Mandolin Mars and Mercury's Fiddle

TLDR: The Jacob Jolliff Band's performance at the Freight and Salvage in Berkeley showcased the energies of the seven traditional planets. Each instrument and element of the concert embodied these planetary archetypes, creating a cosmic harmony that enriched the musical experience.

Tonight, as I reflect on the Jacob Jolliff Band's performance at the Freight and Salvage in Berkeley, I am struck by the planetary interplay that unfolded on stage. It wasn't just a Bluegrass concert; it was an embodiment of the energies of the seven traditional planets, each element of the music reflecting their unique qualities.

Jacob Jolliff, the mandolin virtuoso, was the focal point around which all else revolved. One of the country's premier contemporary mandolinists, Jolliff's presence was dominant and assertive, much like Mars, with a crisp, bright sound that commanded attention. A graduate of Berklee School of Music on a full scholarship, Jolliff has played with notable figures like Darol Anger, Sam Bush, Ronnie McCoury, and David Grisman. Whenever his mandolin played, it stood out, a fiery beacon in the musical constellation.

The fiddler, with their swift, mercurial energy, moved between the other players, their notes ever-changing and engaging. They embodied Mercury, the quick messenger, whose influence was felt in every rapid bow stroke and lively exchange.

Then there was the guitarist, whose expansive and harmonious contributions enveloped the audience like the gentle touch of Venus. The vocals blended seamlessly with the mandolin, creating a sound that was as pleasing and harmonious as Venus herself.

Jupiter's grand presence was unmistakable in the bassist's performance. The deep, round tones of the bass filled the room, expanding the musical landscape and providing a grounding, joyous undercurrent that made the music feel vast and enveloping.

Saturn's disciplined hand was evident in the tight rhythm and structure that bound the band together. The timing, the precision, the adherence to musical keys—all were manifestations of Saturn's essential influence. It was this discipline that lent the performance its cohesion and tightness, transforming individual brilliance into a unified, stellar experience.

The venue, Freight and Salvage, took on the role of the moon, the nurturing environment that held the performance. It was the lunar quality of the space that created a receptive and supportive atmosphere, allowing the music to flourish and resonate with the audience.

Finally, the audience itself was the sun, the central focus for which this musical display was performed. It was for the audience that the band played, their reactions feeding back into the performance, creating a symbiotic relationship that fueled the night’s magic.

In this interplay, even the traditionally challenging planets found their place. Mars' assertiveness and Saturn's rigidity, often viewed negatively, were essential in creating the dynamic and disciplined energy that made the music compelling. The aggressive push of Mars brought excitement, while Saturn's structure ensured precision and order.

This performance reminded me that in the dance of life, as in music, every planetary energy has its place and purpose. The harmony lies not in the exclusion of the challenging aspects but in the balance and integration of all energies, creating a symphony that is both profound and exhilarating.

As I close my eyes and let the memory of the music wash over me, I am reminded of the grand dance we all partake in, each of us a note in the symphony of existence. And in moments like these, I feel a deep gratitude for the fleeting, beautiful harmony we can create together.