Today in The Loop we revisit former news editor Jefferson Waful’s January 2001 look back at 2000

2000 was quite the year in the world of jam bands. As the genre continues to grow, Mainstream America is finally taking notice. The first Annual Jammys, which occurred June 22 at New York’s Irving Plaza, attracted media attention from some of the largest publications in the world including the New York Times and Rolling Stone.

Phish had a huge year, especially in the media spotlight, playing two nights at Radio City Music Hall, being featured in a nationally released documentary film, appearing on VH-1’s Hard rock Live, and having each of its four members featured on separate covers of Entertainment Weekly. The group was even mentioned on an episode of The Simpsons for the first time, sending the online community into a frenzy. The Vermont quartet also announced that it would be taking a hiatus from touring and in the process, passed the torch to a number of younger bands that have quickly seen an increase in concert attendance. For the first time in more than ten years Phish took New Year’s Eve off, forcing thousands of die-hard fans to make alternate plans for the last week of December. One could argue that while Phish’s hiatus may be hard to swallow, it is the best thing that could have happened to the jam band scene as a whole.

Meanwhile, a few bands went through major line-up changes in 2000. Lead singer Reid Genauer announced that he would be leaving Strangefolk. The group then welcomed two new members, keyboardist Scott Shdeed and guitarist and vocalist Luke Montgomery. Deep Banana Blackout bid farewell to singer Jen Durkin and brought aboard Hope Clayburn. The Disco Biscuits parted ways with bassist Marc Brownstein in January, although he rejoined the gband seven months later.

The jam band community also said good bye to Gov’t Mule bass player Allen Woody, formerly of the Allman Brothers Band, who died of unknown causes in August. One of the most touching nights of the year occurred on September 21st when a star-studded line-up including the Allman Brothers, Phil & Friends and The Black Crowes performed at the “One For Woody” benefit concert at Roseland Ballroom in New York City.

What follows is a complete recap of the top stories of the year. Five stories that were of great impact have been selected from each month. Take a stroll down memory lane.

JANUARY

1/6/00

Schleigho Signs With Flying Frog Records

Flying Frog Records has just announced the first addition to its roster with the signing of New York-based groove stalwarts (and proponents of the odd time signature), Schleigho. Flying Frog, the product of Butch Truck’s jam-infused vision, is already home to Frogwings, which brings together the talents of Trucks, John Popper, Jimmy Herring, Oteil Burbridge, Derek Trucks and Mark Quinones. The Frogwings debut will appear in the early spring, with a Schleigho disc to follow soon afterwards. Trucks confirms that the label will add at least one additional band to its roster in the weeks to come, and suggests that some Flying Frog-themed events may be on the horizon.

1/11/00

Disco Biscuits Part Ways with Marc Brownstein

The Disco Biscuits have asked bass player Marc Brownstein to leave the band. Brownstein issued the following statement on the band’s listserve. “As many of you know, there has been trouble in paradise. The end result is that the other three members of the band have told me that they do not wish to continue touring with me as their bass player. Thus, I have been asked to leave the band. Although I am shocked at this decision, I wish to emphasize that the last 5 years have been a most unbelievable experience. And, as I have been left without a choice, I have no regrets. I would like to thank everyone for their undying support and I will miss you all greatly.”

1/17/00

Warren Haynes Reunites with Allman Brothers for Joe Dan Petty Service

Warren Haynes sat in with the Allman Brothers Band Thursday at a memorial service for guitar engineer Joe Dan Petty. He was killed in a plane crash January 8. The service was held at the Grand Opera House in Macon, GA. It was Haynes’ first time playing with the Allman Brothers since he parted ways with them in 1997. He joined them on stage for “Stormy Monday,” “Jessica” and “One Way Out,” which he sang. Keyboardist Chuck Leavell sat in for the entire show. Other guests included Susan Tedeschi and Bonnie Bramlett.

1/19/00

It’s Official: KVHW is no More

In a statement issued on the KVHW website and listserve, Steve Kimock announced that the band has broken up. “Well kids, That’s it for KVHW (sniff),” says Kimock. “What a great run though, huh? Best wishes and continued good fortune to everybody who helped make these last two years such a good time. I salute you! So here’s looking forward to the new millennium with a renewed spirit of community and commitment to the authentic musical experience…Come join Bobby, myself and special guests at the following Steve Kimock Band shows in February…”

The Steve Kimock Band will play February 11 and 12 at Wetlands in New York City. The line up will include Kimock, Vega, Pete Sears and Prairie Prince. February 17 and 18, Kimock, Vega, Prince and Jimmy Sanchez will play the Great American Music Hall in San Francisco. The Steve Kimock Band is expected to play shows in the Northwest, February 23-27. Look for dates in Seattle, Vancouver and Portland.

1/28/00

Phoenix Presents Live Releases

Phoenix Media Group has announced the launch of Phoenix Presents, a new label featuring live recordings of independent bands. The live performances are engineered by Sam Kopper, who was program director for Boston radio giant WBCN in 1968. Kopper also engineered Live Aid and Diana Ross Live in Central Park. Releases that are available from Phoenix include Blueground Undergrass – Live at the Variety Playhouse, Jiggle the Handle – Live at the Stone Coast Brewery, Soup – A Tour of Two Cities, Blind Man’s Sun – Live at The Elbow Room and ulu – Live at Wetlands. Phoenix plans to release a total of twenty-four live albums this year.

FEBRUARY

2/9/00

Gamelan Offices Destroyed in Fire, Shows will Go on

The office building which houses Boston-based production company Gamelan Interactive, along with numerous other businesses, is currently engulfed in flames from a five-alarm fire. All Gamelan employees have escaped without injury, but everything in the office was completely destroyed. “I just hope that everyone in the building is alive,” says Gamelan owner and talent buyer Andrew Stahl. “We lost everything. We’re confused, but we’re gonna regroup.” WHDH News in Boston is reporting that the fire started in a dentist office in the building just before noon. “We were just sitting there, Andrew and I, advancing some production for this weekend and Todd (Walker) said he smelled smoke,” says Gamelan employee Steve Robinson. “Howard (Turkenkopf) and I looked out the window and the building was on fire. We went outside and watched it burn to the ground.”

Gamelan Interactive’s booking department represents Jiggle the Handle, Soulive, John Brown’s Body, The New Deal, Addison Groove Project, Dr. Didg and The Living Daylights. Gamelan also promotes many Boston area shows as well as the annual Berkshire Mountain Music Festival.

“The shows will go on,” says Stahl. “We’ve got a great team. We’re gonna join together and make this happen.” Upcoming Gamelan shows include The Zen Tricksters tomorrow night at Harper’s Ferry in Allston, Deep Banana Blackout Friday night at the Middle East in Cambridge, Lee Scratch Perry Saturday at the Middle East and moe. at the Somerville Theatre February 24 and 25.

2/14/00

New Film from Mike Gordon

Phish bassist Mike Gordon has a new film out entitled “Outside Out.” It is currently on the festival circuit, and will be released later this year. The movie is about a teenage guitar player, played by Phish’s assistant road manager, Jimi Stout, who orders an instructional video in hopes of mastering his instrument. He orders, “The Outstructional Video” which is narrated by Col. Bruce Hampton, and urges players to “unlearn” music theory in order to find their true musical identity. The movie also includes cameo appearances by Gordon and Phish drum tech, Pete Carini. The film features original music composed by Gordon and includes performances by James Harvey, Russ Lawton and Gordon Stone as well as Buddy Cage, Vassar Clements, Jon Fishman, Bela Fleck, Adam Frehm, Gabe Jerret, Craig Johnson, Stuart Paton, Mark Van Allen and Heloise Williams. “Outside Out” also includes music from Aquarium Rescue Unit and Col. Bruce Hampton.

2/22/00

Trey Anastasio, Stewart Copeland Sit in with Primus

Phish’s Trey Anastasio and Stewart Copeland of the Police joined Primus on stage last night at the University of Vermont in Burlington. Anastasio was introduced as “Edward Van Halen” and Copeland was announced as “John Bonham.” Trey replaced Primus guitarist Larry LaLonde and Stewart took over for Primus’ Brain Mantia on drums. Along with bass player Les Claypool, they performed “Blue Collared Tweekers”“Communication Breakdown”>Jam->“Blue Collared Tweekers.” After “Communication Breakdown,” Trey departed and Copeland, Claypool and LaLonde remained to finish “BCT.”

Last night was not the first time Anastasio has collaborated with Primus. On 12-6-96 at the Aladdin Theater in Las Vegas, Claypool and LaLonde joined Phish for an extended encore that featured Claypool rapping and playing bass during “Harpua.” Mantani later joined the band for “Suzie Greenberg.”

On Thursday, Trey will perform a song with B.B. King and The Roots at Los Angeles’ Grand Olympic Auditorium for the upcoming IMAX film, “All Access.” The film shoot is open to the public, on a first-come, first-serve basis and is free.

2/24/00

Santana Takes Home Eight Grammys

Santana tied a record by winning eight trophies at the 42nd Annual Grammy Awards last night. His CD, Supernatural, which has sold more than six million copies, was named Album of the Year. Santana also picked up awards for Song of the Year and record of the year, for “Smooth,” Pop Collaboration with Vocals, Pop Duo or Group with Vocal, Pop Instrumental Performance for “El Farol”, Rock Duo or Group with Vocal and Rock Instrumental Performance. Santana ties Michael Jackson’s record for the most awards in one year. Jackson took home eight Grammies in 1983 for Thriller.

Jimi Hendrix’s video, “Bands of Gypsies – Live at the Fillmore East,” won the Grammy for Best Long Form Music Video. The award for Best Jazz Instrumental Performance Song went to Pat Metheny for “Like Minds,” which features Chick Corea, Gary Burton, Roy Haynes and Dave Holland. B.B. King won the Grammy for Best Traditional Blues Album for Blues on the Bayou. King will perform today at 6 p.m. PST with Trey Anastasio and The Roots at the Grand Olympic Auditorium in Los Angeles. The performance will be recorded for the upcoming IMAX film “All Access.” The shoot is free and open to the public on a first-come, first-serve basis.

2/25/00

Trey Anastasio, B.B. King Jam with The Roots

Trey Anastasio, B.B. King and The Roots performed last night at the Grand Olympic Auditorium in Los Angeles. The performance was filmed for the upcoming IMAX film, “All Access.” The musicians performed a few versions of King’s “Rock Me Baby.” The song featured guitar solos from both King and Anastasio. The Roots traded vocal lines with Anastasio, who appeared in a black suit. After everyone left the stage, Trey returned by himself to take an extended guitar solo, while the film crew shot close ups of him. “All Access” also features the music of George Clinton & P-Funk, Mary J. Blige, Sting, Carlos Santana and Moby. The film is expected to be released early next year.

MARCH

3/19/00

The Slip Sign With Flying Frog Records

The Slip have signed with Flying Frog Records and will release their second album, Does, on the label. Allman Brothers drummer and Flying Frog CEO Butch Trucks founded Flying Frog with the intention of keeping artists’ opinions a priority. “We’ve been talking with them for about 9 or 10 months, since the band first met Butch in June,” says Darren Cohen, manager of The Slip. “The artist-friendly aspects that the label is articulating, give everyone involved high hopes.” The Slip are the third band to sign with the label and join Schleigho and Frogwings on the roster. The new studio album, Does, is due out in late spring.

The Slip recently wrapped up a West Coast tour that included stops in California, Colorado and Arizona. They’ll tour in the Southeast beginning March 17 at The Cotton Club in Atlanta, GA.

3/17/00

Anastasio, Claypool and Copeland to Perform as Oysterhead

Further details on the Trey Anastasio, Les Claypool and Stewart Copeland collaboration have been released. The trio will perform together as Oysterhead May 4 at the Saenger Theatre in New Orleans. Claypool was originally contacted by Superfly Productions about assembling a group to take part in the ongoing SuperJam concert series. He contacted Anastasio, who he first played with at a 1994 Phish show. Stewart Copeland, former drummer for The Police, was also called. Copeland produced a track on the mos t recent Primus album, Anti-Pop. The trio first jammed together during a Primus show February 21 at the University of Vermont. The performance included a version of Led Zeppelin’s “Communication Breakdown” as well as Primus’ “Blue Collared Tweekers”.

3/17/00

Blind Man’s Sun Announces Break Up

Blind Man’s Sun has announced that the band has broken up. The news comes in conjunction with the release of the band’s latest release, Live From The Moon . The material was recorded by Phoenix Media at The Elbow Room in New York City on October 30 , 1999 as part of thier Phoenix Presents series. “The recording took place at the final performance of The Sun Chronicles, a six show multi-media concert extravaganza comprised of a (fictional) rendition of the Blind Man’s Sun experience – from the band’s Syracuse origins to their legendary lunar performance,” says BMS manager Mike C. “In retrospect, it was an embellished portrayal of the band’s entire history, from the beginning to, regrettably, the end.” Mike didn’t rule out the possibility of the band reforming at some point in the future. “I can tell you that certain members have expressed their hope and intention of some day performing again as Blind Man’s Sun. Despite the semi-tragic announcement, I do believe we have not seen the last of the Sun.”

3/23/00

Jen Durkin to Leave Deep Banana Blackout

Deep Banana Blackout vocalist Jen Durkin has announced that she will be leaving the band this August. In a statement released this morning, Durking explained her decision. “Sorry for my long silence during the recent months as I have been contemplating the future,” said Durkin. “It is time for me to change and it has been a tough decision because I have had so much happiness in DBB. I have to follow my intuition to give more time to different projects. DBB is such a hardworking band and they are so committed to this project that there just isn’t enough time for me to do other things and keep up the pace of touring DBB style. I will be in the band full time until August 13th. I have loved being with you all and will always stay in touch. DBB will no doubt have many years of great music and plenty of surprises to come. I am proud to be an instigator and founding member of this unique and talented bunch. Looking forward to a great summer!”

In a statement released this afternoon, Deep Banana Blackout manager Bob Kennedy spoke about the future of the band. “Obviously, Jen’s talents have been a huge contribution to the success of DBB, but as time has worn on it’s been increasingly difficult for Jen to give 100% to this highly demanding occupation,” said Kennedy. “We want to let you know that Eric, Johnny, Ben, Fuzz, Volo, Somerville and Cyrus as well as myself, E!, Richeeee, Heather, Jake & Elwood (our cats) and our whole organization are committed to moving forward and are excited to open new doors and new experiences. This, by no means, is the end of DBB. On the contrary, it is a new beginning and we are all anxious and excited to see what’s in store. We understand that this may be a shock to some of you. HAVE FAITH! DBB is a large family and we are all working hard to make the transition easy on everyone, you included! You all can count on seeing Jen at future DBB shows. We have been working with a few different singers (that I’m sure you will love) and they will be making guest appearances at upcoming shows. Until then, stay positive while we work to bring you all something new and exciting.”

3/24/00

Announcing The 1st Annual Jammy Awards

On June 22, Jambands.com will host the 1st Annual Jammy Awards at Irving Plaza in New York City. In the tradition of the Grammy Awards, the show will feature several award categories (many of which will be voted on by fans directly through Jambands.com), performances, all star jams, and surprise guests. “I can assure you that one of the jams we’ve already put together will make it all worth while,” says Jambands.com editor Dean Budnick. “Not only that, but we’re gonna have four or five more, that will really crisp your noodle. On top of that, we’ll have awards, celebrity presenters and free stuff. It’s gonna be a real celebration of the scene.”

There will also be a free aftershow party at Wetlands Preserve following the awards ceremony. Many more details including bands, awards and ticket information will appear on Jambands.com within the next few weeks.

APRIL

4/4/00

Furthur Festival to Return with New Incarnation of The Other Ones

Fans of the Furthur Tour will be happy to learn that the festival will be returning late this summer. Although an announcement regarding the full line up and dates is expected within the week, the headliner will once again be The Other Ones. The band will feature most of the musicians who performed in 1998, including Steve Kimock. A notable addition to the line up will be Alphonso Johnson (Jazz is Dead, Bobby and the Midnites) on bass.

4/11/00

moe. Peforms Rock Opera

moe. performed an updated version of The Timmy Tucker Rock Opera at their CD release party last night at Wetlands Preserve in New York City. It was the first time the band has played the opera since February 18, 1995 at the Wetlands’ Sixth Anniversary Show. The opera features moe. songs such as “Queen Of The Rodeo,” “Jazz Wank” and of course, “Timmy Tucker.”

4/24/00

Members of ‘N Sync Join Mickey Hart and Bob Weir at the Capitol Building

Mickey Hart and Bob Weir performed a short set of music today on the East Lawn at the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. The show was part of the National Bicentennial Birthday Party for the Library of Congress. Justin Timberlake and Lance Bass of ‘N Sync introduced Hart and Weir. The setlist included “Aiko, Aiko” and “Truckin,” which were performed with The Saturday Night Live Band, Giovanni Hidalgo on percussion and the Eastern High School Choir. Tito Puente then joined them on percussion for “Fire on the Mountain.” The encore was “This Land is Your Land,” during which Bass and Timberlake sat in on vocals.

Weir can now add collaborations with Hanson and members of ‘N Sync to his resume. Hanson sat in with Weir at Wetlands Preserve February 13 of 1999.

4/26/00

Oysterhead Prepares for New Orleans Performance

Oysterhead will perform May 4 at the Saenger Theatre in New Orleans. The lineup features Trey Anastasio of Phish, Les Claypool of Primus and Stewart Copeland formerly of The Police. The trio will begin rehearsals this week. “I’m actually going to fly out to California tomorrow and were going to try to write something, “ Anastasio told Jambands.com today. “We don’t have anything yet. We’re on the fly right now. Maybe we’ll do some covers, maybe we’ll do a Police song. We’re going to try to write something. We’ll definitely have some new material. It might be a train wreck, but you never know.”

The show is part of an evening concert series being produced by Superfly Presents, which will coincide with Jazz Fest. Superfly contacted Claypool about assembling an all-star lineup. “Basically, what happened is Les got the gig and he called me and asked me if I wanted to do it, which I did. Then he asked me if there was anyone I ever wanted to play with and I said Stewart. So he called Stewart and Stewart was very psyched about it. They both came to the barn and we jammed for a night, which was just great.”

Garage A Trois, featuring Charlie Hunter, Stanton Moore and Skerik will open the show.

4/28/00

Strangefolk Parts Ways with Mammoth Records, Release of New Album Delayed

Strangefolk has released a statement regarding the delayed release of their new album, A Great Long While. “Mammoth Records and its parent company, Disney, have been going through a major restructuring period and we got caught in the crossfire. It looks like things didn’t work out the way they had each hoped. Strangefolk had nothing to do with any of it; we were simply the next band on deck for a record release�Due to the situational changes at Mammoth they are no longer our label. The good thing is that both Disney and Mammoth have been sensitive to our situation and the record IS coming out. There are still some details to iron out but what we can say is that the record will be in your hands soon. The WHEN is yet to be seen. We’d offer a timeline but Murphy’s law would inevitably step in and crush it. Let’s just say it might make a great soundtrack to your summer barbecue.”

MAY

5/8/00

Fishman, Medeski, Haynes and Fuzz Jam with Project Logic in New Orleans

NEW ORLEANS – Jon Fishman, John Medeski, Warren Haynes and Deep Banana Blackout guitarist Fuzz sat in with Project Logic earlier this morning at Tipitina’s in New Orleans. Fuzz played with DJ Logic and company for the first set and then returned midway through the second set. Fishman, Medeski and Haynes performed for the entire second set. The show ended just after 8 this morning.

5/12/00

Members of String Cheese Incident, Leftover Salmon Record Album

All-star band, Comotion has announced the release of their album, Head West. The lineup features Michael Kang of String Cheese Incident, Jeff Sipe and Tye North of Leftover Salmon, Mike Marshall, Darol Anger and Paul McCandless and Aaron Johnston. String Cheese Incident will be distributing free cassette samplers containing two tracks from the album at shows this summer. The album will be available for pre-order beginning in mid-June. It will be released nationally September 12.

5/17/00

Lineup Changes for Viperhouse

Viperhouse has announced that three of their original members will be leaving the band. Lead vocalist Heloise Williams, trumpeter Brian Boyes and percussionist PJ Davidian will play their last show with the group June 10 at Higher Ground in Winooski, VT. According to a statement from the band: “The three members’ departures are all due to individual and personal reasons and not a group matter.” A new tenor saxophonist, Zack Tennyson, will join the band and begin performing June 15 at Mad Mountain Tavern in Waitsfield, VT. The remaining members of Viperhouse include Karen Quinn (violin), Dan Mallach (trombone), Ray Paczkowski (Hammond organ), Rob Morse (bass), Phil Carr (drums), and Michael Chorney (sax).

5/19/00

Jimmy Herring to Tour with Allman Brothers This Summer in Place of Dickey Betts

The Allman Brothers have just announced that Jimmy Herring will be touring with the band this summer in place of founding member Dickey Betts. The band sites “creative differences” for the personnel change and “hopes their good friend and brother will be back on the road with them this fall.” Herring is no stranger to the Allman Brothers. He is an original member of Aquarium Rescue Unit with current ABB bass player Oteil Burbridge and also plays in Frogwings with ABB drummer Butch Trucks.

The Allmans begin their summer tour June 16 at the GTE Virginia Beach Ampitheatre in Virginia Beach, VA.

5/22/00

Dickey Betts Responds to Allman Brothers Band Annoucement

In the wake of the announcement by the Allman Brothers Band that they would tour this summer with Jimmy Herring in his stead, Dickey Betts has posted a message to the band’s web site. The full text reads:

Dear friends: Last Thursday I received a fax notifying me that I would not be performing this summer with ABB. It said “you have not been performing well and our shows have been repeatly disappointing to both us and our fans as a result.” The implication was that I was suffering from some sort of health or drug problem. THIS IS TOTALLY, ABSOLUTELY, UNFOUNDED!..This I swear to you! As soon as I recieved this fax, I called Gregg to find out what was going on. His reponse was “if you don’t know, I can’t tell you- listen to the fucking tapes.” After nine days, I have still not received as much as a phone call from Butch, Gregg or Jaimoe. I have been in a state of shock and bewilderment and have been trying to make some sense out of all of this. I sat down and listened to the tapes from the Beacon and the last tour and was impressed with the quality of the music. I thought the band sounded great and I was particularly proud of my guitar work. There was never any discusssion or indication that there was any problem in the band. Therefore, I am as hurt and shocked as all of you! I certainly don’t have any answers, but I feel an obligation to share with all of you what I know about this. It is a very painful and confusing time and I can only pray for some healing and understanding. Peace and Love, Dickey Betts.”

Last week’s announcement reargding Betts left room for reconciliation, and emphasized that the group hopes he will return in the fall. The Allman Brothers Band summer tour opens on June 16 in Virgina Beach, VA.

JUNE

6/1/00

Tito Puente Dies at 77

Legendary jazz and Latin percussionist Tito Puente has died at the age of 77. Puente was treated for an irregular heartbeat in May and passed away yesterday at NYU Medical Center. In 1997, he received a National Medal of Arts from President Clinton and in February won his fifth Grammy in the category of Best Traditional Latin Performance for “Mambo Birdland.” Puente wrote “Oye Como Va,” which was popularized by Carlos Santana. “I play in jazz festivals all over the world,” Puente said in 1997. “Our Latin sounds are really spreading out. As long as I have my health, I’ll continue to work as long as I can. I may have to slow down next year a little, get to the semiretirement stage. But there are a couple of things I want to do first.’‘

6/16/00

moe. Releases Japan Dates

moe. has just announced that they will head to Japan for three shows in September. They’ll perform September 22 at Big Cat in Osaka, September 23 at Astro Hall in Tokyo and September 24 at Bay Hall in Yokohama. It will be the band’s first trip overseas. Ticket information has not yet been released.

Ha Ha the Moose, featuring moe. members Rob, Chuck and Jim, plays tonight at Wetlands Preserve in New York City and tomorrow at the Middle East in Cambridge, MA.

6/23/00

The Jammys: Musical Overview

Last evening’s Jammys presented a range of sounds and textures reflecting the diversity of the jam/groove scene. The night began as the curtain ascended to reveal the Jammys Orchestra, with band leader Fuzz guiding an all-star line-up through “Watermelon Man.” The Orchestra included Merl Saunders, John Scofield, Marc Friedman, Eric Kalb, Jonny Durkin and a horn section featuring Rob Somerville & Volo (Deep Banana Blackout) and TK from Foxtrot Zulu. Co-host Peter Prince’s “Jammys Theme” came next, followed by The New Deal’s richly-improvised tribute to Bill Monroe. The Slip’s performance referenced the music of Bob Dylan, at one point trailing into the ether then drifting back for a moving take on “Don’t Think Twice It’s Alright.” Next, John Scofield returned to the stage with Soulive for a simmering performance, offering one particularly scintillant run as Sco and Eric Krasno went toe-to-toe exchanging musical phrases. The high-octane talent of Frogwings (Butch Trucks, Derek Trucks, Oteil Burbridge, Kofi Burbridge, Jimmy Herring, Mark Quinones) which followed was further enhanced when Susan Tesdeschi took the stage as well. Next, the Disco Biscuits offered a classical piece and then Les Claypool joined them for a thirty minute funk/punk/techno-fusion medley which incorporated Pink Floyd’s “Have a Cigar” and The Beatles’ “Tomorrow Never Knows.” In their slot, Deep Banana Blackout single-handedly honored two figures, moving from Santana’s “Everybody’s Everything” to Frank Zappa’s “I’m The Slime.” Strangefolk followed, welcoming Merl Saunders to offer a classic Grateful Dead segued which moved from “Scarlet Begonias” into “Fire on the Mountain.” The evening concluded in a celebratory fashion as Fuzz and company returned for a run through “It’s Your Thing,” with Jen Durkin and Peter Prince trading vocals, Eric Krasno and Brad Barr joining in on guitars, Andrew Barr and Jim Loughlin handling percussion and the Jammys brass attack contributing further bite.

Here is a list of the award winners.

Release of the Year- Grateful Dead, So Many Roads Jam of the Year- The Disco Biscuits, Akira Jam, 12/31/99 Live set of the Year- Phish, 12/31/99 set II Live Album of the year- moe., L Wetlands Award (Lifetime Achievment)- B.B. King Studio Album of the year- Percy Hill, Color in Bloom Future Jam (musicians’ award)- Soulive New Groove of the year (fan vote)- Fat Mama Home Grown Music Award- Strangefolk, Lore Radio Show- The Music Never Stops, Barry Smolin, KPFK, Los Angeles Fan Web Site- www.etree.org Community Service- Strangers Helping Strangers Topper Award (Commitment to the scene)- Chris Zahn Jambands.com Writer- Jeff Waful

6/26/00

Claypool and Weir, Krasno and Scofield Collaborate at the Gathering of the Vibes

Bob Weir sat in with Les Claypool and his Rat Brigade Saturday at the Gathering of the Vibes at Seaside Park in Bridgeport, CT. Claypool and company performed on the second stage, located next to the main stage, where Ratdog performed immediately following the set. Ratdog drummer Jay Lane (formerly of Primus), performed with Claypool and keyboardist Jeff Chimenti. Near the end of the set, Weir emerged during a cover of the Beatles’ “Tomorrow Never Knows,” when Claypool introduced him as “Edward Van Halen.” Rat Brigade’s set segued into the opening of Ratdog’s set when Claypool and Wasserman dueled on bass and Lane scrambled to get to the main stage. During Ratdog’s encore, Claypool returned for another bass jam when Weir introduced him as “Paul McCartney.”

Earlier in the day, John Scofield welcomed Eric Krasno of Soulive to jam with him. Both players took extended solos and traded licks, (reminiscent of their collaboration Thursday night at the Jammys at New York City’s Irving Plaza).

6/28/00

Mitch Cohen: 1961-2000

The Jam Band community has lost one of its biggest supporters. Mitch Cohen, who died Saturday due to a terminal illness, was a passionate music fan who worked hard to spread the word on some of his favorite bands. Also known on-line as “The Answer Man,” Cohen worked with management company Mission Control, promoting bands such as Jazz Is Dead, Justice League and Blue Floyd. “One of the most positive spirits I have ever encountered even in the face of a terminal illness,” says guitarist Jimmy Herring (Allman Brothers, Jazz Is Dead, ARU). “Always in the face of adversity, he had such positive energy. He was a devoted father and husband and a true listener. I will never forget him.” Cohen is survived by his wife Joan and two children. He will be missed.

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