Jacob Sacks and Room 264

Last night was a fun filled evening at Detour. Jacob Sacks invited all his friends and colleagues who used to work with him at CPSM (a music prepatory school) and had one big musical party. Jacob was emcee all night (there’s a game show host in him-I can feel it) and the music was unpredictable as ever. There were eight of us last night; Jacob, myself, Bob Bowen (bass), Vinnie Sperrazza (drums), Khabu Doug Young (guitar), Brian Drye (trombone), Mike McGinnis (reeds) and Shane Endsley (trumpet) and we all took a turn at choosing a piece to play. It didn’t matter if you knew the tune, you had the chance to learn it while it was going on. It was super crazy and so much fun.

The final tune of the night, Jacob said we all had to choose a piece and start it at the same time and that we would all finally end up on one tune. Well it was utter chaos (I loved every second of it), and we finally ended up on “Off Minor”. But the cool thing was that when everyone’s turn came to solo, we each played the tune we originally chose and then returned to “Off Minor”. The whole experience was like playing in someone’s living room and all of us just goofin’ around and having a blast.

I was exhausted by the end of it but felt like I had just come off of a big roller coaster ride. Those musician’s blew me away (as usual) and I was happy to go along for the ride.

Just before the gig, I went to check out my friend and fellow vocalist, Judith Berkson play at Barbes. Once again, Judith knocked me out with her music. I admire her musicianship and musical vision. She’s a great singer and imaginative improviser. I love what she does. If anyone lives in NYC, you should come to one of her shows and experience the magic. Judith does a solo show every month (usually) at Barbes. Check out the calendar to see when she’s playing next. I will see you there.

2 comments

  1. Hey Jacob,

    I never got the chance to get your e mail from our family this weekend and I was told I can find you all over the internet. I tried to find you on MySpace but I’m not sure if I’m finding the right Jacob sacks. IF this is you, the musical genius or at least one of them in my family, id’e love to get in touch and get to hear some of your music! Hope its you and let get bac to me when you can! Do you live in NY?
    Cousin Deb ( From Montreal)

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