CROSSROADS II: GREAT MUSIC, GREAT SUPPORT, AND WHAT COMES NEXT

CROSSROADS II: GREAT MUSIC, GREAT SUPPORT, AND WHAT COMES NEXTA Green Street recap, a look toward Crossroads III-VI, and the next stop at xBk

John-Paul Jones Group performing at Crossroads II on Green Street.

Crossroads II brought another afternoon and evening of live music to Green Street, with friends, supporters, crew members and local businesses all helping make the free-to-the-public concert happen.

John-Paul Jones Group delivered a strong set with Prof. Jp on guitar and vocals, Jon B. on drums, and Joe A. on bass. The set mixed original songs written by Prof. Jp with killer songs from Robin Trower, Screaming Cheetah Wheelies, and others.

A Great Set at Crossroads II

The three-piece lineup had plenty of room to stretch out, lock into the grooves and let the music carry the show. Original material sat comfortably next to songs that have influenced the sound and energy of John-Paul Jones Group.

Prof. Jp, Jon B. and Joe A. locked in during the Crossroads II set.

Prof. Jp on guitar and vocals at Crossroads II.

Jon B. behind the kit at Crossroads II.

Joe A. holding down the bass at Crossroads II.

Maiden Voyage Stage System

Setup and teardown of Maiden Voyage Stage System went well from start to finish. The work behind an outdoor concert is easy to overlook once the music begins, but getting the stage in place and breaking everything down afterward are major parts of the event.

Crew members handled the physical work of the system and kept the process moving before and after the show.

Crew members working on Maiden Voyage Stage System during setup.

More behind-the-scenes work on Maiden Voyage Stage System.

Support That Matters

Special thanks go to Sherri & Dave, AKA "Walnut Hill," for always supporting John-Paul Jones Group and for taking some great pictures at Crossroads II. Their continued support and photography help preserve the moments surrounding these shows.

James & Brian of James and the Jelly Bisquits also came out to support the event, along with Donna and Joe Closser and many other friends of Jp. Every person who showed up, listened, visited and supported the concert helped make the day worthwhile.

Crossroads II also benefited from event support behind the scenes, including 3ECO Training as sponsor, food and beverages from Rack & Roll Billiards, and support from Check It Out.

Prof. Jp and Joe A. working the groove together at Crossroads II.

Could Crossroads Become a Monthly Green Street Series?

The next question is whether Crossroads should grow into a once-monthly/weekly outdoor event on Green Street next year. Crossroads III, Crossroads IV, Crossroads V and Crossroads VI are all under consideration as a four-show series.

The idea is to continue the free-to-the-public format while expanding the music. At least one or two solo/duo acoustic acts could be added to each show, creating more variety for the audience and more opportunities for performers to participate.

Community feedback will help determine whether the series moves forward. Anyone interested in attending, performing, helping or participating is encouraged to visit johnpauljonesgroup.com and sign the guestbook. The guestbook is the place to share ideas, offer feedback and start the conversation about what a Crossroads concert series could look like next year.

Crossroads could return to Green Street next year as Crossroads III, IV, V and VI.

Young Crew Members Wanted for Next Year

Planning for next year also includes finding 3-4 high school or junior high students interested in helping as crew members. The goal is to bring a few young people into the behind-the-scenes side of live events and give them a chance to take part in the work that happens before and after a concert.

Students and families interested in learning more can email info@johnpauljonesgroup.com and ask about joining the crew for next year.

Prof. Jp with Crew Chief Jaclynn and young crew members Jr. and Isbelle.

CREW INTEREST: info@johnpauljonesgroup.com

Next Stop: xBk on Oct. 4

Prof. Jp, Jon B. and Joe A. are now preparing to perform at xBk on Oct. 4 for the Central Iowa Blues Challenge.

Friends, supporters and blues fans are invited to make the trip for a great Sunday afternoon. A few familiar faces in the room would be a welcome sight when John-Paul Jones Group takes the xBk stage.

Oct. 4 is the next date on the calendar. Come up, spend the afternoon around live blues, and support John-Paul Jones Group at the Central Iowa Blues Challenge.

John-Paul Jones Group under the lights at Crossroads II. Next stop: xBk on Oct. 4.

From Crossroads II to What Comes Next

Crossroads II brought together live music, a smooth setup and teardown of Maiden Voyage Stage System, a committed crew, longtime friends and supporters, and another free concert on Green Street.

The next chapter could include Crossroads III, IV, V and VI next year. Guestbook feedback, performer interest and crew interest will all help shape that decision. Visit johnpauljonesgroup.com to join the conversation.

Before next year takes shape, the focus turns to Oct. 4 and the Central Iowa Blues Challenge at xBk.

JPJG Team