Artist: Albert Cummings
Venue: Humphrey's Backstage Lounge
Date of Show: March 3, 2005
I'd heard a few Albert Cummings songs on BellyUp4Blues, an internet radio station, and liked what I'd heard. As with most blues rockers, Albert Cummings likes to play loud and long. To call him energetic and upbeat barely begins to touch on what he brings to the table.
I headed down to Humphrey's Backstage Lounge the other night, not sure what to expect. I mean, I liked what I'd heard so far, but could he wow me? That remained to be seen. Unlike most folks, I generally opt to be sold on an act based on what I see on stage. It's a different approach, to be sure, but I've found that going in with fewer expectations, I can focus on what's being offered at a live show without bias. It's worked well so far.
The show was listed on the Humphrey's website as starting at 9pm. However, the sign in front of the venue said 8. It was already about 20 after. Hmmm. From outside, I could already hear the band. It sounded good and I was optimistic as I went in.
Albert was on stage with his guitar slung across him, playing the hell out of it. The stage was small, but the band was just Albert, his bassist, and the drummer, adequate for the trio. They were jamming and the crowd was enthusiastic (although minimal at that point.)
"Turn up the guitar!" came a shout from the audience. That made everyone laugh, including Albert. He turned it up and continued to rock.
Couple of solid songs later, the band took a break. I went up and said hello, then made my way back to where Steve, the sound guy, was selling CDs. I bought "True To Yourself", although I was tempted to buy all three that were offered.
Anyhow, as I was listening to the people around me (more folks were coming in for the show as we waited for the band to take the stage again), I was pleased to hear that there were a few fans who'd just seen Albert open for B.B. King and liked him enough to follow him to San Diego for this one show. That was a pretty good sell right there. However, the clincher for me was what unfolded on stage after the break.
Apparently, that little time out had refreshed the band and they came back ready to rock. And rock they did. With songs like "Blues Makes Me Feel So Good" - great sing-a-long - and "Lonely Bed" - making you want to reach out and hold someone close - I hated hearing the dreaded words, "thank you, and good night." I really didn't want the music to stop.
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