June 1, 2009 - The "California" Jam

Hi Folks,

This Monday, the 15th, at 7:30, Paddy Reilly's Pub (SW corner of 2nd and 29th), another B + B jam - the second of a triple treat this month - a real summer send off. (Speaking of summer - solstice, that is - see the attached poster shamelessly promoting co-leader Bill and I, along with AJ and Sarah, doing our annual Make Music NY outdoor gig, along with 3,000+ others!)

The last jam though, belonged to "California" Ray and his wife of 24 years, Kim - visiting from (where else?) California. Kim suggested the Rainbow Room, champagne and dancing for their 24th wedding anniversary, Ray countered with Bluegrass + Beyond and beer. A man wise beyond his years... although their 25th may now be in jeopardy! Congratulations, none the less.

Not only that, but co-host Bill awarded California the best break of the night for his ripping through Stephan Stills "Love The One You're With" on the mando.

I would certainly also put him in consideration for best song of the night as well for Steve Miller's "Dance, Dance, Dance".

What a night for the West Coast... except for possibly Kim.

My wife, Sarah, led a neat version of "Stand By Me", with those two in mind, but possibly also a reminder to yours truly about another upcoming anniversary in June (I wish I could remember the date - she's not as forgiving as Kim). 

The festivities continued when Mike regrettably (for him) told us it was his 26th birthday - touching off the worst bluegrass version of "Happy Birthday" ever attempted. Unfortunately, Bill and I played a major role in that one. I don't think he even got a beer out of it to cry into... we owe you a couple, Mike.

Warren has officially decided to let me call him "Warren Peace", and not content with one new nickname, proceeded on the following Monday (at Sue's Slow Jam) to lead a choral version of "Wagon Wheel" in 12-part harmony - prompting me to dub him "The Warren Tabernacle Choir". Although in fairness to Warren, I'm putting the blame for this squarely on Don and his Bluegrass Harmony Workshops.

Personally, I just use the "Auto Tune" and "Pitch Correction" features on my recording software... hell, you don't even have to sing.

But, back to Warren Peace. Two nicknames in one week, give someone else a chance! Leslie's been waiting patiently - and Karen and Bob are undoubtedly feeling a little left out as well. Chin up, people, life goes on - by any name...

See you Monday night,