In Gresham
M&M Lounge hosts people-pleasing Sunday jam
The M&M Lounge, 137 N. Main St. in old-town Gresham, offers food, drink, relaxation and consistently great music.
The Sunday evening open jam session, starting at 8 p.m., is organized and shepherded by Mike Beaver, leader of his self-named band.
The session starts off with a tune or two by the “house” band, meaning whoever Beaver chooses to be in-the-house for that day; the lineup varies. As a bass player, Beaver relies on the performances of differing, experienced musicians. As the jam session starts, he will announce who is next in the jam lineup.
Hosting a jam session can be a very difficult job, with a huge responsibility for the musicians, the patrons who enjoy them and the venue itself. If the style or content of a new jammer is unknown, Beaver discusses this with the person, making on-the-spot decisions about who should be on stage together with whom. Beaver strives for the most harmonious group. He adds one or more of the more-seasoned players to provide stability. This also provides the most support for the jammers. Beaver “and company” are such professionals that they seem downright relaxed!
One entertainer who plays a set before the band jam is guitarist/vocalist David Currey. His deep, slightly gravelly voice is well-suited to the tunes he performs, emulating the sounds of Johnny Cash, Hank Williams (Sr.) or early Elvis.
Currey notes that he has wanted to be a performer ever since about the age of 10. With no resources for support, he is largely self-taught. He did sing in church and by the age of about 22, he was performing in taverns, parties and coffee shops.
Currey solos in his own, folksy home-style fashion, a mix of traditional western and “old-timey” country. He recently performed at Borders Books. He enjoys his solo set at the M&M Lounge on Sundays and performs on Tuesdays at Duke’s (146th & S.E. Division).
About Currey’s style of music, people have recently remarked “awesome” and have started calling him “Elvis.” He invites all to “come give me a listen!”
Band jammers on a recent Sunday included KT on baritone sax. Providing excellent backup were Chris Swab (guitar), Beaver on five-string bass and Putnam on drums. After one set, Beaver thanks the musicians and announces a short break, to assemble the next group.
Well-known bass player and bandleader of the Sinners Club, Dan Golden, performed in the next set, along with tenor sax player Marlee and guitarist Lionel Adams (a founding member back from sabbatical). A performer/singer named “Sweet Sue” joined the jam band on several tunes, with tasteful tambourine music right on time.
The M&M Lounge is located on the corner at 137 N. Main, providing ample on-street and some off-street parking, all well-lit. Food is served all day, with daily specials. Entertainment includes Oregon Lottery, pool, darts and free Bingo on Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. with prizes.
Monday nights present original artists and Karaoke. Wednesday and Thursday feature Karaoke w/Spinella’s Off The Wall, at 9:30. Live music is featured on weekends. (See ad and Music on Tap).
Mike Beaver’s band, also known as the Beaver Boogie Band, performs at various venues, so watch the Bandstand and Music On Tap listings. Bassist Dan Golden is participating in the Rolling Stones Tribute band, The Rolling Tones.