PhillySpeak.com

At the Art Museum last Friday, John and Terry, ourselves and the people that showed up to hear a Philly Jazz Jam had a very good time. The Jam was lead by Warren Oree, an upright bass player who helped everyone loosen up and become a part of the music.

Advertising and information were not readily available about the fantastic musicians who made the night come alive. I was with guests and did not have time to seek out the artists and get more information, but did not want the night of music to go unmentioned.

One song in particular about things being spotted was an exceptional pleasure. Spotted tree, Spotted bush. Made me think.

How many other things in the jungle of our lives get spotted? Will you spot her tonight, will she spot you, will the spotlight shine on you, will you be spotted, did she spot you, did the cops spot you, run Spot run, can you spot her from the line-up, the spot is out….the spotted leopard hunts in the jungle of your night….don’t get spotted.

The rhythm section of this group rocked the house. At one point, in an effort to teach and show everyone that music is a part of us all, Warren had an audience member, without a clue, not able to play an instrument, get up and lead, on a cowbell, a handclapping piece of musical joy.

The man has a gift, as do his fellow bandmembers, for bringing the music within the reach of all people. By the end of the second set people were up dancing, not only listening to the music, but feeling it.

Warren Oree, co-founder of the Oaklane Art and Music Festival, written about by this author back on June 20th, 2007, will be back at Art After 5 Philly Jazz on August 31, and September 28. Mark your calendars and be there to hear and learn about the music of America.