I’ve been busier than a one armed paper hanger with Hatrix’s production of a Comedy of Tenors this past few months, so I haven’t made it to all of the shows I wanted to, especially last week.
However my timing was on after our opening night,Thursday as the play ended in time for me to catch all of the second set of Ottawa blues rock trio MonkeyJunk at the Geomatic Attic, May 24.
The good sized crowd was already hot and sweaty as Mike Spencer had cleared away a couple rows of chairs to create an improvised dance floor for several of the patrons to enjoy.
I always look forward to MonkeyJunk’s blend of blues, rock, soul and the inimitable sound of lead singer Steve Marriner’s baritone guitar and harp.
They began the second set with “Light it Up,” and kept the energy and good vibes high and the dancers bodies moving throughout.
Lead guitarist Tony D drew many a burst of applause for short sweet and effective guitar solos and catchy riffs. Marriner told stories and jokes. He introduced “Pray For Rain” by talking about performing with Mic Mac traditional dancers in Ottawa.
They played several familiar tacks including tracks from their first Juno award Winning album “To Behold,” including their cover of Hank Williams’ “You’re Gonna Change or I’m Gonna Go.”
Matt Sobb held a steady beat and got to show his skill at the end of the show as they played “Gone” from their second Juno Award winning album “Time to Roll.”
Marriner put down his guitar and picked up a harp and wandered through the crowd while playing to much applause.
They were called back for an encore of a spirited version of Chubby Checker’s ’50s hit ‘ The Twist.” and wound things up with another, slower ‘50 sounding doo wop number “Lonely Heart.”
