Tag Archives: New Black Eagle Jazz Band

New Black Eagle Jazz Band at Ken’s Steak House April 17, 2016

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New Black Eagle Jazz Band

Tony Pringle cornet,  Stan Vincent trombone, Billy Novick clarinet/alto sax, Herb Gardner piano, Peter Bullis banjo, Pete Tillotson string bass, Bill Reynolds drums

The NBEJB is in its 44th year, but they’re still called ‘New’, and still playing to a full house as they did at the Sticky Wicket in 1971.  Original members still with the band are Tony Pringle, Stan Vincent, and Peter Bullis. They kicked it off in tight ensemble with Sweet Fields.

Tony with small rubber plunger mute

Tony Pringle

 

Leader Tony Pringle sang Willie The Lion Smith’s The Old Stomping Grounds.  (Tony’s old stomping grounds were in Liverpool.)  The band hasn’t played a Duke Ellington tune in a long time; they amended that with  Black and Tan Fantasy, Tony on muted cornet.  Bill ended it with his famous drum roll.

 

Billy Novick has had considerable influence on the band for over 30 years.  He was featured on exhilarating alto sax on If Dreams Come True, trading 4’s with Reynolds’ drum.

Billy with banjo, sb, piano and drum

Billy Novick Alto Sax with Rhythm Section

Bill choking cymbal

Bill Reynolds

Original drummer Pam Pameijer relishes retirement in Florida with wife Huguet. He sometimes returns for special occasions.  Meantime, Bill Reynolds enjoys maintaining the Traditional Jazz Beat on snare drum, body weaving with the rhythm.  He often taps on choke cymbal, as when the band let loose on Georgia Camp Meeting, Herb’s piano playing riffs.

Herb playing Yamaha piano

Herb Gardner

 

The band plays so tight that they leave no ‘holes’ for the pianist – it’s a real challenge.  Bob Pilsbury retired after 43 years, then Herb Gardner joined the band.
He says he gets a real “High” playing with them.  He cleverly weaved in fine stride piano on Hear Me Talking To You, and played elegant solo on Jabbo Smith’s Sweet And Low Blues, with Peter strumming banjo.

Peter with mouth open, wearing red sox, strumming banjo

Peter Bullis

 

 

Manager Peter Bullis  keeps the flame of Traditional Jazz alive strumming, as in  Bouncing Around, with Billy Novick interweaving clarinet on Stan’s trombone solo.  Pete is still wearing his red sox especially woven for him by a fan.

 

 

 

Stan was featured on Shine, remembering Preservation Hall trombonist, Jim Robinson.   Robinson played Short Dress Gal as a spiritual – this band played it with spontaneity.  They kept a spiritual for the last set, In The Sweet Bye and Bye, from the Raymond Navarro movie, using chords changed by Billie & DeDe Pierce.

Stan with rhythm boys

Stan Vincent plays Shine with the rhythm section

Pete reading off chart on side of piano

Pete Tillotson

 

 

The band has had several string bass players over the years.  Pete plays regularly with Swing Times Five.  This was his debut with this band, his chords steering the band and keeping it in time. He also is adept at bowing the bass.

 

 

 

Ron L'Herault

 

 

Groupie Ron L’Herault has been following the band since its inception and is still selling their CDs.  They have some copies of their 40th anniversary CDs with their former members playing Traditional Jazz from 1971 to 2011.

 

 

They closed with a breathtaking Love Song of the Nile, in tight ensemble, with Billy Novick adding body language, shoulders swaying with his saxophone. It finished with another of Reynolds’ notorious drum rolls.

The New Black Eagle Jazz Band is determined to keep this uniquely American Art Form alive.  They recently returned from playing in Vermont, and have an active schedule planned for this year.  Watch for them!

New Black Eagle Jazz Band at Ken’s Steak House

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New Black Eagle Jazz Band at Ken’s Steak House, November 22, 2015

Tony Pringle cornet/vocals, Billy Novick reeds, Stan Vincent trombone, Peter Bullis banjo, Moishe Feldman piano, Jim Gutmann string bass, Bill Reynolds drums.

by Peter Gerler and Marce

November 22, 2015, Framingham, MA. The New Black Eagle Jazz Band brought their romping classic New Orleans Jazz to Ken’s Steak House and were greeted by a colony of loyal fans. They came from all over—New York, Connecticut, even London—including many from the former Sticky Wicket. Marilyn Charkins, present in the house, was in her 20’s when she first heard the NBEJB at the Wicket.  Elizabeth Mazza sold CDs at the breaks.

Ruth Schwab was there, driven by Joe Grassia. Ruth’s husband Walter created the first Black Eagle CD in their cellar. The Bob Chicoine family was here celebrating Bob’s birthday–his fervent wish. Artist Joe Mathieu accompanied them; he created our logo and has illustrated many Jazz CD covers. This band has faithful, steadfast friends.

Guttmann bowing bass

Jim Guttmann excellent bowing string bass

 

 

 

 

They started the set with a prescient When I Grow Too Old To Dream, then Special Delivery Blues, Jim bowing bass for the first time of many.

 

 

 

Tony on muted cornet

Tony Pringle

 

Of Jelly Roll Morton’s Froggie More Blues, Tony Pringle said the title was supposedly taken from a contortionist who did frog imitations. (On the other hand, there is a corner of Joe “King” Oliver’s hometown, Donaldsonville, LA, known as “Froggie Mo’”) Pringle played lovely muted cornet (as did Oliver), underscored by rollicking piano and rhythm from Feldman,  Pameijer, Guttman, and Reynolds.

 

 

 

On Roaming, Billy Novick rendered some great alto sax. The tune was recorded by Luis Russell’s Band in 1930, with Henry “Red” Allen on vocal.

Stan playing passionate trombone

Stan Vincent

 

 

 

Stan’s trombone was featured on Ain’t Misbehaving, along with a Pringle/Feldman muted cornet/piano duet. Guttman and Reynolds followed, laying down fine bowing against soft brushes.

 

 

Following Cole Porter’s It’s All Right With Me, the band rolled out Paul Barbarin’s New Orleans chestnut Bourbon St. Parade. Second liners with parasols were nowhere in sight. We’ll have to fix that!

On Sam Morgan’s Bogalusa Strut, Novick played dance-step angulations, his solo echoing the original from Morgan’s 1927 New Orleans recording. Moishe’s piano threw gossamer over the heat.
 Morgan’s band was first in New Orleans to record spirituals in jazz time—a marker, since the black church was a crucible for swing.

This band is one of the few that still plays authentic traditional jazz as it was played in 20s and 30s New Orleans.  Leader Tony Pringle is adamant that this beat be maintained, which is what these people come to hear – tight ensemble and challenging New Orleans polyphony.

Peter on banjo, mouth open, still wearing his red sox

Peter Bullis, original member since 1971

 

The band has just begun its 45th year.  The original members, still with the band since 1971, are Tony Pringle, cornet and leader; Peter Bullis (still wearing red socks), banjo and manager; and Stan Vincent, trombone.

Bill Reynolds started subbing on drums when Pameijer moved to Connecticut, but Pam pops back in for special occasions.  Billy Novick arrived in 1986 and has had a big influence on the band.

 

 

Moishe, wearing gamulka, at piano

Moishe (Michael) Feldman

 

 

Sitting in were Jim Guttman on string bass – he plays regularly with Novick at Gloucester’s Franklin Cafe –and pianist Moishe Feldman. Moishe revels in being part of it, his hands evoking soft riffs and touches, giving distance to the soloists. It’s a perfect, conversational alliance.

 

 

The last set was a short one. On Ellington’s Rent Party Blues from 1929, Billy’s alto sax echoed Johnny Hodges’ lyricism, while Stan’s trombone evoked a New York City nightscape. Swaying at the keyboard, Moishe answered the band’s every move.

Bill with drum stick raised over snare drum

Bill Reynolds

 

They closed with a fine solo by Bill Reynolds—one of New England’s best trad drummers–on the barn-burning Weary Blues. The Black Eagles have always burned that prairie fire—no different here. The tune symbolizes the New Orleans polyphony.  A 1978 recording has the Louis Nelson Band with Butch Thompson, Sammy Rimmington, and  Danny Barker, all of whom have played with the Black Eagles at one time or another.

Danny Barker, along with Tommy Sancton, were the last guests to play at the Sticky Wicket – it closed the next day, November 1990.  But the New Black Eagle Jazz Band continues with concerts all over the country, and the support of faithful fans.

New Black Eagle Jazz Band at Primavera 13 August 2015

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New Black Eagle Jazz Band

Tony Pringle cornet/leader, Billy Novick clarinet/soprano and alto sax, Stan Vincent trombone, Herb Gardner keyboard, Peter Bullis banjo/manager, Jim Guttman string bass, Dave Didriksen drums,

The New Black Eagle Jazz Band will be starting its 45th year next month; you can tell by Tony’s beat-up, metal bowler-hat mute.  They filled the House at Primavera Ristorante with their authentic, happy, foot-tapping Traditional Jazz beat.  People drove for miles to hear this band.  It was worth it, just to hear Billy Novick playing soprano sax!  That was new to us.  It certainly adds dynamism to the music!

Jim Guttmann was a new face on string bass.  The Black Eagles have been using many different string bass players (much as the original Black Eagles Jazz Band did.)  They must be experts in their craft and also know the unique Traditional Jazz Beat.  Tony is uncompromising, maintaining the band’s unique sound.

Jim on string bass

Jim Guttman

 

Jim Guttman, a full-time musician, filled the bill.  He’s taught double bass and coached jazz and klezmer music ensembles at the Rivers School Conservatory since 1989.   He’s performed with a myriad of groups including the Klezmer Conservatory Band, singers Eartha Kitt and Mark Murphy, the Really Eclectic String Quartet, blues masters Johnny Shines and James Cotton, the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra, Texas swing legend Tiny Moore.

 

 

 

Dave smiling at drums

Dave Didriksen

 

Trad Jazz Drummers are also a rarity; Dave Didriksen filled in for Bill Reynolds; not an easy task.  We’ve known Dave as a great drummer starting with the Commonwealth Jazz Band at The Outpost Farm in Holliston in the 80’s, then with the Wolverine Jazz Band, and now as drummer and Manager of Swing Times Five with Debby Larkin.  Oh, and also Willows Book Store in Acton.

 

The New Black Eagles kicked it off with When Your Hair Has Turned to Silver, appropriate for most of us.  (Where did the years go?)   Savoy Blues, a tune that Louis Armstrong recorded in 1927, when he was just coming to prominence as an innovative cornet and trumpet virtuoso.  Great string bass solo by Guttmann; Stan played his growling tailgate trombone.

Every band plays Shimme Sha Wabble differently.  The front line was enhanced by Jim’s complex chords on string bass, pushed by Dave’s drum beat. and Herb’s titanic hands on keyboard.

trombone, cornet with beat up hat, Billy on alto sax

Front Line

Herb on keyboard.

Herb Gardner has massive hands

 

Herb Gardner was featured on If I Had My Way, showing off his stride piano.  He has always been a full-time musician, now with a full-time musical family with daughters Abby and Sarah.  He bounces back and forth to the Carnegie Club in New York, even in the 4-feet of snow we had last winter.  Herb has been filling in here in New England for many pianists, and has just about become the full-time pianist for the Black Eagles.

 

 

Peter with mouth (always) open, playing banjo, and his red sox

Peter Bullis

 

 

Tony, Peter and Stan are retired now, so they are playing full time too.  Peter’s expression hasn’t changed. He is still plucking the banjo, maintaining that beat, as he did in 1971 at the Sticky Wicket, and he’s still wearing his Red Sox.

Once In a While, from Louis’ Hot Five, was fantastic with Billy on clarinet.

 

 

They slowed the tempo with a tune they haven’t played in a long time, Johnny Dodd’s Steal Away, with Jim bowing the string bass.  Billy took the vocal on Jelly Roll Morton’s Sweet Substitute, backed by Tony’s sweet muted cornet.

Sam Morgan’s 1928 Short Dress Gal was one they played at the Wicket.  (Tony mentioned that Cajun bands played this in their Patois in 1927.)

We’ve been listening to Billy since he added younger ideas to the Eagles back in 1986 – but this is the first time we’ve heard him playing soprano sax.
Noting the soprano sax, one fan requested a Sidney Bechet tune, The Fish Vender.  He got I Remember When (Si Tu Vois Ma Mere) instead, with Billy and Jim Guttmann, Herb Gardner, and Dave Didriksen.   Beautiful!

I’m kicking myself for not recording this from the beginning where Billy faithfully played Bechet’s passionate version.  Once we recovered from that one, we heard an old Pop Tune, Girl of My Dreams, a lively tune.  Billy started on clarinet but moved to alto sax in the end, backed by fine string bass.

There was some discussion about how to handle the beginning and ending of Delta Bound, ensemble or somebody on solo?  They left it up to Billy; both beginning and end were amazing ensemble, Tony taking the lead with Billy comping on alto sax, Stan’s trombone stretched out low, low, as it could go.

They closed with Weary Blues, or Shake It And Break It – take your pick – same song.  It was WILD; even Herb’s hands went wild on the keyboard.  They ending as they began, with Billy on lovely soprano sax.   WOW!  What a night.

There were many dedicated New Black Eagle Fans here; they filled the room.  They will be back at Brandeis University on October 4th; Cultural Center of Cape Cod on October 11th; Rogers Center for the Arts at Merrimack College, North Andover MA on November 6th. Primavera Ristorante November 19th.

They will be traveling – check out their site at www.blackeagles.com.

New Black Eagle Jazz Band at Primavera March 12, 2015

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BEJB 1Tony Pringle cornet, Billy Novick clarinet/alto sax, Stan Vincent trombone, Herb Gardner keyboard, Peter Bullis banjo/manager, John Turner string bass, Bill Reynolds drums, special guest Mark Endresen guitar

This was the first time the New Black Eagle Jazz Band has appeared at the new Jazz venue, Primavera Ristorante, and also the first time there’s been a full house – probably around 50 people.  Pimavera is very happy with having Jazz here, and it will continue indefinitely.

The Black Eagles are a popular Traditional Jazz Band now in their 43rd year.  Fans came from as far as Albany NY and Fairbanks, Alaska!  No doubt, abundant sunshine and clear roads were motivating.

The band began with something we are all feeling, When I Grow Too Old To Dream.  Their authentic Trad Jazz was exhilarating.  Very few bands today maintain that special beat, and the Eagles elevate it to a real Art, in fact, the only Art that originated in America.

Lake Ponchartrain Blues – Tony’s clipped cornet is the sound that immediately identifies this band.   My Memphis Baby,  Billy on alto sax, Stan Vincent playing Big Jim Robinson tailgate trombone,  on a tune by Narvin Kimball.  Kimball was a 1920’s New Orleans banjo player who dazzled audiences with his left-handed single-string technique.
Black Eagles Front Line

Herb on keyboard

Herb Gardner

 

Herb Gardner took a solo and vocal on Crazy ‘Bout My Baby.  Herb has been playing keyboard at Primavera for many different bands.  He normally plays trombone.

 

 

(Bob Pilsbury, missed by his many fans, sends greetings from his home in Sudbury and would certainly like to  hear  from friends and fans. Address:  Bob Pilsbury, 11 Barton St. Sudbury MA 01776.)

Bouncing Around is a 1920’s tune that was recorded by Armand J. Piron.  Willie ‘the Lion’ Smith and his Cubs recorded The Old Stamping Grounds.  The Black Eagles continued with many tunes played by these marvelous musicians.  There aren’t many bands that can do them justice!  Sam Morgan’s Bogalusa Strut.  Louis Russell’s Saratoga Shout.  

Rhytm Section, Bill Reynolds drums, Peter Bulllis banjo, John Turner bass

Rhythm Section, Bill Reynolds drums, Peter Bulllis banjo, John Turner bass

The rhythm section is laid back on ballads, but on a hot tune…look out!
Peter Bullis, still wearing his red sox, has been playing that Trad Beat for over 50 years.

Stan Vincen’ts nephew, Mark Endresen, a fine Calypso guitarist, sat in for Pete Bullis on Tomorrow Night, and a spiritual, In The Sweet Bye and Bye.  They let Mark go on guitar – marvelous!  Mark founded and is featured vocalist of Calypso Hurricane, an exciting, high spirited and internationally known group playing music of the Caribbean Islands. See http://calypsohurricane.com/ .

Joseph Tremitiere was definitely enjoying the music.  He was here with his family, celebrating his 100th birthday.

100 yr-old smiling and enjoying the music. Band - Aid Ron L'Herault and friend in background.

Joseph Tremitiere enjoying himself at 100!  He’s sharp as a tack.

Billy Novick was featured on alto sax with Mark Endresen backing, and dedicated the next tune to Joseph: A Hundred Years From Today. 

Billy on alto sax with rhythm section

Mark Endresen feels the music as he backs Billy Novick

Peter returned for a number played in the 1920’s by trumpeter Henry ‘Red’ Allen with The Luis Russell Band, Roamin’; Tony’s moaning, muted cornet  just went right through you!

Bob Kaelin drove all the way from Albany NY – said he was having withdrawal symptoms since he last saw the band in October.   His request was Panama.  (Billy Novick had just returned from there.)  Bill Reynolds added a monster drum solo, including the drum roll he performs so eloquently.  With camaraderie and classic musicianship, this band gives you music that you won’t hear anywhere else!

They closed with an old favorite, Brahms Lullaby, with Tony introducing the musicians who make this band renowned.

They liked the new Primavera venue, and will return here on May 28th.
You can also hear them at Mechanics Hall in Worcester on April 8, Regattabar in Cambridge on April 17th, and Amazing Things Arts Center in Framingham on April 24th.  Check their web site at www.blackeagles.com.

New Black Eagle Jazz Band at the Sherborn Inn, September 11, 2014

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New Black Eagle Jazz Band

Tony Pringle cornet/leader, Billy Novick clarinet and alto sax, Stan Vincent trombone, Herb Gardner piano, John Turner string bass, Peter Bullis banjo, Pam Pameijer drums

The musicians of the travel-weary New Black Eagle Jazz Band were relieved to be back at their Home Bass, the Sherborn Inn, 33 North Main St. Sherborn MA.  One lives in Connecticut, one at Cape Cod, one in Marblehead, others Hudson, Sudbury, Norwood.  Just getting together is an event!  This summer they drove to up to the Berkshires Jazz Fest, down to Mt. Gretna in Pennsylvania, Music Mountain in Connecticut, back up to Deertrees Theater in Maine, as well as more locally at the Regatta Bar in Boston, and Amazing Things in Framingham.

Tony Pringle leads the NEW Black Eagle Jazz Band with an iron hand.

Tony Pringle leads the NEW Black Eagle Jazz Band with an iron hand.

 

The NEW Black Eagle Jazz Band began at the Sticky Wicket in October 1971, after founder Tommy Sancton of the original Black Eagle Jazz Band left for Oxford University in England.  The NBEJB’s 43rd Anniversary is coming up next month. (see below)

Under the direction of leader Tony Pringle, The Eagles continue to maintain that real spirit of New Orleans Traditional Jazz.

 

 

Pam, file photo, smiling

C. H. Pameijer

 

 

Their original drummer at the Sticky Wicket, Pam Pameijier came up from Connecticut tonight.  His reliable and dependable drumming revitalizes the whole band!

 

 

 

 

Herb at piano with a big smile

Herb Gardner plays trombone all over New England and in NY, and piano with the Red Molly.

 

 

 

Herb Gardner is the new pianist with the Eagles, but definitely not new to the neighborhood.  Herb was featured on Nobody’s Sweetheart Now  showing a deep respect for the melody in his choice of notes.

 

 

 

Curse of an Aching Heart was followed by one of Tony’s favorites – Pleading The Blues.   Papa Dip is an up-tempo tune about Louis Armstrong that was played by the New Orleans Wanderers – this band hasn’t played it in 10 years.  Nice Spiritual, Lead Me Savior, Give Me Your Telephone Number.  Billy moved to alto sax for Rosetta; Papa Di Da Da,

Billy on alto sax

Billy Novick is renowned  for his Alto Sax.

 

 

 

Billy was featured on a smoking Body & Soul, backed by the supportive rhythm of piano, bass and drum.

 

 

 

 

Stan Vincent on trombone

Stan Vincent, New Orleans knows how to play tailgate trombone

 

 

Climax Rag was a simmering hot number, not a Rag.  It was originally written as a Rag in 1914 by James Scott.  Stan Vincent plays it with a low, smouldering trombone.

 

 

 

 

 

Turner at bass

John Turner, Trad Jazz string bass

 

 

 

John Turner fits in well in the rhythm section with his authentic Traditional Jazz acoustic String Bass.

 

 

 

Wild Man Blues was a rousing stomp.  They closed with a familiar favorite, a real oldie, Panama,  sending us home with more fond memories.

The Band will be traveling back to Cape Cod on Tuesday, September 30th at the Woods Hole Community Hall, 68 Water Street, Woods Hole for JazzFestFalmouth.org.

They’ll return to the Sherborn Inn on October 9th.  This will be their last Sherborn Inn gig for this year, so be there!

New Black Eagle Jazz Band at the Sherborn Inn, July 10, 2014

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The New Black Eagle Jazz Band

Tony Pringle cornet /leader, Billy Novick alto sax/clarinet, Stan Vincent trombone, Peter Bullis banjo, Ross Petot piano, John Turner string bass, (from Roomful of Blues ) and their original drummer 43 years ago – Pam Pameijer.

Pam sitting by fireplace and smiling

Pam Pameijer

 

 

The powerhouse group had just returned from traveling 700 miles at several concerts, and was in rare form.  Old Home Week, that’s what it felt like, at the Sherborn Inn.  It brought back memories of the band when Don Kenny was on string bass, and Pam on drums.  Pameijer’s magical drumming motivates the whole band.  Traditional Jazz at its best!

 

 

Supple, sweet When I Grow Too Old To Dream, barn burning Weary Blues. Tony learned the next tune when he was with the Special Delivery Band from Scotland – Ross Petot was featured on Jubilee.  No charts, full 32-bar solos, gave him a chance to show off his spontaneous creativity.

John Turner backs Ross Petot on Jubilee

John Turner backs Ross Petot on Jubilee

Peter's banjo and red sox haven't changed in 43 years.

Peter’s banjo and red sox haven’t changed in 43 years.

 

Luis Russell wrote Give Me Your Telephone Number back in the 20’s or 30’s.   Back to back blues – Slow Blues and Steal Away, the plink, plink, plink of Peter’s banjo maintained that beat behind Billy’s clarinet.

He gets one solo on banjo, usually towards the end of the evening- dynamic Shake It And Break It.

 

 

It’s All Right With Me, Turner’s string bass hit every note.  Then they turned to a march, Blue Bell’s Goodbye, from the Al Jolson Story.

Stan Vincent fine trombone

Stan Vincent fine trombone

 

 

Tomorrow Night is a New Orleans tune, circa WWII, that became popular in the 50’s, Tony took the vocal.

Marvelous trombone by Stan Vincent, also an original from the band.

 

 

 

Billy was featured on glorious alto sax on Dreaming Away.  The band bolstered him on fabulous on Chelsea Bridge.  Pleading The Blues.

alto sax, bass, and piano

 

They’ve just returned from their 39th consecutive appearance at the Mount Gretna Playhouse, followed by a Jazz Service where they played a hymn written in 1929 by Albert E. Brumley, I’ll Fly Away.

Tony and his metal hat muteThey played many of their old tunes, familiar sounds to those of us who were there in the early Wicket days.  But they will be playing some new tunes – Tony says they will keep digging, “There’s some nice stuff out there.”

They closed as they did at the Sticky Wicket, with a melodic, mellow Brahms Lullaby.

The New Black Eagle Jazz Band has found a home at the Sherborn Inn, 33 North Main St. Sherborn Massachusetts 01752 on the 2nd Thursday of every month. (800) 552-9742  Stop in and rekindle your happy memories too!

 

NOTE:

Their old home, The Sticky Wicket was built by a Business Teacher from Marlboro, and featured English Beer – which is why Tony Pringle settled the New Black Eagle Jazz Band there in 1971; English beer on tap.  We had nineteen years of great music there.  We were saddened to learn that we lost Foster Yeadon on June 8th.

New Black Eagle Jazz Band Luncheon at the Sherborn Inn

Status

 

7 pc Traditional Jazz Band

Stan Vincent trombone, Bill Reynolds drums, Peter Bullis banjo, Jesse Williams string bass, Tony Pringle cornet, Bob Pilsbury piano, Billy Novick reeds

The New Black Eagle Jazz Band, with four of the originals, Tony, Peter, Bob and Stan, have been playing for over 42+ years.   They are one of the few bands still playing authentic Trad Jazz, (“Don’t call it Traditional/Dixieland!) Their sound is still fresh and exciting.

Weathermen had predicted snow (that never developed).  Stalwart fans of the New Black Eagle Jazz Band ignored them to attend the first of the Sherborn Inn’s afternoon luncheons this year, and were glad they did.  It was warm inside the Sherborn Inn, with  Hot New Orleans Traditional Jazz and two fireplaces blazing.

This luncheon consisted of a 3-course meal with salad, choice of beef brisket or stuffed salmon in Alfredo sauce, carrot cake desert, and coffee.  Delicious!

Tony playing cornet, Bob piano

Tony Pringle and Bob Pilsbury

Tony Pringle, still in British accent, announced the first New Orleans tune, Moose March.  It was one of the tunes often recorded by the George Lewis Band from New Orleans.

The Eagles recently added a new tune to their repertoire of 1000+ tunes, an old Pop tune of the 30’s done by the Brox Sisters, Tie Me to Your Apron Strings Again.  (They came before the Boswell and Andrew Sisters!)

The band picked up the pace with Once in a While – not the one you’re thinking of.   This one was done by Louis A. in the 1920’s.   It’s still thrilling, with Tony’s clipped cornet defining the New Black Eagle Sound.

Tony’s Getzen Eterna cornet had just been repaired at great expense.  Apparently while Tony had been taking a break, someone checked out the cornet and dropped it on the floor.  (Folks, please don’t touch the instruments!)

Bob Pilsbury answered a request for Jelly Roll Morton’s The Pearls, giving  it a New Orleans Spanish tinge.  There were many requests from this crowd; some have been following the band since 1971.  Another request for a spiritual, He’ll Understand And Say “Well Done”.   We love Stan Vincent’s  deep, wide-toned, robust “tailgate” style, reminiscent of George Brunies.

Stan on trombone

Stan Vincent on tailgate trombone

Tony explained where the next song came from, Ken Colyer, 1928-1988, an English trumpet player who is still in the heart of many Trad Jazz players.  He had joined the British Navy, and jumped ship here in the U.S.   When he was arrested, fans bailed him out.  That’s when he wrote Going Home.  He returned to England to find The Chris Barber  Band still waiting for him.  Nice vocal by Tony.  (It came from the heart.)

Another request, it was a Gospel Hit in the 1950’s, but was first recorded in the 1920’s, I Wasn’t Gonna Tell Nobody.   Drum and bass completely synchronized, Billy with sticks on snare drum and choke cymbal.

Bill Reynolds and Jesse Williams

Bill Reynolds drums, Jesse Williams string bass

Another request – West End Blues.  Jesse on solo, gently caressing the bass, easing beautiful sounds out of it.  The whole room was so silent you could have heard a pin drop!

Wingy Manone (1900-1982) originally did Old Fashion Swing.   He lost an arm in a streetcar accident, in N.O. which resulted in his nickname of “Wingy”.  This isn’t the dancing kind of swing – this is the one folks had on their porches in the “good old days”, before Ipods and Iphones.

Billy on alto sax

Billy Novick on alto sax

 

 

Billy Novick was featured on alto sax with Body & Soul.  Not Coleman Hawkins’ classic –  Billy has his own magnificent, emotive command of the jazz language.

 

 

 

We were fast approaching overtime – 2pm is the luncheon cutoff.   Peter Bullis gets his only banjo solo on Louisian-I-A.

Peter on banjo, with mouth open, wearing his traditional red sox

Peter still in his red sox, playing Louisian-I-A

They sent us home with one of their nostalgic closing songs, Rose of Cairo.
The band is scheduled for several more afternoon luncheons, popular with folks who don’t want to drive at night.  They also have a regular appearance at the Sherborn Inn on the 2nd Thursday of the month 7-9:30pm.

To keep informed of their other performances, sign up for the New Black Eagle Jazz Band  NEWS and Schedule by joining Tony’s e-newsletter  tony@blackeagles.com.

 

New Black Eagle Jazz Band luncheon at Sherborn Inn, October 23, 2013

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New Black Eagle Jazz Band

New Black Eagle Jazz Band

Tony Pringle leader/cornet, Stan Vincent trombone, Billy Novick clarinet and alto sax, Bob Pilsbury piano, Peter Bullis banjo and red sox, Jess Williams string bass, Bill Reynolds drums

Starting into their 43rd   year this month, the NBEJB still has it – the Traditional Jazz that draws crowds.   Everybody was elbow-to-elbow at the Sherborn Inn’s Wednesday luncheon, just like the old days at the Sticky Wicket.  People were bussed in from Senior Centers and enjoyed the Inn’s fine food and especially the music.  There were still some Stickey Wicket ‘regulars’ here, loyal fans, who have followed the band for all those years.

large crowd in back, couple at table for 2 in front, half of the crowd at the Sherborn Inn

Part of crowd at the Sherborn Inn’s luncheon

The Band played many of their old chestnuts, Tony singing When Your Hair Has Turned To Silver.  I’m Travellin’ –  Jesse Williams is the newest member; he injects new vigor into the band. (He was probably beginning first grade when the band started at the Wicket.)  Louisian-I-A, Tony on vocal.

Scott Joplin’s 1920’s ragtime by Arthur Marshall – Kinklets, is actually a pre-jazz number published in 1906. They didn’t improvise but Pilsbury played it as a fine ragtime number, Jesse bowing the bass.

Earl Hines 1930’s Rosetta. Together.  Duke’s East St. Louis Toodle-oo, Billy on super sax. Mahogany Hall Stomp. 

Jesse slapping bass, Tony on cornet

Jesse Williams slapping bass

Billy’s incomparable tenor sax was featured with the Rhythm Boys on Body and Soul.   Peter’s plink, plink, plink, banjo maintaining the Trad Jazz Beat, and still wearing his red sox.  (The Boston Red Sox won the World Series Pennant Race a week later!)

Billy and rhythm section, Peter wearing his red sox

Billy featured on Body and Soul. Note Peter’s red sox.

Stan Vincent on Trombone

Stan Vincent solo on Old Rugged Cross

 

 

Jesse’s string bass echoed Peter’s banjo on Old Rugged Cross.  Bill’s soft, skillful drum roll backed Stan’s fine tailgate trombone solo.

 

 

They finished with another Sticky Wicket chestnut – Panama.  Two hours went by too quickly!!  The crowd loved every minute of it!

The Eagles will be back here at 7pm on their usual 2nd Thursday of the month, November 14th.  Check out their site and available CDs at http://blackeagles.com/.

The Sherborn Inn lunches are held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month, 11:30am-2pm.  Good deal: Great music, 3-course luncheon, tax and gratuity, complete for only $25.

New Black Eagle Jazz Band

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at the Sherborn Inn luncheon
April 24, 2013
New Black Eagle Jazz Band

New Black Eagle Jazz Band

Tony Pringle cornet, Stan Vincent trombone, Billy Novick reeds, Bob Pilsbury piano, Jesse Williams string bass, Peter Bullis banjo, Bill Reynolds drums

Memories of the Sticky Wicket!!  100 people were packed in at the Sherborn Inn’s Senior Jazz Luncheon, to hear the New Black Eagle Jazz Band, now in it’s 41st year, play some of their most memorable tunes.  Many Seniors are bussed in from local Senior Centers.

It was like old times, as the band opened with the familiar beat of the New Orleans parade – Second Line.

Stan’s Trombone had the first solo, with Billy on alto sax, and Tony’s clipped cornet that defines the Eagle’s sound.

(Billy Novick has been asked to write some of the music for Hemingway’s: The Sun Also Rises, World Premier at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. in DC.)

Billy Novick on alto sax

Billy Novick

Everybody wanted the tables in front of the band! But they were reserved  early on by Sticky Wicket ‘Regulars’, the few who are still with us.  There is no long U-shaped table with 12 people like the one that circled the band at the Sticky Wicket.

Jesse Williams, youngest member of the band, performed superb bowing on string bass, supporting Bob Pilsbury on an early Duke tune, Misty Morning.

Jesse Williams bowing on string bass, Bob at piano

Jesse Williams bowing on string bass

Precious – Love Nest evoked memories of the George Burns-Gracie Allen television show.

Harking back to our Grandmother’s time, Stan Vincent played trombone solo and sang the love song, You Tell  Me Your Dream, And I’ll Tell You Mine.

Stan Vincent plays trombone, Pete banjo, Jesse string bass

Stan Vincent, Peter Bullis, Jesse Williams

Pete Bullis’ beat on banjo carries on the Traditional Jazz sound that is the heart of this band.  (Yes, he was wearing his Red Sox.)

Elder statesman of the band, Bob Pilsbury, went even farther back in time with his vocal of Love Song of the Nile, a song associated with Theda Bara, a vamp from the old silent films.

Bob Pilsbury sitting at table with a big smile

Bob Pilsbury

They closed the first set with an early 30’s tune by the Luis Russell Orchestra, an up-tempo  Roamin’.

‘Groupies’ Elizabeth and Marilyn were in their 20’s when they started listening to the Black Eagles, and still faithfully follow the band.

Three former Sticky Wicket 'regulars', Elizabeth Mazza, Marilyn Charkins, and Marce

Three former Sticky Wicket ‘regulars’, Elizabeth, Marilyn, and Marce

“We didn’t get the front table, but we enjoyed  a fine 3-course dinner, complete, for only $25.  Choice of Salmon in Cream Sauce, or Chicken Parmesan, complete with salad, vegetable, desert and coffee.”   Marce

The second set began with a rabble-rousing Saratoga Shout – named after a club in Harlem, not the Saratoga Springs race track.

Froggy More Rag featured Billy’s brilliant clarinet solo backed by the rhythm boys, while Tony headed to the bar for a beer.

Ed Reynolds drums, Jesse Williams string bass, back Billy Novick on clarinet

Bill Reynolds and Jesse Williams back Billy Noick

 

Everyone was back for more Black Eagle eloquent ensemble on Duke Ellington’s 1931 pop tune, In a Sentimental Mood.

A couple named Frankie and Connie was celebrating their Wedding Anniversary.  Tony mischievously considered dedicating Frankie & Johnny for this happy occasion, but thought better of it, and settled for When Your Hair Has Turned to Silver; much more appropriate, and appreciated.

Bill Reynolds let loose on drums, prompting much applause from the audience, right in the middle of his stellar performance!

Ed Reynolds on drums

Ed Reynolds

Bill Reynolds

Bill Reynold’s remarkable drums and Jesse’s unrelenting pulse on amplified string bass drive the band.  They put a fresh snap into the old tunes.

They approached the end of the evening with Special Delivery Blues, a mournful blues recorded by blues singer Sippie Wallace with Louis Armstrong in 1929.   They closed with an upbeat Weary Blues. (Peter finally got to play a banjo solo.)

Time just flew by listening to this fantastic LIVE jazz!   Brahm’s Lullaby ushered us out the door.

The Band will be back at their regular appearance here on the 2nd Thursday of the month, May 9th.

Tony Pringle sitting at table with a beer and a big smile

Tony Pringle relaxes.

Tony Pringle

To keep informed of their other performances, sign up for the New Black Eagle Jazz Band  NEWS and schedule by joining Tony’s e-newsletter.

tony@blackeagles.com