Been really cold here lately (St. Louis) and Viva was the setting again (a little basement bar in the central west end). Midnite will be there in 6 days!

Got there around 9 and there was no one there. Maybe 3 people. By 10, nothing happening. Then all of a sudden people started pouring in and by 11:30 when it started (I don't know how in the world these shows start so late. I know it's reggae and everything, but it was never like this before and now it's outta hand)...but by the start time there was a nice crowd...

The band sounded tight. Played a little bit, then Keith came on. I'm tellin ya, this guy can sing. One of my favorite voices in the genre. Played some new tunes, but I really got into "Rasta Philosophy," "Jah Glory" and "Truth Will Reveal." Brought back a lot of great memories...

He's also 50 or so and looks like he's 30. Don't know how he does it...

Not sure what's up with Babylon in these parts, either, but the ganj was free-flowing in the club. I don't think I've ever seen it like that. Smelled like a christmas tree lot!

They played til like 1 or so, so about a 90-minute set. Dance floor was filled up and it sounded good.

Talked to a few people and some were upset that Keith was the only vocalist. I took it for what it was and had a great time, but truth be told, the group certainly shouldn't be billed as the "Itals." It's more like Keith Porter. His daughter was there on harmonies, but the mix was so low that you could barely hear her.

We all know the Itals as a harmony vocal trio, so that was sorely missed last night. I thought Ronnie Davis was gonna be there, but that didn't happen. Still had a great time, though, and am definitely psyched to see Midnite on the 4th...

Talked to Keith for awhile after the show and he's a cool bredrin. Gave him a couple of cds to jam on the road (Ossie's "Freedom's Journal" and "Assini" by Midnite - I Grade Collaboration), so he should be skankin all day today! (they play in Indy tonight)...

Skank on
Professor Skank