Article Contributed by Dan Ward
Published on 2026-03-03
Desmond Jones | The Livery | photos by Dan Ward
The snow is finally loosening its grip, giving way to spring, and those who have been hunkered down through the bleak winter are beginning to reemerge. Cabin fever meets live music season, and there’s no better remedy than heading to the local watering hole for a night of sweat, sound, and community. Tonight, Desmond Jones — the eclectic Grand Rapids jam band that proudly puts the FUN in funk — ventures south for their first appearance at Benton Harbor’s The Livery.
The band performs two sets tonight, and with no fanfare, Chris Bota (guitar), dressed in gold crushed velvet and oversized sunglasses, digs right in. Guitar blazing, Chris and the band power through “Gold ’Til the Grave” and “Hot Hamm” without a break.
George Falk’s saxophone screams tonight as he plays his signature runs throughout “Hot Hamm.” The presence of that big sax sound makes Desmond Jones instantly recognizable. My first encounter with the band was at a small festival. I had missed the group’s name, but all I needed to ask was, “Who was the group with the blazing tenor?” and collectively my comrades replied, “Desmond Jones!”
Tonight, the band gives the crowd a taste of their new release with “I’ve Already Surrendered” and the first public performance of “One Eye Open.” Both are strong tunes, certainly piquing our interest in what the new album holds.
The band digs deep into the groove with new material like “Park It” and longtime favorite “I Recall.” Isaac Berkowitz (guitar) proves why he is “Gold ’Til the Grave” as the band reprises the opener to close out the first set. The time has flown by, yet the promise of another set keeps everyone curious.
Latecomers have now filled the venue, and the party atmosphere is in full swing. “No Parking on the Dance Floor” isn’t just a sign — it’s the slogan when Desmond Jones takes the stage for set two. They come out hot with “Piece of Steel.” The funk runs thick in this second set as Taylor Watson (bass) lays down a heavy bottom end.
The tunes roll on with longtime favorites “Pat and the Big Carrot,” “Synth Boys,” and “Smoke and Ashes,” as the dance floor stays packed. The rhythmic heart of the band, John Nowak (drums), is like a metronome, pumping out meter-perfect beats while locked in with Taylor, giving the band a rock-solid base from which to launch those soaring guitar and sax lines.
The band leans into “Leo’s Casino,” delivering a truly inspired rendition. Another highlight of the night is The Band’s “Ophelia.” Desmond Jones’ version is warm, bluesy, and heartfelt. Vocally, the harmonies are tight and rich, showcasing the band’s dedication to their craft.
“Step on Me” leads back into a reprise of “Piece of Steel,” and the band appears to bid the crowd goodnight — but not really. Chris teases the audience with, “Do you want more?” and the crowd answers emphatically. The band breaks into an extended version of “Mississippi,” happiness enveloping the room.
Desmond Jones is on the road promoting the new release and will be out again this summer. If you have never heard them live, get out to a show. If you are an old fan, get out and show your love.
