- FROM PLAYER, RAY SAUTER
- This is a "Blues Jam"
as opposed to the standard open mic. This is hosted by the Charlie
Parker Band who kicks everything off around 2:00pm playing an
initial set and then turn things over to "jammers"
who want to come up and play. The jammers may be individual musicians
-bass, drums, keyboards, guitars, "blues harps," Etc.
or bands who are out and about seeking to gain some exposure.
There is no official "Sign-Up Sheet" but if you let
Charlie know who you are and what you play, he will "Call
you up" in a timely manner. It is expected that jam participants
are reasonably proficient and can play with a band. This is not
really a place for beginners. I have gone up there with my bass
guitar getting on the stage with musicians I have just met, have
never played with before, and playing some songs I have never
heard before! Kinda like the proverbial "Box of Chocolates"
you have heard Forrest Gump talk about! LOL ! As I stated, this
is a "Blues Jam" so the soft, sensitive "James
Taylor" stuff probably would not go over really well here.
If people want that, they need to head on over to the Hops House
- which I often do after playing a set here at the Jailhouse!
There are some top-notch musicians showing up and is a great
place to network if you are looking to join or form a band and/or
are looking for gigs. This is where I hooked up with my present
band. They provide a backline -amps, drums, PA, Etc. but
most guitarists bring their own amplification. The venue is a
"Biker Bar" and is out in the open with no air conditioning
but this does not deter the crowd that shows up on any given
Sunday afternoon. Parking is at a premium though so you may want
to get there early - especially if you are lugging around a significant
amount of equipment..
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