“Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life” –Pablo Picasso
While I was thinking of the title of this post, Rick James – Maryjane was playing in my head. On repeat. I hate when that happens. As I wrote in my last blog post I’m not playing any records this week, in favor of streaming and other digital sources of music. I thought it would be an interesting experiment, but every time I look at my turntable I sigh.
I did not say I wouldn’t listen to live music, which is what is taking me to Next Door on the 17th to see Maryanne perform, and what has brought me to Chinatown as I write this. I don’t come down here often, especially after moving to the east side of Oahu. In 2009, [I’ve been back since then] I was in Chinatown to see a band called Rocket Powered Cadillac. That night was the first time I’d heard Maryanne Ito. I was invited by the drummer of the band Pinky, who has recently returned to Oahu.
“I’m in love with Maryjane, she is my main thang; she makes me feel alright; she makes my heart sing…”
It feels good to type that and get the song out of my head for a few minutes. While I love a good Rick James song it’s not the cause for this post. I wonder how many times Maryanne has been serenaded with Rick James lyrics?
Maryanne Ito, a local singer/songwriter/mother/insurance agent/bartender, a great person among other things, has decided to join me in the listening room for an interview. I’m extremely excited, and can’t wait for you to see it. Today I’m visiting her at one of her side hustles.
Let’s start with what happened earlier this week. I called Maryanne to confirm our meeting and she had been called on to work the bar for a music venue in Chinatown close to Waikiki called, Hank’s which is neighbored by a venue I’ve been before, “The Dragon Upstairs” Rosetta and I went to see a jazz ensemble a few months ago. I remember the bartender had a stiff pour, British accent, and effervescent smile.
You could walk by The Dragon Upstairs, and it’s downstairs sister bar Hank’s easily. You shouldn’t; you would be doing yourself a disservice. Mihoko & Friends were performing tonight just as the last time I was here. In the spirit of putting more experiences under my belt, I visit Hank’s. From outside I can hear Rolling Stones – Wild Horses, one of my top ten favorite tracks from the band. Now I have no excuse not to go in.
“Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life”, a framed quote on the wall close to the entrance, it spoke volumes to me. Perhaps it was the gin and tonic or the band’s rendition of Purple Rain. Most likely it was the juxtaposition of Prince, gin and tonic, good vibes, and the fact that there’s a random quote from Pablo Picasso on the wall.
Behind the bar, I see Maryanne with big hair, and a beaming smile, providing libations to those filling the bar. It’s nice here, they have Hendricks. Not wanting to disturb her flow I sit in the corner and look over the crowd while the band takes us on a trip through the late 70’s. Eventually, I pull out my camera to catch Maryanne in action, as seen below.
My drink of choice is Hendricks Gin and tonic with a few slices of cucumber in the glass. There were no considerations given to my fufu garnishment. Gin and tonic drinks smooth with our without cucumber. The band is playing Bob Dylan – Feel My Love, and I am definitely in the groove. Not as much as some of the regulars like Addy. She came from the west side of the island to visit her old stomping grounds. For those of you who aren’t accustomed to island life, it is a chore to travel the 22 miles from Ewa (pronounced eva) to Chinatown. I liken it to choosing a new residence since that’s what I’m working on right now.
Everyone needs something to believe in, and I believe that’s a good drink.
There’s an energy here, both upstairs and down that is hard to put a finger on. I don’t want to try. I prefer to enjoy the music. So, if you’re in Chinatown on the island of Oahu; stop by Hank’s and The Dragon Upstairs. Get some jazz, funk, soul, and classic rock all served with Aloha. There is a fine selection of musicians and good stiff drinks poured at both venues “just don’t tell Dave”.
And if you see Maryanne, tell her Tom said Aloha.
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