Reub's journey

04 October 2010

5th and B


I took a few pictures at a practice session with a band that John plays in from time to time, "5th and B."

The studio where they meet is at 5th and B street, hence the name of the group.



Practice sessions go on behind this blue door.



Mostly this group plays original music, a lot of it written out in scores, but much of it improvisational.



Come on in and look around.



There is lots to see.




And plenty to hear.




Each musician submits a piece, discusses it briefly with the group, and answers questions.




Then away they go.



These musicians come from a span of 120 miles to play together.




It's worth the trip.



A drum set is a whole world of its own, lots of fascinating surfaces, and all kinds of sounds.




The sax player doesn't sit still for a second; can you tell?




I was worried that my little camera might not be up for the job.




But I think it did okay, even in the low light.




5th and B

October 9, 9:00 PM: Squirrels in Corvallis
November 6, 9:00 PM: Cloud 9, Corvallis
November 20, Tabor Space on SE Belmont, Portland, OR

8 comments:

  1. Looks like a fun time. Love the name. Next time you'll have to post an itune of their music. ;)

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  2. What an excellent memory in photos. Great shots. They convey information and mood at the same time. Makes me wish I could drop in on my son's jam sessions, but alas he is not as welcoming.

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  3. What a wonderful shoot and story. Told and shown with so many great details.

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  4. I've always loved listening to live bands. Your little camera sure did do a great job capturing the ambiance and mood. Drums are my favorite. Love this post.

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  5. I wish I could come hear them play. What kind of music?

    LOVE the pics - they are fabulous.

    Making music is a really good thing. Love this post.

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  6. Rebecca, I know. I have to figure out how to get an mp3 onto this blog.
    Tabor, 50 and 60 year-old men are much more welcoming than younger guys, I think. They were really happy to have me sneaking around taking pictures!

    B&B and Jarie Lyn, thank you. You are both better photographers than I.

    Reya! You would like what they do I bet. It is difficult to categorize. Strong horn section, amazing percussion, bizarre bass playing, and of course then there is John, the guitar player, well-versed in rock, bluegrass, country swing, and most of all jazz. The music is abstract and interesting. Lots of improv, and no song is ever played the same more than...once.

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  7. sigh. these photos give a great portrayal of a jam session...just awesome.

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  8. THat photo with the lamp and the guitar profile - all curves and shadows - it is an entire universe in itself.

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