house concerts and 21st century touring

Written By Abiqua

When we resumed our series here at Abiqua’s this past June the tropical backdrop of the palm trees and the bird of paradises and the sparkling pool set for a perfect summer evening of food and Live Music!! With this beautiful setting we needed a performer that would be just as unique and dynamic. Vinnie James was my first choice.

I first met Vinnie when I picked him up at the airport. I stood in the terminal with a sign - “Vinnie James Live at Abiqua’s.” We spent the next three hours stuck on the infamous LA Freeway trying to get to the venue. The time flew—the ease of the conversations made the commute effortless. That evening, Vinnie met The Larsen Family, the hosts of the event. They also enjoyed getting to know Vinnie in the intimate setting of their living room.

The excitement of the guests was apparent for most of them had never been to a house concert before. The smell of the food permeating the air, the tinkling of the wine glasses, and the warm summer breeze raised the eagerness of both the musician and the guests. The show was about to begin.

With his strong voice and guitar prowess, Vinnie captured the audience from the instant he took the stage. His stage presence was that of a seasoned veteran. He interacted well with the audience and even when one of the guests got a little out of hand Vinnie took control and put the fire out.

As he played crowd favorites like “Geronimo” and “County Line,” the images of Vinnie rocking back and forth on his bar stool will forever be etched in my memory.

The great social atmosphere afterwards is one of the major highlights of a house concert - the continuation of conversations between old and new friends, the culinary delights and the hot and cold refreshments. As the guests begin to leave and the circle of friends becomes smaller, the intimate after hours set begins. As a host, this is one of the perks that is second to none. To be up-close and personal with Vinnie was something I will never forget.

Everyone here at Abiqua’s Underground Supper Club and Acoustic Music Series is looking forward to next year when Vinnie returns to our stage.

Abiqua
September 14, 2007

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