Out with the old, in with the new!

The demise of my band in Houston was a major bummer for me. The bass player decided he no longer wanted to play with us just a few days before our Labor Day weekend gig.

On any other week, I would have found a sub. But I was called away that week for a family emergency in California. On such short and shitty notice, there was just no way — practical or emotional — for me to cover his spot. It broke my heart to let the club owner down: she was going through a major life crisis herself. It was a real low point for me.

The good news is that I had already started playing with our longtime neighbor and friend Bela. At our last two open mic shows, she and I had done mini sets featuring her on vocals, with her on bass and me on guitar.

On Sunday, September 21, 1-4pm, I will be returning to my beloved Emmit’s Place in southwest Houston for our kid-friendly open mic. No cover.

Our new band, Bela and the Bangers, will be headlining. And in even better news, the Rhythmix, a band of middle school jazz cats will be returning as well! We are also expecting some special guests (stay tuned).

And if that’s not enough to get you off your butt and out on the dance floor, the incredible Evelyn Rubio will be sitting in with the Bangers on sax. She’s AMAZING!

It’s going to be a fantastic time, with kid-friendly food and mocktails as well as adult drinks for the grownups.

We hope to see you there! Thanks for supporting local businesses and local music. Emmit’s is a cherished community resource and the club needs us now more than ever.