Today:  Tom Sharp, Bill Sinclair, Bobo Lavorgna (bass), Noel Kaletsky (reeds) Charlie Weyant (sometimes) reeds, Tom Palinko (drums)


If you haven't been to Bill's Seafood to hear this wonderful Saturday night band, you might put this on your 'to do' list for the winter.  Why wait for winter, go now!

You may be wondering why it is called the 1917 Jazz Band.  Perhaps you have forgotten....WWl was in full swing, the U.S. Navy shut down the "red light" district in New Orleans, causing the migration of the traditional jazz sounds from there across the country. Thus the 1917 Jazz Band takes their name from the year that meant so much. Most importantly, 1917 was the first time a jazz recording was ever made.  Thank you, Tom Sharp, for taking the name "1917 Jazz Band' from the archives of history.

Tom (who hails from England,) gave birth to the 1917 Jazz Band at Bill's Seafood back in 1983.  For those who are reading this and not holding a calculator, 2010 is the band's 27th year at Bill's.  Let's keep Saturday night going until 2013 (and beyond) to help the band celebrate their 30 years at Bill's.

Saturday, September 18th, I spent the evening at Bill's listening to some great music.  How blessed we are, here in Connecticut, to have Bill's and other venues to bring us fine talent, a wonderful opportunity to hear old songs and places to meet friends.

Tom Palinko (drummer) was absent, however, we were entertained with John Russell's expertise on drums and harmonica.  John is one of the founding members.

Working with John and to the delight of the audience, was Tom Sharp (leader,) Noel Kaletsky (reeds,) Bobo Lavorgna (bass,) and Bill Sinclair (piano.)  Both Bobo and Bill are founding members.

When I arrived, Bill's (inside and out) was full to capacity.  One can always find a fan with an extra chair at his or her table.  I spotted Sonny Horn, Janny and Roland Leibmann (wonderful fans of OKOM.)  I was immediately asked to join their table directly in front of the band.  We had great fun with Noel who played his heart out.  Marty, his wife appeared but did not sing (as we requested.)  She has a terrific voice.

A newcomer, by the name of Al Carbone and new to the scene, joined our table.  Shortly, he requested CARAVAN which Noel played brilliantly and to a standing ovation at the end of his performance.

John Russell came front and center, with his harmonica, and played a haunting blues number.  Bobo came in with his bass energy.  Together, they were delightful.  John continued, on his harmonica, playing a sweet rendition of of HIS EYE IS ON THE SPARROW.  The audience went silent.  John has wonderful control of this instrument and it is always a pleasure to hear him play.  

Soon it was time for a more rousing number... Berlin's ALEXANDER'S RAGTIME BAND.  Tom Sharp did a fine job on vocals.  When Tom Sharp and Noel played SMILE DARN YOU SMILE, fingers were flying!  Bill Sinclair did a superb job on his keyboard.  There were so many great numbers played, space does not permit my naming each one.

If you are looking for some good Saturday night entertainment, I suggest you try Tom Sharp's Saturday night 1917 Jazz Band.  Not only is the band outstanding but Bill's food and beverage will also add to your enjoyment.

See you at Bill's Saturday night at 7:30 PM, 538 Boston Post Road, Route 1, Westbrook, CT - by the Singin' Bridge! !!!

Jean Hadley

Tom Sharp - Leader, Vocals, Clarinet, Sax
Bill Sinclair - Piano
Tom Palinko - Drums
Noel Kaletsky - Clarinet, Sax
Bobo Lavorgna - Bass