[Tradjazz] The Bronx Zoo gig

[Steve Barbone]

"Bruce McNichols" <muskrat at bestweb.net> wrote (polite snip)

> My humble apologies to Steve et al, for that fateful NY's eve gig, but
> hopefully those guys subscribe to my policy, which is simply "I coulda said
> no."  

Ha, ha. Exactly right, good policy. My favorite expression to sidemen who
bitch about gigs is: "Did I put a gun to your head to accept this gig?"

No doubt other leaders know exactly what I mean about sidemen who
continually bitch about: 1) the gig  2) the money  3) the client  4) some
perceived slight  6) the background noise 5) some other "failing" that you
can't control, etc. Hey, you are a pro . . . just do it.

Actually I am very glad I did that Bronx Zoo gig. It has been a good
reminisce since the night we did it.

Also, McN mentioned Herb Gardner. Saw him yesterday with Linda Ipanema's
Dixie Cats at the Tri State Jazz Society Concert in Brooklawn NJ. He was
playing trombone and singing. Wonderful. BTW, there's a gal who knows how to
connect with the audience. VERY lively performer, bless her heart.

I went there on a kind of busman's holiday specifically to see her perform
because she does so many gigs. I figured her stage persona was worth a look
see and my old friend Barry Bockius was subbing on bass. Glad I went because
this old dog learned a few new tricks.

Cheers,
Steve Barbone