I went to OBI, the Oak Beach Inn to hear Randy Lewis' newest incarnation of the Outa Hand Band (and to check the place out). The large outdoor seating area is shaded by giant umbrellas facing the gorgeous old house which has been returned to most of its original splendor. The band included drummer Mick Kilgos, guitarist Jim Ward, and back-up singer Bridget Coleman, nickname 'Greener Pastures' in addition to bassist lewis. The Outa Hand Band has long been a Key West favorite, for good reason. Randy is a fine musician who surrounds himself with excellent personel. Jim Ward is an excellent singer and a spectacularl guitarist. He easily used all of Wes Montgomery's famous tricks in exactly the right places. Mick is as tastefulas drummers get, and with Bridget, they had exquisite three part harmony.
They began with a blues number, which all of you know is Randy's specialty. This is a very laid back gig for these folks, who can set very hot fires. Randy sang "Georgia" with soul to spare. His sound was mellow and delicious. Jim's lead solo was divine. Then the music started at the Bull, directly across the street. It was battle of the bands time,or to quote a baseball great, "deja vu all over again".It seems to be something of a challenge. Outa Hand kept the volume steady and low, as the management requests. This was admirable when you consider that they not only had to compete with the Bull, but with a brick saw going right in front of the bandstand. Valor under fire? You bet. These folks are veteran musicians who have seen it all.
Competetion aside, the group played more blues, some flamethrower funk, and one you definitely want to request, "Spanish Moon". The harmony is superb. Jim's voice is high and clear with sort of a Kenny Logins sound. Randy's is smooth and mellow. Both are sensuous. The drum solo on "Stear Me Right, Sweet Jesus" was a winner. Jim's soulful vocal told us, "You gotta hurt some before you can heal". John Cleary's "Help Me Somebody" is a is a great showcase for Jim's wonderful voice and brilliant guitar work.
From Isely Brothers classics to blues to Steely Dan, Outa Hand does it all. John Hiatt's "Big Love" is all Randy's, R&B done right. The collective talent is obvious on "Go Back, Jack, Do It Again" and "They Say the Times are Changing" on which you don't miss Becker or Fagen one bit. As the lyric says, "Those days are gone forever; that was a long time ago". Musicianship like this coupled with grace under fire is what we expect here in Paradise.. The Outa Hand Band plays in several venues. They are well worth your time. I enjoyed the ambience at OBI, and am happy to report that they have a very nice affordable menu. They have booked some top acts, so the music will always be excellent. They now have three acts on weekends, and are adding to the other days. Expect to be well entertained at OBI.
Stay cool.