Send In Those Crazy Clowns!

We in Pensacola are accustomed to high quality entertainment. On any given day, there are multiple choices of live music in which to enjoy! On this particular Monday evening, a unique group of seasoned musicians took the stage at Lilli Marlene's inside Seville Quarter. Enter... THE CLOWNS!

The night was a mild 70 degrees when D-Lady and I entered Seville Quarter's Lilli Marlene's. You could sense some excitement in the air as a band that's been around for years, but haven't played Seville in nigh onto 2 years. Needless to say, THE CLOWNS were back in town and ready to entertain Pensacola in the center ring.

With their particular brand of blues and rock, THE CLOWNS were in the mood to perform. The room was already, nearly reaching capacity as these fine gentlemen awaited their re-entrance to the Monday blues jam.

But first... another local guitar legend, and a favorite among many in the Pensacola music community. He gave us his best to warm us up and prepare us for what was to come. His name? Why its our very own Forrest Higgins.

Forrest, a local favorite and regular to the Monday blues jam opened for THE CLOWNS on this energy filled evening. His playing ability on the guitar can only be described as superb, as that's the word this writer has chosen to describe what we all heard that Monday night.

"That man can play!" I heard from behind me as Forrest began his set. Forrest gave us a free flowing performance full of riffs and licks that sent me to the moon! The room was eerily quiet as everyone in attendance fixed their attention on the man playing heavenly notes on an electric acoustic guitar. I could go on and on about the stunning sounds we were all treated to when Forrest played... but I wont! You'll just have to wait for him to return to find out if what I'm telling you is true.

"Angry Woman", the first offering from THE CLOWNS got everyone's attention immediately. As I myself hadn't had the privilege of hearing these men, I was instantly impressed and encouraged that the night was well on its way to musical mayhem.

THE CLOWNS are a group of seasoned professionals that not only bring a unique style of blues and blues/rock to a stage, they also are entertainers. Jay Platt, the groups drummer, now in his 70's (I can only hope to play that well when I get to be his age) began the set with clown glasses complete with red nose... I wonder if it honked? Lol!

Their next offering "Good Clean Fun" was amazing then "What Passes For Love" took us all into "No Mo". I must admit, This was one of my personal fave's. "Put It Right Back" led into "Love Bone" then onto "All That You Dream".

Let's meet the band... first, the leader, lead vocalist, guitarist and front man Pat Pritchard. Pat's been around for many years playing all along the coast and regions beyond. Pat shows his years of experience in every note he plays and every song he sings. Pat puts his heart and soul into every performance wherever he entertains. On this particular Monday, Patrick Pritchard gave us a show not easily forgotten any time soon.

Bill "Jolly" Armstrong is the partner guitarist and vocalist of the band. Man, this guy has some talent! Watching his hands while he plays was a thing to behold. Bill's riffs and licks sent me up on a cloud and his vocals were simply spot on.

Jay Platt, The Clown's drummer took on two rolls this evening as the crowd enjoyed the band's foray into musical delight, first and foremost he's the band's time-keeper and drummer. As a drummer myself, I am always laser focused on the drummer's of any band I review. Jay gave me a drum lesson that night! I was impressed with the fact he played with jam sticks the entire night! His steady grooves and tasty chops were a delight to behold. Thanks Jay!

One of our most favorite locals playing bass with THE CLOWNS this Monday was Howard Erskine. You must have seen Howard playing around town with several bands including The Cat Daddy Blues Duo as well as being a regular on Monday nights for The Blues Society Of Northwest Florida's blues jam. Howard plays a mean bass guitar and proved so when he played with THE CLOWNS. I myself have had the pleasure of jamming with Howie which is always a most pleasurable experience to be sure.

Joining THE CLOWNS this night was our very own Ronnie Taylor. Now, I say "very own" because Ronnie has been around for years...he may even rival Keith Richards in longevity. Ronnie has played with so many bands, I've lost count. One thing for sure, he never disappoints! It's no wonder why so many groups want Ronnie to play with them. His seasoned playing style and consistent runs prove over and over that he certainly knows what he's doing. When called upon to deliver a solo... the man comes through each and every time! You can catch Ronnie most anywhere blues are played in Pensacola.

If you get a chance to see THE CLOWNS anywhere, you should indeed. I understand at the posting of this review, THE CLOWNS will be returning to Seville Quarter very soon this season... GO SEE THEM, you will not be disappointed!

Thank you for taking time to read my review of THE CLOWNS. I encourage you to read our many reviews of local and regional bands in our band review section. Also, please take time to subscribe to our Weekly Show Alerts so we may keep you up to date with everything happening with live music in Pensacola.

For now, this is THE BEATMAN signing off. KTB!