Swing Times Five with Debby Larkin at Ken’s Steak House, February 21, 2016

Posted on February 21, 2016 by admin

Swing Times Five – Dave Didriksen, Dan Weiner, Bob Sinicrope, Jeff Hughes, Ross Petot

Jeff Hughes cornet/flugelhorn, Dan Weiner guitar, Ross Petot piano, Bob Sinicrope string bass, Dave Didriksen drums, Debby Larkin vocals.

This is an unusual combination of instruments for playing Swing, but SWING they did, just as well as any big band!! They captivated the crowd by rekindling fond memories, starting with their theme song, When Lights Are Low, with Jeff on cornet. His rhythmic concept on cornet and flugelhorn lifted the whole band. He moved to flugelhorn for a Johnny Mercer tune, Dream.

Debby Larkin

Vocalist Debby Larkin sings with authority, good voice and knows just the right style, whether singing a rousing number or a ballad. She sang many Frank Loesser tunes, If I Were a Bell, Everything But You. Slow Boat to China was a rouser! Billie Holiday’s Moanin’ Low; an all-time favorite All Of Me, upbeat and swinging; even Tommy Dorsey’s Opus One. She shook things up with the satirical Everything I’ve Got Belongs To You, looking at hubby Jeff Stout, sitting at a front table.

Singing I Fall In Love Too Easily, she was backed by Jeff Hughes on dark, smokey flugelhorn. They charmed the audience, many of whom were seniors nostalgically reconnecting the music to memories of their youth.

Jeff on flugelhorn, with Sinitrope in background

Jeff Hughes on silky smooth flugelhorn

Jeff left the audience spellbound with incredible intonation on Jerome Kern’s I’m Old Fashioned, ending with a virtuosic coda. Perfect! People will remember this one for a long time!

Ross looking down at keys playing Yamaha piano

Ross Petot

Ross Petot is a great performer of Gerschwins, he was featured on Of Thee I Sing, and referring to the current political season, Who Cares? He performs unceasing rhythmic motion on the fine Yamaha piano. He picked an odd one, All God’s Chillun Got Rhythm, backed by Dan Weiner’s fingers floating across the guitar.

Dan Weiner on swinging guitar

Dan was featured on Lullaby of The Leaves, dazzling guitar, fingers flying; his spontaneity is very much representative of the swing era.

They picked many tunes from the American Song Book:
Dorothy Fields/Jimmy McHugh Doing The New Lowdown
Julie Stein’s It’s You Or No One.
Sammy Cahn’s I’m Falling in Love.
Sinatra’s All The Way
Irving Berlin’s A Pretty Girl Is Like a Melody
Cole Porter’s I’ve Got You Under My Skin

John and Gisela love to dance, and this is their kind of music! They had a family reunion with their three daughters. John persuaded one of them to dance.

couple in their 90's dancing up a storm!

John and Gisela Bruneccini

John and one of his daughters

John and Gisela and four adult daughters

John and Gisela Bruneccini Family

Bob Sinicrope

George Gershwin’s They Can’t Take That Away From Me gave Bob a solo, playing melody on upper register.

Bob Sinicrope’s string bass gave support and richness that moved the music along. Bob is head of the Jazz Program at Milton Academy, and an old friend of Jeff’s.

Dave Didriksen

Dave Didriksen is a fine drummer, softly brushing across cymbals and snare drum behind solos; he lets the soloists shine. He finally let loose on Frank Loesser’s The Lady’s In Love With You, showing he can romp with the best of them. (He also manages the band and it’s website www.swingtimesfive.com and books all the dates at Ken’s Steak House.)

They closed with the band and Jeff’s flugelhorn softly backing Debby on Sky Lark. Magnificent! Taking an “Exit Poll” – everyone said this was one of the best music they’ve heard!

The Swing Spirit continues to thrive with the unique Swing Times Five and vocalist Debby Larkin. We hope to hear more from them! Check out their great Swing CD, Raincheck; email Dave Didriksen at info@swingX5.com.

Ken’s Steakhouse Sunday Jazz Series Cancelled!

Posted on December 30, 2015 by admin

95 Worcester Rd. (Route 9w) Framingham, MA 01701
PH: (508) 875-4455 MAP IT

IMPORTANT NOTICE! PLEASE READ!

The ownership (not the management) of Ken’s Steakhouse has decided to cancel ALL jazz sessions at Ken’s —indefinitely!

CANCELLED:

September
18 Wolverine Jazz Band

October
2 Swing Times Five
9 Dan Gabel High Society Orchestra
16 Black Eagle Jazz band
23 Wolverine Jazz Band

November
6 Riverboat Stompers
13 Black Eagle Jazz Band
27 Dave Whitney Orchestra
with vocalist Nancy McGhee

December
11 Black Eagle Jazz Band

New Black Eagle Jazz Band at Primavera 13 August 2015

Posted on August 17, 2015 by admin

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 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 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 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.

Blue Horizon Jazz Band at Primavera Ritorante March 5, 2015

Posted on March 5, 2015 by admin

Blue Horizon Jazz Band with Jack Soref and Mike Peipman

Blue Horizon Jazz Band with Jack Soref, Mike Peipman, and Dave Didriksen

Stan McDonald soprano sax/vocals, Mike Peipman trumpet, Gerry Gagnon trombone, Jack Soref guitar, Stu Gunn string bass, Dave Didriksen drums.

Stan McDonald was listed as one of the top five soprano saxophone players in the world in a 1985 Mississippi Rag poll. He has played with the likes of Ralph Sutton, Tommy Benford, Buzzy Drootin, Ross Petot, Sammy Price, Benny Waters, Doc Cheatham, Dick Wetmore, Marty Grosz and Scott Hamilton.

Stan McDonald, soprano sax

Stan was interviewed by Dave Radlauer on Jazz Rhythm, where the Bechet-style soprano saxophone master recalled his half-century musical career. The set of 3 one-hour programs are available here http://nejazz.com/oldsite/McDonCD.htm

McDonald always picks the cream of the crop musicians from this area for his Blue Horizon Jazz Band; tonight was no exception.

Mike Peipman raises the roof with West End Blues

Mike Peipman’s fiery trumpet can be delicate and powerful. Mike generally plays modern, contemporary jazz, but displayed his aptitude for classic jazz with an impeccable rendition of Louis Armstrong’s West End Blues. Spectacular!

Combining the careers of lead trumpet player and Jazz soloist, he has toured with numerous groups such as the Artie Shaw Orchestra and the Woody Herman Orchestra.

Gerry Gagnon trombone, Stu Gunn string bass

Gerry Gagnon, veteran BHJB member, anchored the band tonight with his fabulous ‘Jack Teagarden’ trombone. Gerry normally plays with the Boilermaker Jazz Band, all over the U.S. Canada and Europe.

Stu Gunn has a masters degree from the Boston Conservatory. He covers the total range of music from classical to theater to jazz on both tuba and string bass. We remember him with Bob Connor’s Yankee Rhythm Kings. Now he’s with the Boston Symphony and Cape Cod Symphony Orchestras. His solid bass line keeps him on-call with many Trad Jazz bands.

Dave Didriksen

Dave Didriksen filled in for Steve Taddeo with some solid drumming that kept the band on time; essential in Traditional Jazz.

He was followed by the band playing organ-type chorus on Baby, Ain’t I Good To You. Nice!

Dave is drummer for the Wolverine Jazz Band and drummer and Manager for Swing Times Five.
He also owns Willow Books in Acton MA.

Full view of Mollie with scarf down to her knees and big fur hat almost covering her face

Mollie Malone

Chanteuse Mollie Malone was in the audience and stepped up for a fine vocal on Django’s Nuage, in French, backed by Stu Gunn, steadfast on string bass and Stan’s soprano sax

Jack Soref plays high quality Jazz, Gypsy Swing. He introduced many of the tunes on guitar. His interpretation of Django Reinhardt’s romantic Russian tune, Ochi chyornye (Dark Eyes) even surprised the members of the band, and had everyone on the edge of their seats. Jack plays regularly with the Gypsy Swing Band Ameranouche.

We missed Ross Petot’s piano, keeping it all together. But Ross teaches on Thursday evenings, so many bands have had to improvise.

The Blue Horizon Jazz Band will be at Primavera Ristorante on the first Thursday of every month; next will be April 2nd, 7pm.
Our grateful THANKS to Ellen McDonald, who has patiently kept these Traditional Jazz Bands playing LIVE JAZZ for over 20 years!

We hope to see you here next month?

Wolverine Jazz Band at the Sherborn Inn, November 4, 2014

Posted on November 5, 2014 by admin

John Clark’s Wolverine Jazz Band

Jeff Hughes trumpet, John Clark reeds, Tom Boates trombone, Ross Petot piano, Jimmy Mazzy banjo/vocals, Rick MacWilliams tuba, Dave Didriksen drums

The Wolves were in rare form, back from a six-hour recording the previous day on their latest CD, #13. They’re on their way to the Arizona Jazz Classic Festival this weekend. They practiced on us, playing early New Orleans music with fiery enthusiasm – How LUCKY are WE???? They were asked to play King Oliver tunes at the Arizona Jazz Classic Festival, and we heard many of them, plus other tunes from the 20’s and 30’s, with original arrangements by John Clark.

They started Hot and Heavy with Michigander Blues, and a joyous New Orleans Stomp. A tune Bix Beiderbecke did with Frankie Trumbauer, There’ll Come a Time.

Tom Boates was featured on Snake Rag, a King Oliver tune that is always a big request. We only get to hear Tom once a month – the lucky folks at Bill’s Seafood in Westbrook Connecticut hear him every Friday with the Bill’s Seafood All-Stars. Boates sang the vocal on St. James Infirmary Blues, alternating choruses with each of the musicians. Nice touch. He closed with a growling trombone and drawn-out flourish.

Front line, featuring Tom Boates, with Jeff Hughes trumpet and John Clark clarinet

Jimmy Mazzy doesn’t use arrangements.

Jimmy had many vocals (We never get enough of them!) All from memory. Just Pretending, which is seldom played by any other band. The Halfway House Orchestra did some self-loathing tunes, I Hate Myself for Loving You and I Hate Myself For Being So Mean To You. John took out the baritone for that one.

Rita Brochu and Kathleen Howland

Another King Oliver tune, Olga, nice dance tune, then a romping New Orleans tune Buddy’s Habit. Another K.O. tune that Louis played with his Hot Five, Sunset Café Stomp, got Kathleen Howland up and dancing with her Mom, Rita Brochu. It was Kathleen’s birthday. Dr. Howland is a teacher of Music Therapy, both in private practice and at several schools, and plays one heck of a baritone sax! Special request for Kathleen, one of Jimmy’s favorite depression songs, Dip Your Brush in the Sunshine had everybody up dancing.

Betty Weaver requested a song from John Clark, and he obliged with The Oceana Roll, a popular RagTime tune written in 1911 about the U.S. Navy and the USS Alabama:
“Billy Mccoy was a musical boy
On the Cruiser Alabama he was there at the piana
Like a fish down in the sea, he would rattle off some harmony.” Never gets dull!!

Clark singing with trumpet and piano in backgrund

John Clark sings The Oceana Roll

Jimmy was asked to lead on a K.O. tune, I’m Lonesome Sweetheart, powerful trombone pushing the band. Someday Sweetheart, another Jimmy vocal, gave Rick MacWilliams a chance to shine on tuba. We haven’t heard Chimes Blues in ten years, it was fabulous, with Ross Petot playing the chimes on piano.

Rick MacWilliams and Ross Petot, fabulous rhythm section

Excellent drummer Dave Didriksen completes the rhythm section, keeping time with rim tapping on snare drum and cymbals.

Dave Didriksen

Their final tune, a sizzling Panama, was recorded by Kid Ory’s Creole Jazz Band. The Sherborn Inn furnished some Pyrotechnics:

We’ve been so fortunate to listen to this dynamic Wolverine Jazz Band from its inception, They celebrate their 19th anniversary next month.

We don’t mind sharing them with the folks in Arizona! Enjoy!

Wolverine Jazz Band at the Sherborn Inn, April 29, 2014

Posted on May 9, 2014 by admin

Wolverine Jazz Band

Jeff Hughes cornet, John Clark clarinet/bari sax, Tom Boates trombone, Jimmy Mazzy banjo/vocals, Ross Petot piano, Rick MacWilliams tuba, Dave Didriksen drums

The Wolverines are busy – new CD out anytime soon, and preparing for their trips to Festivals and their regular summer venues. They’ve been invited to the Hot Steamed Jazz Festival in Essex, CT, America’s Dixieland Jazz Festival in Olympia, WA, Arizona Classic Jazz Fest.

They will be busy locally this summer: June 1, Melrose (noon-4); July 9 – Willows at Westboro; July 29 – Southgate at Shrewsbury; July 30 – Sherborn Center; August 20 – Norwood; August 21 – Natick Senior Center

All stellar Jazzmen who invoke the spirit of New Orleans Jazz, we are fortunate that they rehearse with us at the Sherborn Inn! They began with a new song that will be on the CD coming out the end of this month – Dear Old Girl – for the sentimental Irish.

Jeff Hughes

Savoy Blues, Jeff raucous on 1954 Long Model, “K-Modified” Selmer cornet, and being Bix Beiderbecke on There’ll Come a Time. He’s an expert on many famous cornetist and trumpeters, and is known for always wearing a hat.

Jimmy Mazzy

We have many Jimmy Mazzy vocals, Al Jolson’s California Hear I Come, T’Ain’t So, Jelly Roll Morton’s Sweet Substitute, with Jeff comping, more below.

Dave Didriksen

This was the 115th anniversary of Duke Ellington’s birthday, so naturally there were some Duke’s: Sweet Mama (they haven’t played before).

1929 Cotton Club, Duke’s, Digga Digga Do let Dave Didriksen go on drums.

Jimmy volcal on Al Jolson’s California Here I Come, backed by bari sax, drum rim-tapping behind him. Pre-Cotton Club Creole Love Call – Jimmy whistling the Adelaide Hall riff. A tune Paramount Jazz Band did, and always messed up the beginning: Who Wouldn’t Love You? The Wolverines don’t mess up.

Ory’s Creole Trombone

Tom was featured on Ory’s Creole Trombone. Magnificent!

Rick MacWilliams hidden behind tuba

King Oliver recorded Olga in 1930 on Victor, Rick recreating the tuba solo, great New Orleans polyphony by front line. This is a song that nobody ever plays.

Panama is one of our favorite Ragtime Marches, Jimmy Scatting, John Clark on that monster baritone saxophone.

Ross was featured with the Trio on a more modern tune, In a MellowTone, stride piano giving it a Ragtime feel, joined by Jeff on cornet at close.

A no-holds-barred rendition of Sunset Café Stomp had all the feet tapping. The first tune John Clark ever heard that captivated him and moved him toward Traditional Jazz was Mugsy Spanier^‘s I’m Sorry I Made You Cry. Mood Indigo, Clark on low register clarinet, Jim vocal, soft muted trombone and cornet. They hit all our favorites! They closed with a Spanish beat on Oriental Man.

Look above for all the places this marvelous Traditional Jazz Band will be playing this year. Also check our calendars, and get on John Clark’s email list: jazzbnd@aol.com He sends out email updates once a month to everyone on his list.

Swing Times Five at the Sherborn Inn, March 25, 2014

Posted on March 25, 2014 by admin

Guitar, drums, string bass, trumpet, piano, tenror sax

Jeff Hughes’ Swing Times Five

Jeff Hughes trumpet, Elmer Drotos clarinet/tenor sax, Dan Weiner guitar, Ross Petot piano, Pete Tillotson string bass, Dave Didriksen drums, Debby Larkin vocals.

Every once in a while we are privileged to be at a Jazz Experience that is priceless. You never know when it will happen, you just have to be lucky. This was one of those evenings. (Jeff Hughes is responsible for many of them, bringing in special guests!) Tonight, it was a pleasure to hear for the first time, reed-man Elmer Drotos, even though he’s been around for many years:

“Saxophonist Elmer Drotos is one of the most virtuosic instrumentalists in the business. He has performed with bandleaders Lawrence Welk and Tex Beneke and toured with Artie Shaw, who called him “one of the best saxophone players I’ve ever heard.”

Jeff kicked this evening off with Benny Carter’s When Lights Are Low, and You and The Night And The Music, with Drotos on clarinet, I Thought About You on tenor sax. You could feel the whole band being lifted up by his intensity.

Debby Larkin, embodiment of Swing!

Even Debby Larkin was affected, flashing a gleaming smile, with a delightful I’ll Always Be In Love With You, and You Turned The Tables on Me backed by a tenor sax sounding like Ben Webster.

Richard Rodgers’ Have You Met Miss Jones was fierce, Pete Tillotson’s string bass trading 4s with Dave Didriksen’s drums. The two are always in sync, and push the band. Ross Petot keeps it all together, listening carefully to what each instrument is doing, nudging, filling in any blanks.

Jeff Hughes with 1941 hand-made Elden Benge trumpet

Jeff’s trumpet reached a wide range of resonance and tone on Shine; it was WILD!

John and Gisele

Gershwin’s The Man I Love, with Dan Weiner’s sweet sound on custom D’Aquisto‎ arch-top guitar had John and Gisele dancing. They’ve been married over 60 years and still love dancing here at the Sherborn Inn.

Debby was back with an enchanting Dream a Little Dream of Me. She continued with a tune made famous by Billie Holiday, Yours and Mine.

Drotos was featured in a tune reminiscent of Radio and The Cavalcade of Bands, written by Gordon Jenkins, Goodbye. It is a sad tune. Jenkins actually wrote this when he lost his wife and child in childbirth. Published in 1935, it became well known as the closing theme song of the Benny Goodman orchestra. With Drotos on clarinet backed by the rhythm boys, it was mesmerizing!
(Thank you for the history lesson, Dan Gabel.)

Debby returned with a swinging What a Little Moonlight Can Do, Love For Sale.
Delighting in the melody and words, she swings without a letup!

There were several musicians in the crowd. Vocalist Lisa Yves stepped up with a rousing rendition of I’m Beginning To See The Light. Lisa’s JAZZ FOR KIDS is the result of her dedication to making music exciting, innovative and fun for her young students. www.lisayves.com.

Vocalist Freddy Shaw has been here previously with the Riverside Stompers. He doesn’t need a partner – sings both the male and female voices with Somebody Stole My Gal. He’s a hoot!

Our own Henny Youngman, ie, Myron Idelson, has been here many times. He never repeats a joke, and they can be told in mixed company. This evening he roasted the band, even got a laugh out of Ross Petot! (That’s not easy!)
Debby returned with a song dedicated to Bob Sickles, in memory of our late Rockette, Lynn Sickles. All of Me was Lynn’s favorite song, and all the bands here played it for her. She’s here in spirit!

It was a fascinating evening. Fortunately for us, Elmer Drotos is now playing in Greater Boston and Cape Cod. This was his first time at the Sherborn Inn, and he said he really enjoyed playing here with Jeff Hughes, and was looking forward to returning.

Time was running out. Jeff called in Dan Gabel and his Glenn Miller trombone for an upbeat Undecided. With a full stage of fabulous musicians, Jeff sent us home with our fervent wish: We’ll Be Together Again. I sure hope so! We might get lucky again – you never know.

Wolverine Jazz Band at the Sherborn Inn March 11, 2014

Posted on March 11, 2014 by admin

Wolverine Jazz Band

Jeff Hughes trumpet, John Clark leader/clarinet/bari sax/vocal, Tom Boates trombone/vocal, Jimmy Mazzy banjo/vocals, Ross Petot piano, Rick MacWilliams tuba, Dave Didriksen drums

The Wolverines are busy preparing for their trips to Festivals and their regular summer venues. They’ve been invited to the Hot Steamed in Essex, CT, America’s Dixieland Jazz Festival in Olympia, WA, Arizona Classic Jazz Fest. They rehearse with us at the Sherborn Inn – how fortunate is that??

However, St. Patrick’s Day was approaching, so instead of their theme song, they kicked it off with an popular tune – Wearing of the Green, a song about the Irish rebellion of 1798.

We had special guests up from Connecticut – their first time here – Jean Hadley, Joan Boutelle , and friend/driver Angie. Thanks for coming folks!!

Inspired by one another, the Wolverines play incredible Dixieland, Satanic Blues, John Clark already on baritone sax, Tom Boates growling trombone. Smokin’!

They tried out new tunes, preparing for their next CD, creating arrangements as they played them. “Some mighty fine guesses going on here.” Chimes Blues will be on their new album, Ross Petot playing chimes on piano.

Jeff Hughes watches Ross Petot play fantastic piano

Jeff Hughes watches Ross Petot play amazing stride piano

We’re always ready for a Jimmy Mazzy vocal, and there were many: T’aint So. (Yes, ‘tis!) Come Rain or Come Shine. Lonny Johnson’s Tomorrow Night, a 1920’s tune that changed over the years from the 40’s to 50’s Rock & Roll; even Elvis recorded it. Jimmy’s special ballad, After You’ve Gone with Jeff soft trumpet behind him; Rick MacWilliams majestic tuba solo. Sound of the Wanderer, a 1920’s tune that featured Helen Hughes, incredible interplay between trumpet and trombone.

Sunset Cafe Stomp was a Charleston. It was named after the Sunset Cafe, also known as The Grand Terrace Cafe, a jazz club in Chicago in the 20’s to 40’s.
Recorded by Louis Armstrong:
“Gentlemen, ladies too
Push ’em round n round
They loose their head
They’ll drop dead …. doing the Sunset Stomp.”

Tom Boates and Jim Mazzy

Eubie Blakes Memories of You sweet Clark clarinet feature, Tom on muted trombone.

Tom Boates set sparks flying on Snake Rag!

Zero by Santo Pecora, New Orleans trombonist was HOT!

John Clark finds his voice

From their latest CD, a fun tune, Egyptian Ella, with John Clark vocal.

Jeff Hughes, trumpet

This band never disappoints! They showed what a good band can do. There were many more great tunes.

They closed with a big hit at all the festivals, Dinah, Jeff Hughes’ sharp trumpet intro with banjo riffs, gave Dave Didriksen a chance to let go on drums; it was so hot it triggered the famous Jimmy Mazzy shout!

Hot Band!

They’re more than ready for the upcoming festivals. We don’t mind sharing them. You can even Hire them. They’ll be back here again on April 29^th and June 14^th (for those of you keeping track.) Folks come from all over; Marilyn will probably be driving from down Maine.

Hope to see you here! Sherborn Inn, 33 N. Main Street, (inters. of Rts. 16 & 27) Sherborn, MA Reservations: (508) 655-9521 or info@sherborninn.com. Please make a reservation – the Wolverines tend to fill up the room.

Marce

Blue Horizon Jazz Band’s Indian Summer at the Sherborn Inn, October 15, 2013

Posted on October 24, 2013 by admin

Blue Horizon Jazz Band, with Dave Didriksen drums

Stan McDonald clarinet/soprano sax, Jeff Stout trumpet, Gerry Gagnon trombone, Ross Petot piano, Peter Gerler guitar, Al Ehrenfried string bass, Dave Didriksen drums.

Blue Horizon Jazz Band, now celebrating 18 years at the Sherborn Inn, performed another evening of fine Traditional Jazz, with a superb front line backed by the splendid rhythm section.

Stan started on clarinet for Meet Me Tonight in Dreamland, moving to soprano sax, complemented by the powerful trumpet of Jeff Stout and tailgate trombone of Gerry Gagnon. Gee Baby Ain’t I Good To You, Rose of the Rio Grand. Four or Five Times is always played in a slow beat.

All By Myself – Berklee Professor Jeff Stout was introduced to ‘new’ old tunes played by the Bechet-Spanier Big Four. The Big Four consisted of soprano sax and trumpet with only guitar and bass – but the Blue Horizon also has invaluable trombone, piano and drum.

Blues My Naughty Sweetie Gives To Me, Stan conjuring the echo of Sidney Bechet on soprano sax, with trumpet and trombone following in rhythmic harmony.

Stan McDonald sings Lotus Blossom

Lotus Blossom, Stan singing one of his favorites.

Ross’s lovely piano solo was backed by Dave’s soft brushes on snare drum. Stan closed it with crisp high note on soprano sax.

Ross on piano, Peter Gerler behind him on guitar

Ross Petot, pianist extraordinaire

PIanist extraordinaire, Ross Petot’s artistry as a stride pianist is renowned; he played improvised New Orleans stride on W. C. Handy’s Ole Miss, backed by Peter Gerler’s guitar.

Kansas City Man Blues was a sublime piece of ensemble playing. Bechet recorded it with Bob Wilbur in 1947.

Gerry Gagnon, Dave Didriksen, Jeff Stout

Al Ehrenfried

Marie Elena was played in Habanera style, front line inspired by the burning tempo. Didriksen listened carefully, anticipating where they were heading, with Al Ehrenfried’s pulsing string bass beside him. Exciting!

Gagnon, head back, mouth wide open, drummer Didriksen in back, smiling.

Gerry Gagnon belts it out!

Lonesome Road, Stan began on vocal, then gave Gerry Gagnon a chance to belt it out. Astounding! He could reach the back of a theater without a mic!

Stan doesn’t stray far from Bechet, returning with Marchand de Poisson.

They Closed with rapturous Indian Summer, this month’s theme. This timeless song was written by Victor Herbert in 1919 but not made famous until 1940 by Sidney Bechet. In 1978, Stan recorded his own compelling version (available on Blue Horizon Records). http://bluehorizonjazzband.com/

Marce

Swing Times Five with Debby Larkin and Jack Senier

Posted on August 27, 2013 by admin

Swing Times Five with Debby Larkin by Marce

Happy 75th Birthday Jerry Wadness – at the Sherborn inn August 27, 2013

Photos by Bennett Green

Jeff Hughes trumpet/flugelhorn, Dan Wiener guitar, Pete Tillotson string bass, Dave Didriksen drums, Debby Larkin vocals. Pianist Ross Petot was taking his eldest son to college so Jack Senier filled in. Jack is Boston’s greatest jazz and swing pianist, a seasoned veteran.

All the tunes played this evening came from 1938, the year Jerry Wadness was born. It was a good year – great tunes for a great guy. Jerry and Geri Wadness are ‘regulars’ at the Sherborn Inn. Last week, Jerry filled several CDs with tunes from 1938, complete with details of each tune, and offered them to Jeff Hughes; he made good use of them.

Boston’s Jack Senier (Marce photo)

Special guest pianist Jack Senier kicked it off with Artie Shaw’s Theme Song, Back Bay Shuffle, followed by Benny Goodman’s Don’t Be That Way, Hughes on Elden Benge trumpet, the band soaring with him. Dan Weiner’s guitar began Who Could Ask For Anything More? Indeed!

How about charismatic Deb Larkin singing a popular torch song of 1929, Moanin’ Low. From Young Man With a Horn, I Should Care. Jeff moving to flugelhorn for Gershwins’ Nice Work If You Can Get It.

Jack Senier’s pearly notes and chords were featured with the rhythm boys on two tunes, I’ll Never Be The Same, and Lullaby In Rhythm. No wonder he’s considered one of New England’s finest pianist. And Jack came to realize that this is an extraordinary audience – they LISTEN passionately to the music and support the musicians.

Lynn Sickle

Bob and Lynn Sickle were here as usual, sitting next to the piano. Debby sang Lynn’s favorite song for her, All of Me. Bob’s birthday was coming up, so I Put a Spell On You was dedicated to him.

Jeff Sings “You Must Have Been a Beautiful Baby”

The 1938 Harry Warren–Johnny Mercer tune, You Must Have Been a Beautiful Baby was dedicated to Sue Lewis’s upcoming birthday with Jeff singing and playing crisp, clear trumpet. Sue is often seen dancing on the Inn’s but fine dance floor. Senier made the piano sing, Tillotson’s string bass trading fours with the drums. John & Gisela Brunaccini have been married for 65 years – they skillfully glided across the dance floor all evening!

Dan Weiner and Pete Tillotson

Tenderly featured Dan Wiener on guitar with the Rhythm Boys. Jeff was into Count Basie’s Lester Leaps In, when Jeff Stout leaped in for fantastic two trumpet interplay. Drummer Dave Didriksen kicked it up, driving the band.

Waitress Sara Green arrived with Jerry’s birthday cake, large enough to share, and we all wished Jerry a happy 75^th birthday.

Young waitress Sara Green brings in Jerry's Birthday Cake

Sara brings in Jerry’s Birthday Cake

Jerry Wadness blows out the candles

Comedian Myron Idelson

The band took a break for our favorite comedian, funny man Myron Idelson. Myron can go on for hours telling new jokes appropriate for mixed company. “My Mother-in-law took a trip to the Thousand Islands.” “Why didn’t she spend a week on each?”

Deb and hubby Jeff Stout

Jeff Hughes played a wistful Kurt Weill September Song.

More 1938 tunes – Bunny Berigan’s I Cried For You, I Wished On The Moon, Artie Shaw’s Begin The Beguine, Duke Ellington’s Prelude To a Kiss.

Deb also did Ms. Brown To You and The Things We Did Last Summer. Dakota Staton recorded a tune that everyone thought came from the 70’s – but it was Irving Berlin’s Late, Late Show.

Approaching the finale, Deb hit lilting rhythm with Billie Holiday’s What a Little Moonlight Can Do, with the two soaring trumpets. We’ll Be Together Again – Senier and the rhythm boys kept playing while Deb and Jeff Stout, Gail and Stan Brown hit the dance floor. Jeff Hughes danced with Sue Lewis. The front line returned to the stage, finishing the tune with swinging piano, flugelhorn and trumpet.

1938 was a very good year for great tunes. Swing Times Five was happy to oblige and performed wholeheartedly for this special birthday. Many happy returns, Jerry! Thanks for a great evening.

New England Traditional Jazz Plus

Swing, Traditional Jazz, Dixieland Jazz, Big Bands

Tag Archives: Dave Didriksen

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Swing Times Five with Debby Larkin and Jack Senier

Happy 75th Birthday Jerry Wadness – at the Sherborn inn August 27, 2013

Photos by Bennett Green