Review Centre: 1920s Era Musicians & Bands

" All Music Review Thom Jurek The title of this set is an apt one. While much of the music presented by the Rick Holland-Evan Dobbins Little Big Band, it hearkens back -- in terms of its sophistication, confidence and outright jazz literacy, not nostalgically -- to an era when progressive jazz, and big bands (this one numbering 10 pieces) flourished on the scene. This is one sophisticated outfit. Featuring the arrangement and compositional skills of Brent Wallarab, Jim Martin, Bill Dobbins and Kerry Strayer, this band struts out the tradition and make some joyous, complex, and elegant music that reflects its own unique identity. The résumés of all these players are impressive and reflected in the confidence of the date. It opens with "SUNY-Triangle," a Martin composition that works its artful sleight-of-hand over Antonio Carlos Jobim's "Triste." Martin uses the rhythmically complex samba and drapes some tough, knotty twists and turns over it. The intro is a beautiful and raucous wake-up call, while the head of the tune, with its staggered entrances and exits -- including some fine soloing by John Viavattine on tenor and John Nyerges on piano -- give this tune a unique identity. "Creature Comfort" is a beautiful mid-tempo ballad by Wallarab with edgeless yet multi-dimensional dissonances written into its harmonics. It swings beautifully and includes a fine, punchy solo by tenorman Glenn Cashman. Besides the originals, there are some fine readings here as well. There's Wallarab's arrangement of Duke Ellington's "Black and Tan Fantasy" that's a thoroughly modern exercise losing none of Ellington's humor or rhythmic complexity. Likewise, Gerry Mulligan's haunting, wee-hours, "Night Lights," is given expert treatment here by Strayer, and Dean Keller's baritone saxophone playing combines Mulligan's sense of lyric and Ben Webster's sense of time. In Time's Shadow reveals that innovation need not sacrifice accessibility or swing. It is convincing evidence that the big band form is alive, well and full of surprises."

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"We attended a family function this week in Duffield and were entertained by a super jazz trio - The Tri Tones Jazz Trio - they sounded incredible! Check them out!"

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"Great band!! The lead singer has an amazing voice!!! Perfect for our anniversary party"

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"I loved this group. Great energy, kind guys and so easy to speak to. They made dinner feel so good and their laid back energy is contagious. I will use them again for sure 100 percent!"

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"What a brilliant and authentic soft jazz voice from Noa and fantastic music from the band, a marvellous afternoon jazz musical exceeding all expectations. I give Noa and the quintet a 5 out of 5 stars!"

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"An unforgettable evening. The quartet created an elegant and intimate atmosphere that perfectly complemented our private dinner. Every guest commented on how exceptional the music was."

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"Professional from start to finish.A lovely bunch of lads who played their hearts out and wowed the old and the young.The choice of music was determined by them and was absolutely perfect for the occasion. I would highly recommend."

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"Arron and his team were the perfect addition to our Friday night dinner crowd. Their load in and set up was timely & efficient. They read the room perfectly and found a vibe our clientele was really into. They brought range, diversity and fun into their set. They really know how to work a crowd and would highly recommend! Can't wait to have them back! "

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"Noa and her group performed in All Saints Church for the May Merrie festival. Dozens of people who had come in for refreshments or as customers for the craft fair stood or sat in amazement for around an hour as they listened to classic jazz numbers beautifully sung to a great accompanying group.They couldn't get enough. Go a long way to listen to these great musicians."

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"We hired Julie and her jazz band to perform at our 1920's Speakeasy client appreciation event and we're pleased we did! Our clients loved bring able to let loose and try out their best attempt at the Charleston! Julie was easy to work with throughout the planning process and helpful in providing her recommendations. If you're looking for some great era entertainment for a wedding or corporate event, I certainly recommend The Kensie Jazz Band!"

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"I just wanted to get in touch as Melisma Manouche played at mine and my husband's wedding this year. They were fantastic and everybody loved them!"

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"Wonderful! So pleased we found you, the music really set the tone for our celebration. Thank you again."

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"A Musical Duo that Brings the Romance of Europe to You. Euro Cafe Duo played every second Monday at our venue, and we could not feel happier to host them! You can always be sure to be swept away by the lovely vocal melodies of Andrea Leyton, while Ted Leyton provides a smooth and fun accordion to truly transform any room you're in into a dreamy cafe in France or Italy. Be sure to go and see them!! "

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"Thank you once again for making my father’s birthday party such a great success. Having the party on a boat made for slightly more difficult logistics but your professional yet flexible and enthusiastic approach to the situation really helped. On arrival you quickly tuned into the nature and tone of the event and your personality and sense of fun charmed everyone. You play the accordion wonderfully and is the perfect accompaniment to your beautiful voice transporting us all to a timeless Left Bank cafe in Paris. As you know, my father was enchanted by you. He said that you were the absolute highlight of the party. And that’s the first time I can remember dancing with my mum! "

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"Just wanted to say a big thank you for everything you all did to make our wedding day extra special! We had so much fun and didn’t want it to ever end!"

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