A couple of weeks ago, I traveled up to my old stomping grounds of NYC for some work and a little play. On my first night in the city, my little brother Ruben invited me to see a jam session going on at Carroll Place on Bleecker Street in Greenwich Village. Trusting my brother’s better judgment, I went along. And boy was I glad I did. Really glad.
Veteran NYC guitarist Joe “JJ” Sansaverino has worked with the likes of George Clinton, Shaggy, Sean Paul, Super Cat, Shabba Ranks, the Jungle Brothers and continues to perform worldwide with reggae legends Maxi Priest and Shaggy. His special guests for his “Downtown Jazz Jam” on this particular evening were Jamaica West Indies Bass Phenomenon Taddy P and NYC jazz fusion saxophonist Curtis Haywood II. Also featured were veteran NYC musicians Nate Jones on bass, Jason Patterson on drums and Jared “Red” Jacobs on Keyboards.
Now, I don’t know how to put it any other way than these guys friggin’ killed it. One of the best live performances I’ve seen. Period.
I brought my camera along and snapped a few photographs that might not allow you to “hear” how great the music was, but it clearly illustrates the passion behind the music. And for those of you in New York City, JJ is back at Carroll Place on October 12 at 8pm with sax player Will Donato. If you can be there, be there. You won’t be sorry. Promise.
JJ Sansaverino on left and Taddy P on right
Bassist Taddy P
Curtis Haywood’s sax was smoking. For real.
Jared “Red” Jacobs on Keyboards
Jason Patterson on drums
Nate Jones on bass
Great time with my brother at Carroll Place, which has a great food menu as well and offers an intimate setting for live shows. Check out JJ and Will Donato on October 12th. You’re welcome.
