"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."
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"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!"
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"Great band! Our guests loved them and are raving about the range of vocals. Would recommend them 100%!!"
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"Amazing addition to our wedding! Dan and Karen and the rest of the band were so talented! Dan also helped MC our event everything went absolutely perfect. They are a joy to work with and will take your event to the next level. Great communication and professionalism. Lucky to have them play some jazz on our big day!"
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"Justin’s performance was intimate and stunning at the same time. Great communication, very effective preparation and coverage by someone who can play the sax, from Jazz, swing to lounge and bar background music. We would highly recommend Justin to anyone interested in high-quality, paired with a down-to-earth mindset and to-the-point delivery."
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"Dave is an amazing person, and an amazing saxophonist. I strongly advise anyone looking for a saxophonist to pick him!"
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"Wow, what a show! You have a great voice and all of your musicians were just fabulous. The music was smart, fun and sophisticated – again, just what we wanted, and such a pleasure to dance to a band who really know how to play!"
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"‘Thank you for such a wonderful performance last night! Everyone was so impressed with you and wish you the very best for the year to come. I hope you enjoyed the evening too. I thought the concert went very well!' "
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"‘Chris was so nice. Very professional and the evening went so well. We had so much feedback and comments on how good he is and the music is great. It was a huge success' "
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"Great Live Band who cater to a wide audience... Have booked them for gigs @ pubs & also for a private party and they get everyone up dancing on every occasions. Would highly recommend if you're looking for a band who can play the crowd and deliver a set full of Funk, soul & melodies."
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"We had a wonderful time! We had great feedback from our guests, who all loved you and the band! It was really great having you as part of our day."
Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:
"Astoundingly good jazz and great personal service. Highly highly recommended! "
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"We love rich, he’s a great performer and would highly recommend… Taken from Google, verified."
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"Amazing band that played at our pub recently. Would 100% recommend, we've already got the regulars asking for them back!"
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"This girl-Just AMAZING! I was celebrating my 50th birthday (private venue) and our original musician canceled at the last minute. I’m so glad we found Styliannie,otherwise, I might never have heard her incredible voice. She’s young, but so professional and talented!! My guests couldn’t stop complimenting her, and honestly, that’s what matters most. She made the evening feel truly special, and I’m so grateful she was there."
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