[Dixielandjazz] Blind Spots, FH5+2

[Jim Kashishian]

Marek wrote:
>And while I have heard some very good Firehouse Five + Two, I cannot
understand the adoration thereof.

Marek, The Firehouse Five + 2 had "fun" in their music, even on their
recordings.  That fun incurred fans (like myself), and adversaries (perhaps
yourself)....for not being a "serious" band. 

The important ingredient is "fun + competence".  Nothing like good musicians
and fun.  The two must work hand in hand or the fun doesn't work.

It is what I believe it was you said about a band at Ryan's just going
through the motions.  Good musicians lacking the fun.  It was said then
that, having talked to some ladies, the musicians livened up.  I believe
firmly that it should be read as "after having talked to someone in his
audience", the band livened up.  It is the audience in general, not just the
ladies, that musicians react to, and a band will pep up when appreciated. 

The FH5+2 was just always on fire (pun intended), and, I experienced that in
a small club in LA in the late 1950's, not to mention my collection of old
lp's by them!

Jim