Happy New Year Fans of "Those Monday Blues" -
If you have listened to my show even once, you know that I am a huge fan of the local music scene especially live music by our very own local Blues artists. I am a little behind in my reviews but better late than never. In my previous review, I mentioned seeing The Greg Izor Band at the Lincoln Inn during their weekly Blues Night. Greg indicated that the band would be playing at the Blue Star Cafe in Winooski, Saturday, Dec. 27th. This was a new place for me and a new place for live music. A new place to hear a great Blues band, what could be better?
After playing a nominal cover charge, I entered a small tasteful jazzy environment with exposed brick, interesting photos on the walls, booths, couches, and a short bar. A perfect atomsphere for a intimate upclose performance with a tight quartet, The Greg Izor Band, consisting of Greg Izor (vocals/harmonica), Bill Darrow (guitar), Tom Buckley (Bass), and Jason Corbriere (drums). These four know how to fill a big room with a great Blues sound but it is even better in a smaller space where everyone feels like they are "sitting in". Greg, Jason, Tom, and Bill really connected with the audience in a way that is only possible in place like the Blue Star Cafe. With an well appointed bar stock, I sipped a 12 year old Tullamore Dew and listening to a great Blues riffs from only a few feet away. If you have never experienced this type of musical venue, you should make the effort. Not only do you really get to see the band play, you can really see how they play. They see the faces in the audience and the band members see ours. In Blues, this can really amp up the performance and make it even more personable. Where the members are trading jibes and jokes with the audience, even while they are playing, makes for a personal musical experience that will never be replicated with an iPod or in a larger room with hundreds of people. Another great aspect of the evening was the number of other musicians in the audience who were asked by Greg to "sit in" and play. Not only all fun and energetic players, but brought a sense of community and muscianship that was shared by all in the room. Needless to say, I had a great time. The Blue Star's staff, Ben & Sarah, were there to take care of the various requests for libsations for the band and guests.
It was a great evening. I hope the Blue Star continues to offer live music in the future. They have a great space for small groups who love to interacts with their audience. Sadly, the music was great. My 12-year old irish whiskey was great but I didn't have time to sample the interesting menu or coffee. Apparently, judging from the menu and later on-line materials, the Blue Star Cafe is associated with a coffee roasting company. I was interest was peaked. You all know how I crave an excellent dark roast. I hope to return to the Blue Star and let you all know the coffee and the food is, you already know I approve of their musical taste.
Best Wishes & Happy New Year,
OneChord
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