A month or so ago, I started writing recaps of some of the shows I’ve recently seen and posting them on the blog under the heading of “Hang-a-Dang.” The point of these posts is to provide little snapshots of what’s happening out on the local scene and to give a feel for some of the venues that are hosting live music. The idea for “Hang-a-Dang” came out of a lunch date with a friend and colleague. He was lamenting that not enough is being…
Bembe Olele at Jaam Rek It was a whole lot of fun bopping around the Jackson Street Jazz Walk last night. Clubs, restaurants and studios along the walk were packed to capacity. Lots of people were out and about; strolling the sidewalks, meeting and greeting and taking in the sights and sounds. There was even a taco truck for the hungry crowds. Jackson Street was jumping once again. There were numerous acts performing across multiple venues, and the music ran from…
There’s some mighty, mighty magic happening on the Seattle music scene on Monday nights: the EntreMundos Jam Session at Capitol Cider. Each week, musicians, fans, neighbors on the hill and other locals gather together for what is one of the most extraordinary hangs in the city. If you’re in Seattle and haven’t rolled through yet, you should. Here are eight reasons why: The host band EntreMundos. This blazingly fun sextet kicks off the evening with a short set of high-energy Brazilian tunes. The band, which…
The other night, I went out to see a good friend play at a local nightspot. This cat is one of my favorite performers on the scene and musically speaking, it was a great night. The band was smoking. The songs and arrangements were very cool. And of course, my friend was on his A-game, per usual, and completely brought it. It could and should have been a perfect evening….. ….except for the stunningly obnoxious group of women sitting at the table next to me.…
Seattle area jazz fans, rev up your engines! We’ve got a big weekend coming up with two GREAT events that are sure to delight and satisfy! Read on. The North Bend Jazz Walk takes place on Saturday, September 8, 2012. Beautiful downtown North Bend is all about jazz this Saturday night. One cover gets you into six venues and the performance line-up is very tasty indeed. Featured acts include: Bernie Jacobs with the Danny Kolke Trio The Kelly Eisenhour Quartet with Alexey Nikolev Chris…
A few months ago, I had a gig at one of my favorite clubs. Leading up to the gig, I did all the requisite promo; I blasted through social media, sent emails to my distribution list, posted on my website and made sure the date was listed on all the local music calendars. Despite my efforts, the turnout was abysmal. As any sensitive artist would do, I left the club that night feeling crestfallen. Although the band and…
Today I’m thinking about venues that present live music verses venues that are pro- music. The former hires musicians to play in their clubs, throws some coin to the band (And, if the band is lucky, a meal and a few drinks.) and folds live music into the overall ambiance of the environment. The bottom line in these joints is usually food and drink sales. The more bodies the band can put in the seats, the better. The latter, however, is specifically about the music.…
