It Never Fails

Every single time I have a gut feeling that a musical situation will be a bust, it turns out otherwise.

What is up with that?

Every.Single.Time.

Last year a gig at the Back Door started off on the wrong foot. It turned out to be a heckuva lot of fun.

Last evening I had an audition that held very little promise for me. I had previously met with the front guy for this band and I was very unimpressed. So much so, that I told myself I wouldn't answer any emails or calls from him in the future. In truth I did not expect him to get back to me as he seemed to be all talk and no follow through.

He emails a week later proposing a get-together with the full band in a local studio and my audition.
With a huge sigh I said..."Okay..."
Why?
I can't let an opportunity pass can I?
Who knows? This guy could be the real deal. Fine, I'll meet them...hate everything they play and go home.
(Okay, why the preconceived crap/diatribe continues past the decision making, I have no clue - totally counter-productive)

It starts to rain, the drive is long, I won't get home until really late - I have such a laundry list of built up excuses I wondered why I was going at all.
I told myself to shut up, I was on my way - no turning around. See what is what and then go back to the house...easy.

I found the place easily. Started to unload my gear, found a nice amp inside which meant I didn't need to lug mine anymore and I could use this instead!

The front man is there, so we talk a bit as I set up. In walks the drummer. Then, after about fifteen minutes the front guy says, "Let's try..." and he names a Stones tune. His idea is to do a Stones Tribute band - his original material is very Stones-like, so it makes sense to me.
As we begin to play I notice right away that he is a fair musician, more a singer that also plays. The drummer is great. I mean this guy is not flashy in anyway, no - he knows how to fit the mood being set. Man, does he...
He is good, very good. I am really impressed. So I wonder to myself why he plays with this front guy?

Slowly it dawns on me (yeah, I can be obtuse). There is a genuine nature to the music played. And although there was no bass player, it sounded good?
I've been a Stones fan for 40 years so I do enjoy the music. This guy is picking tunes not normally done. That too, impresses me.

We end the night and I mention that I know both the drummer and this guy will need to talk and decide if they want to continue with me or make other plans.
Today I get CC'ed on an email to the bass player inquiring about his status.
In it, is the line, "Mike was right on the money with his playing and Ernie is not only a very good player but a nice guy, too."



I will cultivate this feeling and expect the good times to continue.