Evening Star, how I’ve missed filling you with sound
This week I played the first show in several months at the Evening Star in Alexandria. Since 2006, I’ve probably performed there about 10 times, but this was definitely the most memorable.
It had been several uninspired months without a gig (and frankly a lack of direction) when Evan – bar manager – approached me about playing in November. I accepted without hesitation, and then did the math – if I set it for Nov. 30 there would be an opportunity to put on an unprecedented show with everyone I’ve played with since college.
After playing together for years, real life Richmond guitar hero Cameron Snapp and I finally formed Through The Wall back in 2003 and scored a weekly gig at Potters Pub. Angel-voiced Australian Richard Baker and I had a strong run of 100+ shows in the DC area with Coalition of the Willing 2006-08. And recently I’ve been playing with the multi-talented guitarist Mike Shade, and Cherry Blossom String Quartet violinist Erin Ryan. Richard had returned from Australia for vacation, Cameron was available to make the trip from Richmond, and Mike and Erin were game as well.
About 40 or so folks turned out in the upstairs No. 9 lounge. The show clocked in at 3 hours 10 minutes with no breaks. The most memorable part for me was the jamboree portion at the end of the show, when everyone joined forces on the stage and played 5 remarkably tight songs when considering we never rehearsed them together as a complete unit.
I should have some photos and videos to post soon. For now, thanks to Evan and Bailey at the Evening Star and to everyone who supported us until late into Monday evening.
Next up: Vermilion with Cameron Snapp @ 9:30pm Wednesday, December 9.
