Indigenous @ Singers, Hays, Ks. 6-21-2013

  After driving almost 1,500 miles to see these guys the last four times, it was nice to have them playing "only" 150 miles from home. This time I had someone with me for the first time too. Nathan from school, who first told me of Mato, had never seen them play and was able to get away long enough to go. I think he's glad he did. Singers is a nice sized bar in downtown Hays, Ks in a building that was formerly a Singer sewing center. There is also a nice enclosed open-air courtyard alongside they call The Brickyard.
  When the guys arrived, Mato made sure I was on the guest list AND put Nathan on as well. I was pretty surprised that he remembered my name considering how many people he meets every week. After a quick sound check, they took off for a while, but there was a solo performer playing outside to help pass the time. The guy's name is A.J. Gaither , a one man band who plays home-made instruments. His guitars have bodies made of cigar boxes. He had a one string, a three string, and a couple four strings. Though it sounds like a novelty act and much of his music is rather humorous, a lot of his stuff is actually pretty good. The three string in particular sounded really good. He is originally from Camden, Arkansas, but lives in Kansas City now. If you get the chance, check him out; his show is a lot of fun.
   When Indigenous went on, the crowd was pretty small. I guess that's to be expected in a college town during the summer, but it's a shame more people didn't see this show. Once again Mato showed he is a true master of the blues guitar. Never one for flashy antics during a performance, he just astounds the audience with exceptional talent. His trio was rounded out by Derek Post on bass and Charles Sanders on drums. One thing I've noticed about this band; whether there are 50 or 1000 in the audience, they give it their all and have a great time doing it.
   Now, put on some Indigenous and watch the slide show.

Singers in downtown Hays.

This gives a good idea of how his guitars are made.

A.J. Gaither and his 1 string.

Pedals for both feet, a harmonica, and a guitar.

This 3 string had the best sound.

Mato Nanji

Charles Sanders II, who had decent light on him for a change.

Mato's face is blurry here, because I was at his feet.

Derek Post and his shiny new Fender Jaguar.

One of my favorite shots of the night.

One of three flash shots I took.

Look Ma, one hand!

They were really kickin' it here.