GUITAR BOARD

> having read the thread on best blues session I thought Id chip in
> with a different slant on this. My best blues session is one that Ive
> been involved in - either playing or in the audience. I reckon there
> are great blues sessions happening all the time. You just need to be
> there
>
> As Im a weekday Londoner, Ive started going along to the Blues Jam
> Nights which happen in the city centre. Mondays after 9:00 is at Aint
> Nuthin But (Kingly Street), Tuesdays after 7:00 is the Spice of Life
> (Charing X Road) and Thursdays is the Royal George (after 9:30 or so,
> also Charing X Road). So wheres the best blues session ? - well Id
> say any one of these three venues. What you get is some very good
> players getting thrown together and just getting up and making great
> blues. OK sometimes the results are a bit patchy, but the general
> standard is very high indeed. Certainly, Ian Segal, who runs the ANB
> sessions, is a superb blues-man. Just being in a small crowded pub to
> hear him sing & play is a treat.
>
> Im finding the whole experience very stimulating - in playing terms.
> There is nothing like playing in public to bring you on. I find I still
> fall back into the same old pentatonic boxes too much though, and Im
> not slick enough on 9th chords and fancy turnarounds. I must get more
> mobility up and down the neck. Ive taken my 335 down to London now, so
> thats a statement of intent to play more and improve.
>
> The downside for me is the smoky atmospheres. Bring on the smoking in
> public ban!! Its great being in the company of like minded musicians.
> All the nights are very friendly. There are about 20 or so guitar
> players who frequent these sessions, so you see (and get the chance to
> play alongside) many of the same people regardless of which night you go
> to. Im not really good enough to play alongside some of the guys whom
> I now get to jam with, but Im learning so much. A few weeks ago I
> ended up on stage with a former presenter of the Old Grey Whistle
> Test. The variety of styles being played is amazing too.
>
> If youve never tried a jam night, Id heartily reccommend taking a deep
> shot of courage and getting out,finding your nearest session and
> jamming.
>
> cheers
>
> andrew blues
>
>