Ron Whitfield
From:
Kaaawa, Hawaii, USA
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Posted 9 Jun 2008 11:23 am |
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For those lucky enuf to be able to make the next event/s, google a search - ward's rafters - for a number of links, some with pix or video and you'll discover one of Oahu's longest and best kept secrets for fine musical enjoyment. And, it's FREE, but you get so much bang, you want to throw kala in the calabash out of appreciation to the lady of the house for the talent she brings to her unique venue.
In a nice residential setting near the backside of Diamond Head, sits the 2+ story home of Jackie Ward that has a huge attic which decades ago was transformed into a lair for events that have generally been jazz oriented. Everybody who's anybody in Hawaii has played there at some time.
Yesterday was one of the best in recent memory, as a rotating assemblage of excellant performers graced the tiny stage to an over-flow crowd whom picked the right day to ignore the outdoor's beautiful weather in lieu of 3 hours of even more beautiful sounds, ala The Blues.
An eclectic assortment of instruments were played, among them, steel guitar, a pocket trumpet(!), viomalin, numerous harmonica, 8 str. electric uke, various vocalists, backed by guitars, and usually bass and drums.
Headed by singer/harpist/ukuist, Larry Spaulding, he MC'd the proceedings with grace and style, and at one point when things were already quite warmed up, he lead a set in honor of the recently departed Bo Diddley with plenty of audience participation in call and response, all the while reverberating to the famously inceasant 'Bo Diddley beat'.
Bobby Ingano made his third appearance at this venue, and this time brought along his fry-pan as well as his Strat, plus 2 of his brothers and a couple of friends. His tone and perfect blues playing had people's jaws dropping, whether on guitar or on the steel. He get's a nasty but sweet sound on both that just can't be beat for blues and his choice of notes is always impeccable.
He helped make this awesome gig even better and the crowd loved him.
The performance day and times are sporatic, but those interested can contact me for the scoops for show dates and hours.
Make this a must-see event on your next trip to Oahu. Bring along some food and some wine, and have a good time! |
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