Review Centre: Crooners

" I am proud that the Rick Holland - Evan Dobbins Little Big Band calls Tala Vera cantina home once a month. Rick is a consummate professional as well as a top tier musician. His Band comprises the best players Rochester has to offer. Such talent coupled with an amazing book of swing and traditional jazz, presents a special evening of music every time they play at Tala Vera. Bernard Matthews, Owner of Tala Vera, Rochester, NY I have had the pleasure to do some arranging and writing for Rick's groups and I have to say that his groups are always chocked full of the best musicians around. It's a pleasure to have music played with precision and integrity - no matter what the style or genre. I would highly recommend any or Rick's groups for a jazz or commercial setting. Jim Martin, Grand Rapids, MI We had the pleasure of having the USO-10 piece play at our wedding in May 2017. From the minute we met Rick Holland and heard the band play we knew they were the band for us. It was a pleasure to work with Rick, who was so professional and helpful in many ways especially song choices from everything to cocktail music, our entrance song, first dance, parent dances to our exit song. The dance floor was never empty. We are thrilled with the USO and look forward to hearing them again in the near future!! Thank you for making our wedding so special! Maureen and Mark Deckman Sometimes it all just falls into place. The setting, the situation, the scene, the tone -- everything is going your way. That describes last night for me. And at the heart of this mid-week Xanadu was the Rick Holland Uptown Orchestra, a modest, brass-centric outfit led by the trumpet-blowing Holland that swung with equal parts effervescence and laid-back cool at Lovin Cup. And come to find out, five of his Hollands regular guys were sidelined, and the holes on the bandstand were plugged with subs --- hired music muscle like Po’ Boy Erik Jacobs on the slide trombone. By the time the Orchestra heaped on a helping of Count Basie, there was nowhere else I wanted to be. I dragged my mom out in the cold for this show and she was thrilled when they stomped on the Savoy. Holland led the affair with a relaxed air, coaxing more than conducting under his porkpie lid. He went around the bandstand numerous times so every cat there got his fair shake, including pianist extraordinaire Bill Dobbins. This is one sweet band, yes, yes. Frank De Blase, Roch City News 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 You get the feeling from Holland’s recordings, that Holland and his compatriots are not only talented musicians, but fully formed human beings with wit, style and elegance---folks whom you would enjoy sharing a fine dinner and stimulating conversation. Bill Barton, Green Mountain Jazz Messenger "Rick brought his quartet and the little big band to our wedding and reception. He was wonderful to work with, being both receptive to our requests and knowing where to fill in the gaps with his expertise. Not to mention I could call him anytime, and he worked around our schedule. They played a tasteful mix of songs great for just listening to and a few that got everyone up on the dance floor. In the end, everyone was raving about how great the band was. We couldn't be happier!" P.S. Lindsey was amazing, the two comments I heard most were "Wow, they are great!" and "That girl can sing!" Sam and Ellie Carrell I hired Rick Holland Productions for my wedding and I thank my lucky stars I did. They were just an absolute solid band. I live in Toronto so the 10 piece band crossed the border for my wedding - our wedding coordinator said she'd never heard a band that good over her decade long career. I like to think I'm a genius for finding them ?? Kian K., Toronto, ON, CA From the bride: "The music was wonderful! We could not have asked for a better band. Our guests were really impressed; the Uptown Society Orchestra really made our reception special.” From the groom: "What a professional group. Their exceptional musicianship brought a real element of class to the party. There is nothing like the sound of a live band, and this group made our reception better than we could have hoped for.” From the father of the bride: (Dennis Nowicki): "The band was fantastic -- they really exceeded our expectations." Anders Dahlberg and Stacy Nowicki, Wedding at the Chicago Art Museum The Uptown Society Orchestra may have had six members, but it sounded as if it had twice as many as members blew triumphantly throughout New Years' eve night. (Front page Kalamazoo Gazette, regarding the New Years Eve Festival 2004, Kalamazoo, Michigan) Bill Wood, Arts and Entertainment critic, Kalamazoo Gazette Amazing! Rick Holland Productions worked seamlessly with our wedding, where we had three separate "performances" that were adpated to by Rick's use of different members of the Little Big Band. We had a cocktail reception where a trio played, then a brass quartet accompanied our Wedding ceremony. After our guests were transported by horse-drawn carriage to a lake side reception site, the Little Little Big Band got things started and the full Little Big Band played the night away to the extreme pleasure of our entire party. They even let Joe Robinson jam with them in the chill of the autumn, fire-lit evening! Thank You so much Rick! Matthew Cooper, Bradford, PA Rick brought his quartet and the little big band to our wedding and reception. He was wonderful to work with, being both receptive to our requests and knowing where to fill in the gaps with his expertise. Not to mention I could call him anytime, and he worked around our schedule. They played a tasteful mix of songs great for just listening to and a few that got everyone up on the dance floor. In the end, everyone was raving about how great the band was. Lindsey Holland was amazing, the two comments I heard most were "Wow, they are great!" and "That girl can sing!"We couldn't be happier! Sam and Ellie Carrell When we heard the Uptown Society perform at a New Year's Eve concert we knew that we wanted them to play at our wedding. They had the perfect blend of jazz, swing and romantic ballads. They are excellent musicians and we were thrilled to find that they were available for our wedding. Our guests were thrilled that we hired them; we received so many compliments. Uptown Society provided a wonderful 'soundtrack' for our storybook wedding. Eric and Kim von Oeyen, Battle Creek, MI Rick Holland and his band played our wedding on August 28, 2010. Rick could not have been more accommodating to my husband and my wants and needs for music at the wedding. We communicated through email, over the phone, and met with each other once to go over the details. Rick was very thorough and always set our minds at ease. During our ceremony, his quartet played us up the aisle with a romantic song and down the aisle with ''Fireworks'' which set the mood for the festive evening to begin. The cocktail hour began immediately following the ceremony and Rick''s band did not miss a beat....the little big band entertained guests while they mingled and got a bite to eat. When the wedding party was ready to be announced, Rick took the microphone as we were all introduced. After the speeches were out of the way, Rick and the band let loose! With a full band and two singers, a male and a female, we partied for the next four hours! The guests were dancing, singing, and truly having a great time as did we! The band definitely made the night! The songs were exactly what we requested and the sound quality was superb. I would gladly book Rick and his band for another occasion as well as recommend them. Thanks again Rick! Erin and Mike Victor, New York"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"We were in the room with Frank Sinatra. Fabulous night of entertainment with Old Blue Eyes! ***** 5 Star"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"The Italian Duo were amazing. Their style was exactly what we needed for our small, private dinner with family and guests (we were 12 people). They understood what we needed with minimal explanations from us, were able to create the correct atmosphere and kept everybody entertained the whole evening. There were absolutely no unexpected issues from them, everything was completely professional: full transparency about the terms and conditions right from the start, and on the day of the event they arrived on time, set up, waited for all the guests to gather and started playing. It was fun, casual, heartfelt and we couldn’t have asked for better entertainment. I can definitely recommend them for any event you might want to hold. Thank you guys!!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Denis Cook is the perfect pub and bar-room entertainer: genial, charming and chatty with a charismatic personality, so it's not surprising that the sumptuous Haven Wine Bar & Restaurant in Whetstone booked Denis for several gigs, since he's the ideal 'mine host' for this exclusive venue, encouraging the guests to join in and have a fun time. With many strings to his bow, in addition to singing Denis plays guitar, mandolin, ukulele, harmonica and kazoo, but his greatest claim to fame is that he taught his nephew Norman Cook, alias Fatboy Slim, to DJ! (Denis has been 'spinning discs' since 1969 and the young Norman was soon hooked on music too!) Though perhaps not the greatest instrumentalist to perform on stage, Denis more than makes up for this with his highly tuneful singing voice, careful selection of material and infectious personality. Skill and experience gained through years of DJing shines through in Denis's easy command of banter between numbers, putting many other pub acts to shame, and his sheer dedication to entertaining others certainly evidenced in this three-hour gig undertaken with hardly a break. Starting with the Eagles' country ditty "Peaceful Easy Feeling" and a stripped-down version of the Foundations' "Baby Now That I've Found You" guests knew they were in for something special, loving the laid-back, peaceful easy listening style and the fact that the music was at a very reasonable volume: no blasting speakers here! Then, after just three songs, self-accompanied by guitar, Denis popped out his mandolin for a very enjoyable rendition of the Kinks' "Tired Of Waiting For You" and Steve Earle's Irish classic "Galway Girl" before switching to the ukulele for a charming interpretation of McFly's wistful "Love Is Easy" but, in addition, you'll find plenty of variety in Denis's act, ranging from party numbers like the Mavericks' "Dance The Night Away" and Roxy Music's "Let's Stick Together" to country classics such as Glen Campbell's "Rhinestone Cowboy" and John Denver's "Take Me Home Country Roads" to up-to-date material like George Ezra's catchy "Budapest" as well as some good old rock 'n roll. And - how many performers would be brave enough to attempt Rupert Holmes' excellent "Escape" (The Pina Colada Song); the late Ronnie Lane's rocking "Ooh La La" or Billy Ray Cyrus' witty comedy number "Where Am I Gonna Live?!" Mr Cook will be returning to the Haven soon and my advice is that you might want to reserve a table, since the place is likely to be well be packed in anticipation of this great entertainer. Colin Fenn Lemonrock reviewer,"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Amazing! Rick Holland Productions worked seamlessly with our wedding, where we had three separate "performances" that were adpated to by Rick's use of different members of the Little Big Band. We had a cocktail reception where a trio played, then a brass quartet accompanied our Wedding ceremony. After our guests were transported by horse-drawn carriage to a lake side reception site, the Little Little Big Band got things started and the full Little Big Band played the night away to the extreme pleasure of our entire party. They even let Joe Robinson jam with them in the chill of the autumn, fire-lit evening! Thank You so much Rick! Matthew Cooper, Bradford, PA"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Rob never fails to fill the room in Osoyoos. He is a crowd favorite who is often asked to reappear at the local venues and never seems to tire. I have booked him many times and he never fails to please."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Luke was an absolute star and really made my Mum’s birthday celebration special. He was accommodating and kind and a great hit with the guests too! Would book Luke again in a heartbeat … thank you Luke! "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"He is a highly entertaining performer with a voice like velvet, he is a smart and charming young man. He is always highly reliable & professional and I could book him for a variety of corporate or private functions/parties via my agency, as his performances will appeal to a very broad range of audiences. "

Reply by The British Bublé
Thank you so much for the wonderful feedback and continued support. I really appreciate your kind words and trust in booking me for such a wide range of events. It’s always a pleasure to perform for audiences that love great music and classic entertainment. If you’re looking to book a professional live singer in London or across the UK for your corporate event, wedding, or private party, I’d love to bring smooth vocals, swing, jazz, and timeless hits to make your occasion unforgettable.

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Outstanding! A slick professional. Your crowd interaction was clever and on the button."

Reply by The British Bublé
Thank you so much for the fantastic review! I’m thrilled you and your guests enjoyed the show. Creating great energy and connecting with the crowd is what I love most about performing. It was a real pleasure to be part of your event! If anyone’s looking for a live singer or Michael Bublé tribute act in London or across the UK to bring smooth vocals, swing classics, and unforgettable entertainment to their wedding, corporate event, or private party, I’d love to help make it special.

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Crooner Ed was a hit! Crooner Ed gave a great performance with his gifted voice, screen highlights and interaction with our guests. He was adaptable to our requests, sensed the mood of the party and professional. We highly recommend him - a great addition to any party!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Lauren Carter proves that beauty and talent can exist. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Smooth sounds of his saxophone were thoroughly enjoyed by our 50-person event. He was terrific and a must-re-hire."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Just wanted to say thank you for yesterday we both had an amazing evening & thought you were brilliant, you were fantastic Ryan! "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Carla, Dino, Guglielmo, and Angelo of Barbera & Champagne performed at my wedding in June 2025, and I truly couldn’t have asked for a more perfect experience. From the very beginning, communication and coordination with Carla was seamless. She was warm, responsive, and incredibly professional. Her voice is absolutely stunning, and the entire quartet brought such vibrant energy to the celebration. Their performance of romantic classics in English, Italian, Spanish, and French added an elegant, heartfelt touch that made our wedding feel like a dream. So many of our guests commented on how unforgettable the music was. Grazie mille to Barbera & Champagne for making our special day even more memorable!"

Reply by Barbera & Champagne
Thank you so much Nicole for having us at your wedding and for your very kind words about our performance! We had a great time too, the medieval Abbey was incredibly fascinating and everything in the place expressed a positive energy. Our best wishes to you and your husband! Carla & Officina del Malcontento

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Fantastic entertainer! Vince was great at keeping the music going and engaging with the audience. Even played with a battery powered amp when the electricity unexpectedly went out!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: