rebel Montez or Plantsville's own The Sawtelles, who went on around noontime. We drop off the young ladies at the park entrance and make our way slowly to the bottom of the hill where we park at Maloney's Pub, then hike the half mile back up the hill. It is now quite warm as the sun has suddenly awakened, and I lose the ESPN sweatshirt, wishing I had left it in the car, and don the sunglasses.
Still an hour from showtime, so we sample the craft booths, with The Reet and Sharie picking up some jewelry along the way. I make my way over the the Food Tent, where River City Slim & the Zydeco Hogs are performing. Keith and I caught these guys at the 2007 Apple Harvest Festival and liked them alot. Zydeco is infectious, toe-tapping music. The others catch up shortly to hear a few numbers, but the Hogs don't seem to have the same zip for us today. Knowing it's close to showtime, we hike back over the hill to the Bandshell Stage to stake out our turf for the show. Not much room left, but Keith finds us a small opening in the crowd where we can sit on the grass (we were too lazy to bring chairs, shame on us). Since we are positioned behind those who DID bring chairs, we will have to stand during the performance, but that's ok.
Enough Rope to hang ourselves:
Hmmmm, we wait. And wait. A half-hour passes before some guy steps to the microphone to announce that "...Eric Burden is close to Meriden" so please be patient. Here we go, close to Meriden my ass. More waiting, the crowd gets restless as Announcerguy reappears with the news that, while we wait for Eric (Godeau?), we will be 'rocked' by a band called Rope. Allllllrighty. For Rope (two of whose members, according to the Festival band notes, play with Animal Hilton Valentine in a Connecticut band called Skiffledog), this is both difficult, having an impatient audience, but an opportunity to play before a large crowd, so the power trio launches into some grinding, distorted guitar-based rock that is initially passable, but ultimately painful. As it becomes obvious that they will play their complete set (they were scheduled to follow Burden), an exasperated woman seated behind us pleads, "Make them stop!" Thankfully, they eventually do.
Finally!:But now Announcerguy tells us that we must have additional patience while they set up for Eric, and suggests that we (a) save our seats, (b) go buy a hot dog, (c) buy a Rope CD, normally $30, but on sale to us, because we've bonded so well, for $5. Although a savings of $25 is difficult to pass up, I do just that. I don't buy a hot dog either. Christ, it's getting chilly again. I am now thankful I didn't leave the ESPN sweatshirt back down the hill in the car!
Announcerguy gives it up to Announcerguy2, a WPLR DJ, who tells us to give it up for Eric Burdon & the Animals. Well, ok. Eric looks older, but fit, with grey, crew-cut hair and sunglasses, which are needed only for appearance for the day has once again turned overcast and quite chilly. "Where's Hilton?" someone cries out from in front of the stage. Burdon, somewhat annoyed, retorts, "I don't KNOW where Hilton is. Ask his wife!" I guess the only other original Animal will not be joining us!
People tell me there ain't no use in tryin'
Now my girl you're so young and pretty, And one thing I know is true
You'll be dead before your time is due, I know
Watch my daddy in bed a-dyin', Watched his hair been turnin' grey
He's been workin' and slavin' his life away, Oh yes I know it
(Yeah!) He's been workin' so hard, (Yeah!) I've been workin' too, baby
(Yeah!) Every night and day, (Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah!)
We gotta get out of this place, If it's the last thing we ever do
We gotta get out of this place, 'cause girl, there's a better life for me and you
My expectations for this show are high, much higher than for oldies acts that typically are "and you all remember what you were doing when you heard this one!" crap (like The Turtles at the 2006 Daffodil Festival). Burdon is, at his core, a blues singer, having continued to perform with various incarnations of War, the Animals and his own bands over the years. I am not disappointed. He is in fine voice, still powerful, growling. And his band (Red Young/keyboards, Billy Watts/guitar, Eric McFadden/guitar, Paula O'Rourke/bass and Tony Braunagel/drums) is solid, better than solid, taking full advantage of their many solo opportunities. No pedestrian run-through of the greatest hits here. Each song is stretched, kneaded, with an overriding sense of deep respect for the music, especially the blues, as is obvious with Burdon's comments prefacing a Memphis Slim number (I forgot which) and John Lee Hooker's Boom, Boom, Boom.
Many of the hits (Baby let me take you home, Don't let me be misunderstood, It's my life), but with other stuff worked in over the ninety minute show. A Mardi Gras number, then an a capella snippet of Do you know what it means to miss New Orleans preface a rousing House of the Rising Sun to close the show. For an encore, EB gives some love to Tina Turner (doesn't mention Ike) with River Deep, Mountiain High and then another number I didn't recognize. Great show, worth the wait!
We gotta get out of this place:
The group is completely frozen as we make our way down to the car, catching a brief glimpse of Burdon being whisked into a white stretch limo behind the bandshell. It's late, going to have to blow off the annual Rotary bowling night, but can't help it. We top off the evening with some tasty Italian at Lido's. A very good day.
Images of Saturday in the (Hubbard) Park....
A freshly-cut ice sculpture sits dripping gloriously in the afternoon sun at the Meriden Daffodil Festival.
Mighty Purple (I think, I stopped by during the wait for Eric Burdon) play at the Welcome Stage late Saturday afternoon.
Eric Burden and the Animals perform in the late afternoon chill at the Bandshell Stage.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Marybeth takes a walk on the wild side...
Exclusive report on another of MB's weekend adventures:
My weekend usually includes one night out with the "Ya-Ya's", my dearest girlfriends from my High School, Class of 1974. Our adventures usually start with sharing stories of our week at work or the latest drama in our kid’s lives. We might end up visiting the Christmas Tree Shop or head over to Stew Leonard’s on the Berlin Tpke. to do a little shopping, nothing unusual for Ya-Ya’s. Let’s face it, we’re in our early 50’s and on a weeknight we’re usually off to dreamland by 10:00 pm.
In support of one of our Ya’Ya’s, whose kid would be performing, last week we headed to the Hartford Polo Club which hosts three shows nightly featuring the best in female impersonation throughout Connecticut! We were taking in the early show at 11:00pm. Not only was it past our bedtime the adventure was a little bit more than what we’re used to. We were pleasantly surprised to pull up to a nice establishment in a very well lit section of the south end of Hartford. Inside we were welcomed by masked greeters (hey, it was super hero night), who led us to our reserved table. We got there by 10:00 so our first drink was only $2.00! There was a diverse crowd to say the least. A group of 10 young women celebrating a bachelorette party were seated nearby. The first show started promptly at 11:00, which was perfect for us. Don’t forget, we’re there to support our fellow Ya-Ya and would be leaving as soon as it was over! The emcee came out and humored us with a few jokes. We were than entertained for the next half hour with some of the most beautiful women (???) we have ever seen. The costumes were magnificent and the camouflage technique still has us baffled. We’ll be talking about that one for a while! The entertainment was phenomenal! We stayed for the 12:00 o’clock show!!
I would recommend the Polo Club to any open-minded individual that enjoys a good show! Just to let you know…our little Ya-Ya doesn’t dress in drag. He dances keeping his pants on so those days of changing his diapers, were not revisited! We love you K!
My weekend usually includes one night out with the "Ya-Ya's", my dearest girlfriends from my High School, Class of 1974. Our adventures usually start with sharing stories of our week at work or the latest drama in our kid’s lives. We might end up visiting the Christmas Tree Shop or head over to Stew Leonard’s on the Berlin Tpke. to do a little shopping, nothing unusual for Ya-Ya’s. Let’s face it, we’re in our early 50’s and on a weeknight we’re usually off to dreamland by 10:00 pm. In support of one of our Ya’Ya’s, whose kid would be performing, last week we headed to the Hartford Polo Club which hosts three shows nightly featuring the best in female impersonation throughout Connecticut! We were taking in the early show at 11:00pm. Not only was it past our bedtime the adventure was a little bit more than what we’re used to. We were pleasantly surprised to pull up to a nice establishment in a very well lit section of the south end of Hartford. Inside we were welcomed by masked greeters (hey, it was super hero night), who led us to our reserved table. We got there by 10:00 so our first drink was only $2.00! There was a diverse crowd to say the least. A group of 10 young women celebrating a bachelorette party were seated nearby. The first show started promptly at 11:00, which was perfect for us. Don’t forget, we’re there to support our fellow Ya-Ya and would be leaving as soon as it was over! The emcee came out and humored us with a few jokes. We were than entertained for the next half hour with some of the most beautiful women (???) we have ever seen. The costumes were magnificent and the camouflage technique still has us baffled. We’ll be talking about that one for a while! The entertainment was phenomenal! We stayed for the 12:00 o’clock show!!
I would recommend the Polo Club to any open-minded individual that enjoys a good show! Just to let you know…our little Ya-Ya doesn’t dress in drag. He dances keeping his pants on so those days of changing his diapers, were not revisited! We love you K!
Good music ahead...
This weekend, Meriden's annual Daffodil Festival brings lots of good music, including headliners Eric Burden & the Animals. I don't care if there are any original Animals (actually, original guitarist Hilton Valentine is in the band), for Burden is a great rock/blues performer in his own right. In addition, catch SNL's Christine Ohlman & Rebel Montez, Plantsville's own The Sawtelles, and The D. Smith Blues Band.
Here's the complete dilio (for those of you not in the know, the Urban Dictionary defines dilio as "...a word nerds use when they want to try to be cool. It means deal and is usually used with a weird english accent. It is not really that cool and should only be used occasionally because of it's god damn weirdness."):
Here's the complete dilio (for those of you not in the know, the Urban Dictionary defines dilio as "...a word nerds use when they want to try to be cool. It means deal and is usually used with a weird english accent. It is not really that cool and should only be used occasionally because of it's god damn weirdness."):
Bandshell Stage Saturday April 26, 2008 11:00-12:00 Mark Mirando 12:30-1:30 Christine Ohlman & Rebel Montez 2:00-2:45 The Manchurians 4:00-5:15 Eric Burdon & The Animals 5:45-6:45 Rope 7:15-8:15 The River Street Band Sunday April 27, 2008 11:30-12:15 T.U.B. 12:45-1:30 Boxx Cutter 2:00-2:45 Desiree Bassett 3:15-4:00 Plan B Jeff Crooms Welcome Stage Saturday April 26, 2008 11:30-11:45 Skye 12:15-1:00 The Sawtelles 1:30-2:15 The Tyler Trudeau Attempt 2:45-3:45 Mark Mulcahy 4:15-5:15 Mighty Purple 5:45-6:45 Rolla 7:15-8:15 Kitty Bang Bang Sunday April 27, 2008 11:00-11:45 Shandy Lawson 12:15-1:00 James Velvet & The Ivory Bills 1:30-2:15 Frank Critelli & The Good Kind 2:45-3:30 Seth Adam Band 4:00-5:00 The D. Smith Blues Band Food Tent Stage Saturday April 26, 2008 10:30-11:30 Carlos & Roy 12:00-1:30 The Gonkus Brothers 2:00-3:00 Stacy Phillips & Paul Howard 3:30-4:30 River City Slim & The Zydeco Hogs 5:00-6:00 Shiny Lapel Trio 6:30-7:30 Porter Sunday April 27, 2008 10:00-11:00 P.T. Kroll 11:30-12:30 Joey Milardo & The Musical Cavaliers 1:00-2:00 After All 2:30-3:30 Eight To The Bar 4:00-5:00 Sean, Kelli & Wayne |  |
Friday, April 25, 2008
Jazz Fest opens. Plant/Krauss wow 'em...
Plant, Krauss dazzle Friday at Jazzfest Keith Spera (Times-Picayune)
The early contender for show to beat at the 2008 Jazzfest? The bewitching Friday afternoon set by Alison Krauss, Robert Plant and their all-star Americana band. I wasn't sure how the intimate arrangements from their "Raising Sand" album would translate in the wide-open space at the Acura Stage. They translated just fine, especially with a brooding gray sky framing the whole affair. complete artcle - insider's guide
Here's my schedule for Friday, April 25th, 2008 (alas, if I were there):
Time Performer Stage
11:20am - 12:05pm Susan Cowsill Band/ Acura Stage
12:20pm - 1:10pm J. Monque'D Blues Band/ Southern Comfort Blues Tent
1:45pm - 2:45pm Theresa Andersson Group/ Acura Stage
2:05pm - 3:05pm The Iguanas/ Gentilly Stage
3:30pm - 4:50pm Robert Plant and Alison Krauss featuring T-Bone Burnett/ Acura Stage
4:20pm - 5:20pm Tab Benoit/ Southern Comfort Blues Tent
5:45pm - 7:00pm Lizz Wright/ WWOZ Jazz Tent
The early contender for show to beat at the 2008 Jazzfest? The bewitching Friday afternoon set by Alison Krauss, Robert Plant and their all-star Americana band. I wasn't sure how the intimate arrangements from their "Raising Sand" album would translate in the wide-open space at the Acura Stage. They translated just fine, especially with a brooding gray sky framing the whole affair. complete artcle - insider's guide
Here's my schedule for Friday, April 25th, 2008 (alas, if I were there):
Time Performer Stage
11:20am - 12:05pm Susan Cowsill Band/ Acura Stage
12:20pm - 1:10pm J. Monque'D Blues Band/ Southern Comfort Blues Tent
1:45pm - 2:45pm Theresa Andersson Group/ Acura Stage
2:05pm - 3:05pm The Iguanas/ Gentilly Stage
3:30pm - 4:50pm Robert Plant and Alison Krauss featuring T-Bone Burnett/ Acura Stage
4:20pm - 5:20pm Tab Benoit/ Southern Comfort Blues Tent
5:45pm - 7:00pm Lizz Wright/ WWOZ Jazz Tent
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
She's no Tom Waits...
Let me preface this by saying that I LOVE Tom Waits. Hell, his Postcard From a Hooker in Minneapolis closed my Johnnyk has the blues this Christmas CD in 2001. I also love Scarlett Johansson, so I was pretty psyched to hear that she was doing an album of Tom Waits covers. It's been quite awhile in the making, but it will be released in May. A couple cuts have made their way online and I am, while not crushed, disappointed. Oh well, why did I think she was going to be great just because she has great taste? Here is the ORIGINAL in 1976 performing Warm Beer and Cold Women, a torch song written "primarily for piano and fire extinguisher."
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Monday, April 21, 2008
Riotbecki and Rosay, we hardly knew ye!...
You got me, girls. I heard you, loved your retro 60's girl-group sound, bought your cd. Now I'm supposed to stay interested when you have just replaced the two remaining original members by posting a note on your website? I feel so....jilted, just like the boys in all your songs. I'm going to my room. - Pitchfork story
Now, children, pay attention. Here is Julia Indelicate, the OTHER founding member of The Pipettes, who left first and was replaced by Gwenno (got it?): - review of The Indelicates' American Demo.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
The Yankees lose, again!...
While watching namesake, Ian, and the Bombers get bombed once again, I cranked up an old favorite as the soundtrack- The Soul Express with Dean Farrell on WHUS in Storrs. Here's the playlist:
 1. NIGHT TRAIN - James Brown & The Famous Flames (1962) 2. ANGEL BABY (DON'T YOU EVER LEAVE ME) - Darrell Banks (1967) 3. LET IT ALL REACH OUT - The Capitols (Not originally issued) 4. DO THE FUNKY CHICKEN - Rufus Thomas (1970) 5. I WANT TO LOVE YOU BABY - Peggy Scott & Jo Jo Benson (1969) 6. THE SATISFIER - Eli Reed & The True Loves (2008)* 7. I'D RATHER BE AN OLD MAN'S SWEETHEART (THAN A YOUNG MAN'S FOOL) - Candi Staton (1969) 8. DIRTY TRICKS - The Sweet Inspirations (1974) 9. IT'S ALL IN THE GAME - The Four Tops (1970) 10. SHAKE A HAND - Freddie Scott (1967) *Yes, new music! 11. THE SLOP - The Olympics (1960) 12. AIN'T NO SOUL (IN THESE OLD SHOES) - Major Lance (1966) 13. OH, WHAT A DAY - The Dells (1970) 14. UNGENA ZA ULIMWENGU (UNITE THE WORLD) - The Temptations (1970) 15. GET ON THE GOOD FOOT - James Brown (1972) 16. UNCHAIN MY HEART - Ray Charles (1962) 17. MR. BIG - Aretha Franklin (1967) 18. ANYONE WHO HAD A HEART - Dionne Warwick (1964) 19. CIGARETTES AND COFFEE - Otis Redding (Not originally issued) 20. SINCE I FOUND YOU - Maxine Brown (1963) 21. YOU'RE THE ONE - The Marvelettes (1966) 22. MOODY WOMAN - Jerry Butler (1969) 23. NINETY-NINE AND A HALF (WON'T DO) - Wilson Pickett (1966) 24. LIVING FOR THE CITY - Stevie Wonder (1973) 25. I WANT MY BABY BACK - Edwin Starr (1967) 26. LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL & FEEL SO GOOD - Bunny Sigler (1967) 27. OUT OF THIS WORLD - Gino Washington (1964) 28. FORGIVE AND FORGET - The Vibrations (1965) 29. I WAS CHECKIN' OUT, SHE WAS CHECKIN' IN - Don Covay (1973) | 30. YOU CAN LEAD YOUR WOMAN TO THE ALTAR - Oscar Toney, Jr. (1967) 31. UHH - Dyke & The Blazers (1970) 32. WHAT'S GOOD ABOUT GOODBYE, MY LOVE? - The Flirtations (1969) 33. I FEEL AN URGE COMING ON - Joshie Armstead (1967) 34. TRULY YOURS - The Spinners (1966) 35. FUNKY WORM - The Ohio Players (1973) 36. QUICK CHANGE ARTIST - The Soul Twins (1967) 37. CHIRPY CHIRPY CHEEP CHEEP - Mac & Katie Kissoon (1971) 38. I DON'T KNOW - Linda Lyndell (circa 1969) 39. DAYS GO BY - Bobby Bennett (1971) 40. HEART BE STILL - Lorraine Ellison (1967) 41. THAT'S THE WAY LOVE IS - Marvin Gaye (1969) 42. PART-TIME LOVE - Ann Peebles (1970) 43. WHISPERS (GETTIN' LOUDER) - Jackie Wilson (1966) 44. I DIG GIRLS - J.J. Jackson (1967) 45. TRY SOME OF MINE - Little Richard (circa 1965) 46. WHOOP IT ON ME - Brenton Wood (circa 1968) 47. OO WEE BABY, I LOVE YOU - Fred Hughes (1965) 48. GRITS AIN'T GROCERIES - Little Milton (1969) 49. I MISS YOU BABY (HOW I MISS YOU) - Marv Johnson (1966) 50. WATCH YOU WORK IT OUT - Kip Anderson (1968) Ballad block: 51. SHA-LA-LA (MAKE ME HAPPY) - Al Green (1974) 52. WHERE PEACEFUL WATERS FLOW - Gladys Knight & The Pips (1973) 53. LOVELY WAY SHE LOVES - The Moments (1970) 54. FOR YOUR LOVE - Sam & Bill (1965) 55. THAT'S WHERE IT'S AT - Sam Cooke (1964) 56. YOU OUGHT TO BE HERE WITH ME - Annette Snell (1973) 57. SHOULDN'T I LOVE HIM? - Mable John (circa 1968) 58. YOU DON'T MISS YOUR WATER - William Bell (1962) 59. BETWEEN THESE ARMS - Percy Sledge (1968) 60. LONELY - Eddie Floyd (1960) 61. SOUL SERENADE - King Curtis (1964) |
Denis Horgan on New Orleans in today's Courant travel section..
It's in the texture of the place. It's in the architecture, the balconies, the porches, the dormers and doorsteps, in the art, the landscaping. It's in the trees, Spanish moss and branches aglitter with Mardi Gras beads (all made in Fuzhou, China, by the way) tossed to the winds. It's in the smells and the colors, and it's in the friendliness of people on the streets. It is in, heaven help us all, the glory of the food.A miracle is that everyone here doesn't weigh 500 pounds or more, so wonderful is the food and so vast is the opportunity to sample it at restaurants, cafes, pushcarts and beignet emporiums. Cajun. Creole. Catfish. Crawdads. Shrimp. Gumbo. Jumbalaya. Rice and red beans. Muffulettas. Oh, my.
The French Quarter, Magazine Street, Mid-City, Gentilly and so many other parishes pulse with otherworldy offerings of food such as nowhere else might boast. To recommend restaurants is like trying to choose which grains of sand at the beach are the prettiest. Antoine's. Emeril's. Central Grocery. Liuzza's. Cafe du Monde. Brennan's. Too many.
You can look at www.gumbopages.com or www.neworleansrestaurants.com to scratch the surface or visit the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau site for clues ( www.neworleanscvb.com). You can hardly go wrong, and might have to work at it to remember that 2 1/2 years ago, 80 percent of the place was flooded. The city wants to move on from that memory, too. If New Orleans doesn't want to make a big deal of its Katrina woes, why should the visitor?
Well, to honor them. To respect the suffering of so many who do not stay at the Ritz or take to Bourbon Street for their frisky fun but, instead, are trying to rebuild their small, poor houses and their lives. complete story
Test your knowledge of New Orleans - quiz
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Judy is back from the Cape!.....
And Judy, one-half of the iconic duo Reet 'N Judi, is wanting to know who sang the song with the lyrics when the lovin' starts and the lights go down.....hmmmmm, I KNOW that song, but age has dulled my (lyrics) reflexes and I have to resort to the Internets (as our beloved president would say). Do you know? find it here
| have mercy baby, on a poor girl like me, you know i'm fallin', fallin', fallin' at your feet i'm tingling right from my head to my toes, so help me, help me, help me make the feeling grow CHORUS: 'cause when the loving starts and the lights go down, and there's not another living soul around you can rule me until the sun comes up, and you say that you love me have pity baby, just when i thought it was over, now you got me runnin', runnin', runnin' for cover i'm begging you for a little sympathy, 'cause if you use me again it'll be the end of me  (repeat chorus)baby, baby, hope you're gonna stay away 'cause i'm getting weaker, weaker everyday i guess i'm not as strong as i used to be and if you use me again it'll be the end of me (repeat chorus) fallin', fallin', fallin........ Say You Will- Words and Music by Christine McVie From the album Fleetwood Mac |
Friday, April 18, 2008
A history of pop icons revisited: Gino & the Busy Signals...
Emerging from the seedy clubs of New Haven, CT, Gino & the Busy Signals busted down the doors of the pop scene in 1968 with their debut album, I'm Not Very Tall, But I'm Really Slow. The band's latest album, Not Retired, Just Appears That Way, blends Gino Zuroli's syrupy melodies with to-the-point strumming to generate a disc overflowing with sugar-coated ditties. With standout tracks like "Big-Headed Driver" and "I Feel Your Pane (I'm a Window Man, Baby)" already certified platinum in Europe, Gino & the Busy Signals can count on loads of future success. The group is presently on tour promoting the album; just don't count on them showing up.Bumbershoot band bio generator
Walkin' the line....
iPod shuffle walking from Curtiss Street to Plantsville center and back on a fine Spring morning...
Born to Run- Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band
Livin' For You- Al Green
Kind-hearted Woman Blues- Eric Clapton
Burnt Orange Peel- Beck
Thinking About You- Norah Jones
Elsa- Bill Evans
Girl On My Mind- Buddy Holly
Angel in the Dark- Laura Nyro
Without a Friend Like You- Maria Muldaur
Essence- Lucinda Williams
Busy Being Blue- k.d. lang
Positive direction- The Fabulous Rhinestones
Tipitina- Professor Longhair
Paris Sunset #7- Ben Harper & the Innocent Criminals
Go Ahead- Alicia Keys
I'm in Love Again/All By Myself- Bonnie Raitt/Jon Cleary
Love Came to Me- Dion
A Woman of the World- Laura Nyro
The Windfall- Joni Mitchell
So Many Rivers to Cross- Marcia Ball
Around 9- sarah Borges & the Broken Singles
Dance With Me- Marcia Ball
My Wild Irish Rose- Keith Jarrett
Exile on E Street...
E Street Band member Danny Federici dies at 58 (AP)
Danny Federici, the longtime keyboard player for Bruce Springsteen whose stylish work helped define the E Street Band's sound on hits from "Hungry Heart" through "The Rising," died Thursday. He was 58. Federici, who had battled melanoma for three years, died at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York. News of his death was posted late Thursday on Springsteen's official Web site.
It was Federici, along with original E Street Band drummer Vini Lopez, who first invited Springsteen to join their band. Federici played accordion on the wistful "4th Of July, Asbury Park (Sandy)" from Springsteen's second album, and his organ solo was a highlight of Springsteen's first top 10 hit, "Hungry Heart." In a band with larger-than-life characters such as saxophonist Clarence Clemons and bandana-wrapped guitarist "Little" Steven Van Zandt, Federici was content to play in his familiar position to the side of the stage. But his playing was as vital to Springsteen's live show as any instrument in the band. - complete article
In memoriam- Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band live at Hammersmith Odeon, 1975 performing 4th of July, Asbury Park (Sandy):
Danny Federici, the longtime keyboard player for Bruce Springsteen whose stylish work helped define the E Street Band's sound on hits from "Hungry Heart" through "The Rising," died Thursday. He was 58. Federici, who had battled melanoma for three years, died at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York. News of his death was posted late Thursday on Springsteen's official Web site.It was Federici, along with original E Street Band drummer Vini Lopez, who first invited Springsteen to join their band. Federici played accordion on the wistful "4th Of July, Asbury Park (Sandy)" from Springsteen's second album, and his organ solo was a highlight of Springsteen's first top 10 hit, "Hungry Heart." In a band with larger-than-life characters such as saxophonist Clarence Clemons and bandana-wrapped guitarist "Little" Steven Van Zandt, Federici was content to play in his familiar position to the side of the stage. But his playing was as vital to Springsteen's live show as any instrument in the band. - complete article
In memoriam- Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band live at Hammersmith Odeon, 1975 performing 4th of July, Asbury Park (Sandy):
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Just getting into the mood...
Bobby Lounge Live at Louisiana Music Factory
We didn't know quite what to make of this guy because of all the hype he received two years ago. Caught him at the Grandstand stage. Great entertainer, but I could do without the iron lung routine.
We didn't know quite what to make of this guy because of all the hype he received two years ago. Caught him at the Grandstand stage. Great entertainer, but I could do without the iron lung routine.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Hot off the presses from Jim Kane, Bristol's oldies guru...
JUST ANNOUNCED - RUSTY RECORDS NEWEST CD WILL BE RELEASED TO THE PUBLIC ON STAURDAY JUNE 28 TO COINCIDE WITH OUR BRISTOL FRIENDS PARTY. IT CONTAINS 24 SONGS AND SOME OF THE VOCALISTS ARE FAMILIAR TO US. THE CD WILL BE VOTED ON, BY THE PUBLIC, AND THE TOP 4 SONGS AND ARTIST(S) WILL BE SIGNED TO A RECORDING CONTRACT WITH RUSTY RECORDS. THE LINE-UP IS ATTACHED TO THIS EMAIL. DOWNLOAD IT, AND CHECK OUT THE SONGS.
RUSTY RECORDS
THE DOCTOR’S STILL ROCKIN !
ARTIST/SONG
THE PAGE PARK FIVE………………………………………….ROCK N ROLL MUSIC
SUSIE Q & THE QTs……………………………WILL YOU STILL LOVE ME TOMORROW
BOBBY BELIVEAU & THE DEE LITES ……………………….LITTLE TOWN FLIRT
ELAINE HERSHMAN………………………………………………………ANGEL
RUSTY RIVETS & THE ROCKETS……………………………OVER THE RAINBOW
DANGEROUS DANNY HOULIHAN…………………………..THE MIDNIGHT HOUR
DONNA BULLUS……………………………………………………MR. SONGWRITER
JACKIE HEFLIN……………………………………………………….SUSIE Q
THE WOODY FLASHERS…………………………….ROCK ALL AROUND THE CLOCK
THE BRISTOL GLOBETROTTERS……………………….BABY’S GOT MY NUMBER
CAROLE SCHIAVONE………………………………………..THE WAYWARD WIND
STEVE PETROFF’S “ SADDER BUD-WEISER”……………….DANCING SHOES
DIANE KOWALSKI……………………………………………………..ONE BOY
DAPPER DANNY HEFFERNAN…………………………………….I’M YOUR MAN
JOHNNY K & THE HEARTBREAKERS…………………….HEARD IT FROM YOU
CANDY BARR & THE PLAYMATES…………NOWHERE TO RUN – NOWHERE TO HIDE
ROGER MICHELE…………………………………………………..SUSIE DARLIN
THE BOYS CLUB DARLINS………………………………..MY BOYFRIENDS BACK
MUZZY FIELDS & THE DIAMONDS…………………….FIRST LOVE NEVER DIES
LESLIE MONTELLA………………………………………200 HUNDRES POUNDS OF CLAY
MIKE BOUYEA & THE SQUIRES………………………………….GO AHEAD
THE FABULOUS SHOWSTOPPERS………………………..YOU’VE BEEN CHEATING
FRED PARIS & THE FIVE SATINS……………………………..MEMORIES OF YOU
BRISTOL’S SIX OLDE FARTZ………………………….THOSE OLDIES BUT GOODIES
AVAILABLE TO PUBLIC - JUNE 28, 2008
THE DOCTOR’S STILL ROCKIN !
ARTIST/SONG
THE PAGE PARK FIVE………………………………………….ROCK N ROLL MUSIC
SUSIE Q & THE QTs……………………………WILL YOU STILL LOVE ME TOMORROW
BOBBY BELIVEAU & THE DEE LITES ……………………….LITTLE TOWN FLIRT
ELAINE HERSHMAN………………………………………………………ANGEL
RUSTY RIVETS & THE ROCKETS……………………………OVER THE RAINBOW
DANGEROUS DANNY HOULIHAN…………………………..THE MIDNIGHT HOUR
DONNA BULLUS……………………………………………………MR. SONGWRITER
JACKIE HEFLIN……………………………………………………….SUSIE Q
THE WOODY FLASHERS…………………………….ROCK ALL AROUND THE CLOCK
THE BRISTOL GLOBETROTTERS……………………….BABY’S GOT MY NUMBER
CAROLE SCHIAVONE………………………………………..THE WAYWARD WIND
STEVE PETROFF’S “ SADDER BUD-WEISER”……………….DANCING SHOES
DIANE KOWALSKI……………………………………………………..ONE BOY
DAPPER DANNY HEFFERNAN…………………………………….I’M YOUR MAN
JOHNNY K & THE HEARTBREAKERS…………………….HEARD IT FROM YOU
CANDY BARR & THE PLAYMATES…………NOWHERE TO RUN – NOWHERE TO HIDE
ROGER MICHELE…………………………………………………..SUSIE DARLIN
THE BOYS CLUB DARLINS………………………………..MY BOYFRIENDS BACK
MUZZY FIELDS & THE DIAMONDS…………………….FIRST LOVE NEVER DIES
LESLIE MONTELLA………………………………………200 HUNDRES POUNDS OF CLAY
MIKE BOUYEA & THE SQUIRES………………………………….GO AHEAD
THE FABULOUS SHOWSTOPPERS………………………..YOU’VE BEEN CHEATING
FRED PARIS & THE FIVE SATINS……………………………..MEMORIES OF YOU
BRISTOL’S SIX OLDE FARTZ………………………….THOSE OLDIES BUT GOODIES
AVAILABLE TO PUBLIC - JUNE 28, 2008
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Marybeth has the hots for Fonzie...
Special report to Johnnykmusic of Marybeth's Friday night at the Goodspeed Opera House to see the opening of Happy Days, a new musical which runs through June 29:
This was my first time at the Goodspeed Opera House. I grew up with summers spent in Old Saybrook on the water but was blown away by the picturesque town of East Haddam. Going over the little bridge to the Theater made me proud to be a resident of Ct.
We were greeted at the door by teenagers (I'm thinking from the local high school theater group) dressed in character of the 50's. Poodle skirts and hoola hoops for the girls and soda jerk outfits and mega phones for the guys, asking us to help "Save Arnolds" which was the theme of the story. Inside the theater is very small giving any seat in the house the perfect view. We were in row 7 center thanks to my Corporate sponsor friend. I was star struck with the sightings of Garry Marshall the shows writer, Paul Williams who wrote the music and lyrics, Charles Groden, and John McDaniel. I did find out on Saturday afternoon from my friend that Scott Haney WAS there that evening as we talked about. Don't know how I missed him. Our seats were near the "House Seats" so there were others that looked familiar but not sure who they were. Enough about the rubber necking!
The show opens on a street in Wisconsin with Ritchie Cunningham reminiscing about what we are about to see during the next 2 hours. The cast includes. Ritchie, Fonzie (drool.... dribble) Chachi, Potsie, Ralph, Joanie, Mr. and Mrs. C, Pinky Tuscadaro and a fantastic ensemble. The scenery was outstanding. It is amazing what they can do with such a small stage (It is about half the size of Southington HS's.) The character of Fonzie was amazing. His voice wasn't exactly like the original which was ok because there's only ONE real Fonz, but his mannerisms were eerie. The scenes with Fonzie and Pinky were my favorite with their sarcasm banter and beautiful singing. Pinky's voice was UNBELIEVABLE!.
With the size of the theater, I know that Fonzie was singing to me when he looked out into the audience (a girl can dream can't she?). The ensemble's singing and dancing made you want to get up and dance in the aisles. Mrs. C and the girls do a tap dancing number that was awesome. Great music (all new tunes) dancing, HUMOR and energy. There's always a little message and this one's was strength and friendship (duh). A must see fun evening for all ages. Hate to spoil it but Arnold's gets saved from the new Mall project but you'll have to go and see it to find out who's the hero!
This was my first time at the Goodspeed Opera House. I grew up with summers spent in Old Saybrook on the water but was blown away by the picturesque town of East Haddam. Going over the little bridge to the Theater made me proud to be a resident of Ct.
We were greeted at the door by teenagers (I'm thinking from the local high school theater group) dressed in character of the 50's. Poodle skirts and hoola hoops for the girls and soda jerk outfits and mega phones for the guys, asking us to help "Save Arnolds" which was the theme of the story. Inside the theater is very small giving any seat in the house the perfect view. We were in row 7 center thanks to my Corporate sponsor friend. I was star struck with the sightings of Garry Marshall the shows writer, Paul Williams who wrote the music and lyrics, Charles Groden, and John McDaniel. I did find out on Saturday afternoon from my friend that Scott Haney WAS there that evening as we talked about. Don't know how I missed him. Our seats were near the "House Seats" so there were others that looked familiar but not sure who they were. Enough about the rubber necking!The show opens on a street in Wisconsin with Ritchie Cunningham reminiscing about what we are about to see during the next 2 hours. The cast includes. Ritchie, Fonzie (drool.... dribble) Chachi, Potsie, Ralph, Joanie, Mr. and Mrs. C, Pinky Tuscadaro and a fantastic ensemble. The scenery was outstanding. It is amazing what they can do with such a small stage (It is about half the size of Southington HS's.) The character of Fonzie was amazing. His voice wasn't exactly like the original which was ok because there's only ONE real Fonz, but his mannerisms were eerie. The scenes with Fonzie and Pinky were my favorite with their sarcasm banter and beautiful singing. Pinky's voice was UNBELIEVABLE!.
With the size of the theater, I know that Fonzie was singing to me when he looked out into the audience (a girl can dream can't she?). The ensemble's singing and dancing made you want to get up and dance in the aisles. Mrs. C and the girls do a tap dancing number that was awesome. Great music (all new tunes) dancing, HUMOR and energy. There's always a little message and this one's was strength and friendship (duh). A must see fun evening for all ages. Hate to spoil it but Arnold's gets saved from the new Mall project but you'll have to go and see it to find out who's the hero!
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Love that dirty water....
I'm gonna tell you a big bad story, baby, Aww, it's all about my town
Yeah, down by the river, Down by the banks of the river Charles (aw, that's what's happenin' baby)
That's where you'll find me, Along with lovers, fuggers, and thieves (aw, but they're cool people)
Well I love that dirty water, Oh, Boston, you're my home (oh, you're the Number One place)
Frustrated women (I mean they're frustrated), Have to be in by twelve o'clock (oh, that's a shame)
But I'm wishin' and a-hopin, oh, That just once those doors weren't locked
(I like to save time for my baby to walk around)
Well I love that dirty water, Oh, Boston, you're my home (oh, yeah)
Flash! Neil Diamond announced that he will perform on August 23rd this summer at Fenway Park. I guess they announced it during the 7th inning Sweet Caroline (uh uh uh) thingie that Bosox fans think is pretty cool, but that I think is pretty creepy since it was written about Caroline Kennedy when she was 12.Bosox finally honored Billy Bucks after years of killing the guy for booting that ground ball in the World Series. Nice job. Like they were going to win something anyway. You should be ashamed.
But, go Celtics!
Nancy and Joe, you bastards, I knew it!
WASHINGTON -- Federal employees charged millions of dollars for Internet dating, tailor-made suits, lingerie, lavish dinners and other questionable expenses to their government credit cards over a 15-month period, congressional auditors say. complete scoop
April showers bring.....The Sawtelles!
4.12.08 fiddleheads, new london 1pm free
4.19.08 Funky Monkey Cafe, cheshire 8pm free
4.20.08 UKE FEST at the Oasis, new london 9pm free
4.24.08 Surf Nite! at Two Boots, bridgport 9pm, $5
4.19.08 Funky Monkey Cafe, cheshire 8pm free
4.20.08 UKE FEST at the Oasis, new london 9pm free
4.24.08 Surf Nite! at Two Boots, bridgport 9pm, $5
Saturday, April 05, 2008
New Orleans, Johnnyk, Johnny Gumbo, and the Pool Hall Studs gear up for Jazz Fest...
By Larry Blumenfeld (Reuters)
Eight months after the floods following Hurricane Katrina ravaged New Orleans in 2005, there was at least one hard, good fact regarding a threatened music scene: the annual New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival took place at its customary Mid-City Fair Grounds site. Familiar favorites, from Buckwheat Zydeco to pheasant-and-quail andouille gumbo were served up. Local heroes like singer John Boutte and national ones like Bruce Springsteen brought audience members to joyful tears.
"I remember talking to Mitch Landrieu, the lieutenant governor," festival producer Quint Davis says from his office in New Orleans. "It was January, and we weren't sure if we could mount the event. And he told me, 'Not having the festival is not an option.' I knew what he meant. And I knew that if we put this big, soul-generating battery on and, for two weekends, people could plug in, it would mean something."
(click on image for larger view of the 2008 fairgrounds setup)
The festival also generated $300 million in city revenue last year; that meant something too. Now, more than two years later, in a city rebuilding only in troubled fits and starts, the festival arrives again (April 25-27 and May 1-4) with another positive jolt. The 2008 Jazz Fest marks the return of the Neville Brothers, who have not played the event since Katrina, and the festival's full seven-day schedule.
Davis says the festival's fortunes now draw heavily on the support of its corporate underwriter, Shell Oil, which came onboard as title sponsor in Katrina's wake. It has also been aligned since 2005 with AEG Live, which has led to the booking of headliners with broad appeal. This year's crop ranges from Billy Joel to Stevie Wonder, Santana to Diana Krall. Yet for many in attendance, especially New Orleans residents, it's the local heroes that define the event -- none perhaps more so than the Nevilles. "There are still over 100,000 people who are estranged from NOLA, whose families are separated," Davis says. "To me, the Nevilles embody and represent those people." - complete article
Bonnie Raitt Jazzfest 2007
Eight months after the floods following Hurricane Katrina ravaged New Orleans in 2005, there was at least one hard, good fact regarding a threatened music scene: the annual New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival took place at its customary Mid-City Fair Grounds site. Familiar favorites, from Buckwheat Zydeco to pheasant-and-quail andouille gumbo were served up. Local heroes like singer John Boutte and national ones like Bruce Springsteen brought audience members to joyful tears.
"I remember talking to Mitch Landrieu, the lieutenant governor," festival producer Quint Davis says from his office in New Orleans. "It was January, and we weren't sure if we could mount the event. And he told me, 'Not having the festival is not an option.' I knew what he meant. And I knew that if we put this big, soul-generating battery on and, for two weekends, people could plug in, it would mean something."
(click on image for larger view of the 2008 fairgrounds setup)
The festival also generated $300 million in city revenue last year; that meant something too. Now, more than two years later, in a city rebuilding only in troubled fits and starts, the festival arrives again (April 25-27 and May 1-4) with another positive jolt. The 2008 Jazz Fest marks the return of the Neville Brothers, who have not played the event since Katrina, and the festival's full seven-day schedule.
Davis says the festival's fortunes now draw heavily on the support of its corporate underwriter, Shell Oil, which came onboard as title sponsor in Katrina's wake. It has also been aligned since 2005 with AEG Live, which has led to the booking of headliners with broad appeal. This year's crop ranges from Billy Joel to Stevie Wonder, Santana to Diana Krall. Yet for many in attendance, especially New Orleans residents, it's the local heroes that define the event -- none perhaps more so than the Nevilles. "There are still over 100,000 people who are estranged from NOLA, whose families are separated," Davis says. "To me, the Nevilles embody and represent those people." - complete article
Bonnie Raitt Jazzfest 2007
Friday, April 04, 2008
Maybe you should try them....
Hey, who's that, they sound pretty good. Black Keys, Garrett replies, again. After about five repetitions, I figured it was time for a serious listen, and with good timing, for the duo of guitarist-vocalist Dan Auerbach and drummer Patrick Carney has just released Attack & Release, a project begun as a collaboration with the late Ike Turner. Hey, this is very good stuff.Eric Danton, Htfd Courant- "With its varied sound and newly expansive songwriting, “Attack & Release” is a bold, but fitting, way for the Black Keys to prove they know more than one way to make a statement."
All Music Guide- "Back in 2002, it seemed easy to discern which of the Midwestern minimalist blues-rock duos was which: the White Stripes were the art-punks, naming albums after Dutch art movements, while the Black Keys were the nasty primitives."
Rolling Stone- "Note to Amy Winehouse: Book these dudes for a collaboration."
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
The cubes are out, the cubes are out!...
Email from Johnny Gumbo with the news that the cubes, which list the dates, times and stages of the performers at the 2008 New Orleans Jazz $ Heritage Festival, are out on the JazzFest website. Gumbo feels, with good reason, that the first weekend seems the stronger. We are 2nd weekend guys. I'm especially bummed about missing Alison Krauss/Robert Plant. But that's the beauty of the event, there is SO much great music to be found, that to be lazy and only go for the national acts is your loss.Hoping that the Pool Hall Studs' performance at Ryan's Pub is better than last year's, which failed to live up to the duo's lofty rep.
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