Copyright 1998 and 1999 Park Projects. Please feel free to use the article and photos below in your research. Be sure to quote the Jet City Maven as your source.
By JASON TRACHTENBURG
The North Seattle music scene is alive and well at the Rainbow Bar and Grill (722 NE 45th St. in the University District, 634-1761). Good time funk and jazz played by full-on bands is on the menu five days a week from Tuesday through Saturday.
The Rainbow has been its current location for the past four years. There has been live musical performances at the Rainbow for the past two years. There is an historic feel to the Rainbow - a club that served as the launching pad for countless acts over the years, including the rock band Heart and legendary bluesman Robert Cray. There is also the feeling that you have stepped back in time and left the city.
Live music is an essential part of the appeal to the Rainbow. North Seattle residents have come to appreciate the consistency of the adventurous musical bookings.
I recently caught a performance of The Atomic Trio and Friends at the Rainbow. This review witnessed a good band having a mighty fine time on stage. The energy was contagious at 12:30 in the morning. Audience members spontaneously started to dance and this reviewer almost joined in.
The Atomic Trio and Friends present a revolving cast of musicians popping on and off stage. The "phat" organ sound was smooth and rich. The musicianship of this band works well together.
The North Seattle music community needs more establishments like the Rainbow to make the extra effort to present live music. Patrons are always willing to seek out the venues that feature real bands. Rock on at the Rainbow.
NEW VENUE ALERT:
Any music can be great, and any music can be difficult to listen to. It all depends upon your state of mind. For the new year, I wish you an open musical mind and positive vibes-a-plenty. Let's keep live music alive in Seattle. Go out and catch lots of shows in 1999!
ATTENTION:
Jason Trachtenburg is a singer/songwriter who lives in Lake City.
JET CITY MAVEN - VOL. 3, ISSUE 1, JAN 1999
JASON'S EYE ON MUSIC: 'Phat' funk in North Seattle
A new all-ages venue has opened up on The Ave. in the U-District. It's called The Pearl and it will feature live music, poetry and theatre. The Pearl is located at 4215 University Way, 547-3326. More to come.
Musical acts and clubs/cafes that showcase live music. If you live or are located in North Seattle and would like to be featured in an upcoming column of "Eye on Music," please send any promotional materials to: Jason Trachtenburg's Eye on Music, c/o The Jet City Maven, 12345 30th Ave. NE, Suites H-I, Seattle, 98125.