Jeff Hughes Jazz News

Guest writer: Bill Falk
Narragansett, RI

I am not a jazz musician, nor am I knowledgeable about music, so this review expresses my feelings as an undying fan of over 70 years. I thought the band was sensational. They were really “hot” as they romped through many great standards with outstanding improvisation around the melodies. Jeff Hughes did a terrific job both leading the group and playing the trumpet. He blended everyone’s talents wonderfully – especially since his usual group of stalwarts were augmented by the addition of Jack Soref on guitar and Kellian Adams on vocals.

Soref plays in the style of the master gypsy guitarist Django Reinhart. He was phenomenal, and he blended in with his new mates quite easily, Jeff gave him plenty of time to show how terrific he is.

Jack Soref, gypsy Jazz guitar

Kellian can belt out tunes focusing mostly on middle range. She provided a change of pace nicely.

Kellian Adams Pletcher is a Joy!

Herb Gardner was outstanding on the keyboard as usual. He also entertained us with a couple of solos on the trombone.

Herb Gardner, keyboard and trombone

Herb’s daughter Sarah Nova was in the audience. She showed us she has the
inherited talent of her father when she got up and sang.

Sarah Gardner Nova

John Clark is an extremely versatile reed man as he alternated playing clarinet, soprano sax and baritone sax – all with excellent results.

John Clark on baritone sax

Steve Taddeo is really into it on drums. He’s wonderful setting the beat and soloing.You can tell the he really loves playing, and it rubs off on the audience.

Steve Taddeo on his brand new Slingerland Drums

Al Bernard handles the tuba great as he anchors the rhythm section – plus he solos excellently.

Al Bernard, tuba, rhythm,

Unfortunately, the heavy rain kept the crowd down, but Jeff and the group will return to the Primavera on October 22nd.

Come see them perform – you’ll love their music and they are a congenial, friendly bunch appreciative of everyone who comes to see them play.

The music took me back to the days when jazz was extremely popular, and bands like this played all over New England. I wish I could see more of this band – they are so great. They really have no weaknesses for an old time jazz fan like me.

Bill Falk