On December 14, 2007, my Woodstock Quest took me back to the Quick Center for the Arts on the campus of Fairfield University in Fairfield, CT to see Hot Tuna, or as they call it "Hot Fucking Tuna", a group formed by former Jefferson Airplane members Jack Casady and Jorma Kaukonen. I had heard of the band; however, was unfamiliar with their music. However, a quest is a quest and man's got to do what a man has to do.
Despite my lack of knowledge, I was open to the experience and glad that I was. They play blues, as jam band would. To say that Jorma and Jack are talented musicians, is an understatement. They were joined by Barry Mitterhoff (guitar and Mandolin) and drummer Eric Diaz. Mr. Mitterhoff is also a truly amazing player. I was seated just to the left of Jack Casady (his right) – so, I really got to enjoy his playing most of all. He really gets into the music and will raise and lower his eyebrows with the music (front row has its advantages).
They played two sets (both electric - for those that care, they also play acoustic shows) that lasted approximately 75 minutes each plus an encore. It was a good show and I would suggest checking them out.
Set list (Grabbed from the road crew)
1st Set: New Song for the Morning Soliloquy for Two I Wish You Would Ode to Billy Dean How Long Blues Been So Long I See The Light Can't Get Satisfied Rock Me Baby Late Breaking News
2nd Set: Trial by Fire Sea Child Barbeque King Bowlegged Woman Living Just for You The Terrible Operation Come Back Baby Funky 7 99 Year Blues Talkin' 'bout you
Encore: Hit Single 1
After the show, I met their road manager, who brought my poster to Messrs. Casady and Kaukoned to sign my poster (which they did). This brings my total to 12. I have: four members of Jefferson Airplane (Marty Balin, Jack Casady, Jorma Kaukonen, and Grace Slick); one member of Mountain(Leslie West); one member of Blood, Sweat, and Tears, (Fred Lipsius), One member of Country Joe & the Fish (Country Joe McDonald); One member of Jimi Hendrix Gypsy Sun & Rainbows (Billy Cox); Richie Havens, John Sebastain; Arlo Guthrie, and the asrist of the poter, Arnold Skolnik.
Next up: Melanie.