Last Saturday night was nostalgic of what used to be my favorite Supper Club, Anthology. Miriam-Webster’s Dictionary defines the word as a, “collection of literary passages or works, especially poems by various authors; a collection of works of art or music.”
I was afforded the opportunity to see so many talented artists on its stage, Lalah Hathaway, Goapele, Eric Roberson, Lee Ritenour, Leela James, Natalie Cole, Meshell N’degeocello…I could go on and on, but all I will ever have of Anthology are past memories. They closed their doors New Year’s Day 2014. It lived up to the definition, surely…and closed out its time in a dramatic fashion.
In it’s 6 months of operation Blue Note Hawaii has consistently hosted an all star line up. Kenny G performed for their Grand Opening, (you can pick up one of his autographed saxophones in their gift shop), Chaka Khan, The Wailers, Ravi Coltrane…my nostalgia now has reason to fade.
The first show I saw was Jose James and while I wasn’t familiar with his music, my love is a fervent fan. My head was bopping, to his witty lyrics, nostalgic love songs, and Hip Hop improv. The crowd and I were well engaged. After the show there was a meet and greet, we took pictures…and of course I asked was any of his music on vinyl, he replied “Yes, yes it is.” Cheers Mr. James.
The dining options are plentiful, but you can see Aloha in dishes like the Beef Short Ribs served with a polenta made from Kahuku corn (grown here on Oahu) served on a bed of collard greens.
As far as libations are concerned I’m not one to venture away from my usual Gin and Tonic, with cucumber…no lime. However, in the spirit of trying new things…I decided on an Old Fashion, prepared with Bullit bourbon.
This week I had the opportunity to sit down with Marco Olivari, General Manager of Blue Note Hawaii. We talked about everything from the history of the space the Blue Note is in, his record collection, and what brought him to the land of Aloha.
See what Marco had to say in a couple of weeks…
The original Blue Note opened its doors in Greenwich Village, New York, 1981. Pop ups from legends such as Stevie Wonder, Tony Bennet, and Liza Minelli aren’t uncommon. Currently there are 6 locations worldwide (Hawaii, New York, Milan, Beijing, Tokyo, and Nagoya), with a 7th opening soon in Napa Valley. Unlike my fateful love affair with Anthology, the Blue Note brand has established itself as a pillar in the global music community.
No longer melancholy for live musical experiences, I anxiously await my next trip to Blue Note. There are a few items on my calendar through the fall, such as Joan Osborne, The Manhattan Transfer, and Chick Chorea. I see now, much like the Vanessa Fernandez album I’m awaiting a repressing of…sometimes you have to be patient for the good stuff. I see a future between the two of us. I have a new favorite Supper Club.
In the next post, Robert Glasper Trio…
Until next time, keep spinning.
-Tom
As an aside, Anthology is now Music Box. So, if you’re in San Diego check them out.
“anthology.” Merriam-Webster.com. Merriam-Webster, 2016. Web. 10 July 2016.