Brian Wilkens is the kind of guitar player that some guys I know would admit to having a man-crush on. I’m not a guy, but I’m guessing it has something to do with the lumber jack sort of dress combined with the Kramer-esque hair that is always in entertaining stages of height. Or maybe it’s the KILLER GUITAR CHOPS & TONE that grab you by the jugular and transport you to places where there is justice in the world. He’s a cross between Neil Young and Jeff Beck, and his stage manner rises above everything. He knows how to work with a band, but, more importantly, he knows how to reach his audience.
I met Brian at an open mic that he was running with Tom Price at June’s Outback in Killingworth, CT a few years ago. Since that time, I’ve enjoyed many opportunities to perform with him. He is ever-friendly, open and easy going, and a quintessential professional. He convinced me to cover Lucinda Williams’ material simply by the way he played the opening riffs from Car Wheels on a Gravel Road. Now her material is a staple in my repertoire.
Now that I am looking for music directors to help me run Tuesday Night Music Club, a revised format of what had been Gig 101, imagine my delight when he agreed to kick off the sessions starting this month! Anyone would be a lucky duck to get to play with Brian, and I hope many of you will take advantage of this opportunity.
Tuesday Night Music Club is meant to be a rehearsal format for musicians wanting to have the experience working with more experienced and skilled musicians. Beginners, intermediate, and professionals are welcome! Admission is $10, and I will be there to make sure you have what you need (CHARTS!) to feel confident entering the rehearsal room with Brian this month.
Ted Ervin says, “Come for the locks. Stay for the licks!”
