Straight But Not Narrow

Boofus has always impressed upon me the beauty and grandeur inherent in Herbie's "Maiden Voyage". After playing it last night, I think I might finally get it. That was one of last night's highlights, as well as a tight "Well You Needn't", surprising myself with my use of brushes, and a supafunky "Freedom Jazz Dance" with my best impression of Clyde Stubblefield (before starting, Spanky, the alto-blowing band leader said "Well, just play the funkiest beat you know" so hence my slowed-down take on "Mother Popcorn"). It was great getting out and playing (first "real" gig in like 2, maybe 3 years, not to knock that gig Rowlf hooked me up with last spring), particularly in an environment where no one was expecting me to play the guitar (although Spanky didn't know I played drums until he came in to the shop looking for reeds and the subject came up "Wait, according to your CV, you're a guitarist. Um...do you want a gig on Tuesday?" [note: Spanky plays in the 11-pc for which I run sound, a job obtained through presentation of a CV]). The gig went great (even with an older Hungarian man who spoke very little english schooling my ass on swing beats), and good times were had by all. I even got paid (a very measly sum, but paid nonetheless, and I was happy and surprised to get anything at all. A good start on the Glaswegian gigging scene from what I hear). Hopefully more will come of this. I'm going to speak to the guitarist from the 11-pc tomorrow about keyboardists, so hopefully my own band will start cooking soon.
Maiden Voyage. It's on Maiden Voyage, available in a Rudy Van Gelder remaster series. Herbie Hancock. Check that jawn.
It all almost makes me miss all the jazz I've had and lost. Almost.
On the subject, check out www.willrast.com in the music section for some dead brilliant jazz piano.