Jam can scram

The last couple of trips to the jam session have left a bitter taste in my mouth. Last night, it was crowded enough that I managed to play two songs. As the new guy, I get stuck with the other new guys. I get up there and am told we're playing The Thrill is Gone in A minor. No problem. I've done that a million times. Until I catch some dirty looks and cold shoulders from the horn section. What? Have I screwed up? Yes, it sounded off, but I played the part... It turns out, around here, they play it a little odd, with a turn at the end that I (having not played with these guys before) wasn't aware of. I caught on, but it wasn't until I had certainly shot myself in the foot with the cool kids. Damn.

I'm a little pissed. All I got was a look that said "F-you" when I needed someone to tell me F-E (the missing two notes). Sure, I missed the notes. But really, throw the new guy a bone. At the end of the tune, the horn players walked off stage. The next turned out even worse, as the guitar player named a tune that the drummer and I hadn't heard, and started a lead solo without cluing any of us in to the key. More of me on stage sounding like crap.

I know this is a lot of whining. I probably have beach sand left in my butt or something. But I think I am done with this jam session for a while. I am tired of looking like an ass because of poor communication. I know I will screw up from time to time, but I'd sure like it to be my own fault. And holding a jam in a performance setting isn't what I am into.

I was spoiled by the jam sessions at the Americana Music Academy. These guys got together in an old house. Varying levels of ability. We would sit in a circle, and one of the players would name a tune, play a little rhythm, and we would pick up and join in. It was a true learning experience. I think the jam session here is a chance to prove yourself and show off for other good musicians. It really isn't about learning. I wish I had a place to host one of the kansas-style jams I am used to. I need a learning opportunity, where failure is part of the process.