Again the Blues
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Day 1: January 31, 2010 Again the Blues |
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You'd think I'd eventually get enough blues for awhile and, after an
afternoon of great music in Columbus, Ohio, I think maybe I have. It won't
be long, though, until my appetite is back. I first learned of the tribute
to Columbus blues legend Willie Pooch because of its being held at friend
David Wickline's Roadhouse 66. It was on then off my schedule as a
concert for another worthwhile cause came together for the same afternoon
in Cincinnati. Then, when I decided to see what Groundhog Day is like in
Punxatawny, Pennsylvania, the Columbus benefit seemed like a perfect stop
along the way.
The doors didn't open until 2:00 but the place was already packed when I arrived about fifteen minutes later. The few square feet of open floor in the first of my dark pictures disappeared long before the music began. A group called the Upsetters, the name of Willie's most recent working band, took the stage first. They'd barely warmed up before the man himself, as well dressed as ever, showed up to join them. There was a time when I'd have wiggled my way to the front of the stage but I'm a mellower and lazier guy these days. I apologize to the Upsetters for being able to post only a crappy over the crowd shot of their fine performance. |
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The instant crowd was a surprise for everyone including owner Dave. His
attempt to work in lunch was not particularly successful. He managed just
a few bites before returning to solving problems. When I'd told Dave I was
coming, he replied that I could "...park the 'Vette by the back
door" When I revealed that this would be a Vibe not 'Vette trip, I
figured that nullified any special considerations. Not so. The spot next
to Dave's HHR was beautifully marked and I
believe the Vibe or possibly the Corvette would have fit in there had I
arrived before it became surrounded and inaccessible. I think this is the
second time that someone, playing loose with the term, has called me a
photographer. Dave, your efforts are much appreciated.
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Occasional aisle clearing was attempted to avoid giving the fire
department a reason to shut things down and that allowed me a clearer and
closer shot now and then. Here we have T-Bone and the Usual Suspects.
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Willie Pooch has had some serious medical problems including a recent leg
amputation. It didn't seem reasonable to expect him to attend. Not only
did he attend, he picked up the mic several times for some strong voiced
performances. The first two pictures are with Dave Workman on guitar. The
last two are with what I believe is a group named Four on the Floor.
Note that Dave and T-Bone Backus (previous panel) flew in from different coasts for today's tribute. Dave from California and T-Bone from Delaware. |
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Willie left the building after the Four on the Floor set but the music
kept coming. Here are two pictures of Ray Fuller & The Bluesrockers
and two of Teeny Tucker. Teeny was the only performer of the day I recall
seeing before.
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This is Rachel, the gal who kept me happy all afternoon. Serving drinks
and food to that crowd was not an easy chore but the staff seemed to
handle it in stride. I know the day was not without problems but I saw
nothing of significance.
The stage prepared to go into jam mode when Teeny finished. I know there were lots of good musicians in the house and that a lot of good music was about to come down but I decided I'd had enough blues, enough beer, and enough standing. Off to the motel for me. |
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