My Harmless Hobbies : Live Music

John Mellencamp

We went to the DC Leukemia and Lymphoma Ball last night at the DC Convention Center. After placing two winning bids in their silent acution, Jacqui and I enjoyed dinner with colleagues from work but then had to sit through interminable speeches before John Mellencamp hit the stage. We were only able to stay for the first few songs but he was rocking this black tie affair.

Hot Tuna

I went to The Birchmere to listen to Hot Tuna. The current iteration includes of course, Jorma and Jack. They are touring with Barry Mitterholf who plays a variety of mandolins, banjos, and other stringed instruments. The started with about 90 minutes of acoustic music. After about a 20 minute break they came back with a drummer and played electric. I thought the acoustic set was terrific. Jorma's voice was outstanding and he and Jack looked like they were enjoying themselves. Barry Mitterholf played lead guitar on the mandolin for most songs, although Jorma took a few turns throughout the set. "Good Shephard" was particularly memorable. I was transported back in time 30 years or so. Alone, that was worth the price of admission. I did not enjoy the electric set as much. I was happy they are no longer using a "wall of sound" for this set although I thought the music was uninspired. Set List: Hot Tuna 71, 2004 Jorma Kaukonen, Jack Casady Barry Mitterhoff & Erik Diaz The Birchmere Alexandria, Virginia Monday, November 22, 2004 Acoustic Set With Jack, Jorma and Barry 1. Waiting For A Train 2. Blue Railroad Train 3. Keep Your Lamps Trimmed & Burning 4. I’ll Let You Know Before I Leave 5. I See The Light 6. Heart Temporary 7. Prohibition Blues 8. Living In The Moment 9. Good Shepherd 10. I Know You Rider Electric Set With Jack, Jorma, Barry and Erik 1. Serpent Of Dreams 2. Day To Day Out The Window Blues 3. Corners Without Exits 4. Hit Single # 1 5. Rock Me Baby 6. Trial By Fire 7. Talking ‘Bout You 8. In The Kingdom 9. Living Just For You 10. Come Back Baby I Wish You Would 11. Hot Jelly Roll Blues 12. Funky # 7 13. Encore: Come Back Baby