NOTES FROM UNDERGROUND
Some American cities have a better musical reputation than others. New Orleans, for instance, is rather more famous for its music than, say, Denver. None, however, carries quite the same musical weight as Chicago.
Proof of this contention, if any is needed, will be found at The Basement on Saturday, October 15, when the stage is occupied by a group Illinois natives who call themselves The Chicago Soul Collective. The band comprises a stack of red-hot city musos, and could justly be considered a soul supergroup.
Not to put to fine a point on it, this will be the soul gig of the year. Bar none.
Prominent in the Collective is Vince Willis – a name instantly familiar to fans of Earth Wind And Fire. As well as being a bona fide member thereof, Mr Willis has also played with the likes of George Clinton, Lou Rawls, The Temptations and Beck.
Lorna Boston has also backed up George Clinton, but is better known as the eponymous lead singer of Chicago’s Lorna Boston Quartet, which has held a residency at the dead-funky Underground Wonder Bar for a quite amazing 22 years.
Another member of the Collective is ‘Down Town’ Tony Brown, who has played with, well, just about everyone. He’s been in the band for Aretha Franklin, BB King, Nancy Wilson, Etta James, Solomon Burke, James Brown, Bo Diddley, Dr John, and dozens more soul and blues stars.
Smokin’ Joe Thomas has played with Buddy Miles and Stevie Wonder. Kevon Smith has also played with Buddy Miles and George Clinton, as well as Jimmy Reed and Hound Dog Taylor.
There are still others in the line-up for this show, all equally distinguished. Together they make an extraordinary collection of talent and experienced performers. The show at The Basement promises to be amazing, especially if the sample tracks just released on www.chicagosoulcollective.com are any indication.
We have four double passes to the show to give away. To score one, simply call The Basement box office during office hours on 9251 2797.
For a full rundown of events at The Basement: www.thebasement.com.au
Contact the writer: amasterson@thebasement.net.au
BY ANDREW MASTERSON
