Blog Archives
A Jazz Saxophone Treasure
I had never seen David Sanborn perform; when we noticed he was doing several shows at Scullers, we had to go. We had another show to attend earlier in the evening, so we rushed to Scullers for his 10 pm show. I generally prefer the late show for jazz; the band is completely warmed up and is generally looser for the later set.
David Sanborn
We got there a few minutes after the show started, but the audience was already fully engaged. One of the things I love about jazz audiences is that they tend to be very respectful of the musicians. Read the rest of this entry
An Evening of Hard-Driving Blues
I saw an unexpectedly excellent blues show at Johnny D’s on Friday night! If I’d been familiar with all the acts, I would not have been as surprised.
Of course I am familiar with Charles Neville, saxophonist for The Neville Brothers. I love their music and their spirit, together and separately (the band as it existed for many years is no longer). I was not familiar with Jeff Pitchell & Texas Flood, other than by name and reputation.
Charles Neville
Dancing with The Gipsy Kings
I have enjoyed listening to the Gipsy Kings for a number of years, but never had the opportunity to see them in person until this show at the Lynn Memorial Auditorium.
The band is touring this year for their 25th annivesary, and has released a new album, Savor Flamenco, as well.
Carrie Rodriguez Bares Her Soul
Several years ago, a friend who has worked in the music business for many years told me that I would enjoy seeing Carrie perform. I had not been able to attend any shows up to now, so I made sure not to have any conflicts when this show was announced.
From the moment Austin-based Carrie Rodriguez took the stage with Luke Jacobs at Johnny D’s last Sunday evening, the audience was completely captivated by her. Read the rest of this entry
Trombone Shorty, Long on Talent
Admittedly, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue is one of my favorite musicians, live or recorded. I have been following him for at least four years and this was his first headlining show in Boston! You know I bought tickets the day they went on sale…
Trombone Shorty
His brand of New Orleans funk is wonderfully engaging both to listen to and to watch.
Finally, A Cracker That’s Interesting!
Usually crackers are merely the vehicle to get the flavor into your mouth. The band Cracker is the flavor itself!
David Lowery of Cracker and Camper Van Beethoven
I had no idea what to expect from this show, and I’m really glad I went! Read the rest of this entry
I Love Zydeco but…
After seeing Jeffery Broussard & The Creole Cowboys last week at Johnny D’s, I realize I don’t love ALL zydeco.
Jeffery Broussard & The Creole Cowboys
I’m trying to give the band the benefit of a doubt. They might have been having an off night. They might have been tired or sick. Read the rest of this entry
A Bugg You Won’t Want to Squoosh!
We bought tickets to Jake Bugg‘s show at the House of Blues as soon as they went on sale; last time he was in Boston, he played at a much smaller venue and sold that out fairly quickly. We didn’t want to be left out of this show.
And what a show it was! Jake is a young (19 years old) talent who has tremendous stage presence for his years. Read the rest of this entry
Simon Phillips, A Jazz Fusion Powerhouse
I love it when I go to a show not really knowing the artist (therefor having no expectations), and having my mind blown. That happened last night with Simon Phillips on his Protocol II tour stop at Scullers Jazz Club.
Ernest Tibbs, Steve Weingart, Andy Timmons, Simon Phillips (left to right)
My friend asked if I wanted to see this show; since I wasn’t familiar with Simon’s name (although I of course know Toto, the band he’s probably best known for), I listened to a clip of his music. It took me less than 30 seconds of listening to know that I needed to see this show.
Simon
Barnstar! Rocks Club Passim
Yes, the exclamation point is part of the band’s name – I like the POW! statement it makes (at least to me) about this terrific band.
Barnstar!
Barnstar! is a group of extremely talented local musicians playing bluegrass music. Read the rest of this entry
suze reviews the blues 