I have rediscovered Jamie Cullum.

After a few years of shelving his album “Catching Tales” for a while, it has now become my favorite album for the moment.

I remember seeing him about two and half years ago at the theatre right about the time I was getting into the groove of working here. The rather vertically challenged British jazz singer/songwriter and musician was all over that piano like a kid on a very expensive, very pretty jungle gym. I had never heard of him before that night but literally fell in love with the little rascal.  His energy was infectious, his talent—phenomenal. His fingers would manipulate over those keys every which way like a perfectly chaotic choreographed dance. It was incredible. And I was most definitely sold.

There is one very funny part about the whole thing. I’ve never liked jazz. Call me an uneducated jazz listener but I’ve always felt that it was too all over the place. Too wacky. Wild saxophones flailing notes left and right. Someone tinkering with the drum set in background with something that looks like a basting brush. Piano guy pounding away on those ivories. And they are all playing a different song…or so it seems. Yes I’m sure there is some jazz aficionado heaving in disgust at what I just wrote, but like I said I’m pretty ignorant when it comes to this musical genre.

But thanks to Jamie and Wikipedia, I now have a much clearer outlook on jazz. I still don’t like the kind that flaps all over the place, but I’m fully aware it’s not all like that.

In the beautiful way, I have come to realize that this place isn’t just a place for musical entertainment but for musical education. Had I not stayed for that Jamie Cullum concert those few years ago I would have opened my eyes and ears to what a pleasure jazz can be. I have on a few occasions had someone come up to me, knowing where I work, and ask the question “Why don’t you get better bands in there?” My answer usually consists of two parts. One, which is said as nice as possible: You know nothing about what is involved in booking acts, therefore you can’t complain. And two: We do have excellent bands. Even though you have never heard of them on the Top 40 radio stations doesn’t mean they are worthless. The best bands are never really played on the radio anyway.

It is just the fact that so many people here live in a cultural bubble. I say pop that thing! There is so much good music out there that is just dying to get in your ears. And we’ve got a lot of that here. Don’t know James Hunter or Ryan Shaw? Well you’re in luck; we have them January 20. James has the sound of the old soul and R&B legends and Ryan’s passion for the blues will get you moving in your seat. Never heard of John Legend? Really, never? Okay where have you been? Like in a cave or something? Okay, jokes jokes. But seriously, he is one of this generations most talented musicians. He comes on February 2 and you’ll find me right up front. We’ve got a long list of fabulous bands that you may have never heard of but certainly won’t forget if you give them a chance.

Take it from me. I would never lie to you, my blog readers. And while your at it, check out Jamie Cullum. He’s pretty much the bomb.

 kat.berry.