I was fortunate to catch Dr. John's performance at the Paramount in Charlottesville, VA last night. I love the theatre. Less than 1200 capacity and great sound. Dr. John's band was able to capitalize on the acoustics and weave a tapestry, create a sound scape of New Orleans funk and Creole magic. With a skull on his piano, ram's horn cane in hand, and bag of gris gris around his neck, the good Doctor created magic. "Black Widow Spider" and "Walk on Guilded (Gilded) Splinters" were both sinister stand outs. His guitar player has a unique deep throated tone that really added to the dark nature of both tunes. The bass player kept a sinewy line running all night. His drummer is top notch. But they were all directed by the great Sarah Morrow is Trombone player and musical director. The audience was older, and not in much of a dancing room, but they listened attentively which allowed for some great dynamics.

Old Mac ain't getting any younger. Last week he cancelled 2 shows in Brooklyn and one at the Hamilton in DC. He looked a little pale and drawn but still put in a powerful junko performance on the keys. If you get a chance I recommend taking the time to get out and bathe in his voodoo.