What better way to start the new millenium's reviews than with the island's favorite classic rockers, the Jack Nasty Band? They are playing at the Tipsy Flamingo, which looks much cleaner and nicer than when it was Boston Billy's. Brian Davis is, of course, 'Jack Nasty'. He shares lead guitar and vocal honors with Craig Eubanks. Both are marvelous. Craig sings about an octave higher than the rough and gruff Brian. Flip Ferrari plays bass and adds his voice for three part harmony. Johnny Ray keeps the beat hot on his drums. Craig opens the set with "Signs". Wow, I'm back in hippieland with its trademark screaming guitars smoking bass, and punchy drums, plus fine vocal harmony.
Now if you're looking for a band that who take themselves seriously, these are not the guys. They are having too much fun doing what they love, and so are you. They have no need to obsess about what they are playing, they've done time in major rock bands. Its second nature. Brian announces, "Nobody plays this song anymore", and launches into "Spirit In the Sky". He's right, and it's a treat. Next they give us one from my favorite band, Badfinger. "No Matter What You Are" hits me with heavy nostalgia. I want to run home and call Joey Molland, Badfinger's amazing lead vocalist and guitarist whose signature guitar is instantly recognizable. You've been hearing him a lot this week on George Harrison's album.
A request for Marshall Tucker takes us into "Can't You See" with Brian singing and some really fine guitar work. I loved the musical quote from "Hey Jude" they snuck in. I know, sneak, snak, snuck. Well so what? John Cougar Mellencamp's "Jack and Diane" was a nice surpeise, although the mostly acoustic tune was nearly drowned out by the obnoxious noise from the Hideaway. Brian has a great rock voice.
Next we have a guest drummer, Tim, from out of town who is celebrating his seventeenth birthday. We were all thrilled to discover a potential young John Bonham. My friend Damien, Rich McKay's houseguest sits in. This man plays really fine sax, any style of music you want. He is right on top of every situation, even chiming in when Brian sang "The police got your dad" to the tune of "Feliz Navidad". "Crossroads" is totally out there. Craig blazes lead, Damien knocks us out, Flip solos all over the neck, and Tim makes us want to hear him when he reaches the ripe old age of....twenty? Brian cooks.
Bartender Trey 'Cool' surfs on the coolers during "Wipeout". Johnny Ray shines on this drummer's showpeice. Someone mentions romance leading Brian into "Wonderful Tonight" with divine harmony. Damien's intonation leaves you breathless. More great classic rock follows. Brian sings "Mama's Got a Squeezebox", then Craig belts out "Keep Your Hands To Yourself" with red hot dueling guitars. Both singers do a verse and Damien takes one. These men will always go for it, outdo each other whenever possible, laughing all the way. Outrageous! "Breakdown" definitely was one. "Southern Cross" brought CSN into the frame.
If you're really into this repertoire and want to hear people having fun playing it for you go find the Tipsy Flamingo. You know where the Red Garter is, don't you? Well it's right across the street.
Stay cool!