Mark Wenner's Akousti-Kats January 23, 2010

Mark Wenner, the lead singer, harmonica player, and soul of the legendary Bethesda band, The Nighthawks, now has his own new group. Mark Wenner's Akousti-Kats features Esther Haynes on vocals. Esther is a multiple Wammie award winning jazz vocalist who plays great acoustic guitar. Some of DC's best blues/jazz talent will be joining them for an incredible evening: Big Joe Maher on vocals and minimalist drums; Mac Cridlin, currently working with Bill Kirchen and formally with such acts as the Pointer Sisters on record, will be plunking the bass; J.C. Veve will be playing National Steel guitar: and Keith Grimes, most famous for his work with Eva Cassidy, will be playing electric guitar. They'll cover a wide range of material from Mississippi John Hurt to Louis Jordan, from Bessie Smith to Billie Holiday.