Heading to see DTB again tomorrow night and I just noticed on the venue website that Jaimoe (ABB drummer) is opening with his "Jasssz Band." Anyone ever see them before? What should I expect? Is it worth making sure we're there on time and seated for this?
Fred (Texas JF Fanatic)
11-04-2009, 09:45 PM
I'm not sure about Jaimoe's band but the DTB is shutting down for 2010. They only have about 12 shows left for Nov/Dec.
Frosty
11-05-2009, 08:46 PM
I'm not sure about Jaimoe's band but the DTB is shutting down for 2010. They only have about 12 shows left for Nov/Dec.
Slackers
Is it worth making sure we're there on time and seated for this?
Yes, Lit, it is.
Jaimoe's band is much better than I expected. Seven pieces, including horn section with three players trading off trumpet; flugelhorn; alto, tenor, baritone and soprano sax; flute and piccolo. I don't think I've ever heard the piccolo used in a blues song before, but there it was with a great solo in the middle of "Black Cat Bone." And Bruce Katz was on keys. I've seen him before in Levon's barn and he is great; I didn't know he was in this band until last night. But the most pleasant surprise was lead singer and lead guitar player Junior Mack. This guy seems like a human jukebox who can play anything well, and a great soulful voice that kind of reminded me of Darius Rucker. In fact, I far prefer his voice to DTB's singer Mike Mattison, who wears on me after a while. Derek brought Mack out during his set and I was hoping he would sing, but he only played guitar on one song.
Jaimoe's band played jazz and blues very well. Some very good originals (apparently written by Mack), and some very good covers, including a nice version of "Ain't Wastin' Time No More" with teases of "Mountain Jam" and "Little Martha" sprinkled in. Very nice "Rainy Night in Georgia" too.
I would definitely see them again. And after some googling this morning I see that Junior Mack has regular gigs with his own band at Terra Blues and B.B. King's in NYC. I would check that out too.
Fred (Texas JF Fanatic)
11-06-2009, 06:44 PM
Thanks for the report, I will catch him if he stops off in Houston.