Though he's usually at the back of the stage, local bassist Adam Bigelow is on the front lines of Sylva's musical scene, with a hand (literally) in two bands and two weekly jams.

Thursdays at Soul Infusion around 8 p.m., Bigelow hosts a weekly music jam that he affectionately refers to as "Bigelow's Band practice," a mixed bag of performances that's always eclectic, but never too overpowering or intense to enjoy dinner or a glass of wine as you listen.

"I see it as a way to both showcase the many talented friends that I have and get to play music with, and to try out new players and new combinations," he said. "It is low key, and I like it. It is a representation of the music that is made in living rooms, on porches, and by campfires all over the mountains, by many many people. We are blessed to have so many great musicians in such varied styles in our community."

You won't see any fancy equipment, PA systems or amps at the jam – just old-fashioned sound that forces you to pay attention if you want to hear what's going on. Bigelow's jam has covered bluegrass, country, old-time music and more. The Imperative, a band fronted by guitarist-meets-indie rapper Luke Webb, has also played in this time slot.

"I hope to increase the number and variety of different types of music, to reflect the number and styles of music that I enjoy to listen to," he said.

As the weather warms up, the jam might move outside. The casual set-up paired with balmy summer nights promises many perfect Thursday evenings to look forward to. "Other future plans are unplanned and building in the spontaneous universe," Bigelow said. "Mostly, I plan on enjoying myself, immensely."

Bigelow also plays on Tuesday nights at Guadalupe Cafe with fiddler Ian Moore.

Maggie Tobias, Guest Blogger
Maggie & the Romantics