Date: Tue, 5 Aug 2003 14:53:23 -0400 From: mlpra~is.net Subject: Open Mic at Kaufmann's
I tried a new open mic in my neighborhood last week. As most of you know open mics can range from incredibly good to incredibly bad. This turned out to be pretty good. It was run rather loosely, no sign up sheet or special protocols. As I walked in there was a solo singer/guitarist (s/g) playing classic rock tunes. He was accompanied by a harp player, who at first sounded like a newbie, getting his wings wet. After a few songs I realized that he was totally soused and could hardly stand up. I went up to the singer on a break between songs and inquired about playing. The s/g had a huge look of relief on his face. The first guy sat down (and later fell down while being helped out by his friends) and I sat in.
The venue was an outdoor patio affair. The music was basically acoustic guitar and harp. The play list was chocked with classic rock, southern rock, and a little country rock. Almost no blues to choose from. We started out with Elvis’ “Little Sister.” It worked well and the audience began to take note. (Probably, that the first harp player sat down). One song that worked really well was a Merle Haggard tune called “Honky Tonk [something or other]” We also did Stray Cat Strut. The last song (can't remember the name), he said was in C. So I picked up my F. Well into the song I realized it was a minor. Dropped the F and got the Bb. I think that was the first time I ever realized that in mid song, i.e, I usually ask major or minor. We played 7 or 8 songs and then the s/g took a break. He set up another solo singer/guitarist and let him go about a half an hour.
This was a fun low key open mic. No serious competition going on. Very few performers meant you got to play a lot. I’m going back this Thursday to do some solo pieces. I’m trying to get my own singer/guitar player to join me.
