Review Centre: Crooners

"Sarah will certainly make any event, formal or informal, large or small, one to remember. I have seen her perform at many local events over the years, be it church concerts, theatre venues, pub functions or weddings and funerals. Whether you are looking for a talented singer who can entertain and wow an audience, or a sensitive professional who will add a touch of magic to a more formal occasion. Sarah fits the bill. I would highly recommend Sarah and am convinced that you will be over the moon with her friendly service and exceptional performance."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Thank you for singing a our wedding at Raven Hall you were fantastic. Sarah & Gary xx (10 / 10) Sarah Miller"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Sorry I didn’t come over and say hello. I did get a chance to watch you and you were very good. We have had some really positive feedback and I will keep you in mind for future events."

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:

"Thanks Barry for making my daughters wedding so special. I can’t tell you how many compliments I received about your music, your abilities, and the way you managed the crowd. I have attached the picture of you, Andy, and Sarah. Feel free to include Sarah and Andy or myself as a reference. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Since 2011, the band has a new focus. First, it is commissioning the legendary Bill Dobbins, to write sample arrangements from his famous “Evolution of Jazz Piano”, a series of movements based on the tune “All of Me”. Secondly, is breaking in it’s new vocalist, 19 year old sensation, Lindsey Holland. The band currently has over 60 arrangements for her to sing, including selections from Nancy Wilson’s disc with Cannonball Adderley. Furthermore, we have a Christmas Set now for her to sing, as well as many straight ahead jazz standards. The hope is for this group to record both of these projects sometime in the future."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Fantastic singer who was loved by all ages at my daughters 21st. He provided great music for pre-drinks through to the evening band. Thank you so much!! I would recommend him for any function and we would definitely rehire Darren. Jane (10 / 10) Jane Tippett"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Beautiful voice that will take you on a best of Jazz tour. "

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:

"Sarah, your singing was amazing today and very moving. It was a joy t accompany you. Many glowing comments and complements afterwards. Would gladly recommend you and look forward to accompanying you again in the future. (10/10) P.Jebson"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Scott was very easy to work with and offered great ideas about how we could best use him. I am looking forward to seeing him again!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"You must go and see this beautiful young lady, and her voice is absolutely amazing."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Huge repertoire of songs that I love - sung with feeling and style!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Sarah has performed at my venue several times. She's covered lots of genre of music from classical Motown, Jazz etc and has always gone down well with the audience. Sarah is very talented, professional and punctual with a heart of gold and nothing has been too much trouble and it's always a pleasure having her perform here."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"George was truely fabulous. From start to finish he made our evening memorable. It was our years anniversary from re opening our pub. Everyone loved him and his music. We would gladly welcome him back, just gotta do Mr Bojangles next time. James says thanks too especially for singing down the mic and the balloons. Would recommend George to everyone, he is a star!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: