Mike's Mixer Mix-up

As the students launched into a jazz standard early Thursday evening, I gawked at the man at the next table as he opened his instrument case. He bore an uncanny resemblance to celebrated jazz tuba player Howard Johnson.

Moments later, a brilliant brass sound filled the bar. My neighbor, still seated, was playing tuba along with the band. UMKC professor Bobby Watson ran to a microphone and called out, "Welcome Howard Johnson to the stage." For the next thirty minutes, Watson and Johnson dramatically improved the caliber of the ensemble’s performance, which until then had been slightly amateurish and academic.

World-renowned Johnson is in town to work with Watson at UMKC’s jazz studies program. Johnson played with Charles Mingus in the 1960s and was an instrumental part of Saturday Night Live's house band in the 1970s. He’s continued his career as a forward-thinking artist since then. And as many Kansas City music fans already know, local hero Watson is rightfully acknowledged as one of jazz’s premier saxophonists.

I’d been curious about the weekly "UMKC Jazz Mixer" at Mike’s Tavern on Troost, and catching Johnson on my first visit was an unexpected treat. This is exactly the sort of music experience that’s all too rare in Kansas City. The opportunity to catch a hour or two of live jazz and still get home by eight is too good to miss.

Aside from a half dozen patrons in the back of the bar, I believe that I was the sole person in attendance who wasn’t affiliated with UMKC’s music program. Aren't jazz musicians supposed to have girlfriends? Don’t UMKC and Rockhurst students get thirsty? And where in the name of Charlie Parker were any of Kansas City’s 357 jazz fans?

So, here’s my contribution- I’ll be at Mike’s from 6:00-8:00 pm next Thursday, February 9, and I’ll buy beer for any Happy In Bag reader who cares to join me, at least until my limited supply of money is exhausted. There’s no cover.

(Johnson is holding the tuba in the photograph, while Watson is in plaid. This kid on trumpet stood out, as did the session’s vibraphonist and bassist.)