DEC. 2, 2017 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE & PHOTOS

It’s our first Friday Jam Night in the month of December and the yuletide season is certainly upon us. In just a few weeks it’ll be Christmas. Truly, how time flies when you’re having fun. Though different in complexion every time, whether a packed room or just a few in attendance, as always, our Friday gatherings never fails to bring joy and gratification to everyone who comes each and every time.

Last night was quite unique with the gathering divided into two settings. My wife Vicky with her siblings and some friends converged and cozied up all night to enjoy their bonding time in the lanai area while the rest of the guests stayed down in the music room. Incidentally, only a handful of musicians showed up to jam.

Similarly to last week, it was quite late before we even started playing. Well timed that our new Finnish friend, and guitarist Aksu Arola, showed up to add to the roster. Percussionist Vincent Garrucho and his talented vocalist daughter Maxine were also in the house, as well as my high school batchmate, Jun Bediones, who obliged taking over the drumming chores for most of the evening. Vocalist Monchie Henares, who was with birthday girl Arabelle Jimenez, made it to the list as well and as expected, i was to be the bass player. When house band honcho Tinnie Esguerra arrived we were complete and good to go.

The jam was not as lengthy, as in most nights, lasting only about a few hours before we were done and over. We started at past midnight and were finished by 4am. Though not at all a reflection of complaisance nor lack of interest from the jammers to perform but just a coincidence that most needed to leave early for one reason or the other. Nevertheless, we were still able to record on video a few of our work before we called it a night. No complaints.

At closing time, Aksu, was still enjoying his last round of beer when the rest of the guys bid good bye to go home. That was only 4am. Left all by himself, I kept Aksu company and encouraged him to stay around and not to rush and just enjoy and finish his drink. Good opportunity also for him to contact his apparent UBER ride home. It was 4:30an when his ride arrived to pick him up. Congratulations and best wishes to Aksu Arola and his filipina fiancee on their upcoming wedding, soon to happen.

After I finally closed

up, i left the room and joined my wife and family at the lanai where they were still there partying. Stayed with them for a while but finally called it a night at about 5:30 am. The lanai group , I learned, apparently packed up by sunrise. All’s well that ends well. Praise and thank God.

And so our countdown for Christmas day begins. ‘Tiss the season to be jolly! Peace on earth goodwill to men.

Till the next jam night...

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!