We went to see Hot Tuna last night at the Keswick for their annual visit. It's always fun to see what version of Hot Tuna will show up. (We forgot the camera last night so the pictures aren't from this concert)
Years ago it was just Jack and Jorma and a primarily accoustic show. Since Barry Mitterhoff joined them around 2004 (or so), it's been Jack, Jorma and Barry. The shows have been largely 2 part - an acoustic set with the traditional blues that Hot Tuna loves and does so well and then a hotter, harder electric set.
I was never a huge fan of G. E. Smith - until last night. Jorma Kaukonen is the consomate technician, but Mr. Smith added the soul to this concert - for sure. He's another one of those guitarists that seems to have a direct connection from his heart to his fingers - the music flows sweet and pure. (He teaches his distinctive style at Jorma's Fur Peace Ranch.)
It wouldn't be fair to say that G. E. Smith added ALL of the soul, though. Jack Casady was his usual amazing self on that big, gold Epiphone bass and it was a treat to watch Skoota Warner add the rhythm and funk - and a great deal of visual entertainment! Mr. Warner was obviously having a drum-o-rific time last night. I think he must be the "smilingest" drummer I've ever seen.
And then there's the ever-so-talented Barry Mitterhoff with his cast of mini-instruments. The man can play anything - any style. It's fun to watch Barry groove (in his white mesh sneakers with the blue metallic flair down the side) on instruments I can't even describe.
Jack and Jorma originally wanted to be known as "Hot Shit" but the record producer prevailed and their name became the less controversial "Hot Tuna". If those of us who love and follow Hot Tuna are known as Tunaphiles, I hate to even think of what we'd have been if the first name had stuck. Or... maybe it's obvious. :)
This one was one to remember for all time.
