It so happens that my only “going out night” falls on Friday. Last Friday I visited Marty’s Blues Cafe in Merriam. Blues is one of the few music styles that I actually enjoy, so when I saw an advertisement in the Star my Friday plans were set. Marty’s is located in semi-industrial area along I-35, North of Johnson Drive. My first thought upon entering this establishment was that I wish that the smoking ban was already here. The smoke was thick despite their promise of the “efficient Smoke Eaters” but I wanted to hear me some blues so I took a deep breath, paid my five dollar cover charge and stepped in. The blues was good. The only black guy in the building outside of the kitchen had looks of the blues-man from way back, raspy voice and his guitar sounded just right, vibrating my whole body with it’s sad and piercing tune. While enjoying the blues I had fun watching the crowd.
I always wondered what do middle-aged white people who don’t like country music do in their spare time. Apparently, many of them hang out at Marty’s. They were super-friendly, some guy (not an employee) immediately jumped up to point out few empty seats, another couple offered to share their pizza which actually looked good, but I was busy filling up on some second-hand smoke. Many years ago when I used to smoke, second-hand smoke was cheap; now it’s very expensive and hard to find. Some people were dancing, many were good, others were mostly dry-humping, one girl’s dance expressed her desire to go home with anyone who would ask. No one dared. There is a definite connection between blues and getting laid. Overall, minus the smoke, the place was pretty good and I would go there again. I can’t say anything about the food, I only had a beer because it goes with the blues.
Because I enjoyed my visit I am giving away a new promotional slogan for Marty’s : All the blues and not a democrat in sight!
Speaking about the music that will get you laid, jazz takes it to a whole another level. In a jazz hangout you will find women that drink wine and martinis, the sophisticated kind that can spell (if that turns you own). Just visiting one of these places lands you in a new category and puts the word “classy” in the same sentence with your name. Jazz intimidates a lot of people, including myself, but you don’t have to like it at first, it will grow on you. In the meantime, just sit there, nod your head, tap your foot and sip one of these special drinks that have long and clever names. Your luck is guaranteed.
Kansas City is lucky to have a true jazz enthusiast who also blogs and tries hard to promote the music he loves. The blogging paradox is that a post about taking a crap in the country that doesn’t exist garners views and comments, while a beautiful post about jazz from an expert lingers in obscurity. Please go to Plastic Sax, read it, enjoy it and comment it. And when a beautiful smart woman goes home with you after a jazz session at the Blue Room, just wink at the stars and quietly say “thanks, man!”.
