Tue 5/23 @ 7:30PM
A.C.O. aka The Afro-Cleveland Orchestra played regular nights at the Grog Shop from its earliest days in the mid 90s. Founded by sax player Rob Williams, who played with First Light in the 80s, it attracted many other local musicians with its accessible, high-energy and danceable blend of jazz, funk, soul, blues and pop an its freewheeling jam-style presentation. Although they were less active in the last 15 or so years, they still performed reunion shows at the Grog Shop which were welcomed by their fans and friend.
Williams passed away during the pandemic, but he’s fondly remembered by his musical colleagues who are offering another tribute show to him and his music, at the Grog Shop, of course. Participants include pianist Jackie Warren, bassist Ray Deforest, drummer Gary Naherny, harmonica player Larnie Zellner, and sax player Jim Cirillo, along with “special guests,” likely to include some of the scene’s top players.
It’s an all-ages shows. Doors open at 7. Tickets are $10, $12 for under 21.
grogshop/aco-a-tribute-to-rob-williams/