THEY’RE NO strangers to Dunoon, and music loving locals are in for a real treat when the Jack Ruby 5 return to the Burgh Hall.
They will be debuting and showcasing their new album Despedida La Bodega.
We caught up with the band’s Ian MacMillan to find out what the audience can expect at the gig.
Ian said: “We’ve built up a local following over the last ten years and have played the Burgh Hall and the Queen’s Hall many times along with local bars and festivals.
“I think people have a fair idea of what to expect but there will be new unheard material to keep everyone on their toes, and we will play Despedida La Bodega in its entirety.”
The band has a strong connection to the town as Ian explains: “Originally, we all lived in Dunoon at one time or another but have deviated into the diaspora of greater Scotland.”
We asked if the band line- up had changed over the years and got an emphatic ‘Yes!’ in reply.
Ian said: “Many changes have occurred. We started as a trio and were augmented with Ken Clark on keyboards and other musicians who have come and gone.” Despite the band’s
name, Ian explained that there’s never been just five members, in fact there are currently eight members.
“The band name originated because two of our children had names which were the same as the killer of Lee Harvey Oswald, the alleged assassin of JFK.
“The number 5 refers to the classic Take 5 by Dave Brubeck/Paul Desmond and also Louis Armstrong’s Hot Club 5.”
The band has a regular monthly spot at Babbity Bowster in Glasgow’s Merchant City and prior to that had a regular spot at La Bodega in Glasgow (hence the LP title.)
Ian explained: “La Bodega was one of many disappearing or ‘liminal’ spaces in the city replaced by various pop-up venues. There’s also a reference to people and places who have crossed paths with ours over the years. A strong Latin vibe weaves throughout the compositions.”
The Jack Ruby 5 will be at Dunoon Burgh Hall on Friday November 14, doors open 7.30pm
