Like players preparing for the big game, Bob and I were ready to boogie to Rebirth Brass Band last night. Even though we long ago qualified for our AARP memberships, we decided to pass on the 7 p.m. show and go for the late show at the Tractor Tavern in Seattle, even if it meant driving back to Olympia in the wee hours of the morning.
We had made a point to take naps in the afternoon and I had a taken the rare step of drinking a cup of caffeinated coffee. What we hadn’t counted on was an early winter storm in Bend Oregon where the band had played the night before.
As we stared dumbfounded at the notice on the door saying the show was cancelled, we couldn’t help but wonder why we bothered. Sometimes misfires happen. Some times you have to put up with long lines and waits, uncomfortable seats and too much cold or heat or other types of discomfort. But we do it because live music is worth it.
So last night was a bit of a bust. We ended up catching a few numbers by a jazz duo with the radio unfriendly name of Suffering Fuckhead at the Sea Monster in Wallingford. They were okay but it wasn’t what we were looking for and we ended up getting home right at midnight, about two or three hours sooner than expected.
So since I’m a bit ragged from spending long hours enjoying the Olympia Film Festival and a bit bummed about last night’s letdown, I’m going to finish this week’s blog with a few photos and one video of when the effort was worth it. And Monday’s Gumbo YaYa show will include an hour of danceable brass band music. . .because I deserve it.
The video below is a short excerpt of Rebirth playing at their home base, Maple Leaf Bar, a couple years back. Sorry for the poor video and sound quality but you get the idea.
Sweeney's Gumbo YaYa 