A social event @ a winery
Its a bit of a shock to realize that one might be something of a snob, but noticing the outfits and demeanour of the other guests at the 13th Street Winery's soiree, my impression was of hobnobbing with a classier standard, more in keeping with the Performing Arts Centre than at a farm. The 700 or so guests of the fourth-generation Whitty family were entertained by two local groups, part of the winery's regular programme of live music showcasing local talent. I had the opportunity to chat with the pater familias of the operation, with young Thomas Whitty and met his hairy brother, 'Fred', an important part of both family and operation.
The farm has been in existence since the beginning of the nineteenth century, and has been a winery for almost thirty years. In addition to the libations, their burgers, fries and especially dessert have become 'must-tries'. Via the generosity of regular visitors Laura and her husband, I got to enjoy an incredible butter tart; it was something of a gastronomical orgasm. Apologies to Mommy, but you've lost the title!
The opening act was VINYL FLUX, a local classic rock team that's been around for over seventeen years. Formed by guitarist Joseph Minicucci, who actually began performing at fifteen, the quintet is comprised of drummer Max Turavani and Jamie Payne on guitar. Phil Martin plays bass; more about him & the instrument later. Lead singer Michael Cocco stands out given his proclivity for wearing shades à la Cesar Rosas of 'Los Lobos', (actually a real friend of ours). The whole entourage partakes in vocals and their energy is contagious. The rendition of 'Crazy Little Thing called Love' attracted numerous dancers whose vigour reflected the pleasure of physically expressing and interpreting music. When the team moved to a C/W medley, a female group of line dancers became stage front and garnered applause not only from the other guests but from the band members as well.
Back to Martin's bass, it was throbbingly loud & overpowering; fortunately I forgot to wear my hearing aids! The emphasis on the lower tones was endemic to "April Wine" and probably led to their becoming not one's 'VQA choice'.
The follow-up was THE POSTMEN, a local (NOTL) folk sextet who have been around for two decades. All of the members are also members of other groups so each has his own followers. Vocalist Dean Jessome is assisted by violinist Chris Lortie and Dave Moran on drums. The duo of banjo player Gabriel Brossel & Shane Tunney's mandolin give something special to the entourage. Bassist Gerry Schaefer completes the group and fortunately, this time no overpowering. Schaefer is a distant relative of the Tonight Show icon, but the family made surname changes! The Posties opened with John Denver's familiar 'Country Roads' and somehow the concept of a sing-along occurred, which Jessome encouraged. This idea reprised, as did a serious dance function so the audience became performers as well. It was PARTY TIME! Your intrepid critic, who has been known to require cane and/or walker, caught the contagious atmosphere and found myself standing and sort-of dancing with three married ladies! Terry, you would have applauded and if you had been here with me, the trio would surely have become a quartet. Julie and company would have loved you. Given their proclivity for joy, humour, and social spirit, it would have been mutual too. Thanks ladies.
Note to the Whitty family. I've added 13th St. Winery to my GPS.