biggy phryz   The name, inspired by the super-size French fries available at most fast food franchises, was the bass player's idea. We were a spin-off of the Triangle Church Band. The plan was to make some extra cash playing the ballads and blues circuit, but it never came together. We were Joe on keys, Frank on bass, Jeff on drums, me on guitar, and Mickey, our very seasoned sax player, and we simply adored playing together.

The material started with basic Real Book tunes, stretching out to include Kenny G-style ballads and Average White Band meets Parliament/Funkadelic romps. Every now and again we'd learn a Bonnie Raitt or Alannah Myles tune for a guest vocalist. But our trademark was, in virtually every setting, we worked it into a furious fusion jam before the night was over. Hands down, one of my favorite band experiences, and I often wish we could pull together again.