Jim Heath at The Iridium 1/27/14
Victory Records recording artist Reverend Horton Heat stormed into New York City this past weekend to celebrate the release of his new album Rev, which was released on Tuesday January 21st. His concert at Irving Plaza sold out as expected, but unexpected was his appearance at The “Iridium” Jazz Club in Times Square. I personally have never been to this venue before, but I can tell you that it is WORTH the experience. I walked in to find Jim Heath, A.K.A The “Reverend” walking around the establishment and talking to fans before the show. The pace was relaxed to a point where it felt more intimate than any type of concert or acoustic session I have experienced. Looking around, seeing some of their photos on the walls along with Les Paul Guitars from icons such as Zakk Wylde of Black Label Society, Guns N’ Roses and many more. I knew I walked into a mecca of history. There was no word to describe how beside myself I was when I met with The Reverend once again (last time was at a Rocks off concert cruise in the Summer of 2013). He autographed one of my photos I photographed of him back in 2012. Just one of my many pieces to my collection.
The show opened up with The Les Paul Trio, comprised of Lou Pallo on guitar, Nicki Parrott on bass and finally John Coliani on piano, were amazing live. Seeing them the very first time was a bonus to what the rest of the night had in store. There was a nice mellow fluidity between all 3 of them that was infectious to get into and pleasant on the ears. The show escalated when Anton Fig, drummer for David Letterman on the “The Late Show with David Letterman” appeared to play some songs with the trio. His career has spanned working with legends in the music industry like Ace Frehley, Sebastian Bach and Joe Bonamassa to name a few. It was in no time that Jim was introduced to the stage. Jim played his classics like In your wildest dreams and Love whip, both which got resounding applause. I was disappointed to not hear Martini time, which is my favorite tune of his. However, once King of the road by Roger Miller was performed, I simply let that go. Jim told stories of how he met Les Paul on tour and a nice little story about Brian Setzer teaching Eddie Van Halen how to Travis pick while the band tuned and configured their sound. Then. Lee Rocker of the Stray Cats came on stage and did a couple of tunes with Jim and the band. The Trio, Anton, Jim and Lee all performed the classic hit “Stray Cat Strut”, the eighth track on the Stray Cats’ debut album, Stray Cats, which was released released in 1981 in the United Kingdom. A classic that defined a band and one that entertained the audience in a lively fashion. I found myself singing to that song and many others that were played that night. Being born in ’87 does not stop me from learning and experiencing the rich culture of music and the industry itself.
The hour and a half show was so refreshing than any concert I been to. The atmosphere and rich history of The Iridium is definitely one to see to believe. New York City is full of diverse culture and I for one am fortunate to step into these hallowed grounds shared by so many musicians who love their art. I hope to return there once more and continue to document the legends that participate in this beautiful place. I am grateful for this experience. Check out the photos below and check out the Iridium on the websites provided.
The Iridium:
Jim Heath W/ The Les Paul Trio + Anton Figg + Lee Rocker
