Kathy Mattea isn't exactly jazz, and she isn't exactly blues. But she is a great singer and performer. I am so glad that Jimmy's opened their stage to her. And she did not disappoint. WHat a great show.
And now on to Jimmy's. Our first time there, and we will be back, as often as possible (an hour and a half drive+ for us). This has got to be one of the premier music venues in New England. From the first exuberant "Come on in!" greeting at the door to every staff encounter, we felt welcome and well taken care of. Jimmy's has thought of everything, from seat comfort, sight lines, sound system, to little details like the tea light on/off to signal your wait person during the show. The venue is on the 3rd and 4th floor, but the elevator is very conveniently located for those who may need it.
I have some minor complaints, but they are so small or personal that this is still a 5 Star rating. Food was great, Louisiana inspired but chef visioned. I have to say, though, that I am not a fan of the small portion/tapas approach. It is difficult to know how to order to create a filling meal. On the other had, we got to try half the menu, everything was good, most were great.
The PA system was excellent. You will hear well from anywhere with great sight lines from just about everywhere. Sight lines from the section behind the bar can be partially obstructed due to the renovation incorporating the old brick facade with tall arched windows. But there is a jumbotron on two opposite walls in that section that assures you will see everything. Minor comment for the sound techs. We got lucky with a table right in front of the stage. How can I possibly complain? But this turned out to be a slight dead spot between the speakers. Kathy's voice could have been clearer and crisper, but I think that was due to our positioning between the speakers. This may be less of an issue for an instrumentally driven performance. I'll still take these front table seats in a heartbeat.
So those are my small critiques. This is a Five Star venue, suited to the Five Star acts they are bringing in. Welcome, Jimmy's, to New Hampshire. I've been waiting nearly 40 years for you, since we moved to NH.