Zingology

Nick’s Worcester  – November 14, 2009 – Babe Pino

Last night was one of those nights where I was craving live music.   Trying to shake a mild case of cabin favor.  Going to one of my favorite local clubs, I had no idea who was playing.  The featured act was the Babe Pino Band.  Heard of them, but never heard them so I settled into a cozy little booth and waited for the band to return from their break.

I love this place.  It’s atmospheric and usually packed.  It’s warm, it’s casual, it’s dark, it’s moody and it’s filled with ornate art.  A small stage draped in red velvet.  The place is a gem and I almost don’t want to tell others about it because its MY SECRET.  But what the hell, if you want, okay, come on over and check it out.  Nicks.  Look for me.

The band returned and even before then, my expectations for a fun night were met.  I didnt weep, I didn’t dance, and I didn’t join the fan club but I was completely satisfied.  I get very excited when I “discover” a band or musicians I like.  It means, for those of us that go out to hear live music, here’s someone I ‘d go listen to again.  Less and less a gamble the more you go out and listen.  These musicians had HEART and had FUN.  They’ve been playing for years but not necessarily together.

Babe (Tony) knows how to handle the harmonica.  I noticed he had at least 6 harps.  This intrigued me .  I called my musician sister to find out more. What I learned is many blues harp players use a “diatonic” scale, meaning each harp is for a different key vs. a chromatic scale harp which plays all keys.  Good to know.  Moving along my learning curve.

I thought of one of my favorite musicians, blues harmonica player Jerry Portney. (see Patriot Place post).  Let’s hear it for blues harp legends!  Thanks, Babe.  Loved your playing too.

http://www.bluesharp.ca/legends/

The boys in the band:

Blue harmonica and vocals – Babe Pino

Guitar - Dwight Perry

Drums – George Dellomo

Bass – Scott Marshall