Who made it down for the Jazz Fest?

[bif]

Who did you see and what did you think (of the acts and the festival in general)?

[1gobluedem]

1. I did!

Went down there Sunday. We took the kids on the jazz riverboat cruise (very fun) then wandered Hart Plaza for a bit, then down to Campus Martius to pick up the VIP passes, went to the VIP reception at Chase Bank (had a few free drinks), then shopped among the vendors, buying sunglasses, tie-dye, and a ring, then went to the Spirit of Detroit stage to hear Pucho and his Latin Band of Brothers who were fantastic then back to HP for some Organissmo, Moutin Reunion Band, and Nathan and the Zydeco Cha Chas. We gave the kids a mild thrill by going backstage briefly then headed home. We were down there 7 hours and had a great time.

I know there are the purists who bemoan the addition of different musics, the artists, vendors, etc. but if jazz is to survive at this event, this stuff is necessary; it pays for the jazz. Arts Beats and Eats was seriously cutting into attendance at the DJF and something had to be done. I think it's great for both Detroit and jazz.

[bif]

3. Best thing that happens in Detroit all year.

We were there for part of Saturday and finally got fed up with the weather. Went down on Sunday and stayed all day. Saw Paul Keller (a gem) Andy Narell & the amazing Pucho! What a show. I agree, let all those folks go up to that event up in Pontiac, I'd rather be downtown anyday. Plus the music looked pretty lame at the Arts, Eats and Beats.

[1gobluedem]

4. Paul Keller is a personal friend

As nice as he is talented.

Funny, it never rained in A2 on Saturday while Jazzfest got soaked. Go figure...

[bif]

5. I've met him a bunch of times

Great guy! He's a close friend of a friend-Bess Bonnior.

[1gobluedem]

6. I know Bess

She's great.

[bif]

7. Close friend of ours

We see her all the time and get together for dinner often. Perhaps we've met at some point? Hmmm...

[herbbrown]

2. Went Sunday and Monday

Seen Richie Havens, Joan Osborne, Marcia Ball, Dirty Dozen Brass Band and Dr. John. All were outstanding, best Jazz Fest yet and I've been going for about the last 10 years. Saw Peter Werbe at Dr. John stopped and told him he and his show are outstanding. He seemed optimistic that Maloy will get his show back. I love the fact that Arts, Eats and Beats get so much publicity it makes for good seating at the Jazz Fest. Best festival in town by a long shot!