T' ain't easy(no es facil)...even though JAZZ ROOTS makes it look that way!

Submitted by Al Kanovsky 3/23/13

'T ain't easy to follow in the footsteps of greatness. Last night Larry Rosen, producer of JAZZ ROOTS series, at the Adrienne Arsht Center in Miami presented two of Dizzy Gillespie's disciples in a program titled "Cubop". Senor Paquito D'Rivera and Mister Jon Faddis paid tribute to the "Diz" and the great congero Chano Pozo.

As young men, both of these artists decided that be-bop and Cuban JAZZ would play major roles in their careers. They chose Dizzy as their guide. Not an easy row to hoe. But they persevered and succeeded. Their careers are star-studded and filled with musical accomplishments. 

On stage with Jon and Paquito was a rhythm section with Rudolfo Zuniga at drums, Kemuel Roig on piano and Armando Gola playing upright bass.  I mentioned the latter two in yesterdays review. The quintet represented the past, present and future of JAZZ. They opened the program with "Dizzy Atmosphere" and closed it, playing with the FIU JAZZ Big Band, and a rousing rendition of "Manteca". In between they were joined on stage by famed congero, Giovanni Hidalgo and vibraphonist/marimbist, Dave Samuels. They ran the gamut of Dizzy and Chano's creative compositions and arrangements.

On previous occasions, I have said that Jon Faddis is the greatest living trumpeteer. He left no doubt with his performance last night. Range(some notes are so high above the staff, they run off the page) Technique, Tone, Articulation and Alacrity.  Jon has it all. I can say the same of Paquito. Somewhere, in Heaven above, Chano & Dizzy were "boppin'" along.

Although the evening was dedicated to John Burkes and Chano they also paid tribute to other Cuban JAZZ artists like Mario Bauzo, Chico O'Farrill and Benny More`. Paquito told the audience that Dizzy and Chano's composition "Night In Tunisia", written in the 40's was originally titled "Interlude" and was recorded by the Boyd Raeburn Orchestra, way back then. 

The FIU Studio JAZZ Big Band is under the direction of Mr. Jim Hacker who also plays trumpet. The band has a 5 member sax section, 5 trombonists and 6 playing trumpet. (the trumpet section includes one young lady).  Also, drums, bass, guitar, piano, timbales and bongos. All I can say is "These cats can play".

Comments: During Giovannis congo solos, Paquito displayed some "Palladium" moves. Jon could use a writer for some new material and Spanish lessons. I can use one also. I missed most of Paqiuto's humorous patter "en espanol". My Spanish, like Jon's, is limited to "No problemo" and "Quanto?"  

 Flo and I have two children, Melissa and Jon. They were born 20 months apart. The first lyric they learned as toddlers, was "Salt Peanuts". To this very day if you scat the first bars they will joyfully respond with "Salt Peanuts, Salt Peanuts".  Paquito had the audience doing that phrase during the closing number. Needless to say, I enjoyed every moment from the opening licks to the closing notes. 

In the audience with me were Dr. Jules Oaklander(friend and Patron of the Arts), Nicole Henry's friend, Lourdes and two gracious ladies I had met at BJB's(mother and daughter) Gloria and Hope. They may join me on the trip to the HavanaJAZZ Festival in December.

Congratulations to Mr. Larry Rosen for producing a successful JAZZ ROOTS series. Thanks to Ms. Mari Beth Bittan (Public Relations for the Arts) for her hospitality. And most of all my sincere gratitude to all the dedicated JAZZ musicians who fill my life with so much pleasure and joy.   

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