The Original P @ Jazz on the Lake,Benbow, CA 6.19.99
Photos by Lamar.
Jazz on the Lake is an annual event in Southern Humboldt that never ceases to stretch the definition of "jazz". Past headliners include Spearhead, Los Lobos, Neville Brothers, and Dr. John. It was still a beautiful summer day when I arrived, OP sounds still fresh in my head from the night before. After enjoying splendor in the grass and a pair of Master Cylinders, I was off on a mission to get backstage. Staff were more than gracious and readily accepted my credentials.

Ray and Fuzzy;, Ladies and Grady...

Out in the audience I talked to Geno Thomas (Grady's son) and Derrick the bass player while they were checking out the opening bands. Backstage, I met one of the keyboardists (Doug) who, like everyone, was hella-cool. He told me that most of the band is from Plainfield, NJ (if you know, you know...) I told him they need to come play up here in Arcata, and he hooked me up with their road manager Ian, and everyone agreed...(we'll make it happen) stay tuned... When I showed Grady my tattoos, he gave me a big ass hug and then said I should get an Original P on my forehead. I gave Ray and Fuzzy my love, but I didn't get a chance to meet Calvin. Since it was a festival, OP played for only two hours. The set was pretty much like the night before, but none of the new stuff. During Flashlight and Atomic Dog Lamar was up onstage for the down stroke. I heard one cat say "Is that George Clinton?" as he pointed at Grady...At least he was there, giving up the FUNK. You can too: Go out and buy the new album What Dat Shakin' on (Westbound Records) and tell your local promoter to book
The Original P in 0YOUR TOWN!!!