What was, Will be again. . .
This post is a reminder of what was going a year ago today, and likewise a reminder of things to come. It is a place- marker. A reminder of what was normal and hopefully what will be the norm again.
It was a year ago today that Arlene’s Grocery hosted another great show. This one celebrating Alan Rand, who has been capturing on film and video the NYC / LES music scene since I can remember. I met Alan at one of my first shows in White Plains and that was a long time ago.
The show I point to here featured Ten Ton Mojo, Joker Five Speed, Tommy London, Killcode, Panzie, and Mule Kick, among others. Some of the best acts in the city. Joker Five Speed was and is a great act, a blast from the past. It was a pleasure to see them back on the Arlene’s stage. I recall when I first saw them back in the day, and it was very possibly on that same Arlene’s stage.
I was there that night. I did have to pause and ponder that, but I know I was. I recall Jasin Cadic, the Singer / Frontman for Panzie, commenting on stage in between tunes something to the effect act that an idea of a tribute to Alan Rand brought together acts that could not agree on anything for a couple years. Perhaps it was Tor of Joker Five Speed who said it. I think it was Jasin.
regardless, what took place was all very much the norm. It was a good show, a good night, but it was a good show and a good night in a series of good shows and good nights through the years. As the UFO tune says, “Another night on the avenue. . .” Simply, live music and a mix of great bands and nights down in the LES in NYC.
It will be back.
So just a quick nod to what was and what will be. And with that a request that anyone passing through, please do support Arlene’s fundraiser this coming Sunday. The venue does need our support now.
And below? Some of the work of Alan Rand taken that night at Arlenes in the Lower East Side in NYC.