Jazz & Blues View
By Eric Benson Oh, it’s a long, long while from May to December but the days grow shorter when you reach September. When the autumn weather turns leaves to flame, one hasn’t got the time for the waiting game, oh the days dwindle down to precious few…those few precious days I’ll spend with you. September’s song gives me pause for reflection on the changing of the seasons and those little things that make one’s life worthwhile, family and friends and a life well lived. Though times are tough there is much in our area of the world to be thankful for like, the music and art scene in our community.
My band Ultra Lounge will be playing at the Barkin’ Dog Grill on Sept. 21st with the usual cast of criminals and special guest multi percussionist Derek Rolando of Desert Chant. Derek is a seasoned percussionist who’s graced the stage with alumni from the Santana Band and Escovedo Family band and others. The band plays Jazz, R & B, funk and this time round a lot of Latin grooves.
The Gallo Center has been on fire with bringing in the acts: Straight no Chaser, REO Speedwagon, Johnny Mathis, Gordon Lightfoot, Yellowjackets and George “Thoroughly Good” was “bad to the bone.” Coming Sept REO Speedwagon 9/16, Johnny Mathis, Gordon Lightfoot. Thorogood was great and even in the cheap seats up in heaven where I sat, the show was incredible! Yes John Griswold says he’s throwing in the Jazz promotional towel but he’s working with Gallo to promote quality Jazz Shows, so come out for the Yellowjackets. The show will be in the small intimate hall and tickets will sell out. John has also booked jazz musician Slim Man, coming to the Mistlin Gallery on September 28. Another crowd pleaser will be the Modesto Symphony Orchestra when it goes Picnic at the Pops with Magical Mystery Tour a la Beatles on Sept. 7th. Check out www.modestosymphony.org<http://www.modestosymphony.org/>.
More bright moments in store for the month. The State Theatre continues with quality offerings in film and music series. Sept 27th Mexican Songstress & Latin Grammy nominee Carla Morrison does a benefit concert for the Lograr Community Institute. So come on down and support the State, check out www.thestate.org<http://www.thestate.org/>.
The new invigorated Hero’s sports Bar is booking rock, punk and some world shows. Coming in September are: 4th Poke De Squid, (SKA), 7th Forum Walters, (Punk), 14th Ala Luna & guest (Reggae), 18th Vibrators, (Punk), 20th Starlite Wranglers, (Rockabilly), 21st Triple D, (Rock), and 28th Broken Trojan, (Punk & Rock). On the kickin out the jams side: Barkin’ Dog Thursdays with Dave Dow, (Jazz), Queen Bean Sundays hosts jam with acoustic, rock music.
Modesto Sound has a funraiser Sept 28th at 3440 Wycliffe Drive at a private residence. On the bill in a garden setting so far are: Francesca Bavaro, Madie Boyd, and Lisa Davila. I went last year and great food and drink and good time had by all in an all age venue. check: www.modestosound.org<http://www.modestosound.org/>. ModestoView is providing lighting and PA support to the event.
Need to get, give me some input at: mbenson@fire2wire.com, or cell 209-918-7033.
Peace out, Eric Benson
