Review Centre: Musical Acts

"Well guys, what can I say.. you were the most amazing band we could have EVER asked for.. it was as if you belonged with us on the day and were as much a part of our day as our family and friends. Your music talent.. I have no words.. you made me laugh, sing.. and dance. I have no voice.. and ache from head to toe. During the entire evening all people could say were how good you guys were! So on behalf of us both.. THANK YOU!! Anyone needing a band for anything, they need to book you guys and look no further. From Mr and Mrs Martin xx"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"This organist performed at a memorial service we attended in Florence, and his music left a lasting impression on everyone present. His playing was deeply moving and perfectly suited to the occasion. He managed to create an atmosphere of peace and reflection that was truly comforting. The quality of his performance was exceptional, and his sensitivity to the moment was evident in every note. We highly recommend him for any formal or religious ceremony."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Chris was absolutely brilliant! One month on and guests are still commenting at how he made the day! I booked Chris last minute and he was able to learn some of our favourite songs and you'd of thought he had known them for years, very professional! Highly recommend if looking for something special for your day!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"On a beautiful August night JSJBF member band The Gumbo Gum bas, a project that grew out of leader Joe Grillo and his late brother Alfie's love of all things New Orleans, played to an appreciative crowd at Bands on the Beach. This was the second of two shows held on the beach for this summer-long Sunday night concert series, sponsored by the City of Long Branch in association with the JSJBFT. his show gave the band a chance to play live much of the material that can be found on their new CD, "Zydeland," with our own Jill Baskind donning the rub board for a couple of tunes. For those of you who may not get the reference in the title, Zydeco is a southern Louisiana dance music featuring the accordion, rub board and in this case horns. The music on the CD was dedicated to Alfie, who passed during the pandemic, and their mixing engineer, Tim Gilles, who left us during the making of the CD. All of the band members who appeared on the beach are on the record, including Dave Anthony on drums, Vinnie Borselli on trumpet, Joe on tenor sax and vocals, Steve Munter on baritone sax and clarinet, Greg Novick on bass, Steve "Big Squeezy" Rice on accordion and piano and Lars Wendt on trombone. All tunes were written, arranged and produced by Joe except as noted below. The opening title track "Zydeland," begins with the measured beat of the drums and is joined quickly by the accordion, with the horns kicking in as the lyrics invite you to join the band on a journey to this magical, musical place. As with any good Gumbo, it's flavored with local ingredients, in this case a dose of the Jersey Shore sound spices up the mix. "Dance With Me" picks up the beat and is reminiscent in tempo and style to one of Joe's major influences, Louis Prima. If this tune doesn't get you out of your seat, nothing will. "Waiting for the Cane," is dedicated to the crazies who choose not to evacuate, but start the party in anticipation of a hurricane, and party they will to this number. "King Cake" includes lyrics by Joe and music by Steve, was explained to the uninitiated that night as the legendary dessert of Mardi Gras which is said to bring luck and prosperity to whoever gets the plastic baby in their piece. It's a high energy number that gives each member of the horn section a chance to stretch out and strut their stuff, and they made it a highlight of that night and the CD. The recorded version of this song literally jumps out of the speakers. "Can't Go Back To New Orleans" is a moving tribute to Joe's brother, envisioning an ode to the city they both love through the sound of Tom Waits, one of Alfie's favorite artists. I got the chills listening to what starts out as a somber tune but ends in an upbeat fashion, finishing with Frank Rein's tuba. Joe and Vinnie collaborated on the lyrics to the tall tale of "Gumbo Parmesan," a song that's lyrics are as much of a fun dream its title implies. "By the Water'' has that infectious "Congo Square" beat, which is highlighted by Dave's opening drum pattern with accompanying percussion and conjures up a scene of the locals doing a NOLA style tap dance. With lyrics by Ken Morrison and music by Steve Rice, "Drifting Off and Dreaming of You" is a mid twentieth century style ballad, complete with strings, and has Joe in the role of a crooner which he does quite eloquently. A welcome respite from the nonstop party to this point, he sounds like the last man at the bar, smoke curling up from that final cigarette, with drink in hand, thinking about the woman of his dreams. The penultimate song, "Drinks On the House," is another fanciful flight of fantasy which would be loads of fun as an MTV video. Bring on the aliens, it's party time! The final tune, "Why Can't Everyday Be Mardi Gras?," is a fitting end to this party with Steph's clarinet leading the second line followed by the rest of the band with a chorus children along the route singing out the refrain. For this band, every time they start to play it's Mardi Gras. If these songs don't leave you smiling and dancing I don't know what will. Mission accomplished in the fun department as far as I'm concerned."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Für unsere Hochzeit suchten wir etwas Elegantes und Besonderes – und dieser Pianist hat alle Erwartungen übertroffen. Er hat sowohl die Zeremonie als auch den Empfang perfekt musikalisch begleitet. Höchste Professionalität und großes Talent."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Absolutely fantastic band! Had everyone up dancing to their wide range of songs. Highly recommend & wouldn’t hesitate to book again. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"I booked Maria for our 50s style party, her talent is beyond amazing. Everyone loved her. I hope to have her again and would 100% reccomend her"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Hi Jesús, I wanted to say a big Thank you for playing during the ceremony and reception on Monday at Tikitano . You were a dream to listen to and all my guests commented how beautiful it was all and to hear you playing. I wish you a wonderful summer!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Sandy was amazing! My family was a tough crowd but he got everyone singing throughout the night. He’s very flexible on playing songs he doesn’t know. You can tell he’s really passionate about his work and it reflects on his amazing performance. Will definitely book again 😁"

Reply by Nostalgia: Trip to Bollywood
Thanks for your generous review Sam!! It was a pleasure to perform for the milestone event for you and family. Looking forward to perform again :)

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Chris played for our wedding and we would highly recommend him. He helped us create a lively, but not dominating atmosphere, and was extremely friendly and helpful. His playlist suited our "do", but he was also open to the odd request from our guests.He was very accommodating beforehand as well, which helps a lot when organizing an event. Don't hesitate to book him!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"You made our wedding great, everyone loved your music and said they were fully entertained. Just want to say thank you so much for playing and we have already been contacted by a few friends already asking who you are. But again thank you so much"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Mr.Harmon arrived ahead of time, set up and player amazingly well. He went above and beyond our expectations. He played his sax with such talent and truly blessed our soul in music and singing. I will definitely recommend him and will use him again. He was life to the party and we say thank you Mr Harmon."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"She made a huge party at our wedding! With a fresh and funky song selection, sexy saxophone solos and big energies she got all the people moving. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Mr. Babich is a very professional artist. I am very impressive with his show on wedding."

Reply by Ontario saxophonist Igor Babich
Thank you very much, Nicholas!

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Awesome live music from lucky shore at MSC. We thank you for the wonderful last two weeks! Hope to see/hear you again 💕"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: