Review Centre: Crooners

"10/10! Amazing performance, wonderful people. Mike and his wife Kathy were an absolute dream to have perform at my wedding- Mike performed for an hour during dinner to all the classic rat pack songs. Mike’s Frank performance was outstanding- most guests thought it was a recording of Frank Sinatra until they heard our names placed in the song to personalize it. Mike walked from table to table and was truly such a hit at the wedding. He also sang both our first dance song and our parent dance song- and was totally willing to shorten it to the perfect length. I would HIGHLY recommend hiring them- they were truly such a joy to have at our wedding."

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"For our 50th anniversary, we were looking for a stylish, musical jazz band, and this versatile Jazz Quartet more than met our expectations. Communication beforehand was smooth and clear, which immediately provided a sense of reassurance in the lead-up to our event. On the day itself, the band members arrived at the Atomium well in advance, professionally prepared, and well-prepared. Their performance, dressed in their "classy" attire, was atmospheric and musically high-quality, setting the perfect tone for this festive occasion. The music added a touch of class to the evening and was greatly appreciated by all our guests. In short: reliable, professional, and above all, musically excellent. Highly recommended for anyone looking for quality live jazz!"

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:

"Book Lewis for whatever event you are planning...be it a wedding or a party. We booked him for our wedding in December and he did not disappoint. Not only is he one of the best Rat Pack singers I've ever heard, what a nice guy he is too! We had so many guests asking 'where did you find him' and commenting on how good he was. I wouldn't hesitate in booking Lewis again and I would happily highly recommend him. Five Stars :) "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Hi Tony, Just a quick note to thank you for a splendid evening's entertainment at the Hale Lodge Ladies Evening. Everyone enjoyed your renditions and the evening went all too quickly. Good Luck for the future. I would be willing to give a testament to anybody who may be thinking of booking you and would like a recommendation. Cheers, Kevin"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Myriam was an absolute pleasure to deal with. She was extremely helpful, caring, talented and professional. I loved listening to the sounds of her beautiful harp. Mg guests were also extremely appreciative of her talent and the romantic music. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

" Cheryl R. • September 3, 2019 Mom's 90th Birthday Surprise Party!!! Hiring Johnny to handle the entertainment for Mom's 90th Birthday party was one of the best decisions ever! From the first time I spoke to him on call #1 until the minute he left the party that night he was immediately welcoming and passionate about what he does...I instantly felt like I knew him for years! We are a large family as I am one of nine children and we have many many extended who were to join us that day...so coordinating all them and covering some special shout outs to Mom's musical liking to making us feel like family....he made the party! I did my homework before I hired him and trust me when I tell you he is the best at what he does...he knows what he is doing and he professional, understanding, accommodating and any other positive adjective you can think of! Her for sure will be our go to for future events! He should be at your as well!!!"

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"Professional and really picks up the vibe nicely and plays appropriately. Pleasure to work with and really talented. Our patrons always enjoy his performances."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Lewis sang at my father in-laws surprise birthday party last night. Absolutely fantastic, highly recommend him. Thank you for a fantastic night."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Our night would not have been so successful if Roberto had not been at his piano singing love songs on our special night and our first dance. The atmosphere was fabulous thanks to Roberto's loving piano playing and choice of song. Roberto also sang at our engagement party where many heels danced on the floor to his warm voice and the song Sway. If you are looking for that little extra for your event, you should definitely contact Roberto."

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:

"Roberto and his band were fantastic, they entertained us with their music and their friendliness, we had compliments from all our guests"

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