Honey & the 45s

Everyone has a secret life of some sort, I suppose.  When that secret life involves genuine talent it is notable indeed, and that's the case with my colleagues Kristina and Kim.  By day they appear absolutely normal (see photo #1).  On the evenings and weekends, they become part of a 5-piece band called Honey & the 45's (photo #2).  I can no more describe music than I can a fine wine, but I love it when I hear their overlay of close-to-the-ground country on a Chicago blues sound as in the "Trains Gonna Go" and "Believe".  If you like your Chicago-style neat, try "I Got the Need."    

Kristina and Kim hard at work.

Alter egos.  

I see friends shaking hands, saying "How do you do"

"They're really saying 'I love you.'"

Of course, that's a fine line of neighborly love expressed in "What a Wonderful World," from the American Songbook, notably and memorably sung by Louie Armstrong.

I was underground in Chicago, waiting for the Blue Line Last week at the Jackson Street Station.  Two guys were performing for tips.  The music was ok, but no one was listening.

The two changed their approach.  Out went the modern music and in came the beach classic, "Under the Boardwalk," and the crowd softened, and, if I'm not mistaken, the tip bucket started to fill.

After that inviting song, the two sang "Wonderful World."  This standard, like beach music, is simple enough to render in the cavern of the Blue Line El station.  A wonderful interlude, indeed.  Taken by the spirit, up stepped the gentleman in the photo below who thought he'd give a shot at mimicing Satchmo's matchless gravelly voice.  And then to the wonder of all, he did a credible job indeed.  Now there were some real smiles.  Friends greeting friends, saying "How do you do?"