Okay, so the Freight House Cafe is a small venue (I prefer to call it "intimate"), but we were fully booked in advance, and (unfortunately) had to turn people away at the door and refuse same-day phone reservations. Many who attended the gig referred to the setting as "cozy" and described it as having a great vibe. The Freight House is truly a great backdrop for our brand of jazz-funk, and owner Donna Massaro made everyone feel like they were at "a really cool private party" (that's a quote from a guest).

It's quite humbling to hear some of the feedback we received from people both young and old, with a wide variation in musical tastes. It reinforces my belief that if you play good grooves, with catchy melodies, and inspired solos, jazz-funk music in many ways transcends stylistic preferences, and includes elements of music that almost anyone can appreciate.

First Set:

• Let the Music Take Your Mind - (Grant Green*)  * originally written/recorded by Kool and the Gang
• Mr. Clean - (Freddie Hubbard)
• So What? (Miles Davis)
• 7 Days Blue - Funk Factor Original (A. Schnitzer)
• Fire Eater - (Rusty Bryant)
• Chameleon - (Herbie Hancock)
• Pond Scum - Funk Factor Original (A. Schnitzer)
• Actual Proof - (Herbie Hancock)

After the first set, as I was schmoozing with the crowd, I was humbled by the comments and the glowing feedback from the audience. An elderly gentleman named Ray, who was seated alone in a comfy armchair, said he had never heard this type of music before and asked "What do you call this type of music? It's really great, and the musicians are excellent!". I told him it was called "jazz-funk". He felt that was a good description "because it sounds like jazz with a funky beat".

Others commented on the fact that the music was energetic and funky, but not overly loud, and they could talk without yelling. One particularly encouraging bit of feedback came from my close friend, Ron (a rocker at heart),  who said his favorite songs of the evening were two of our original compositions;  "You guys were ripping it up on a couple of those originals!" Perhaps the funniest moment of the night came when we were outside getting some air, between sets and one of the guests said "I'm sorry we got up and danced, but we couldn't help it!". I assured her that we not only did we NOT mind, but that is EXACTLY the reaction we seek! Of course, if you choose to sit back, relax and listen, that's fine too! That's why we call it "Music for the Mind and Booty".

Thanks to everyone who came out in support of live music, and specifically jazz-funk. The energy of the audience definitely inspired the band to dig deeper, groove harder, and improvise with more ferocity! The feedback we received about the new original material confirms that we're on the right track. We're currently seeking more gigs, writing tunes, and basking in the afterglow of a really great night. Until next time...

Best,
Chris