Fool's Night Out: Nighthawks visit me in the Boonies

Fools Night Out comes from a song by Phil Wiggins | Moon photo courtesy Michael's Photo Gallery.

Nighthawks visit me in the Boonies
© Scott Mitchell (98/12/16)

I noticed a while ago that the Nighthawks were playing a Lukemia Foundation Benefit at Basin St. Basin St. is a nearby Bistro/Bar that books local blues/jazz bands. It is a pretty nice place; it is about the size of Phantasmagoria and decorated in a (surprise surprise) New Orleans Mardi Gras theme. The place is a bit expensive, and a bit foo-foo. But it has a great sound system and when they push the tables back... a beautiful wood floor. Best of all, however, is that it is only 5 minutes away from my apartment here in the Boonies (Sterling, VA).

Anyway, I was debating going to see the Nighthawks last night; when an email from Chris Kirsh tipped the balance. After a $10 donation to the Lukemia Foundation, I was treated to an astounding night of classic Nighthawks. The Nighthawks are a blues institution who's been around for over 25 years. They tour internationally, and we're lucky enough that they call the DC area home.

For those who haven't seen them, the Nighthawks are a down and dirty blues band of the first order. They play plenty of originals as well as covers from Big Joe Turner to Elvis to Jr. Wells. The band is fronted by Mark Wenner on Harp and vocals. Mark is one of the best. Pete Kenaras is the current guitarist. He's really clicking with the band now. I guess I'll stop gushing now.

As many of you know, the Nighthawks are trading sets with Zydeco Crayz this Sunday at Chief Ike's in Adams Morgan. I think this will be a fun show. The Nighthawks are in peak form, and I think the dancers will find much of their material very dancable. There are some audio clips at the Nighthawks website (http://thenighthawks.com/).