January-February 2005 Newsletter
• BB King & Magic Slim Show •
• Jimmy Thackery show •
• Hawkeye Herman •
• CD Reviews •
• Rockford Arts Council Grant •
• Election Results •
• Upcoming Events •

Jimmy Thackery at Chord on Blue
Jimmy Carpenter “Retires” from the Drivers 

Jimmy Carpenter, the fine saxophone player for Jimmy Thackery’s Drivers and Whiskey Store, has decided to hang up touring and settle down to a life of music in New Orleans.  Crossroaders Mark Thompson, many of his family members, and Steve Jones made the trip to St. Charles’ Chord On Blue on Saturday, December 18, for his final performance with Jimmy Thackery.

Carpenter’s sweet sounds with the Drivers will be missed as Thackery will be returning the band to the old trio format he had before Carpenter joined him.  When asked what he intends to do, Carpenter replied that he was done touring and wanted to explore local New Orleans musical options so he could spend more time with his family. 

Thackery, Carpenter, drummer Mark Stutso and bassist Ken Faltinson put on a superb show, with two long sets of music from the Driver’s repertoire.  The place was packed and jumping with excitement.  At the end of the evening, we all wished Jimmy Carpenter well with his new endeavors.