Scott Morgan's Powertrane

continued

After the second song, Morgan confesses he's nervous. But then he relaxes, closes his eyes, and leans into the microphone. The crowd watches motionless from the floor, mesmerized, as if studying a work of art. Morgan and guitarist Richard Gillespie are lifelong rockers, and their music is evenhanded, smooth, and well defined — like ballet. Their ease and grace is juxtaposed on stage with the lashing skills of bassist Chris Taylor and drummer Andy Frost, who are considerably younger. From my vantage point, I can clearly see where both generations meet in the middle of the stage and become something very powerful.

Watching the band wind up, I suddenly remember that it was Scott Morgan and Sonic's Rendezvous Band I used to see at the Chance, his music that used to feed my soul twenty-two years ago. That's why I haven't heard real rock 'n' roll since then — I haven't been listening to Scott Morgan.

Scott Morgan's Powertrane returns to the Blind Pig on Saturday, May 31.   

[Originally published in May, 2003.]