On Saturday, March 22, Burlington’s Nectar’s hosted a notable performance by RAQ, a band renowned in the jam/prog scene, featuring guest musician Jared Slomoff. The event took place after a private birthday celebration for Slomoff, who turned 50 that day. Friends of the recording engineer and producer filled Nectar’s, creating a vibrant atmosphere as RAQ concluded their three-night performance run. Slomoff is recognized for his collaborations with notable artists like Phish and Leo Kottke and is credited for his production work on RAQ’s 2006 album, “Ton These,” where he contributed both guitar and bass.
During the second set, Slomoff joined RAQ on stage, sharing gear with keyboardist Todd Stoops, further enhancing the collaborative spirit of the night. The highlight of the set was a powerful rendition of the Allman Brothers Band’s classic “Whipping Post,” which has been celebrated for its significance in rock music. The song is famous for its lengthy jams, particularly in the Allmans’ live version from “At Fillmore East,” noted by Rolling Stone as one of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.” While RAQ’s version may not have been the longest performance of “Whipping Post,” the connection to the evening’s celebration and the musicians’ energy created an unforgettable experience for the audience.
Overall, the combination of Slomoff’s guest performance and RAQ’s established presence in the local music scene made for an exhilarating night at Nectar’s, highlighting both the band’s legacy and the enduring appeal of live jam music.
