JAZZVOX CONCERT – PETER ELDRIDGE WITH MATT ARONOFF – JANUARY 28, 2011

NYC-based vocalist extraordinaire Peter Eldridge is a revelation and if you haven’t seen him, you must for a thrill of a lifetime!  I was so blessed to see him along with superb bassist Matt Aronoff (also from NYC) as part of the terrific JazzVox concert series hosted by Nich Anderson.  One experiences so many emotions right along with Peter from down in the depths melancholy, to realizing a startling reality of the moment, to sweet exhilaration of new love and existing love.  He worked the audience in fits of side-splitting laughter with his completely unself-conscious witticisms and wry observations and was never too way off-color haha!

Not only is he known for being a hauntingly beautiful songwriter and melodic poet with his far-reaching baritone voice but also plays a majestic piano.  He created such gorgeous chordal richness with colorful harmonies and textured phrasing, and I was so captivated by his brilliant, insightful interpretations.

Peter’s songs run the gamut between the good-natured spoof “Sunday Driver” to his profound statement on man “Full Grown Man (on the Playground)” to searing portrayals of life’s complexities “Mad Heaven” and “Difficult”, and to the wonders of real love with “Surrender”.  His takes on standards such as “Do nothing ‘til you hear from me” and “My Foolish Heart” were so sensitively crafted with every note and lyric infused with exquisite grace.

Peter Eldridge is best known as co-founder of the lauded New York Voices and thrives on a stellar career as a solo artist.  Four fantastic CD’s  “Stranger in Town”, “Fool No More”, “Decorum” and his new release “Mad Heaven" (due out February 15) are to his credit, and he has collaborated with some of the world’s best jazz artists including Paquito D’Rivera, Kurt Elling, Jane Monheit, Kate McGarry, Jon Hendricks, Bobby McFerrin and so many more.  In addition to these great accomplishments, Peter teaches at the Manhattan School of Music (as the head of the jazz voice faculty), is asked to lead master classes/workshops around the world, and writes musical scores for film and theater.

Such a big resume – a big passion – and a magnificent heart - for a guy who doesn’t flaunt it and is the epitome of integrity with soul.  You can visit Peter’s wonderful website, petereldridge.com for all the latest info on his bio, CD’s, workshops/master classes and concert gigs.  He is totally the real deal and simply not to be missed!

JAZZVOX CD REVIEW - "IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD"

The first-ever JazzVox CD “In Your Own Backyard” has been such a labor of love for Nich Anderson, host of the acclaimed JazzVox Concert Series, and its pure eloquence and charm will win over the hearts of many!  Nich’s intention was to showcase new studio recordings by many of the recent JazzVox artists, and he accomplishes this so perfectly with an innate sense of real beauty and an intimate understanding of each artist.

The order of songs is carefully arranged by alternating slower pieces with up tempo ones, and the crystal clear segues set just the right mood for every song.  This CD begins with a glowing rendition of “Moon River” by the wonderful LA-based songstress Kathleen Grace, so sensitively accompanied by pianist extraordinaire Darin Clendenin.  The second song “Comes Love” is performed with much style and soul by LA-based singer/bassist phenom Kristin Korb, along with the esteemed Randy Halberstadt on piano.  Next up is a fun, upbeat number “Please Don’t Bug Me” by the incomparable LA-based vocalist John Proulx whose mellow, understated delivery is buoyed with his swinging style on the keyboards.  Superb bassist Chuck Kistler amply supplies the “groove” to this song.  Segue to a smoky blues classic “Blue Monk” sung to perfection by local great Kelley Johnson accompanied with supreme artistry by East Coast guitarist Keith Ganz. 

Song #5 is the ever-popular “I’m Old Fashioned” featuring the brilliant NY-based vocalist Jo Lawry whose endearing and colorful interplay with outstanding local pianist Bill Anschell is one of the CD’s highlights.  Song #6 is the enchanting “theme” song of this recording  “Back in your own backyard” performed with lilting grace by NY-based singer/guitarist Hanna Richardson who is accompanied by the uniquely wonderful East Coast pianist Patti Wicks.  Song #7 is a gorgeous ballad “All My Tomorrows” exquisitely sung by renowned vocalist/educator Stephanie Nakasian (residing in Charlottesville, VA) and accompanied by Bill Anschell on piano with amazing subtlety of emotion. “The Cat” is a sly, catchy tune arranged and performed by famed LA-based vocalist Cathy Segal-Garcia and is accentuated perfectly by the gifted Portland-based guitarist John Stowell.

The second round of songs starts with another Kristin Korb/Randy Halberstadt collaboration “You’re getting to be a habit with me”, and Kristin is at her sultry best alongside Randy’s impassioned piano playing.  Song #10 is the great Fats Waller tune “Honeysuckle Rose” with Jo Lawry’s delightful sugary sweet delivery of every note.  It really is a joy to again see her at “play” with Bill Anschell who actually tickles those ivories in a stride fashion like “Fats” himself.  “Welcome to my world” is one of John Proulx’s most poignant and touching compositions revealing undying love for his newly born daughter.  It is pristinely augmented by bassist Chuck Kistler once again.  Song #12 is the famed Lerner & Lowe tune “If ever I would leave you” performed with great affection by Kathleen Grace and accompanied so serenely and delicately by Darin Clendenin on piano.  Song #13 is a timeless Jobim ballad “Triste” featuring Kelley Johnson’s evocative and beautiful phrasing together with Keith Ganz’s stunning arrangements on guitar. 

“Perdido” is a rousing number with Stephanie Nakasian’s exuberantly playful interpretation, even including one of her “brass implants” (Instrumental impersonation of a trombone).  Bill Anschell was clearly in a “fun” zone right along with her, playing piano with great aplomb.  “Time after time” is one of Nich Anderson’s favorite standards and he does it great justice with his passionate yet mellow rendition.  Nich’s honeyed timbre is reflected beautifully by the highly personalized piano style of Patti Wicks.  Song #16 is “These Foolish Things”, a much beloved ballad that is performed with heartfelt simplicity and great depth by Hanna Richardson with the fabulous Patti Wicks once again.  The grand finale is Gershwin’s classic “But not for me” done as a lovingly affectionate “romp” by Jo Lawry along with Bill Anschell and featuring David Lange (of Pearl Django) on accordion.  It is truly a “celebration”, capturing the spirit of all the hard work and love put into this project, and is a fitting explanation point to this glorious CD.

“In Your Own Backyard” is scheduled to be released by OA2 Records on January 18 when it will be available online through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Best Buy.  It will of course be featured on the OA2 Records web site (oa2records.com) and is now available on Nich Anderson’s JazzVox web site (jazzvox.com).  You will want to keep this brilliant debut CD in your “forever” collection and pass it on ad infinitum to your family and friends –it’s that special!!

2011 JAZZVOX CONCERT SERIES PREVIEW

Nich Anderson, fantastic host of the incredibly successful JazzVox house concert series, has been featuring world-class artists and delighting audiences since January, 2008 and will keep his ‘dream come true’ alive in grand style by celebrating male jazz vocalists throughout 2011.  The theme is, of course, “Boys! Boys! Boys!” and Nich promises to present an electrifying group of gifted, inventive vocalists from different parts of the world.  He kicks off his fourth season with the outstanding vocalist/composer Peter Eldridge of New York Voices fame in January and winds up the year with brilliant jazz song stylist and New Orleans native Kenny Washington in November.  The excitement in his voice can hardly be concealed talking about it - “Everyone knows Kurt Elling, John Pizzarelli and Jamie Cullum – but there are lots of fantastic male jazz vocalists out there – I decided to make it a focus for this year to draw attention to just some of the wealth of men blazing the trail in the world of vocal jazz!”

Also on Nich’s agenda for 2011 is the eagerly anticipated January 18 release of the first-ever JazzVox CD (on OA2) “In Your Own Backyard” which showcases new studio recordings by many of the recent JazzVox artists – his way of capturing, and sharing with the world, some of the magic happening at these concerts!          

                                                               

As I have observed over the 2 ½ years of attending nearly every JazzVox performance, Nich Anderson has such a warm, witty way of making his guest artists and audiences feel so special.  He puts out the welcome mat for folks from many cultures and backgrounds and as a result, garners rave reviews from newcomers and a steadfast, loyal following.   The guest artist for the October, 2010 JazzVox concert was sensational British vocalist Anita Wardell who says, “It is a delight to play for Nich’s first rate concert series!  He gave me first-class treatment both professionally and personally.”  Long-time JazzVox devotee and great friend Julie Olson exudes, “I love the intimacy and connection with the audience… their love for music and the energy and joy felt in the room!”

The schedule of 2011 JazzVox concerts is:  January – “perennially classy” NY jazz vocalist/songwriter Peter Eldridge;    February – incredible Swiss vocalist/arranger Beat Kaestli; March – lauded jazz singer with the velvet voice, Kevin Mahogany;   April – Belgian bandleader/singer extraordinaire David Linx;  May – Grammy award-winning vocalist/composer John Proulx;   June – Innovative Jazz singer’s singer JD Walter;   September – “Hipster” vocalist and piano man Bob Dorough;   October – Acclaimed bassist/songwriter Jay Leonhart, and   November – Jazz vocalist virtuoso Kenny Washington.  Specific dates and times for these concerts are available on the wonderful JazzVox website, www.jazzvox.com

Not only will you be treated to terrific performances but close friend and colleague Patti Carr puts on a sumptuous after-show buffet with many of her own creations and favorite recipes.  She and her husband, superb pianist Andy Carr, also host JazzVox concerts in their lovely home on Camano Island, so you could potentially see a concert in each locale all in one weekend – what a golden opportunity!

To help with your concert selection process, Nich has beautifully designed his website to include bio information, press reviews, sound clips, and even YouTube clips for each artist with a fabulous opportunity to purchase discounted season passes or 4-concert passes.  If you truly desire to be a part of this one-of-a-kind concert experience with the “Boys” in 2011, simply visit www.jazzvox.com and reserve your seats via advance donation either by check or PayPal online.  You’re sure to savor good friends, culinary delights and the very finest in vocal jazz featuring male artists – we’ll see you there!

GRETA MATASSA AT BAKE’S PLACE WITH BARNEY MCCLURE – 12/03/10

Last Friday night at Bake’s Place in Issaquah was another exquisite evening of stellar jazz, especially with the great Barney McClure in the house!  He brought in his own vintage B3 Hammond organ, and as Bake’s owner Craig Baker said, “He plays it how it’s supposed to be played”.  Barney was at his smokin’ best belting out blazing hot runs and punctuating groovin’ chords and sustained notes with aplomb to augment the fabulous rhythm section comprised of local standouts Jose Martinez on drums and Chris Spencer playing electric guitar.

As if this group of extraordinary musicians wasn’t enough, the stage was also graced by the incomparable Greta Matassa who brought the house down with her powerhouse vocals and irresistible charisma.  She sang a variety of styles from smoldering blues numbers to lush standards as “Like Someone in Love” and Shirley Horn’s “I could have told you so”.  Greta also paid tribute to the wonderful vocalist/songwriter Blossom Dearie with her rendition of “Now At Last” and pulled out all the stops with a cookin’ Ray Charles tune “Danger Zone”.

Greta Matassa’s spontaneous and joyful interplay with Barney, Jose and Chris was so pleasing to the audience, and together they created sheer magic during this festive holiday season.  To learn more about these remarkable artists and their CD releases/Concert gigs, please visit Greta Matassa at www.gretamatassa.com, Barney McClure at www.barneymcclure.com, Jose Martinez at www.teachstreet.com, and Chris Spencer at www.chrisspencermusic.com

JAZZSCAPES CONCERT - ALMA VILLEGAS IN WEST SEATTLE - NOVEMBER 6, 2010

I was greatly privileged to attend the second concert of the esteemed new JazzScapes house concert series in West Seattle, and boy was their house a smokin’ last Saturday night!  Alma Villegas is a sensational, fiery Latin vocalist in Seattle with a sultry alto sound who absolutely sizzled with her interpretation of “Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps” and “Besame Mucho”, as well as sang with unbridled passion such love songs as “The Waters of March” and “Cuando Calienta el Sol”.  Alma’s interplay with her three band mates (great conga player Ricardo Guity; pianist extraordinaire Ben Verdier; and groovin’ bassist, Steve Okimoto) was infectious and Ricardo really spiced things up with his brand of playful humor.  Alma amazingly was dancing away with flamboyant flair while belting out tricky rhythms and lyrics, mostly in Spanish, and had the whole audience whooping and swaying all evening long!

Ms. Villegas is well-known for adapting her shows to fit the occasion and venue, and her repertoire draws not only from traditional Latin jazz, but also from eclectic Latin music styles as Cuban cha cha, salsa, bossa nova, and the bolero (ballad).    Alma promises to pull out all the stops with her dynamic group at the Cypress Lounge in Bellevue on Friday, November 19 from 8-11 pm and at Shadowland in West Seattle on Thursday, December 9 from 8-11 pm. You can also “take her home” with 2 splendid CD’s entitled “Alma Y Azucar” and her self-titled debut CD “Alma Villegas”.  Please visit Alma’s great website @ http://www.almavillegas.com for artist bio information, CD’s, and concert schedule updates.

The unanimous success of this very special performance proves that the JazzScapes concert series is here to stay with another fantastic show coming in February (date TBD).  For all the latest concert updates and information on the artists, please visit their wonderful website @ http://www.JazzScapes.com

DAVE FRISHBERG – A MAN FOR ALL SEASONS…..AND ALL REASONS!

My first impression of Dave Frishberg at Bake’s Place on 10/23/10 is. . Here’s a non-nonsense man whose keen observations of life and people are in the know yet who has profound reverence for days and folk-heroes gone by.  Mr. Frishberg conveys great wit and poignancy in his musings and has that rare ability to laugh at himself as well.  His songs are carefully crafted with sophisticated melodies and often quirky lyrics but never loses sight of the emotional essence or message he wants to make known.   He was at his irreverent, delightful best performing such classics as “My Attorney Bernie”, “I Want to be a Sideman” and “Long Daddy Green” and evoked much tenderness and insight with my favorite ballad, “Heart’s Desire”.  Another highlight of the evening was Dave’s hilarious, bordering on raunchy, rendition of “Moon River” giving that song a whole new ‘twist’ to be sure!

What struck me most about this amazing gentleman is his incredible range as a first-rate jazz pianist, wry humorist, and THE American poet laureate of song.  Dave’s easily-identifiable songs which also include “Peel Me A Grape”, “You Are There”, and “Eastwood Lane” are widely performed and have been recorded by Blossom Dearie, Tony Bennett, Diana Krall and many others.  As has been oft-quoted, “In the refinement of his language, he is equaled only by Stephen Sondheim among contemporary American songwriters”.  Mr. Frishberg is embraced in jazz clubs, cabarets, and concert halls all across America and abroad and has made appearances on “The Tonight Show” and NPR’s Fresh Air to rave reviews.

This was an unforgettable evening at Bake’s Place in the company of great friends, and Dave Frishberg will go down in my book as one of my most unforgettable characters.  To read more about Dave’s storied biography and prolific song catalog/discography, please visit his website at www.davefrishberg.net

JAZZVOX CONCERT – ANITA WARDELL WITH BILL ANSCHELL 10/17/10

Sunday drives up to Camano Island for the great JazzVox concerts are always so pleasurable but on this particular Sunday, someone extraordinary was about to grace the stage!  Revered jazz vocalist Anita Wardell, adorned in blue chiffon with a pink rose in her hair, is the epitome of genuine sweetness and unbridled talent.  Anita hails from Britain, was raised in Australia, and found her voice early by tirelessly rehearsing along with the greats such as Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughn.  She has been acknowledged as a female equivalent of Mark Murphy and possesses that rare combination of soulful lyricism and unparalleled improvisational prowess.  She completely charmed the audience with her playful interpretation of such upbeat tunes as “It’s Like Reaching for the Moon” and “In a Mellow Tone”, and her heartfelt, evocative rendition of “It Might As Well Be Spring” and “The Meaning of the Blues”.  Local favorite Bill Anschell accompanied her beautifully on piano and always displays such inventive ideas, even exchanging “improvs” with her on “Don’t Be Scared” and “But Not for Me”. 

I just love her most recent CD “Kinda Blue” and every song is blues-tinged with the word blue in every title.  My hands-down favorite is “Little Girl Blue” written by Rodgers and Hart and sung to exquisite perfection that evening by Anita along with wonderful pianist Andy Carr who sat in.  Anita is as fantastic a person as she is a vocalist and we were privileged to have her coach us in a vocal jazz workshop last Saturday.  She communicates in such a loving manner her extensive musical knowledge and gives out plenty of moral support with a “you can do it” attitude.  If you wish to learn more about this remarkable lady, please visit Anita’s website at  www.anitawardell.com for all her bio info, concert updates and Cd’s.  Nich Anderson is the gracious host of the fantastically successful JazzVox house concert series and makes it possible for us to see such exceptional local and national artists.  For more information and to make reservations for upcoming concerts, please visit Nich’s wonderful website at www.jazzvox.com