246 -- Jazz Trotters -- Saturday, August 8, 2020 -- Concert Hall: Facebook.com/SongwritersAndPoets

A virtual concert can't compare to an in-person one.  It was really satisfying, however, to experience live music last night for the first time in months.  It was even better because it was the band of a good friend performing for a good cause.  I knew of Heather Shue's skills in the classroom, but I hadn't known of her skills as a musician -- and the skills of the rest of the band.  Here's a recap of memorable moments from last night's Jazz Trotters concert...

 --- “Blackbird” is a clever, encouraging start.  It has a smooth sound and hooks listeners who may not know Jazz Trotters.  I like the white fade-in effect when transitioning between band members.  Glad those who can't be distant wear masks.   

 --- It's helpful that the ACLU woman describes what they’re doing as "police reform.”  It's less loaded than “defund the police.”  Wow, Heather shares a powerful personal example — of her friend from middle school who has been in jail for 38 years without clemency.  It reminds me of last year’s one-two cinematic punch: Destin Daniel Cretton’s Just Mercy and Alfre Woodard’s Clemency. Hope the money raised through the show helps improve the lives of those in similar situations.

--- I'm not able to hear much of the second song as my ten-month-old son Brody keeps trying to eat the computer cords. He is unsuccessful, thankfully, and I am able to settle down for Aretha.

--- The Aretha song includes strong back-and-forths between vocalists and a nice instrumental interlude.

--- Hehe, “Summertime” is a fitting song choice. The performance brings back memories of Fantasia Barrino.

--- “For those of you who know me, I promise this is water.”  HA!

--- Shue nails the last note of “At Last.”  I like that the song has moments for the guitar, keyboard, and double bass.  Each of the performers delivers.

--- Shue makes numerous statements about fireball.  I agree with them all.

--- Oooh, there's an intriguing change in tempo and vibe with Cassius’ “Sound of Violence.”  That's a new song to check out afterward.

--- “If I Ain’t Got You”: legit chills at the vocals.  Seamless transitions as well.

--- Hahahah at “a Bill lie.”  #FrostTalentShow2021?  I’d participate.

--- Even though the whole thing was online, seeing that colleagues like Mindy, Annelle, Krissy, Meg, Alex, Rachel, Jen, and Laura were there added to the experience.

I had two reservations. First, the mic volume made it hard to hear comments from musicians in the back.  Second, my son had the nerve to expect to go to bed an hour into the show.  I almost never leave concerts early, but what can I say? Infants are selfish...

Grade: A-

I am grateful to the band for a satisfying Saturday night.  The only sane decision these days is to stay apart, yet I’m glad this live stream brought people together. Fingers crossed, when everything gets back to normal, I look forward to checking Jazz Trotters out in person.  At that show, as a sign of appreciation for the invite, Heather, the first cup of water’s on me...