WILDLY FREE ELDER
The Artistry of Aging
Day 16: Elder Muse – A Change of Pace
Photo: Grammy award winner Jon Cleary, born in England and bred in New Orleans
A little change of pace today! Every day I open myself to see what comes through to send on out to y’all. This morning I was struck by music – the kind that I can’t stay still around.
Knowing that everyone’s choice in music is vastly different I invite you to try on a different genre today. The music of Jon Cleary and The Absolute Monster Gentlemen – New Orleans funk and blues band…. always with SOUL. Born in England he traveled to New Orleans, LA as an 18 year old and never really came back except to visit.
When my dear Canadian friend Brian, who is a classically trained musician turned improv funky piano player, recommended I check out this man and his band I was a goner after listening to the song below and in checking out more (below/below).
Appreciating all kinds of music I have to say I have always been a funk, R&B, and soul music lover. My body simply couldn’t stay still with these beats. Enjoy!
….and if you liked that here is over an hour from a recent Blues Festival in 2022 withThe Absolute Monster Gentlemen, superb musicians on their own. Dance the beat baby…..
Short Bio: “Though originally from Kent, England, Jon Cleary’s name is synonymous with the storied New Orleans piano tradition. After leading his own band in the U.K. he relocated to NOLA. A regular at the legendary Maple Leaf Bar’s piano during off-hours, he was drafted to play a set that James Booker hadn’t shown up for. His performance earned him a steady gig with Walter Wolfman Washington. His reputation spread quickly due in large part to fiery solo shows. As a session player Cleary has also worked with rock, blues, and R&B artists including Bonnie Raitt, D’Angelo, Taj Mahal, and Eric Clapton. Whether playing solo or with his group, the Absolute Monster Gentlemen, Cleary is a must-see concert stages, and his recordings have been widely celebrated.”
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Gaye Abbott, Natural Passages Consulting, 12/15/22. Please feel free to share this post and link to WildlyFreeElder
I absolutely love blues music and so miss seeing it in person. Those outdoor festivals are the best way and then a live video like this is a close second.
I am right there with you Liz! Hope you were up and dancing right along with me…..Gaye