(continued from previous column)

The grouping of Lee Mattfield, Mike Perpich, Jerry Herschback, Jim Longtin, and Jim Patrow did a great job..and the two members of the band committee that were in attendance told me they would be booking them for more gigs before the first hour was up.  Lee Mattfield on drums is always a treat..a master of control and getting the groove set for the bass player to join in, and the bass player, Jerry Hershback..formerly of the Outcasts ( a legend around here from the late 60's to the early 70's) did a stellar job of filling in the bottom line and fronting vocals.  This band has a very good song selection for dancers, and the instrumentalists and their instruments seem to coincide nicely with the selection.  Good strong vocals and some great harmony ( and a particularly nice Neil Young cover) had the crowd applauding, whistling, and dancing.  Mike Perpich on vocals and acoustic 6 & 12 string, Jim Longtin on acoustic and vocals, and Jim Patrow on a very pretty Gretsch Brian Setzer model electric did a great job of filling in the backgrounds, driving the harmonies and setting the tone for the songs.  If I have any negative comment to make, it was that the lead guitar was at times too loud towards the back of the room, overpowering the rest of the instruments..but since that wasn't the case up close, I think the basic cure would be to put the lead amp on a back tilt a bit...but it's a small thing considering these guys did a great job anyway.  Check them out the next time they play.
This past weekend featured Trashville at the Eagles with their always extremely well done alt/country, rockabilly, and rock and roll.  I can't think of anything to say about these guys that hasn't been said over and over..except that they remain my favorite band to go out and party with.  I heard through the grapevine that Tom, Alan, and Dale Dowling were playing at Savoy, so with the help of my trusty chauffer (Art the Cab guy)..I headed out to listen to them for a bit as well.  Again..fine instrumental work, great harmony, and a fun time..even with very few people.  (I think perhaps the ill founded rumor that Savoy had already closed might be affecting their customer base)..but we are still in the planning stages of an  outdoor music jam there this summer.

In other news, don't forget Grock's acoustic/Celtic incarnation at the Forest Lake Lounge, combined with Bass Ale and Guiness on tap, and maybe a few Irish Car Bombs for those of you that care to indulge..on St. Pats Day..get there early for seats and maybe some corned beef and cabbage.

I also just heard the news that intrepid bass player Deano (JD Slick, Legal Outlaw) has announced his candidacy for Sheriff of Itasca County.  Good Luck Deano..

So on to another busy week.  Be careful out there and remember what Norm always says: "everything else aside, it's all about the music!"

Hollywood