Review Centre: Swing Bands

" All Music Review Thom Jurek The title of this set is an apt one. While much of the music presented by the Rick Holland-Evan Dobbins Little Big Band, it hearkens back -- in terms of its sophistication, confidence and outright jazz literacy, not nostalgically -- to an era when progressive jazz, and big bands (this one numbering 10 pieces) flourished on the scene. This is one sophisticated outfit. Featuring the arrangement and compositional skills of Brent Wallarab, Jim Martin, Bill Dobbins and Kerry Strayer, this band struts out the tradition and make some joyous, complex, and elegant music that reflects its own unique identity. The résumés of all these players are impressive and reflected in the confidence of the date. It opens with "SUNY-Triangle," a Martin composition that works its artful sleight-of-hand over Antonio Carlos Jobim's "Triste." Martin uses the rhythmically complex samba and drapes some tough, knotty twists and turns over it. The intro is a beautiful and raucous wake-up call, while the head of the tune, with its staggered entrances and exits -- including some fine soloing by John Viavattine on tenor and John Nyerges on piano -- give this tune a unique identity. "Creature Comfort" is a beautiful mid-tempo ballad by Wallarab with edgeless yet multi-dimensional dissonances written into its harmonics. It swings beautifully and includes a fine, punchy solo by tenorman Glenn Cashman. Besides the originals, there are some fine readings here as well. There's Wallarab's arrangement of Duke Ellington's "Black and Tan Fantasy" that's a thoroughly modern exercise losing none of Ellington's humor or rhythmic complexity. Likewise, Gerry Mulligan's haunting, wee-hours, "Night Lights," is given expert treatment here by Strayer, and Dean Keller's baritone saxophone playing combines Mulligan's sense of lyric and Ben Webster's sense of time. In Time's Shadow reveals that innovation need not sacrifice accessibility or swing. It is convincing evidence that the big band form is alive, well and full of surprises."

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"Brian White Quartet played for Durrell at the EAZA Directors day in the beautiful globe room at Maritime House. The icebreaker event was a huge success and guests from all around the world were thoroughly entertained by Brian and his charismatic band. They are incredibly talented, extremely professional and a delight to work with. I will not hesitate to book them again for further Durrell events. Thank you Brian for making the evening so special. "

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" 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"

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"love how the track has become more concise and upbeat!!!! thank you so much!!! the ending's perfect!"

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"Perfect balance of romance, sophistication, and fun. The trio made our celebration feel extra special."

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"It was fate that brought us together with Sotto Alle Casere Vostre, and we couldn't have asked for anything better. Picture dining outdoors, under the stars, with a live band creating the perfect atmosphere and that balance between emotion and joy that leaves everyone breathless. At first, we were a bit apprehensive, and they knew it well, because we thought not all our guests would appreciate their style, or perhaps they would get bored, but it was exactly the opposite. The right vibe was created, guests were so surprised and entertained that they didn't want it to end, compliments flying left and right both during the party and in the following days. They were original and surprising, they amazed and entertained, but above all, they did it with PASSION, and it was evident from afar. Thank you guys, from the bottom of our hearts!"

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" I BEYOND THANK YOU AND YOUR BAND! When I tell you that you guys were all people were buzzing about!!! The music was excellent and there were so many compliments. There were a few last min changes like Chilly Bill Smith so he didn't know that they were not supposed to sing but it worked out and everyone joined in from what I could hear from the lobby. Oh and the 'church' banter was perfect. I am sure a few of them would caught the Holy Ghost if yall kept going...lol The chemistry was fantastic! When Ms. Ava is happy then we are all happy - lol."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Awesome band! So much fun! What a great mix of old and new. Love it."

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"“We had the pleasure of hiring KĀMA Jazz&Bossa in their quartet formation for my 50th birthday celebration, which took place in the beautiful setting of ‘Il Fogliano Hotel’ in Latina. They gifted me and my guests with a simply enchanting atmosphere, a musical experience that goes beyond a simple performance: it's pure emotion. Their interpretation of the songs is refined and engaging, the guitarist enchants with his elegance and rhythmic precision, and the saxophone with its warm and expressive sound wraps every melody, making it a unique virtuosity. And finally... the voice, Francesca is simply stunning, captivating with her intensity and natural control, perfect technique, and great communicative ability. I highly recommend this group to anyone looking for high-quality music, authentic emotions, and a touch of class. They are true artists capable of transforming every performance into a memorable experience, an ensemble of the highest level. Additionally, and not least, they also provided an exceptional DJ set for our event! We're now following them to their public performances, where we've had the chance to enjoy their different formations. Highly recommended!! Thank you! Manuela and Fabrizio"

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"The three-piece jazz band that graced our Holiday Soiree on Friday night delivered a truly memorable performance. Their skilful interplay and smooth transitions between classic jazz standards and festive favourites set the perfect tone for the evening. A true highlight of the evening, the jazz trio added a sophisticated yet joyful touch, making the holiday soiree a resounding success. We would highly recommend them for any event seeking a blend of elegance and entertainment."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Very professional, great setlist and brill music! went down well performing for a conference drinks reception, quick to setup"

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"Joie de Vivre were wonderful. Sounded as good as they looked. Added so much atmosphere to our day. We re-booked on the spot for next year. Thank you very much."

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"A fantastic professional performance. I must say that you now are the Number One swing band in my estimation. By far the best sets I have had the privilege of enjoying. I highly recommend you and your swing band to everyone. It made the wedding day perfect. Thank you."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Parish's voice was warm and expressive throughout, and Williams proved to be the ideal accompanist with his light, melodic touch and studied rhythmic flow. John Barham played strong, firm bass lines, and the three sounds - piano, voice and bass - blended together successfully."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Great communications. A splendid group, friendly, super music, all my members enjoyed the evening."

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