Thursday is often referred to as “the new Friday,” meaning more people are going out on Thursday nights. As a result, Thursday is becoming more of a live music night, which is good news for independent musicians and bands. Darwin’s Blues in Marietta gets in on the act by hosting the Thursday Night Blues Jam. The jam is free to the public and is hosted by the Cazanovas, an Atlanta area blues band. As the night begins, the Cazanovas take the stage for a few numbers while other musicians come in and sign up to play on a list kept by the door. Soon, the Cazanovas surrender the stage to the various players. To a first time attendee, these appear to be collections of bands that appear to play for the fun of it. They are playing for the fun of it, but they’re not “bands” in the true sense of that word. Most of these guys (and the occasional female) are playing together for the first time, though that is not obvious to the average music lover.
As the musicians take the stage, discussions ensue as to which song to play. Usually, that song is upbeat and designed to entertain. After all, everyone is there to have a good time, and the musicians want to ensure the audience gets its due. Music soon begins to fill the room. The pure joy in playing music becomes clear as the musicians begin to warm up to playing together. The smiles come out, and as the audience demonstrates its appreciation through applause, the musicians get that much more into their grooves. Just as the music reaches a fever pitch, other musicians in the room want to get in on the fun, and the players switch out. The switch out may be only the guitar player, or perhaps the drummer is tired. Then, a call goes out to the crowd. “Any harp players in the house?” “Can we get a new drummer?” And so it goes.
Once a full band reassembles, the jamming begins anew. The audience reaction is powerful, which serves to make the musicians play even harder, whipping the crowd into a frenzy. Some people dance, while others show their appreciation by clapping, rocking in their seats, and yelling for the players. Considering that these musicians have never played together, it becomes clear that the ability to pick up an instrument and play a song with various unknown players is the mark of a true, professional musician. While Thursday is not necessarily considered a big music night, the Darwin’s Blues Jam is setting out to change that. Very few places exist these days that give value far beyond the entertainment dollar, but this venue does that by presenting the Thursday Blues Jam.
For upcoming shows, visit http://www.myspace.com/darwinsblues
To learn more about the Blues Jam hosts, visit http://www.cazanovas.com
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Maurice Nazzaro of the Cazanovas - Photo by Anthony Nazzaro
For upcoming shows, visit http://www.myspace.com/darwinsblues
To learn more about the Blues Jam hosts, visit http://www.cazanovas.com
Maurice Nazzaro of the Cazanovas - Photo by Anthony Nazzaro
Comments
I'm not much of a jazz fan but I found your article very informative and interesting. My favorite all time singer is Elliott Yamin. Any coverage on him would be gladly welcomed.
Thank you.
Shirley, it's great to know that someone with your ear will be drawing attention to live music. I look forward to lots of articles.
Word!!! Can't wait to hear more from you..
Shirley, thank you so much for posting articles on live music. Being in NC has helped me to realize that I really miss live music entertainment. Please keep me posted on venues who will have live artists in Atlanta. I love neo-soul and jazz artists. Maybe you can feature artists in NC too? :-)
Shirley, I am excited to see you are writing articles about live music! I look forward to reading more!
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