Hard Rock, swing and rock....

Submitted by Al Kanovsky 5/31/13

Yes. The Hard Rock Casino in Hollywood has live music in the casino itself. Last night, in a small lounge off the casino floor, music started at 5PM.  Debbie Orta performed with her husband Nicky on bass and Mel Olmar at the keys. Debbie does American songbook and originals. She, Nicky and Mel do swing. Just before the start of the second set, trumpeter Jack Siegel and his wife, Sheila arrived. Jack uncased his flugelhorn and sat in with the group. They had me clappin' and tappin'. I took the opportunity to chat with Sheila about how she and Jack met.

They each had daughters. One little girl was 8, the other just 5. The girls were friends. One day, Sheilas daughter, told her that the two of them wanted to be sisters and Sheila agreed to be introduced to Jack. They hit it off. Jack says the "closer" came when he invited her out to dinner. She suggested a restaurant to which she had a money saving 'coupon'. Jack says that sealed the deal. This fall they will celebrate their 30th anniversary. The casino itself houses many food opportunities as well. Among them is their premier steak house "Canyon Ranch". It has an ample lounge bar which features Dale Powers and his band on Wed., Thurs, Fri. and Sat. Someone once asked me what the band played. You name it. Ask for Beatles, Ellington, BeeGees, or Prima. Rock 'n Roll, Swing, JAZZ, BLUES, Latin or Dale's originals. They can do 'em all.

Last night had Johnny O on Latin percussion which includes congas, bongos, timbales, claves, tambourines and assorted shaking stuff. He also sings and did a great "Don't Get Around Much Anymore". That song came out when I was little and I always thought the lyric said "Mister Saturday Dance". That was before I started to like girls. On drums and vocals is Mr. Lou Abbot. The cat does sing. He listened to the best and picked up plenty of know-how. Frank, Mel, Bobby. He's got a little of each of them. On Bass, Matt Bonelli.

Educator, past BeeGee instrumentalist and all around great guy. Every once in a while they allow him to sing. Dale plays keyboard and has added an additional board to his stage. He is a showman and really can entertain an audience. He is trying to cover all the bases and has picked up playing guitar and country songs. Personally, I prefer the real Johnny Cash. That's not fair. His efforts were enjoyed by most of those there. My barmaid last night was named Clara. If I were 30 or 40 or better yet 50 years younger-------------I managed to lose $5, a quarter at a time and left in a real good mood. Lots of good stuff tonight. Check the listings and make your "cherce". I am not telling where I will be, because then all you guys will be there and I won't get my choice of seating.  See ya  

   

     

Al's Disclaimer:

A short note: The reason I write this is because I love music and words. I do not book acts. I do not promote acts. I do not accept invitations to review artists. I go to venues of my own choice. When and where is not influenced by anything other than who I would like to hear that night or day. If I don't like what I hear, I won't write about it. When I like it I let you all know. I never mention a name without asking permission. "Pardon me, Miss. Would you like to dance?"       

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