Submitted by Al Kanovsky 03/21/14
...Big Band JAZZ that grabs me in a special way.
Maybe the layers of sound--might be all the horns--could be the intricate
charts---dunno. Last night in the company of Denise I travelled westward to Ye
Olde Falcon Pub and The Mike Norris JAZZ Orchestra. 5 saxophones, guitar, keyboard,
bass, drums, 4 trumpets and 3 trombones. One of the trombonists was missing and
I am sure that Mike, in his usual kind way, will let the absentee become
aware of his transgression.
It is only fair that I mention the names of those that were there because each
of them contributed to a very enjoyable evening of listening pleasure. The sax
section-Carlos Rivera, Bob
Vandivoort, Louis Disla, Carlos Perez and Rafael Hernandez. Trombones, Mike
Balosh, Mike Egan and Thomas Guiterrez. Trumpets, Tony Pearsall, Johnny Sheu,
Mark Ordway and Glen Friedman. Rhythm section Aaron Stans, Juan Nativado, Ariel
Ramos and Mike himself.
The first set opened with a chart, simply titled
"Groove". It set the mood for the rest of the evening. Groove we would. A nice
swing tempo for "Just In Time" and then Basie's "Basiecally Blue" If you are
paying tribute to the Count you can not leave out the Duke. "Satin Doll" was
next. They rehearsed a few bars of "Chelsea Bridge" a really complex chart. Then
came "A-Train". I don't know anyone who stands erect on two feet who isn't
tempted to dance to that tune. Denise & I did not resist temptation. The
theme from the Johnny Carson Show was followed by a "West Side Story" medley to
conclude the set. During the last rendition a beautiful trombone solo on
"There's A Place For Me" and Mike showing what he can do when he wants to.
Meanwhile, Denise and I are scoffing down what is probably the best "fish 'n
chips' this side of the Thames. Licking our fingers clean, the lady and I dance
to "Blue Merchants" which included a very nice trumpet ride. They swing "Begin
the Beguine" and although I am fast depleting my oxygen supply, Denise awaits on
the small dance floor. I succumb to her wanton ways. The last number is a
showpiece bearing the title "The Channel One Suite". It is an intricate chart of
crescendo and dinuendo, changing rhythms and tempos. The band executes it by
paying close attention to what they are playing.
I had learned to read music
when I was 13. When I was 17, I auditioned for a job with a big band. They asked
me if I could "Sight Read". "Sure" was my reply. They handed me my part for "1 O'clock Jump". The following
morning I decided to join the Navy!!!!
Show Details:
Ye Olde Falcon Pub: 2867 S University Dr., Davie FL 33328 yeoldefalconpub.com (954)424-0300 8-10pm, No Cover, Every Thur 8-2: Mike Norris Big Jazz Band.
Upcoming Dinner Concert:
All That Jazz Café: 3491 N. Hiatus Rd., Sunrise, FL 33351 allthatjazzcafe.com (954)572-9399 April 3: Jazz Dinner & Concert w/ Mike Norris Big Jazz Band, RSVP Required. Call for details.
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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