Nova Music Reviews

To show just how ubiquitous Bobby Thompson is with regard to his performances, I've seen him play 6 or 7 times since I first saw him perform (at the Lake Anne Jazz & Blues Fest in 2018), and this Boxing Day performance at Jammin’ Java was the first time I'd ever paid for a ticket. Every other time, Bobby (either solo or with a band) has played at one of Northern Virginia’s finer establishments that sell adult beverages.  But on this night, the ticket price was well worth the cost. Thompson was joined on stage by former Revelator Hill bandmate, bassist Seth Morrissey; his former colleagues with Blueheart Revival, guitarist extraordinaire Colin Thompson (no relation) and drummer Gary Crockett, and legendary local sax man Ron Holloway, for a rollicking tribute to The Allman Brothers Band and Derek and the Dominos.  It was apparent, the joy present in this band on this night, as many of the tunes they played, either of the tribute variety or one of Bobby T’s originals, morphed...

 I’ve been a fan of Chuck Prophet ever since I heard his song “A Bad Year For Rock & Roll” while searching my Sirius XM channels about 5 years ago. He had a sound that was rootsy, not too country-ish, and at times, really rockin’. Soon thereafter, I purchased 4 of his (at the time) most recent digital albums, which were on constant play during my work commute for most of the next year. But I was not fortunate enough to get to see his live show, then Covid hit. Fast forward to 2021, and live music is coming back! Chuck and his band, The Mission Express, were coming to Jammin’ Java, a small club about 15 minutes away. Another regret of mine was not ever getting to Jammin’ Java in the previous 20 years of its existence as a live music venue, so this was a double treat! Upon entry that Sunday night, I encountered a very intimate joint, with seating for about 200, at dinging tables and general admission seating. I took as seat at the back of the GA area, and waited. Opening the show...