Midiri Brothers, Ian Frenkel and Swing Senders at the Sherborn Inn

Posted on August 13, 2014 by admin

Dan Gabel, Steve Taddeo, Paul Monat, Justin Meyer, John Clark, Jeff Hughes, Ian Frankel

Steve Taddeo’s Swing Senders

Joe Midiri clarinet and soprano sax, Paul Midiri vibes, trombone, and drums, Ian Frenkel piano, Jeff Hughes and Paul Monat cornet, John Clark clarinet and bari sax, Dan Gabel trombone, Bill Doyle guitar, Justin Meyer string bass, Steve Taddeo drums, and special guest vocalist Elise Roth.

Steve Taddeo finally assembled his “Dream Band”, with The Midiri Brothers, Ian Frenkel, and members of Taddeo’s Swing Senders. They blew the roof off a full house at the Sherborn Inn on Tuesday, August 12th. Many are leaders of their own bands. John Clark, impressive impresario, kept them (more or less) under control.

Harold McAleer’s videos give you a taste:

Midiri Brothers kicked it off Running Wild.

Special guest vocalist Elise Roth was featured on Johnny Mercer’s Jeepers Creepers, Milton Berle’s theme song Near You, and Am I Blue. Elise was gracious to sub for The Swing Senders’ vocalist, Caroline Griep, who was absent because of a death in the family. Elise Roth is the regular vocalist for Dan Gable and The Abletones.

Special guest vocalist, Elise Roth, with Dan Gabel, Justin Meyer , and Bill Doyle

Two masters of the cornet, Jeff Hughes and Paul Monat; Paul revived some of his Wild Bill spirit in their duet on Someday You’ll Be Sorry.

The Midiris had us in tears with Bechet’s Si Tu Vois Ma Mère.

Crucial members of the rhythm section, Bill Doyle and Justin Meyer kept the rhythmic fires burning, providing a solid foundation that let the others fly!

Bill Doyle, guitar

Justin Meyer, string bass

Joe sings some Blues, Paul moves to trombone. We love this music – you never know what will happen next!

Dan Gabel trombone, Elise sings Am I Blue?

This was indomitable pianist Ian Frenkel’s first appearance at the Inn, and we hope it won’t be the last. A true artist, Ian is well known and appreciated all over Connecticut.

Ian Frenkel, fingers flying across the keys.

John Clark, Ian Frenkel, Steve Taddeo: You Do Something To Me

Don’t Be That Way, Royal Garden Blues, After You’ve Gone, Big Bear Stomp, Wolverine Blues, all imaginative and swinging.

Taddeo was using a 1939 Slingerland Radio King drum set (identical to what Gene Krupa used) and the vintage cymbals (Avedis Zildjian) from the late Buddy Schutz. He was featured with his infamous 8-minute drum solo walk-around on Stomping at the Savoy, tapping on anything within reach!

Finale! Everybody lets go with Taddeo’s theme song, Dinah, with Paul Midiri and Steve Taddeo battling on drums,

That definitely was not rehearsed!

This was an incredible evening. Many of these amazing musicians will be BACK for a reprise, with the Swing Senders or with their own bands. The Midiri Brothers are heading for Oregon, Idaho, California, Clearwater Beach. But they’ll be back. Stay tuned.

Marce

Eli’s All-Stars at the Sherborn Inn, August 7, 2014

Posted on August 7, 2014 by admin

Bo Winiker trumpet, Ted Casher clarinet, tenor and soprano sax, Herb Gardner trombone, Bob Winter piano, Jim Mazzy banjo/vocals, Eli Newberger tuba, Jeff Guthery drums, Carolyn Newberger washboard

This was a superb evening, with the All-Stars’ driving classic jazz, enjoying each other’s company. They were playing for each other, as much as the people, but the audience couldn’t help participating. The band played a treasure trove of Louis Armstrong hits. Instead of featuring a single vocalist, leader Eli Newberger took advantage of the many fine voices in the band, especially Jimmy Mazzy. (We never tire of hearing Jimmy!)

Ted started with an aggressive clarinet on Muscat Ramble, written by Kid Ory and first recorded by Louis Armstrong and his Hot Five in 1926. Eli’s All Stars played it with explosive polyphonic ensemble!

Herb sings Old Rocking Chair.

Herb Gardner took the first vocal on Irving Berlin’s Old Rocking Chair. He was spellbinding! Rocking chair will never get him.

Bo Winiker’s trumpet spearheaded this tribute to Louis Armstrong. His passion is obvious on Louis’s Hello Dolly.

The one and only in the world.

The one and only Jimmy Mazzy sang many tunes, starting with a powerful vocal on an Armstrong rarity, Irish Black Bottom.

Only three of them were familiar with it, this was the first of several tunes that many of the band had never played before. There was some good natured bantering by the guys in the front line on how they would approach it. But great musicians can make it happen. The buoyant rhythm section was sparked by Guthery’s drums. Jeff has added something new to his Trad Jazz drum set – a set of four ancient temple blocks, putting them to good use.

snare drum, one tom, ride cymbal,cow bell, four ancient temple blocks

Jeff Guthery and his unique Traditional Jazz drums

Potato Head Blues was requested by a friend in the audience. There was a jovial discussion by the men in the front line on how to approach this. Bo gave it the Armstrong touch, concluding with a triumphant ride-out final chorus.

Jimmy dreamy ballad, Kiss to Build a Dream On, was backed by harmonically sophisticated ensemble.

Mosaic has just released the entire Louis collection that also contains tunes from Louis’s Hot 5 and Hot 7. One of the tunes, Cornet Chop Suey, influenced a 14-year old Eli Newberger to play this kind of music. Resourceful Herb Gardner created this arrangement, and played Trummy’s bright, energetic sound on trombone with the band’s tempestuous performance.

Change of pace – Jimmy started St James Infirmary in a melancholy tone (it’s someone lamenting the death of their loved one) when the band picked up the tempo. On impulse, Eli jumped up and joined Winter for four-handed piano. (Eli was the original piano player for the Black Eagle Jazz Band.)

Four-handed piano

Another tune most had never played before, Ol Miss, Ted lead on soprano sax, with Jimmy scatting. The energy level was so high the audience began clapping in time.

C’est Si Bon, an unqualified gem, they were really enjoying this. Bob’s piano sounded like a rippling waterfall. The front line took turns on various duets, trumpet and trombone, clarinet and drum, tuba and banjo. Nice!

Jim began another soft melodic vocal on Basin St. Blues. Bob changed the tempo into ¾ time on piano, before the band kicked it up into double time.

Eli called up Carolyn Newberger with an instrument usually associated with woman’s work, the washboard. But this woman is an accomplished, prize winning artist; she was busy sketching pictures of the band until now. At one time she was a First Grade teacher who put hubby Eli through Medical School.

The tune was Don’t Forget to Mess Around When You’re Doing the Charleston. (Mess Around was the name of a dance in the 20’s.)

Carolyn’s enthusiasm stirred Bob Winter into a piano/washboard duet. Nowhere else are you going to hear anything like this!!

Bo put heart and soul into his vocal into Louis’s Wonderful World, closing on trumpet with an exuberant high note.

The whole evening was such a pleasure no one wanted it to end, but we were already on overtime. They closed with a philosophical contemplation, with only Bob on piano and Jimmy banjo and vocal, You’ll Never Walk Alone.

They’ll be back again with another evening of Traditional jazz on the first Thursday of next month, September 4^th, just after Labor Day. Join us for some revitalizing Classic Jazz!

Novel Jazz at Boothbay Opera House August 8th, 7:30pm

Posted on August 1, 2014 by admin

Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn

NOVEL JAZZ RETURNS TO THE BOOTHBAY OPERA HOUSE TO FEATURE MUSIC OF ELLINGTON AND STRAYHORN –

The Novel Jazz Septet will be returning to the Opera House of Boothbay Harbor on Friday 8 August 2014, 7:30PM for an evening of classic jazz by Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn, two pillars of the jazz world.

They’ll play both well-known standards plus lesser-known compositions, recently transcribed from original scores at the Smithsonian and arranged for the band.

The band features jazz musicians Barney Balch (trombone), Wells Gordon (bass), Mike Mitchell (trumpet), Mickey Felder (piano), Mark Macksoud (drums) and Dave Clarke (guitar). You can learn more about the band at their web site, www.mainejazz.net.

This evening of music is being generously sponsored by J. Edward Knight Insurance Company. Come out and hear the Novel Jazz Septet…keeping the spirit of Duke and Sweet Pea alive and swinging! Dancing not only allowed but encouraged!

The Opera House is located at 86 Townsend Ave., Boothbay Harbor. Tickets can be purchased in person at the box office during normal business hours, or over the phone at 207-633-5159, or online at: http://www.boothbayoperahouse.com/

“Music, of course, is what I hear and something that I more or less live by. It’s not an occupation or profession, it’s a compulsion.” — Duke Ellington

Galvanized Jazz Band at Giant Valley Polo Club for Big Feathers 22nd Anniversary

Posted on July 26, 2014 by admin

The Big Feathers Open, 22^nd Anniversary, with the Galvanized Jazz Band July 13, 2014.

Giant Valley Polo Club, at Giant Valley Farm in Hamden, Connecticut, held their 22^nd Big Feathers Open, with the Finals on July 13, 2014, with Butch Butterworth narrating. The Club features polo games every Sunday, but this anniversary was complete with delectable barbecue and the The Galvanized Jazz Band playing some delectable jazz.

Galvanized Jazz Band with guests Jim Fryer and Tom Artin

Fred Vigorito cornet, Tom Artin trombone, Noel Kaletsky and Russ Whitman reeds, Jim Fryer French horn/trombone/trumpet, Art Hovey bass/tuba, Bob Bequillard drums, and vocals by Carol Leigh and Cynthia Fabian.

This anniversary was special for Big Feathers, Frank Butterworth.
The Big Feathers HISTORY

Farmer-looking man, sitting back comfortable, tape on table beside him

Butch Butterworth taping the Galvanized Jazz Band

After the Polo Match, (see pictures below) The Galvanized Jazz Band, with the sterling assistance of Jim and Tom, began with Sidney Bechet’s Dans Les Rues D’Antibes, a French “rendez-vous du jazz et de la gaité”. Reeds complemented each other, Noel on soprano sax, Russ on tenor sax; the solos and ensemble creating beautiful classic jazz!

Carol wearing a jacket, long brown hair hanging over her shoulders

Carol Leigh

We were happy to hear Carol Leigh step out of retirement for a few songs, beginning with How Long Blues, backed by hubby Russ on tenor sax, and the1926 Cake Walking Babies, and I’ll Be a Friend With Pleasure.

We remember recording her with the Salty Dogs in 1976 at the Indianapolis Battle of the Bands.

When Butch and Leigh Butterworth were married, The Galvanized Jazz Band played Stuff Smith’s It’s Wonderful. They played it now in memory of a dear departed Connecticut Musician and mentor, Red Balaban. Marvelous trombone, piano, French horn, Bequillard keeping Trad time on drums.

We were sitting in the barn on haystack seats, feet tapping to St. Phillips’ St. Breakdown, with both Noel and Russ on fiery clarinets.

Art slapping that bass!

Next was a Mexican love story, with two trumpets, Art slapping bass, Tom playing low, glissando tailgate trombone; a powerhouse group, they love playing this music!

Cynthia Fabiam

Cynthia Fabian, featured vocalist with the band, brought her own genuine sound to the group with a Louis Prima 1946 Sunday Kind of Love, and a great tune done by Sister Rosetta Tharpe in the 40’s and 50’s – Strange Things Are Happening Every Day.

A Good Man Is Hard To Find, 1917, HOT number with Cynthia, Fred, and the two trombones of Jim Fryer and Tom Artin.

Jim Fryer and Tom Artin

Jim Fryer began his career in Northhampton MA with Dave Pinardi’s band. They played a tune he recorded with Dave Huxtable on banjo. Dave wrote it for Jim’s sister, on a riverboat, I’m Going to Skedaddle Back to Seattle. (Here done by the Titan Hot Seven – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1KhGdXLN2fE Recorded by Michael Steinman for Jazz Lives.)

Galvanized Jazz Band played it with Art on his big black tuba, and Bob Bequillard let loose on drums. We could hear the fine drum solo, but couldn’t see him behind the front line, so we caught him later, front and center.

Bob Bequillard, excellent traditional jazz drummer

Russ and Noel were featured on Bechet’s Si Tu Vois Ma Mere.

The band played When Your Old Wedding Ring Was New for Holman and Fran Rice, fans of the band for many years, who were celebrating their 68^th wedding anniversary. It was a touching moment, Holman sang it tenderly for Fran.

POLO COMPETITION at The Big Feathers 22nd Anniversary
We enjoyed tailgating at the game – a first for us!
Butch and Score Keeper Gayle Duignan were in the center, Butch narrating the plays.

Score keeper Gayle Duignan with Butch at center field, and the Big Feathers Trophy.

man on brown and white horse walking the field

Big Feathers Cup - Trophy with colored feathers and horses

Big Feathers Trophy

Giant Valley Polo will have a benefit for The Wounded Warrior Project on August 17^th, followed by the Annual WTF Invitational Tournament finals on August 24; People, polo, good music and beer. See www.giantvalleypoloclub.com for more information. Polo will continue on Sundays through September 28^th. www.facebook.com/giantvalleypolo

Galvanized Jazz Band can be heard on the 3rd Thursday of EVERY month, with Tom Artin trombone, featuring vocalist Cynthia Fabian, at Aunt Chilada’s, 3931 Whitney Ave, Hamden, CT 203-230-4640.

A very special thanks to Dan Hulub, who gave us his time, and drove the 110 miles and made it possible for me to be here!

Marce

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

Posted on July 18, 2014 by admin

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 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

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

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.

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.

They 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 2^nd 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 8^th.

Blue Horizon Jazz Band with Paul Monat at the Sherborn Inn July 22

Posted on July 15, 2014 by admin

Blue Horizon Jazz Band with Paul Monat and Al Ehrenfried

The Blue Horizon Jazz Band presented a romping New Orleans take on Sidney Bechet’s jazz and blues, with the five-piece group working together in a true spirit of cooperation. We were surprised to find cornetist Paul Monat substituting for trumpeter Jeff Stout, who has had a death in the family. Al Ehrenfried, string bass, came out of retirement for this evening.

It was a five-piece band, with Stan McDonald and Paul Monat cornet, holding the front line with the superb backing of the rhythm section, pianist Ross Petot, Al Ehrenfried bass, and Steve Taddeo drums.

They kicked it off with the New Orleans sound with Meet Me Tonight in Dreamland, and continued with Ross Petot’s robust piano intro to What Is This Thing Called Love.

Ain’t Gonna Give Nobody None of My Jelly Roll, Bechet’s I Remember When, Everybody Loves My Baby. The two were in sync, twining around each other. Stan started Lastic on clarinet, with Paul playing a long, sustained, note. The two make some powerful music together, drums and string bass maintaining the Traditional Jazz Beat.

When You and I Were Young Maggie. Bechet’s Blues In The Air, nice blues lead by Stan McDonald.

Ross was featured on Lucky Day, backed by string bass and drums.

Ross Petot Featured

It was Steve Taddeo’s birthday. Monida surprised him with a cake while the band played the Birthday Song.

Happy Birthday, Steve!

Stan and Paul in unison on Bechet’s Marchand de Poisson. Bechet’s Fantasy, Paul slipped in some of his mentor, Wild Bill Davison.

When I Leave The World Behind, had Stan on vocal, great soprano sax; continuing on Lonesome Road. Getting into overtime now with Bechet’s Dans Les Rues D’Antibes, with Al playing a superb bass solo, backed by Steve’s adept drumming.

It was an unforgettable evening. The Blue Horizon Jazz Band will return as usual on the 3^rd Tuesday of month, August 19^th with more surprises.

Paul Monat will be in New England until September, when he returns to Florida. Stay tuned.

Dave Whitney All Stars with Christine Fawson at the Sherborn Inn June 10, 2014

Posted on July 10, 2014 by admin

Dave Whitney All Stars with Christine Fawson, in a Tribute to Louis Armstrong at the Sherborn Inn with Dave Whitney trumpet/vocals, Christine Fawson trumpet/vocals, Ted Casher reeds, Dan Gabel trombone, Reid Jorgensen drums, Justin Meyer string bass, Steve Dale piano, Jon Wheatley guitar

Louis Armstrong had many “All Star” groups in his lifetime, but Dave Whitney concentrated on tunes that began in the early to late 20’s. Dave’s All-Stars were marvelous right from the Sleepy Time Down South kick-off; Jon Wheatley’s guitar in Back Home in Indiana, Royal Garden Blues that Louis played from 1947 into the 1960’s. Front line enjoy playing together. Music affects emotions; this music makes people happy.

Dave & Ted complain Bucket’s Got a Hole In It videos by Harold McAleer

Ted Casher

Ted actually played with Armstrong, when he was at Salisbury Beach, Massachusetts. Reed players Joe Darensbourg was off playing Ski Ball at the arcade when the band was ready to start. Louis looked around and said “Hey, wanna play?” Ted joined him on stage. Later in the band room, they found that Joe had won a Kewpie Doll.

To brighten the evening, Christine Fawson was introduced on trumpet and vocal. Dave and Christine make beautiful music together, the kind that brightens your day, whether they’re playing trumpet or singing.

Canal St. Blues, Christine is Louis, and Dave is Joe “King” Oliver.

Dave and Christine complement each other

Dave and Christine vocal – You’re Just In Love

Stomping at The Savoy, Reid Jorgensen made use of every instrument on the drums.

I Love You Samantha, Dave vocal with Justin Meyer and Jon Wheatley

Louis did a German Folk Song called The Faithful Hussar. It originated in Dusseldorf. Marvelous guitar by Jon, and string bass solo by Justin. This is Louis’s version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_j1LWUSwgQ

Dan Gabel really gets into Satchmo/New Orleans mood with St. James Infirmary Blues

Love is Just Around The Corner – a salute to bass players, with rhythm section.

Justin Meyer in tribute to bass players

Jon was featured on George Van Epps’ Tango El Bongo, Reid drumming with his hands.

Swing That Music was WILD!

In his Big Band of the 30’s, Louis played The Saints. Dave did the vocal, naming each member of the band, with Christine harmonizing on trumpet.

They closed with Sleepy Time Down South, fantastic trumpet solo, backed by rhythm section.

The whole evening was delectable! Everyone left with happy hearts and smiling faces.

Tune List:
Short intro Sleepy Time Down South
Back Home Again in Indiana
My Bucket’s Got a Hole In It
Royal Garden Blues
Kiss to Build a Dream On
Sweet Georgia Brown
Margie
Big Butter and Egg Man
Do You Know What It Means To Miss New Orleans
Can’t Take That Away From Me
Stomping at The Savoy
Samantha
The Faithful Hussar
Canal St. Blues
Love is Just Around The Corner
Bourbon St. Parade
Tango el Bongo
Swing That Music
You’re Just in Love
Wonderful World
Saints
Sleepy Time Down South

Riverboat Stompers at the Sherborn Inn, July 8, 2014

Posted on July 9, 2014 by admin

Riverboat Stompers at the Sherborn Inn, July 8, 2014

Larry Baxter trumpet/vocals, Steve Straus clarinet/soprano sax/vocal, Frank Batchelor trombone, Jimmy Mazzy banjo/vocals, Phil Hower piano, Pierre Lemieux tuba, Rich Malcolm drums.

The Riverboat Stompers played some serious Dixieland Jazz at the Sherborn Inn; great front line with excellent rhythm section, feeling and loving the music. They hit it off hot and heavy with Dark Town Strutters Ball, Jimmy on vocal.

Jimmy sings most of the vocals – good reason to come hear this band! Jimmy was at his best after returning from the America’s Jazz Fest in Olympia Washington.

Exuberant front line; they love playing together, with lighthearted jesting. They all played kazoo on Please Don’t Talk About Me When I’m Gone.

Larry Baxter, Steve Straus (leader) Frank Batchelor

Larry Baxter’s trumpet carried the melodies, and some vocals. Heartfelt lyrics on St. James Infirmary and in perfect French he sang C’est Si Bon, with Jimmy responding. That was a first for us! Baxter added some of his own made-up stanzas, surprising even the band. There were many, but we only caught the words ‘strawberries and cream’.

Straus generally plays warm and vibrant clarinet, but took out the soprano sax on Blue Turning Gray Over You, His only vocal was Lulu’s Back in Town. Frank Batchelor’s euphonious trombone was especially prominent on Toot, Toot, Tootsie.

They continued with a harmonious medley with Jimmy supplying the lyrics, Five Foot Two, Four Leaf Clover, Toot, Toot, Tootsie, Baby Face.

Phil Hower mesmeric pianist, he listens intently, fills in the open spaces, and lays down a solid foundation for the soloist. Marvelous piano interludes complemented Jimmy’s vocal on Rosetta.

Bourbon St. Parade, Jazz Me Blues, Muscrat Ramble, Dr. Jazz, were HOT! Little known sweet song – Our Love Was Meant To Be – was written by Fats Waller. Please Don’t Talk About Me When I’m Gone, I’m Confessing That I Love You. All backed by top-notch base-line from Pierre Lemieux on tuba and a captivating beat by Rich Malcolm on drums.

Pierre Lemieux and Rich Malcolm

It was excellent Dixieland from beginning to end. They closed with a soulful vocal by Larry, We’ll Meet Again, starting in very slow waltz-time, ending in high-spirited, energetic polyphonic jazz!

Avid fan – piano player’s wife.

The most enthusiastic fan was Sue Hower, motivating the band from beginning to end, clapping to the beat and shouting out her support.

Hats off to all the musicians’ wives – they deserve a gold medal!! The men couldn’t do this without them.

The Riverboat Stompers now have a new web site created by Frank Batchelor that will have all their upcoming performances and booking info. Check it out! http://www.riverboatstompers.com/

Eli’s All Stars with vocalist Gabrielle Goodman at the Sherborn Inn, July 3, 2014

Posted on July 7, 2014 by admin

Eli’s All-Stars at the Sherborn Inn

Bob Winter piano, Eli Newberger tuba, Jeff Guthery drums, Ted Casher clarinet/tenor and soprano sax, Bo Winiker trumpet/flugelhorn, Herb Gardner trombone/piano,

Threatening storms, Hurricane Arthur coming up the coast, the upcoming holiday, nothing deterred revelers at the Sherborn Inn who came to hear Eli’s All-Stars. It was also Bo Winiker’s birthday, and the whole Winiker Family was here, including Mom.

The band celebrated Louis Armstrong with Strutting With Some Barbecue, and then a blues, Basin St. Blues, Bo leading on trumpet with band playing counterpoint.

Eli joins Bob at piano

Eli joined Bob at the piano, and the beat quickly turned to Jump ‘n Jive; then back into a slow beat, Jeff soft drum roll, front line closing with a slow, joint wa, wa, wa. Marvelous!

Ted Casher’s tribute to Louis was a raucous vocal on his 1930s novelty tune, I’ll Be Glad When You’re Dead, You Rascal You.

Eli introduced vocalist Gabrielle Goodman, a jazz, R&B, classical and gospel vocalist, and Professor of Voice, with a four octave voice range, who teaches at Berklee. “Happy 4th of July, even if is the day before” she said, and began with Bring It on Home to Me a song by American singer-songwriter Sam Cooke, released in 1962. The song has become a pop standard, covered by numerous artists of different genres, but none could compare to this lady. She had us captivated from the first note!

Route 66 – Gabrielle had us clapping in time before she even uttered a note. She ruled! Scatting like Sarah Vaughn, she lead the band with her numerous changes in tempo. She asked “Who is deeply in love?” and Carolyn Newberger’s hand shot up. Gabby responded with a silky, smooth, My Funny Valentine, with Ted’s emotional tenor saxophone, and Bo Winiker on smoky flugelhorn. Heartrending!

She took us on a trip on a familiar special train that goes from lower Manhattan to Harlem, with a passionate, hard-charging romp on The A Train. The crowd was enthralled and responded with heavy applause.

Eli announced the next song was written by a trombone player (heavy groan here). But the trombone player was Edward “Kid” Ory and this was his Muskat Ramble.

Herb Gardner took over for his fine rendition, then Eli let loose with a turbo charged tuba, with backup from pulsating piano and drums.

While the band took a break, Herb Gardner took over the piano with a novelty tune about New Hampshire’s “Summer People” – “They’re only here until Labor Day, then Back in October for the foliage.”

Back Home Again in Indiana featured Bo on full, rich, open flugelhorn.

Louis Armstrong used to begin his All Stars with another tune that Bo has been working on. Herb did the arrangement; Bo featured on trumpet with a freewheeling rendition of Cornet Chop Suey. Fabulous!

Gabby returned with Taking a Chance on Love, a song she recorded on her second CD. She sang this as a ballad in honor of the 4th of July. It was one swinging ballad!

She asked if she could change the schedule of tunes, in order to sing Misty, just her and Bob on piano. Lovely! They have often worked together; he’s a great friend and pianist for the Boston Pops. Gabrielle has an impressive background; her expertise spans the entire jazz era up to modern jazz.

Bob Winter was featured on piano with Someone To Watch Over Me, Bo adding soft, mellow flugelhorn.

Gabrielle sings an awesome America The Beautiful

To celebrate our country’s birthday, Gabby contributed a profound, soulful America the Beautiful. It left the audience in awe!

Eli requested a ‘change of pace’, introducing Carolyn Newberger on washboard. Carolyn played washboard years ago in a café they started when they were Directors at the International Residence Hall at Yale. The washboard had been stored in the attic for 50 years, until Eli found it.

Now Carolyn is merrily playing washboard with many of Eli’s bands; usually Coney Island Washboard Roundelay; but not this time. This time she delighted the audience with spoons on washboard on James P. Johnson’s The Charleston.

Carolyn sketching musicians

When she’s not playing washboard with the band, she’s pencil-sketching the musicians. She is an accomplished painter and has had three showings this month, one at Framingham’s Danforth Gallery where she received an award. Tonight she did a couple of sketches of Gabrielle, and one of Bo.

Eli’s All-Stars surprised us by closing with When The Saints Go Marching In, and they marched, up and down the aisles – even Jeff with his snare drum, ‘The Saints’ went marching in.

Bo leads parade up the aisles

Bill Winiker takes photo of parade

Glorious way to end this celebration of our Country and Bo Winiker’s birthday!

The All Stars will be back here at the Sherborn Inn on the 1st Thursday of every month, next is August 7th. They will be at Barrington Stage Company, Mr. Finn’s Cabaret, Blatt Performing Arts Center, 36 Linden St., Pittsfield, MA on August 24 and 25. They will also kick-off the 32nd Highland Jazz Series in Newton, MA on September 13th.

Gabrielle continues teaching at Berklee. We hope she’ll be back!

Swing Times Five at the Sherborn Inn, May 27, 2014

Posted on June 10, 2014 by admin

Swing Times Five with Debby Larkin

Jeff Hughes trumpet/leader, Dan Weiner guitar, Ross Petot piano, Pete Tillotson double bass, Dave Didriksen drums, Debby Larkin vocals.

Release Party for CD “Raincheck” at the Sherborn Inn

Swing Times Five is the ultimate choice if you’re looking for a lively evening without a dull minute. Swing, sweet ballads, sung by Debby Larkin, heartfelt solos and ensemble playing with some Hoagie and Bix made for an interesting evening. This was the official debut of their CD, “Raincheck”. The kicked it off with Benny Carter’s When Lights Are Low, with Jeff on smokey flugelhorn with Ross harmony on piano. Raconteur, composer, Hoagie Carmichael was featured this evening; he was a good friend of Bix Beiderbecke’s. Hoagie wrote many unusual tunes, including Riverboat Shuffle especially for Beiderbecke and his colleagues. Swing Times Five showed intricate ensemble on his 1937 Jubilee.

Jeff introduces Debby Larkin

Jeff invited Debby Larkin to join them for Hoagie’s Old Rocking Chair, and Burton Lane’s The Lady’s In Love With You. Hoagie composed many ballads, they mixed them up. Nearness Of You, great Pete Tillotson string bass solo. The title of their CD, Raincheck, was written by Billy Strayhorn. Another Strayhorn tune, Smada – with is Adams backwards, from the album ‘Masterpieces’ by Ellington. It was recorded for the Columbia label in 1950 as Ellington’s first LP album, one of the earliest 12 inch LP’s to take advantage of the extended time consisting of 4 tracks. This is the first time they played it; great melody, harmony and rhythm.

Great Rhythm Section

Guitar took the intro to The September Song, with more sweet flugelhorn. Jeff highlighted Bix-style trumpeting on Hoagie’s 1925 Riverboat Shuffle, Hoagie was in law school at Indiana University when Jazz struck him and he became an itinerant musician. An interesting tune he wrote apropos to the season, One Morning in May. Blue Orchids had more smokey flugelhorn with piano picking up the riffs.

Jeff Stout

Debby’s husband, trumpeter Jeff Stout joined them on a memorable Skylark, Jeff Hughes on flugelhorn, with cadences and chords thinking of Bix. The two Jeffs complement each other. They changed the mood for a Cole Porter, piano intro to Get Out of Town; Fast stride piano backed Stout’s powerful trumpet.

Weiner has a relentless, mesmerizing drive on guitar

Dan Weiner’s spectacular guitar fingering was featured on a Latin beat with S’Wonderful.

Suzanne Perel

The musician table was filled with guests enjoying the Inn’s fare. Mr. and Mrs. Arnie Krakowsky, Mrs. Phil Person, Suzanne Ferel, was asked to come up and sing a couple of tunes. An accomplished vocalist, Suzanne sang her own splendid version of Billie Holiday’s My Man Don’t Love Me, and With a Song In My Heart. Back to Hoagie with a song from the 1964 film starring R&B legend Ray Charles, Ballad in Blue. Stout trumpet and Hughes flugelhorn – it doesn’t get any better than this! Except maybe when Hughes returned on trumpet for a two- trumpet interplay on Duke Ellington’s Cottontail, accompanied by Ross’s fabulous stride piano. Fired up, Didriksen took off on drums; the air vibrated with excitement!

Hughes and Stout trumpets flank piano and bass

Two trumpets had us sitting on the edge of our seats!

Jeff’s trumpet traded fours with bass on an upbeat They All Laughed. Deb returned for Wes Montgomery’s Blue Skies, Jeff’s trumbet vibrating, with pulsating piano, fine guitar and bass duet.

This audience just loves Debby Larkin!

Debby Larkin’s version of Georgia blew us away! HOT! Basie’s Topsy, with Hughes on muted trumpet. Deb liked this because it’s the name of their shelter rescue puppy. Deb back with the unique I’m Checking Out, Goomby! ….one of the swinging tunes on the new CD “Raincheck” – she thanked Ross Petot for teaching it to her. They closed with We’ll Be Together Again with more of Jeff’s silky, smooth flugelhorn. It may be some time before Swing Times Five returns to the Inn. Several of the members belong to other bands that are travelling this summer. We’ll let you know when they return. Meantime, check out their new CD, “Raincheck”.

Swing Times Five – Raincheck

They are really excited about it, recording 9 tunes on the first take, in three hours at Peter Kontrimas’ studio. The CD will be on their new website www.swingx5.com currently under construction. Listen, download and buy Swing Times Five on CD Baby http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/swingtimesfive Love Letters, It Had To Be You, I’m Checkin’ Out, Goombye, S’Wonderfl, Cottontail, Get Out Of Town, Speak Low, Lady’s In Love

New England Traditional Jazz Plus

Swing, Traditional Jazz, Dixieland Jazz, Big Bands

Tag Archives: Swing

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