Review Centre: Swing Bands

"This band was INCREDIBLE. Better even in real life. very professional, customized their set for us and made the party come to life. THANK YOU"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"With all the hype going to Wynton Marsalis, you might not guess that there are other, lesser-known, straight-ahead trumpet players out there who are consistently ripping the hide off the ball. This, Rick Holland's auspicious debut, is an impressive effort. The trumpeter leads his quartet, backed by a solid Michigan-based rhythm section: pianist Terry Lower, bassist Ed Fedewwa, and drummer Larry Ochiltree, through a fiery trail of originals and standards, interspersed with some fine balladry. Holland's sensitive ear translates to some tight arrangements and a well-organized program. On flugelhorn, he boasts a rich, full tone that purrs with warmth. On the faster tunes, he steams. This is the kind of jazz that feels just right on a wintry day, with the fireplace in full throttle, and the feet resting on a cushion: it hits the spot perfectly, drenched with emotional power and skillful fortitude. Steve Loewy, All Music Guide"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Paul Skerritt can work a room with the skill of a Las Vegas entertainer and he had those present in the palm of his hand. He sings, he swings, he ring-a-ding dings. Old Blue Eyes ain't dead - he just lives in the North East!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Great addition to our Easter Sunday dinner at home. Thank you for a lovely performance!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Kevin was an absolute pleasure to have as our violinist on our wedding day. His playing created the perfect atmosphere throughout our ceremony and we received so many compliments from our guests on the beautiful music. He was punctual, professional, and incredibly accommodating with our requests, which made the whole process completely stress-free. We would happily recommend Kevin for any event and would book him again in a heartbeat."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"It was SO WONDERFUL to have you as part of our 'Celebration of Seeds'. Seeds can be taken in the literal way or indeed sowing the seeds of thoughts and feelings inspired by your beautiful tunes. Everybody I spoke to said what a joyful addition it was to have you there as part of our event. Two of my favourite moments were the dancing and then your version of 'Here, there and everywhere' which is a particular favourite of mine. A member of staff at the library said to me that this is what Saturdays should be like every week. Thank you for bringing so much joy to the event. And YES I would highly recommned!!!!!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"'Please thank the excellent Chris Weeks for his singing yesterday. The team has asked me to pass on their heartfelt thanks for making their event so special. There was a very magical atmosphere and many happy guests.' "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Funk’N’Soul performed at a wedding celebration held at Maisemore Gloucestershire on 28th August. The two hour set and DJ kept everyone on the dance floor, which was exactly what was wanted!! Awesome night!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"It began as a Swing Band project, in the winter of 2005, in Oswego, NY, where Rick met Evan Dobbins, and put together a ten-piece swing band, to play occasional concerts, and private parties. Evan was to contract and Rick would be in charge of music when, the band played five, or six-events, and Rick had the idea, they would not only play swing music, but play modern jazz. Thus, ''The Little Big Band'', and ''Uptown Society Orchestra'' were formed. In 2006, the band released their first disc, entitled “In Times Shadow”, which was a mainstream release on Blue Jazz. It received wide critical acclaim, prompting Ollie Bivins in LA to say: “Rick Holland (Trumpet) and Evan Dobbins (Trombone) lead a group of New York area musicians, who could give the more well-known big bands in New York and Los Angelas a run for their money, and as part of the the Blue jazz label, a label that promotes and distributes jazz musician’s albums. this big band is taking its destiny into it’s own hands rather than wait to be “discovered” by the major labels. More power to this label and all others who do the same. Lovers of Big Band music, especially, will like the Rick Holland-Evan Dobbins Little Big Band’s refreshing recording.” Doug Collar in East Lansing, Mi said this....''I have just played “In Time’s Shadow” the new CD from the Rick Holland-Evan Dobbins Little Big Band. What a disc! What a sound! What an ensemble! This disc is my top nomination for jazz ensemble release of the year. The arranging is nonpareil and the soloists masterful. The whole package is varied, listenable, and leaves the audience asking for more. Rick Holland and Evan Dobbins have created a musical experience that our listeners will absorb and enjoy.'' After the release of this disc, the band landed their first steady gig at Tasteology, every Monday night. The gig lasted 2 years, as the bands repertoire grew. The band then moved over to the Loving Cup, in Henrietta, New York. They played on Sunday nights, this gig lasted 3 years. This led to the band 2nd recording, “Trilby”, in 2011. Some of the review was just marvelous. For example: Throughout Trilby, the Rick Holland-Evan Dobbins Little Big Band plays on the level of most better-known ensembles, performing music that is inventive, full of life and fun. Their CD is highly recommended.-Scott Yanow, author of ten books including The Jazz Singers, The LA Times What a surprise! This band and musicians were unknown to me, but they are absolutely great! For listeners to hear musicians challenge themselves, and be taken along for the ride, records like this are a must! The musicians in the Rick Holland-Evan Dobbins Little Big Band are all reaching the high musical standards realized by playing in this excellent Little Big Band! This music will be featured in my playlists for many months to come. Thank you again for sending this exceptional CD to me. Peter Kuller - Jazz Presenter Radio Adelaide 101.5 FM, and www.radio.adelaide.edu.au JPL "Jazz from Down Under". The liner notes inform us that this ensemble started as a swinging dance band in 2005. Since then, they've evolved into a solid, well-arranged outfit with first rate solos played by intriguing, skilled jazz cats. The feeling I derived from the CD was similar to a classic Blue Note session. You know, several well-written originals that are melodically strong, and a few standards to test the players' chops on familiar material. The co-leaders play flugelhorn and trombone, respectively. Most of the arrangements come from pianist Bill Dobbins, who allows plenty of room for free-swinging solo work. The familiar vehicles here include Benny Golson's "Stablemates" and Sonny Stitt's "Eternal Triangle." I also spotted a tune called "Rich's Call" by Kerry Strayer, a baritone player of the highest stripe, and a skilled composer and arranger as well. It is interesting to note three compositions from jazz harmonica whiz, Hendrik Meurkens. Perhaps, he has some connection to the band. Finally, it should be said that this session is directed straight down the middle of the bop highway. Simply an outstanding blowing session on songs that, amazingly enough, sound like songs! Wow! What a Surprise! "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Giuliano Ligabue, a modern-day crooner extraordinaire, graced our wedding with a voice reminiscent of Sinatra's golden era. His performance not only showcased unparalleled talent but also exuded class and charm, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Beyond his musical prowess, Giuliano's warmth and professionalism made our encounter truly enjoyable. A genuinely nice person, he elevated our special day with his top-tier swing expertise. For jazz and swing enthusiasts seeking the best, Giuliano is the ultimate choice, turning our wedding into a timeless celebration of love and music."

Reply by Giuliano Ligabue
Hi Martin, what can I say... Thank you so much for your words, it was a great pleasure to bring our music to your wedding and I'm happy that you were completely satisfied. I wish you all the best!

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

".."Great Band. Solid Grooves, solos and great choice of material"... The Arts Cafe Manor Park SE13 "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"They are immense, talented and unique ... I listened to them together with their pianist. Formidable"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Great communications. A splendid group, friendly, super music, all my members enjoyed the evening."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Parish's voice was warm and expressive throughout, and Williams proved to be the ideal accompanist with his light, melodic touch and studied rhythmic flow. John Barham played strong, firm bass lines, and the three sounds - piano, voice and bass - blended together successfully."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"We loved how they engaged the crowd with beautiful music while maintaining a sophisticated yet warm vibe throughout the event."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: