Playing the blues at The Bassment, located in the River North neighborhood of Chicago below The Hampton Social restaurant. was a surreal experience, a hip, clubby spot featuring upscale plates, craft cocktails & live blues in moody, underground digs. The place fells dirty and unafraid when the black curtain is pulled back that a large, yet comfortable, modern lounge awaits. With the 1960s British Invasion movement feel, The Bassment's design includes gold accents throughout, brick walls, a mixture of uniquely designed velvet and leather couches and a full stage. Guests enter through a secret door & into a welcoming greeting room a throwback to the roaring 20's and speakeasys, prohibition, flappers, Al Capone had held court in this very place.
Angela Martin asked me to fill in with her Verzatile Band, the band consists of two lead singers, Angela Martin and RJ Mitchell, one rapper, Que Billah, and a backing band of Chicago's most elite musicians,on Saturday night. A little rhythm guitar, a little harmonica, some background vocals, of course I eagerly agreed. Music has always been a comforting part of my life, my escape, but especially now having just escaped Alissa's abuse it would be a great release of built up tension.
Angela Martin and I became good friends after she was arrested for unpaid traffic tickets which landed her in jail while she was a contestant on American Idol. I was retained as her legal council by her manager. Angela can belt out the blues but loves so many genres, especially Rock, Folk and Funk.
During soundcheck we over the set list and I watched Angela admiring her beauty. She is a gorgeous African-American woman with short black hair as a matter of fact I was a stark contrast to the entire band with my pale white Irish skin, blue eyes and long red hair.
The Bassment was packed, the crowd was energetic and a fantastic audience, It was great to jam with such a good blues band. As usual my panties were dripping wet performing music for an audience always does that to me.