August 11, 2005

Last night was quintessential Bump Band at Lucky Lounge. Don Harvey was back, they were all there, and we weren't treated to any surprise blues harp legends.
I don't think I've mentioned that Ian has a book for sale. Apparently it is a fairly old book, as far as when it was written, but he is taking the opportunity of the shows to sell it.
They did Lucky, the song I missed last time. There's a line in there I hadn't noticed, "...looking for a subtle touch..." One thing I love about the song is Scrappy's totally plaintive solo. So full of longing, like the whole song.
The place was pretty full last night. The upper deck of the bar was all taken, so we stood at the very front part of the part, a bit of real estate that's usually taken. It was a good spot except for the rather drunk guy beside us. It even came with one barstool. Interestingly, we got little attention from the waitstaff there, probably because we stood with our backs to them. Up on top, you're facing into the bar, and they're always checking on you. The one waitress roaming the room has plenty to do, so she didn't bother with us. That was kind of nice, as we got out with only two beers.
And lots of great Bump music.

No Don

Don Harvey, the drummer, was out. Fortunately, Mark was back. In the audience was a certain James Cotton, who eventually found his way to the stage to blow some harmonica. I just researched the man, he has real, sincere credentials. He actually played with Janis. Can't beat that. So I guess I can't blame Ian for letting him come up, though I suspect it cost me Lucky. It's highly unusual for Ian to relinquish control of his show, and he had to, because Cotton is an old blues harp player who plays what he plays. Everyone else had to follow.
We stood behind the bar for most of the show. Toward the end, Don went to the restroom, so I went down to stand in front of the stage for the last 2 songs, which included, of course, Whatcha Gonna Do.