Musicians Network MECCA

Little Black Pearl, Chicago,IL
May. 12, 2008

Josey Rogers

Curtis Robinson & Melvin Taylor

Story and Photos by James Walker

The Musician's Network MECCA is a unique organization of Chicago Jazz Musicians who come together every Monday for the development and support of veteran and novice artists. Each week, veteran musicians are featured in addition to opportunities for up and rising stars to showcase their talents. On any given Monday, one never knows who might just drop by to jam with the rotating "house band."

On this writer's recent visit, Chicago vocalists Joan Collasso and Samage Aiken were featured in addition to an array of guests including one of Chicago's premier Blues artist, Melvin Taylor.

This listener arrived just in time to witness a spectacular performance by saxophonist James Perkins. James, one of the finest reedist in the city not only performs at these engagements, he also undertakes the task of video taping each session and maintaining the sound system. But it was Perkins soulful soloing on a gospel sounding number that caught everyone's attention. During this segment, MNM's founder Bernard Crump accompanied James on the guitar with some blusey chords. Perkins ended this number with some rapid fire running chords with his tenor.

In addition to Joan and Somage, Rayzine Collasso, Joan's daughter provided background vocals. They got off to an exciting start with a stirring rendition of Martha Reeves and the Vandella's "Dancing in the Streets." This was followed up with "Let's Do It Again." It was on this number that the veteran Collasso demonstrated her charm and charisma in addition to her fabulous vocals.

Not to be outdone, Samarge, had the crowd yelling for more as she rendered a exceptional version of Aretha Franklin's "Dr. Feel Good." She sang this song with conviction and even Collasso had to add a refrain at the end. This short set was concluded with India Arie's "I Am a Queen." This was well done in unison with Rayzine being featured at its conclusion.

The remainder of the evening afforded 'new' artists an opportunity to demonstrate their skills.Included in this segment was a fine blues saxophone number by Juli Wood, vocalist Josey Rogers singing "The Way We Were," Marilyn B's fine cover of Koko Taylor's "Wang, Dang,Doodle," and veteran Perry Jordan's excellent interpretation of Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On."

But the absolute highlight of the evening was the surprise appearance of one of Chicago's finest Blues performers, Melvin Taylor. Melvin's fleet fingers on the guitar was a sight to see. He's like a magician on the strings with rapid fire action unlike any that this writer has previously seen. Melvin was also accompanied by Curtis Robinson, another exceptional Chicago guitar player. Taylor had those audience members remaining, on their feet in awe as he fired away on his guitar from all directions and angles. What an ending to a fine evening of music!!!!!

MNM has moved their Monday sets outdoors to the 59th St. Harbor at 5900 S. Lake Shore Drive (57th & Science Drive). For detailed information about MNM and future sets, refer to their website at: www.musiciansnetworkmecca.com.