Dan Gabel’s High Society Orchestra roared into Ken’s Steakhouse on Tuesday August 18 after a busy summer playing the town gazebo circuit throughout New England. The 11-piece band was “hotter than ever” said one patron, and “Dan Gabel and his bands never disappoint!”

Gabel’s 11-piece outfit featured Elise Roth on vocals presenting favorites and rarities of the 1920s including some rarely-heard verses and patters to some old unpublished songs. Liz of Millbury said “Elise’s voice is the absolute best, and her wardrobe is tops, bar none!”

An enthusiastic crowd came early and stayed late, filling half of the expansive room at the steakhouse. Several couples danced, and the band was extremely well-received by the mixed-age audience. A couple in their mid-20s and one in their late 70’s danced to the band’s catchy dance rhythms. Some first-time listeners were in the audience as well who came for dinner, but were all thrilled to enjoy some live music as well, and even purchase several CDs.

“This is a fantastic space” said Bill Doyle, banjo, guitar, and band manager. “The room has a great, warm, sound, and a nice audience to band connection.” The band concurred.

“Playing here was particularly special for me” said bandleader Dan Gabel. “As the President of the American Big Band Preservation Society, and working on a biography of my hero Vaughn Monroe, it was great to be able to play right next to where Monroe’s Meadows club was, and at Ken’s, a historic venue itself. Also, it’s right here in Framingham where I call home, and a great location. We’re looking forward to next time!”

Everyone agreed: there should be a next time.  Ken’s Steakhouse is negotiating to bring in more bands, either on a Sunday afternoon or Tuesday evening.

For more information about this band, recordings, and upcoming dates, visit: www.highsocietyorchestra.org

For more on Dan Gabel, visit: www.theabletones.com

Band personnel for Tuesday August 18:

John Clark, Tyler Burchfield, Maureen Amaral: sax and clarinet

Adam Mejaour and Dan Gabel: trumpet and cornet

Steve Piermarini: trombone

Bill Doyle: banjo and archtop guitar

Rick MacWilliams: tuba

Ross Petot: piano

Steve Taddeo: drums

Elise Roth: vocals