Review Centre: Jazz Bands

"Could not recommend the Blue Moon Jazz Band enough, they were absolutely fantastic from the moment I sent my initial enquiry email. Raphael was so responsive and helpful with whatever question I asked, and he also helped me out a great deal with some of the legal admin I needed to do, which was so so appreciated. He really went above and beyond. As for the performance, well it was just incredible. They are all such talented players and had such a wide range of music they could play. It really made a difference as well to see the smiles on all their faces during their performance, they seemed to genuinely enjoy playing for us. We only had a wedding of 20 people, and this size of band really worked so well. Also really appreciated the band staying on an extra 1.5 hours despite them having long ways to travel afterwards. The best band in all of Italy!!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"If Dr. John and Tom Waits leave you wanting more, lend your ear to one-of-a-kind Aussie artist Pugsley Buzzard, who assimilates their piano playing, singing and songwriting style into his own blues-jazz musical distillation. On this, his fourth solo CD since 2007’s Hammer These Tongs, Buzzard delivers an all-original set recorded in New Orleans, Melbourne and the Blue Mountains. The Aussie backing musicians are so hip to Buzzard’s swampy Crescent City-influenced grooves that it’s difficult to tell which tracks were recorded where. Complementing the Big Easy contingent of tenor and baritone saxophonist Jimmie Carpenter, trumpeter Antonio Gambrell, trombonist Craig Klein, double bassist Nathan Lambertson, guitarist John Fohl, drummer Charles Brewer and singer Irene Sage, is an equally talented band of top local players. The opening bars of the lead-in blues mambo instrumental ‘Cigarstore Indian’, on which Buzzard’s commanding piano echoes Professor Longhair, James Booker and Allen Toussaint all rolled into one, promises a bourbon-drenched musical trip to follow. Buzzard doesn’t disappoint, his gravelly Joe Cocker-by-way-of-Coco Robicheaux vocals and pulsating piano serving up a solid mix of New Orleans R&B from the Fats Domino styled ‘Dirty Kings’ and the inventive minor-key rave-up ‘Gumbo Boogie’, to the gris-gris-soaked, Night Tripper hoodoo funk of ‘Po’ Boy’, ‘Fire In The Hole’ and ‘Mischief’. The Dixieland flavoured ‘Sin City Lights’ gives way to ‘Salamanca Blues’ a solo instrumental displaying Buzzard’s mastery of stride piano. Chasin’ Aces is a well-crafted, authentic New Orleans Down Under body of work. Al Hensley Rythmns Magazine "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Igor and his band were absolutely incredible! Hands-down they are the reason our night turned out so special for our surprise birthday party! Great Gatsby style themed and this band definitely fits the Bill ! 10/10 would recommend! Thank you to you three!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Just a quick note to thank you all for playing for us last week - you helped to make the day extra special. All the best"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Le Mixx absolutely nailed the music to our wedding. Myke and his crew were on fire - they had everyone on their feet dancing the entire time they were playing. Communication was excellent with Myke, he took time to fully understand what we were looking for and then executed flawlessly. Guests were raving about the music and quality of the band - do yourself a favor and book Le Mixx, you will not regret it! (groom-Wedding: 06/07/2019 The Knot) "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Rome jazz trio band were absolutely amazing — we had so much fun! The music was beautifully romantic and at times wonderfully upbeat. Thank you so much!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"The team were totally awesome. Would give 10 stars if I could…"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Review of Trilby - 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!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"I am a volunteer at Walden and we all enjoyed your show today Thanks so much for entertaining the residents It was terrific. We look forward to seeing you again"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"I just wanted to say a massive thank you. You were all amazing last night! You absolutely made my party and I’m so grateful!! I had so many people comment on how awesome you were! Many thanks again for making my 40th fabulous and unforgettable."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Blue Moon Jazz were the most wonderful wedding band for our wedding in Gardone Riviera at Lake Garda, and we loved every moment of their music! When planning our wedding, Raphael was truly wonderful – communication was so easy, prompt and friendly, and we never once felt worried or stressed about the music, which was so appreciated when planning our wedding from abroad! On the day of our wedding, Blue Moon set-up, coordinated with the venue, and played the most beautiful set. We asked them to accompany our reception, which they did beautifully. They helped us with the technical aspects of speeches during our dinner, and provided the microphone and sound system. Lastly, in the evening, Blue Moon were phenomenal – they got everyone dancing and created a beautiful atmosphere. So many of our guests specifically said how much they loved the music, and we could not have been happier with them. Thank you so much to Raphael and the rest of the band, for making this happy day even more special!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Great! Your performance was great! I personally found it a pity that the music outside wasn't as audible, so you got less attention than you deserved. Fortunately, that improved later in the evening and there was even some dancing. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"I am pleased to recommend Anna Yeliseieva, an exceptionally talented singer, for your events. At 321 Events, we have had the privilege of hiring Anna for several occasions, and she has always impressed us with her incredible voice, professionalism, and ability to engage the audience. Anna performs across a variety of genres, including Pop, R&B, Jazz, Soul, and Lounge. Her versatility and skill allow her to adapt to any event, whether it’s a small gathering or a large celebration. She is not only a gifted artist but also a true professional—punctual, reliable, and a pleasure to work with. Anna brings energy and elegance to every performance, making her a great choice for any event. We highly recommend Anna Yeliseieva and are confident she will add a special touch to your occasion. Best regards, Arafa Mohammed PR/Events 321 Events DMCC "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Reviews - (Barry) Just a quick note to say a very big 'thank you' for your performance and performers last night. Everyone here thoroughly enjoyed the whole evening with an excellent mix of music and vocals. - (Ann) It was a great set that you did at …….. -(Diane) I enjoyed the evening very much. "

Rating: 9 / 10 Share this review:

"“We thoroughly enjoyed a stylish and musically high-level jazz performance. For our 50th anniversary, we were looking for an elegant jazz band, and this all-round Jazz Quartet exceeded our expectations. The communication beforehand was smooth and clear, which immediately gave us a reassuring feeling in the run-up to our event. On the day itself, the band members arrived well ahead of time at the Atomium—professional and well prepared. Their performance, in their classy dress code, was atmospheric and musically of a very high standard, striking exactly the right tone for this festive occasion. The music added an extra touch of class to the evening and was greatly appreciated by all our guests. In short: reliable, professional, and above all musically excellent. Highly recommended for anyone looking for quality live jazz!”"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: