I just can’t rant enough about it…having the proper music during an evening of classic cocktails is just as important as the gin, vodka, bourbon and ice you put into it. A drink enjoyed with a beautiful melody is a drink that simply tastes better. I’ve never mixed drinks and had friends over where I didn’t put a little thought into the music I’d be playing. Hell, even if I’m going to have a bet alone while the wife and kids are at a movie, I make sure I have some soul stirring music on in the background. Drinking in silence is not allowed. If I’m having the boys over for poker and drinks, I make sure the jazz is soothing and pre 1970. Can’t have any fusion screaming at me while I’m trying to take their money. If the wife and I are alone and are relaxing with a Manhattan, Sammy Davis or Dean Martin can be nice.
If we’re having a party, you just can’t beat the Capital Lounge Series. There’s just something about the sound of ice tinkling in passing glasses and the jazz instrument of a voice that June Christy records have that add to the joy of the evening. All point out the artists and sounds I feel you’d do well in having on hand. The buzz off a few well mixed Gimlets and the sadness of Sinatra’s In The Wee Small Hours Of The Morning can combine and provide the drinker/listener with a powerful and enjoyable momentary experience. Music and booze; you shouldn’t enjoy one without enjoying the other.
I haven’t made the jump to downloadable music yet so you’ll have to bare with me. In the coming months I’ll be pointing you towards CDs. You might eben try to dig up an old record player or buy one of the new repro turntables that I’m seeing everywhere. There’s an awful lot of beautiful LPs waiting for you out there. Garage and estate sales are flush with cocktail culture vinyl.
