back to the bohemian grove to lend support to this venue
a sunday-night-only operation trying to help musicians
run by a musician wanting to provide space for his peers
the word is not out yet so there's never a problem with seating
pick a lounge, a futon, a mik crate and cushion - or stand
then take in some fine music over a couple of sets
tonight 2 different acts are playing one set each
first up - the newly formed roman pulati band
he's the fellow in the centre on electric guitar
apparently he has played extensively overseas
including serious guitar schooling in the u s of a
this 5 piece band a nice balance of guitar/brass/drums
so the credentials are impressive enough - should be good
nope - not really - all kind of dull actually - too nice
maybe west coast jazz is all floaty, cruisey and safe
but down here it's not going to be taken seriously
there's way too much gutsy original stuff happening
mein host for example - he from wunderband trio apoplectic
an unbelievable performance from them 2 nights ago
tonight he's sitting next to me willing on his guests
he and i also wanting this to be a great performance
but it just doesn't get there - though they do try
some interesting brass arrangements in the mix
electric bass player and drummer both efficient
roman pulati himself obviously a talented guitarist
but this venue still has fresh memories of local heroes
carl dewhurst and james muller both having visited recently
tonight's performance not in the same league to these ears
and please mr pulati - talk to us - tell us something
a bit of history - a new beginning maybe - some inspirations
eventually the pregnant pauses between tunes got to him also
and a half-hearted attempt was made to provide some banter
but for me the damage had been done - boredom was in the house
a bit harsh probably but nice jazz does not cut it for me
they're not written off yet - just need to get more edge
or maybe find an audience that enjoys this style
one of those jazz cruise things back over in amerika
or accompanying an accomplished jazz style singer
that would work - shift the focus - play the music
nice try - now - moving on - next set please
