Review Centre: Jazz Bands

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

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Jackson was punctual, very friendly, and effortlessly set the right mood with his music. Despite not using a sound system due to venue rules, his performance was spot on and beautifully suited the setting. He added a special touch to the event. Highly recommended!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Jack Bowers The Rick Holland—Evan Dobbins Little Big Band Trilby RPO Productions Five years after a sensational opening act (In Time's Shadow, 2006), trumpeter Rick Holland and trombonist Evan Dobbins have returned for an encore, Trilby, marshaling as before their irrepressible Little Big Band. As was noted of that earlier recording, "the only thing small about [this band] is its numbers." Baritone saxophonist Dean Keller, who shared that chair with Kerry Strayer on Shadow, also returns. The rest of the lineup is brand new, with Evan Dobbins' dad, the well-known educator Bill Dobbins (Eastman School of Music), replacing the splendid pianist John Nyerges. Besides shining at the keyboard, Bill Dobbins wrote "My Darling Darlene" and arranged half of the album's other ten numbers. Although he doesn't play this time around, Strayer composed "Rich's Call" and arranged Sonny Stitt's "Eternal Triangle" and Oscar Pettiford's "Tricotism," while Brent Wallarab wrote "Trilby" and arranged Benny Golson's "Stablemates." Bill Dobbins' engaging charts brighten three originals by Hendrik Meurkens—"Slidin," "Second Waltz," "The Cottage"—as well as Hal Crook's "Fused" and Alec Wilder's lovely standard, "While We're Young" (a reprise from the band's earlier album). Holland, who plays flugelhorn exclusively, solos strongly on seven numbers, striking the ball with assurance and perception on every turn at bat. Bill Dobbins ("Slidin," "The Cottage," "Trilby," "Darlene," "Tricotism") amplifies the message, as do Evan Dobbins ("Slidin," "Fused"), Doug Stone (alto on "Stablemates," clarinet on "Second Waltz," soprano on "Trilby" and "While We're Young"), tenor Mike Pendowski ("Eternal Triangle," "Fused," "Rich's Call"), trombonist Nick Finzer ("Second Waltz," "Tricotism"), bassist David Baron ("The Cottage," "Tricotism") and blue-chip drummer Rich Thompson ("Eternal Triangle," "Fused," "Rich's Call"). When they're not having their say, the ensemble is front and center, giving each of the charts its single-minded attention. The result is music that flows easily without miscue. Trilby marks a second triumph by the Holland / Dobbins Little Big Band, which, as was noted after its debut album, "is more big than little, in every sense of the word." Those who appreciate a tight, swinging band, even if slightly undersized, are sure to admire Trilby."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"More than satisfactory Everything was more than satisfactory. We enjoyed it and, as mentioned, hope to get in touch again next year, hopefully with a beautiful grand piano. Thank you for your musical touch on this special evening. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Questo trio pazzesco ti catapulta in un atmosfera calda accogliente. Lei voce angelica, molto affiatati, si vede e si sente. Siete disponibili x festa di laurea? Complimenti. Monica."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Who ever says 'they don't write 'em like they used to' should take a listen to Pugsley Buzzard's latest album Wooden Kimono. Buzzard is a bewitching songwriter and storyteller often combining groove laden or playful tunes with dark lyrics. Showing off his renowned blues - jazz piano style and infectious raspy vocals, Pugsley is complemented on this album by a top band of horns and down and dirty guitar, that makes for hot listening. ". Megan Rowe, Rhythms Magazine."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"The Mellowtone Jazz Trio played for us at an evening reception for our son's Bar Mitzvah, and they were outstanding. We were aiming for a relaxed chilled out atmosphere in a marquee in our back garden, and their music provided the perfect backdrop. We had masses of compliments from family and friends, and we would not hesitate to recommend them. The process of inquiring and booking them was also simple and a pleasure. Thanks for a wonderful evening! "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Benedict and Valentina D. (Private) - 27/7/2022, Wedding They made our Wedding unique. Extremely professional and with an elegant repertoire. Easy to get in tune with them. They were appreciated by all our guests."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"She was incredible!!! Our guests thought we were playing music at first... Her voice is outstanding!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Always energetic and engaging trio. Able to adapt to all situations. Quite rare to find musicians who engage with their audience in a jazz setting. And of course top notch music!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Darryl did a fantastic job playing for my wedding. Everyone loved his music and it created a beautiful ambience. "

Reply by Saxophonist Darryl "DEESAXPLAYER"Anderson
Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your journey. Darryl “deesaxplayer Anderson

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Hi, the Band "acoustic colour" was booked at the Top-Act of a private Event. It was so great, so fine musicians, so jazzy, so funky. very fine. Hope, to see "acoustic colour" on my next Event again. Michael"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Erika performed at one of Purely Events' Christmas parties and she wowed the audience with her amazing vocals. A true talent. Thank you Erika!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"We are incredibly grateful for the amazing performance on our special day! The band exceeded all our expectations with their talent, professionalism, and energy. Our guests loved the music, both during the aperitif and on the dance floor—everyone had an unforgettable time! If you're looking for a band that will bring life and joy to your event, we highly recommend them. They will make your celebration truly memorable!"

Reply by Voice of Waves
Dear Priscila and Marek, thank you for the beautiful review . We were so happy to have been the soundtrack of your day, to have shared the emotions with you during the ceremony, and to have celebrated with you during the reception! Everything was perfectly organized by you and your staff, and your friends and family were incredibly kind to us. Your wedding was wonderful, and we will always remember it. We wish you an amazing life as husband and wife, and we send you a big hug! Carol and Marco - Voice of Waves

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"The Italian Soul & Jazz Band made our wedding at Lake Como absolutely magical. Their mix of smooth jazz and timeless Italian songs created the most romantic atmosphere. Every guest commented on how refined and soulful the music was. Truly exceptional musicians — we couldn’t have asked for more."

Reply by The Italian Soul & Jazz Band
Thank you so much, Elisa and Jonathan! Your wedding at Lake Como was pure magic — such an elegant and romantic setting. We loved blending the jazz and Italian classics to match that atmosphere, and it was a joy to see how much your guests enjoyed it. A truly unforgettable evening for us too. Wishing you both all the happiness in the world! – Giuseppe

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: