Rule 32: Enjoy the little things in life.

So last night I attended a show at Front Porch Music.  Our entertainers for the night was a local jazz/fusion band called Freek Johnson.  Comprised of Waz Fox (a former piano instructor of mine) on key, Buddy Pearson (a fellow FPM teacher) on bass, Marco Villarreal on guitar and Bill Romer on drums.  Despite having known half the band for several years, this was the first time I’d heard the band.  And I was blown away.

What I think impressed me the most was how in tune with each other they all were.  For example, towards then end of the show, there was a song with a particular phrase that Marco would play, then Buddy would play the same phrase on his bass, then Waz would play, and then Bill would do it on the drums.  Around and around it went.  Most excellently.

The other thing was that it was just fun to listen to.  They had a great sound that was fun to listen to, and as with all good jazz, the music simply flowed extremely well.  It was hard not to get lost in it an find yourself tapping your foot, or keeping time with your hand.

One thought I kept having was that these guys should be way more popular and famous than they are.  Northwest Indiana (NWI) and the greater Chicago area is too small for Freek Johnson.  I’ve heard quite a few popular songs on the radio that were half as good as any Freek song.  Makes me wonder about some people taste.

All in all, a wholly fantastic show.  Me and a friend hung around a bit after the show, talking with the band.  A splendid night was had for all.  Remember: SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC!!!

–theindiegeek