"Whether as MD, arranger or instrumentalist (or as is often the case, all three), Simon brings a level of rock-solid professionalism that makes everything a pleasure. His exceptional talents as an instrumentalist go without saying. But he is a dependable and hugely reassuring presence onstage and great fun off it. A real asset to any ensemble. Alexander Armstrong"
Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:
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"5 stars deluxe Dear Danilo, Now we would like to write a review for you and your brother Tobias. We decided on a complete package of DJ + singer + photographer for our wedding and were mega happy with the all-round carefree constellation. You are really a great and well-rehearsed team. Danilo, your singing had already moved us to tears when we met you. It was simply wonderful to dance our wedding dances with life song. All our guests were thrilled and full of praise, especially the bridesmaids when you performed your show. Also, you were up for any fun. ? When Danilo wasn't singing, his brother Tobias was the DJ and provided us with great dance music. We had a lot of fun, especially at the Ostrock Block. We can wholeheartedly recommend all three of you and would book you again and again. Keep up the good work. Hopefully we'll see you three again sometime. For now, enjoy your well-deserved holiday. Best regards Steffy & Marco"
Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:
"The broad repertoire his groups encompass and the care with which he deals with musical details are a welcome exception in this age of super specialization and an obsession with quick results at the expense of real quality. Bill Dobbins, Eastman School of Music"
Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:
"We had the pleasure of hiring Rich on the 5th of August 2023 to sing solo at our wedding. This consisted of two sets of various songs all within the swing theme. We had the option to choose from an extensive song list to suit our special day. Rich sang to our guests as they arrived and followed on after the ceremony. Wow, what more can we say all our guests during the time of the performance really enjoyed listening to Rich sing. Most of all in our opinion he was great. If you were to compare his prices for what he does, both myself and my husband would highly recommend having Rich to sing at any event you may be hosting. Our guests ranged from teenagers to the elderly and each and every one of them were either singing along or tapping along to Rich as he sang. If we'd of had Rich singing at night, 100% our guests would of been up and dancing. Taken from Google, verified. "
Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:
"The band went down a storm and already I’ve been asked for your details. We really appreciated the effort and journey and thank you all. In hindsight, I wish that we had you on longer as the feedback really has been amazing. Please pass on my thanks to all of the band."
Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:
"A precise and discreet person, he accompanied our evening with friends by playing jazz guitar, including manouche style, in a varied yet impeccable way—never overly virtuosic, never banal. The melodies did not take the center stage, providing the perfect background, just as we had requested. A wonderful evening. Thank you, Romeo!"
Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:
"Just a line to thank you so much for your set at our party. You really were excellent. As people left and in the thank you notes so many people commented on what a great band you are and how much they enjoyed your music. Very professional and very talented."
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 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:
"We just wanted to get in touch again to thank you guys for the wonderful show you put on for our wedding on Saturday night! Everyone had such a great time, and absolutely loved your performance. You were a real highlight and we can't thank you enough"
Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:
"I have been meaning to message you directly also to thank you. What you produced the night of our wedding was nothing short of magical - and I do not say this lightly. I am very happy to hear the band enjoyed the evening - I think their enjoyment and energy showed through their music. The feedback we have had from guests is overwhelming, particularly that the band and the singer (I don't remember his name) was the best they have ever heard at a wedding. You guys nailed the performance. I am so happy that we decided to do a live version, you could not have gotten the same energy and vibe with just a recording / original version. Your two sets were also perfect. There were a few times that we all stopped in the marquee to listen and appreciate the music, particularly My Way - I remember looking around and quite a few people were singing along! I think another sign of a success of a wedding is the number of people on the dance floor, and there was not an empty space during the second set. The amount of people of all ages dancing was a true highlight for me as we wanted this to be a wedding that everyone would enjoy - not just us." Alexa"
Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:
"I booked MiSax to play a surprise act at my brother's wedding and it was a fantastic decision. He played each speaker in with a song of their choice, which was such a personal touch. Guests were thrilled by the surprise and loved it from the first note. MiSax was professional, relaxed, and adapted effortlessly to every last minute change we threw at him. His playing brought so much energy and joy to the evening. I highly recommend MiSax to anyone looking to make their event extra special!"
Reply by MiSax
Thank you so much Oscar! It was something new for me. I usually play lounge / electro / jazz. But it was fun and I love new experiences! Everyone looked so happy, and that is the best reward a musician can get. Again, thank you for the great feedback!
Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:
"‘Just wanted to drop you a line to say how impressed our family and friends were with Chris when he performed at our mum and dads joint 80th birthday celebrations yesterday! The quality of his singing was first class and his performance was exactly what we wanted for the day! He really did made this special occasion so memorable for everyone. I wouldn't hesitate in recommending him! Thanks so much to all involved in helping us and for suggesting Chris!' "
Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:
"They did a fantastic job! It was a pleasure having them and we would highly recommend! Thank you."
Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:
"Your performance was just what we hoped for, backed by real talent and warmth. Your music brought effortless, beautiful precision to our reception. Never overdone, always just right. Thanks a million MiSax!"
Reply by MiSax
Thanks Tanya. I am glad I was able to give the right tone to your reception. It means a lot to me! Again, thank you!
Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:
"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"
Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: