The North Jersey Blues Society continues to bring some of the finest regional and national - performing musicians and their bands into the Montclair Brewery for the enormously popular monthly music series - Blues and Brews -
Dave Keyes - the 30-plus year veteran of the American music scene - keyboardist , singer , songwriter , bandleader , playwright - rocked the Montclair Brewery with his uniquely original mix of boogie-woogie , blues , rock , and soul . Dave Keyes - master of the 88's , who has toured the world alongside some of the finest musicians in the world , and with own band , tore up Montclair with his multi-talented bandmates - John Putnam (guitar) , James Wormworth (drums), and Sue Williams (bass) . The large gathering of friends , family , and fans were treated to a raucous afternoon and evening of exhilarating and intoxicating ( well...this is Montclair Brewery after all) " Rhythm Blues and Boogie " (the latest release from Dave Keyes and his many Friends - check it out ) that showcased a band having great fun - and sharing it with everyone packed into the brewery . If you weren't up and dancing by the close of the first set , you were lovingly admonished by those around you to get up and "shake a tail feather " - and the second set was even more wildly exciting!
Dave Keyes continues to carry the torch of his heroes - Fats Domino , Dr. John , Johnny Johnson , and Professor Longhair . His next project brings Dave Keyes back to Broadway - " Rock and Roll Man " - the musical opening on June 2 in New York City , New World Stages , based on the life of the legendary Alan Freed.
Dave always has a lot of fun during his performances . He calls out to the crowd , jokes with his bandmates , pokes fun at himself . At one point Dave laughingly put on his wife Pats eyeglasses since his own had been lost somewhere, making jokes about being able to see the song list . His puckish Irish humor always shines through every performance. With a twirl of his hand Dave doffed his black hat and put it on the floor , making jokes about tips being appreciated , and beers always acceptable . Dave loves to perform , is always entertaining , and is a great guy in every way.
Special thanks to Pat , Dave's wonderful wife , who was so gracious to everyone throughout the afternoon and evening . It was a pleasure hanging with you at " Blues and Brews " . You know how to party!!
