Fendercaster
01-27-2008, 01:21 PM
My band hasn't been playing much lately and I've really been chomping at the bit. I've known of a local jam session in Gordon, Georgia for a while, but had never been. Last night, our drummer, rhythm guitarist and I went and it was a blast! I didn't know what to expext, I was told it's a bluegrass jam and I haven't played acoustic in years. I wasn't really planning on playing, I get pretty self conscious playing with strangers in a small setting, though I can play in front of 2,000 people with my band with no problem.
Anyway, the jam was at the host's framing shop, just a storefront with a kerosene heater. There was no audience, just six or seven people sitting around making music. During the first song, I got over my nerves and picked up an acoustic and joined in. After a few songs, my fingers were tearing me up, so the host took pity on me and brought out an electric and a small amp.
We played until about 1:00 and it wasn't just bluegrass, we did some John Prine, Eagles, country and whatever anyone wanted to throw out. There were three other guitarists, bass and drums (snare, bass drum, hihat and ride cymbal). The host switched off on mandolin some and his wife played guitar and fiddle. We played a few originals his wife had written, one of which was incredible! She has a kind of plaintive voice, like early Emmylou Harris and this one song had the most beautiful chord progression, I wish I could remember it. I was totally blown away by the song and told them I'd love to play on it if they record it. I got a positive response to that!
Sorry for the long ramble, I just wanted to share. The jam is held every Saturday night, anyone is welcome to join in, I think I'll become a regular. You don't have to get paid to play to have a good time!
Anyway, the jam was at the host's framing shop, just a storefront with a kerosene heater. There was no audience, just six or seven people sitting around making music. During the first song, I got over my nerves and picked up an acoustic and joined in. After a few songs, my fingers were tearing me up, so the host took pity on me and brought out an electric and a small amp.
We played until about 1:00 and it wasn't just bluegrass, we did some John Prine, Eagles, country and whatever anyone wanted to throw out. There were three other guitarists, bass and drums (snare, bass drum, hihat and ride cymbal). The host switched off on mandolin some and his wife played guitar and fiddle. We played a few originals his wife had written, one of which was incredible! She has a kind of plaintive voice, like early Emmylou Harris and this one song had the most beautiful chord progression, I wish I could remember it. I was totally blown away by the song and told them I'd love to play on it if they record it. I got a positive response to that!
Sorry for the long ramble, I just wanted to share. The jam is held every Saturday night, anyone is welcome to join in, I think I'll become a regular. You don't have to get paid to play to have a good time!