Finally Jammin'

Party of the Year

As I predicted, it took me almost a full year to finally get my music chops back up to the point that I would allow myself to subject others to my newly renewed electric bass skills.

My good friends, dancer Marta Martin and her beau, singer-songwriter Neil Laurence invited me to play at her annual Planet MartaNeil's gathering this past holiday at their home in Asheville.  Neil entreated me to jam with him and some of his other friends in his "man-cave" studio during the party.  I accepted without much trepidation since I felt I was ready to face the music (and an audience, albeit a small one).

And, I am very pleased that I did.

The other folks at the party were an eclectic collection of Marta and Neil's closest friends and they made me feel right at home.  So, when it came time to play some live music, many of them filed into Neil's studio ready to boogie.  Most of them also participated in the music-making since many of them are musicians.

With Neil on his uke and singing, me on my little Kala bass, Forrest Green on keyboard and melodica (yes, that's his real name), and a wonderful selection of others on digeridoo, djembe, other percussive impliments, and even some other singers, spontaneous dancing broke out several times during our three sets for a truly communal experience and a wonderful time.

All in all, a great time was had by all, especially me since I was able to make good on my intention to play in front of strangers here in Asheville before a year has passed since Anita and I moved here.

Onward into the New Year.  And now, the best part is, I need a new musical goal!