The virtuoso seven-string guitarist is in town for three separate performances with drummer Johnny Vidacovich. The stretch begins Saturday night evening and ends Sunday night.
Charlie Hunter has made a name for himself with his unique way of playing guitar. He essentially plays all the bass parts on his unique instrument allowing him to stretch out in uncommon ways. It also allows him to create a full band sound when accompanied by a single drummer.
Of course, if that drummer is Johnny Vidacovich, the sound will be even fuller as the Crescent City veteran, who has played with a veritable who’s who in every genre imaginable, is a monster on the kit.
The weekend begins with an early show at the Maple Leaf Bar at 7 PM Saturday preceding the uptown bar’s regular Saturday night fare. This should be a special gig based on Vidacovich’s long time familiarity with the space and the unique brand of listener the club has been attracting for decades. The visuals on the video below are dark, but the sound is good offering a peek into the interplay between the two musicians.
Sunday afternoon, Hunter is the special guest at the Sunday afternoon music workshop for aspiring musicians at Tipitina’s. Though the event mostly focuses on youngsters learning their chops, it is free and open to the public. Hunter and Vidacovich, joined by bassist Chris Severin, will likely play a song or two before inviting the students on stage.
The weekend concludes with a performance by the duo at Chickie Wah Wah on Sunday night at 9 PM. The Canal street fine listening establishment will present a different opportunity for fans because of the pristine acoustics and sit down setting.
