(Inspired by bass player Victor Bailey)
A steamy July set the mood for jazz.
Victor Bailey's putting on a party
to tape music he adores.
Doesn't have time to wait or waste.
Dropping our Manhattan cool, we give in to
Brooklyn's pull-air and space, Shapeshifter Lab's
wide white room, walls splashed
with vibrant murals of musicians at play.
Fans and friends jive to a booming bass.
The ensemble elicits a high.
Drummer Lenny White carries the beat.
Alex Foster's horn seduces.
Mino Cinelu on percussion creates magical sounds.
Sweet guitar licks fill the night.
A flirting filmmaker records the show.
We salute the moment with Spanish white.
Victor basks in rhythm and swing, inspires
and energizes. A sapping illness lurks,
but Victor's faith and funk drive his spirit.
A spontaneous family formed. Ready to dance again.
empowered by absence and pain.
Amy Barone