INTRIGUING MUSICIAN

Al James straddles two counties, playing  venues throughout both Napa and Monterey.  The singer/songwriter got a foothold in wine country in 2014 and has played his diverse portfolio  of music, focusing on jazz and blues, in nearly every setting in which  live  music  is  featured.  Some  of his favorite sites to perform include Black Stallion Winery, Farmstead, and Archer hotel, where he was the first artist to christen the downtown hot spot’s live music scene. Further south, he sometimes performs with an ensemble,  the  Al  James  Band, and he can be found Sundays at Al’s Lounge, on the patio at Deja Blue jazz and comedy club in Seaside. James channels some of his favorite artists through his music such as James Taylor, Cat Stevens, Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Wonder, and Donny Hathaway to name a few. He loves  Napa,  and  Napa  residents  love him right back.  Lee  W  Miller,  a  Napa  realtor, is a  fan.  “I  go  see  Al  every  opportunity  I  get,” said Miller,  who  appreciates  James’   originality. I’ve seen him  on  his  own,  with  his  bass  player, and with his entire band. He never disappoints.”

Article By: Fran Miller