Back a long time ago, when music was shared in a room with everyone listening to the same thing at the same time, we reveled in moving to it or even dancing, whether that meant touching or not. With the advent of personal devices, we now spin in our own orbit, which makes for some awkward moments, like when you come upon someone with his earbuds in, who is unaware of how loudly he is singing. I find it almost impossible to listen to my iPod and not respond to the music. People must think I am possessed, as I am like a jumping jack, bursting with energy as the music pulses through my brain and body. I haven't mastered the modern day skill of being detached. It happens when I attend a show, too. I see no reason to be hipper than thou, and cool, calm, and collected.
I challenge you not to react to Eilen Jewell’s “Queen Of The Minor Key,” which we filmed during the Music Fog Marathon in March, at Threadgill’s in Austin, Texas. This song, which is the title track from her new album, calls for finger snapping, hip swaying, and pounding on whatever is close or jumping up and doing the jitterbug. Eilen and the band make a glorious ruckus. And what a tight band this is. Jerry Miller (electric, acoustic and steel guitars), Johnny Sciascia (upright bass), and Jason Beek (drums, harmony vocals), are absolutely undeniable. You must obey, and then make sure you catch them when they are in your neck of the woods. And as Eilen’s website says...ENTER. Yes Ma’am!
- Jessie Scott
