Marce, New England Traditional Jazz Plus,
33 Birmingham Court, Milford MA 01757
— Passionate about Dixieland and Traditional Jazz, and other Jazz that touches your soul. My purpose is to let you know where to find it in New England. You can help by sending information on Bands and Venues that play our kind of music!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marce.enright
Eli and The Hot Six at Marce’s surprise birthday at Primavera(6/25/2015)–Bo Winiker trumpet/flugelhorn, Ted Casher clarinet/tenor and soprano sax, Herb Gardner trombone, Bob Winter piano, Eli Newberger tuba, Carolyn Newberger washboard. (Jimmy Mazzy was on his way to the Olympia WA Festival.) This was all about ME ME ME! Surprise … Continue reading →
Bonnie and Hot Stuff made their debut at Primavera Ristorante on January 21st with a mixed audience of ‘Regulars’ and some of their fans who followed them here.
Bonnie Jeanne
Bonnie Jeanne has been performing classical, Jazz, Blues, and Country music for many years. She also studied vocal performance at the New England Conservatory of Music and is an avid member and frequent guest performer at many New England to Nashville showcases at Loretta’s Last Call in Boston. http://www.bonnieandhotstuff.com/
Hot Stuff is comprised of Bonnie Jeanne on vocals, ‘Ragtime’ Jack on keys, and Don Barry on upright bass; but Don Barry was unavailable, so this evening was just Bonnie and Jack. They worked together on love songs, Patsy Cline and Willie Nelson country favorites. Some 20’s Jazz and Ragtime.
Bonnie brought her own sassy, upbeat and modern sounds to their repertoire, with a wide variety of eras: All of Me, Squeeze Me, It Had To Be You; a tune Elvis recorded in 1957, Don’t. Louis and The Hot Five – Big Butter and Egg Man. Both sang in harmony, like the Everly Brothers with Love Hurts. Bonnie evoked Nine Simone’s Since I Fell For You.
They moved to a spiritual, Ramsey Lewis’s Wade In The Water. I’ve Got a Weakness, Jack’s fingers flying across the keyboard. An upbeat Bessy Smith’s Ain’t Nobody’s Business changed the mood. Jack warned us that the next tune was bawdy with Bonnie singing a lively Wild About That Thing.
Jack played solo with Jelly Roll Morton’s Don’t You Leave Me Here, and Keeping Out of Mischief Now. He is immersed in Jazz history, recounting when Andy Razaf came to Tin Pan Alley and got a job as an elevator operator. One day a very large gentleman stepped in the elevator, very upset because he had a tune to present, but it needed lyrics. Andy said “How about Every honey bee, fills with jealousy, when they see you out with me”? That’s how Fats Waller finished Honeysuckle Rose, and Andy Razaf embarked on a career as a lyricist.
Jack embarked on a wild Honeysuckle Rose, followed by his own composition, Newport Getaway, stride piano; he thanked James P. Bonnie returned with lovely songs, When I Fall in Love, and singing soft and slow, You Don’t Know Me.
That’s The Story of Love and Making Whoopee was a fun upbeat medley, with Bonnie and Jack singing the two songs simultaneously. Amazing!
Jack joined Bonnie on Willie Nelson’s Remember Me, beating time with snapping fingers. She continued with Bessie Smith’s 1927 Blackwater Blues, about the first New Orleans’ flood.
Crazy – the tune Willie Nelson wrote at age 19; the words paid off all his fines! Walking After Midnight. They went from Patsy Cline to Nina Simone’s You Know How I Feel.
“Ragtime” Jack
Jack embraces a wide variety of emotions and textures in his work. Ragtime’ Jack Radcliffe has been performing for more than 45 years. He is a master ragtime and stride piano, of traditional country blues, and is a powerful singer/songwriter, as well. www.wepecket.com/radcliffe.htm
He is going to N. O. from February 11 to March 2nd, right after Mardi Gras, making his home at Check Point Charlie’s, a popular night spot in New Orleans. He played and sang a heartfelt Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans? and continued with Scott Joplin, “who wrote much timeless classical music.” In 1904 Joplin wrote Easy Winners, a ragtime two-step. Jack absorbed it, added a little ‘Papa Joe’.
Time was running out. Bonnie returned with As Time Goes By, and then Duke Ellington’s, Don’t Get Around Much Anymore.
They closed with Utah Phillips’ “Starlight On The Rails.
“Looking back, down along the road I’ve traveled
Every mile could tell a million tales.
Each year is like some rolling freight train
And cold as Starlight On The Rails.”
Bonnie and Hot Stuff with Don Barry are at Blackthorne Publick House, 402 Turnpike St., So. Easton, MA. February 12, 8pm, folloiwing The Boston Boatmen. Jack will be in New Orleans.
Phil Person trumpet, Ted Casher clarinet, soprano, and tenor sax, Herb Gardner trombone, Bob Winter keyboard, Jim Mazzy banjo, Eli Newberger tuba, Bob Tamagni drums
Eli Newberger integrated a lively group of Berklee Professors into his Hot Six and put them through their paces playing Dixieland Jazz. (Bob Winter, piano, Phil Person, ear training, and Bob Tamagni, percussion.) Their fiery enthusiasm captivated the audience!
They opened with a stunning Sheik of Araby, Jimmy singing with uncontrolled Mazzy passion. Phil Person followed with on trumpet, then Ted on clarinet, then Herb trombone, the soloists playing for each other as much as the people out front. Bobby Tamagni had only one drum, playing Traditional Jazz by tapping the snare drum or hitting drum sticks together. Eli directed them, then just sat back smiling, listening, enjoying every second. Jimmy ended it shouting scat choruses. This was going to be one exciting evening!
Phil Person
None of the musicians knew what they were going to do – they’ve never played together as a band. Eli asked Phil if he knew Do Nothing ‘Till You Hear From Me. Phil answered, “I wrote it!”, took the lead and ran with it!
Phil Person performed all through the session with beautifully simple phrasing, deep understanding of the emotions of the music, and respect for the other players. He’s a true gentleman, who always listens and plays with a light touch.
Bob Winter does amazing things with Traditional Jazz!
Eli looked for a Trad Jazz War Horse and settled on Royal Garden Blues. Jimmy and Tamagni trading fours, then Bobby playing a vast range of dynamics on his one snare drum.
Winter playfully demonstrated his energetic musicality with Tamagni tapping a tambourine on his hip. Eli took a masterful tuba solo. It was never ending with each one taking a solo, sharing their joy in making music.
Henry Red Allen was a New Orleans visionary with a sound all his own. He recorded a tune that Eli gave to Herb Gardner, playing trombone and singing Who Cares. Ira Gershwin went over the top with the lyrics: Who cares if the sun cares to fall in the sea? Who cares what banks failed in Yonkers? As long as you’ve got a kiss that conquers!
Herb Gardner featured on Who Cares? with vocal and trombone
Next was Ted Casher featured on gut-wrenching, smoldering tenor sax with Blue and Sentimental. Pure rapture and euphoria! We can’t hear it often enough! We needed a breather after that one.
Eli said “This is a great country – we’ve got to hold it together” and called for a Patriotic tune, Gershwin’s masterpiece Of TheeI Sing, played solo, by Bob Winter, with great feeling and delight.
Eli ……
Back to The Big Easy, a fine New Orleans anthem with Jimmy taking the intro on Basin St. Blues with banjo and song as only he can. Bob Winter played it light and airy. Eli came up with the tuba hitting high and low, low, low. Jimmy finished it off singing heartfelt blues.
Bob Tamagni rim tapping on drum
The World is Waiting For The Sunrise, an anthem of hope – the banjo player’s national anthem, was introduced by Jimmy rapidly picking banjo, of course, Tamagni taking rim shots on snare drum!
Ted Casher makes up his own vocals on the MTA. Velma Coffey photo.
Ted was featured again with a special vocal all his own, with all of us joining in the chorus, Charlie on The MTA. Ted had some choice words making up new verses about all the problems we’ve been having with the MBTA. Bob Winter was laughing and enjoying the whole scene.
Eli asked Sarah (Gardner) Nova to come up for a vocal. (That’s one very musical family!) She sang a commanding Keep Your Hands Off It. Sarah has an intuitive grasp of musical dynamics. She has created several CDs that teach children the joy of music – especially Jazz.
Sarah Nova sings Keep Your Hands Off It!
Carrie Sings with Jimmy and Eli backing
Carrie Mazzy was called up next, looking lovingly at Jimmy, singing When I Fall In Love. They have been married for close to 30 years. Seems like yesterday!
Carolyn Newberger plays washboard to Miami Rumba (file photo)
Carolyn Newberger put down her scratch pad and picked up an old washboard for one of my favorites, Miami Rumba. Her fervor fascinates the audience!
The whole band joined in, with snare drum in rumba beat.
(Check her sketches below.)
Tough act to follow; Jimmy played and sang a gripping, emotional, Georgia On My Mind.
Eli completely changed the mood with another barn-burning Dixieland tune, At The Jazz Band Ball, with the band going WILD with ultra-tight all star intensity! Ted pushed it on hot soprano sax, drum interacting with tuba. Fantastic!
Everyone needed a break!
Jimmy came up with a breathtaking St. James Infirmary Blues, with lyrics by Josh White. “I want 6 crapshooters to be my pallbearers, three pretty women to sing a song, Stick a jazz band on my hearse wagon, Raise hell as I stroll along.” Bobby Tamagni was enjoying himself beating the snare drum with his hands.
It was already closing time. The band finished with livewire ensemble; outgoing and infectious on a New Orleans tune – wait for it – When The Saints Go Marching In!
But here is even more…. Carolyn Newberger never stops. She kept busy as usual with pencil and sketchbook, getting lost in the fabulous Trad and Swing and drawing across both pages! She shared some of her marvelous artwork with us:
Eli Newberger
Jimmy Mazzy
Bob Tamagni
This was indeed a fascinating evening. Berklee professors can actually play Traditional Jazz, and play this happy, foot-stomping music with cheerful enthusiasm!
My apologies for the quality of the photos – I borrowed my son’s camera and didn’t
know how to use it. Many thanks to Sarah
for her help in making it useable!! Marce
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.
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 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 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 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 (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 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.
This was the last Jazz Concert of 2015 at Primavera, and a very worthwhile one. The Hot Six reached deep down playing their hearts out creating beautiful music. They just love playing Jazz!
This was Herb Gardner’s evening, bringing old school musicality to vocals and on trombone with Ain’t She Sweet, and The Sheik of Araby – with the band members responding: ‘Without No Pants On’.
He started another vocal on Basin St. Blues, then turned it over to Jimmy with a trombone intro, the band playing in stop time behind him. Herb ended with a rambunctious trombone flourish.
Eli Newberger, celebrated tuba virtuoso and keyboardist, leads the band, pointing at whoever gets to play next. This is Jazz, no charts.
He plays tuba with a deep, sonorous tone, maintaining that contemporary classic beat and managing difficult straight four/four notes by circular breathing.
They paid tribute to the French with Ted’s sweet arrangement of Petite Fleur on clarinet. Lovely! This was also the hundredth anniversary of Sidney Bechet.
Jimmy sings with sensitivity, Someone To Watch Over Me, changing the words from: “Although he may not be the man some girls think of as handsome, to my heart he carries the key.” to “Although she may not be the Squaw some boys think of as awesome, to my heart she carries the key.”
We’re thrilled to have Jimmy back with the Hot Six; he’s been travelling. He changed moods with Our Love is Here to Stay. He is also in The Tuber Trio with Eli and Ted Casher. We hope he’s here to stay.
Bob Winter finesses amazing sounds out of that keyboard, starting with soft melodic single-note piano lines on Some Of These Days, gradually rising to an astounding variety of piano styles.
He is the pianist for the Boston Pops, but also loves this music and plays skillful, soft commentary behind the soloists and vocals.
In Memoriam: We lost Jimmy Enright 28 years ago today. The Hot Six played Everybody Loves My Baby, with Jimmy Mazzy’s passionate voice rising to the infamous Jimmy “Holler’.
Bo Winiker on flugelhorn
Jimmy continued with C’Est Si Bon, backed by Ted’s clarinet, with Bo on flugelhorn. Bo’s rhythmic annotations on trumpet and flugelhorn lift the whole band.
Carolyn Newberger arrived and dug out the washboard. The band played a tune that her Mother used to play for her growing up, fairly soft and subtle, Tico Tico.
Bob and Carolyn always connect and inspire each other; their duets are sparkling and exciting!
Ted plays gut-wrenching saxophone on Blue and Sentimental. There were no lights on the band so my videos were really dark. Ray Drueke came to the rescue and lightened them somewhat. Just close your eyes and listen to Ted play a dreamy Coleman Hawkins tenor sax.
Eli had everyone clapping in time to a fiery Limehouse Blues.Jeff Guthery let loose on drums. He is the youngest member of the band, and recently had his recital at Berklee College of Music.
This was one of those never ending tunes, with Eli giving each musician a turn on the final verse.
Herb Gardner’s daughter, Sarah Nova was in the audience – a fine songstress in her own right. Sarah teaches jazz to young children with her CD, Jazz For Lil’ Jumpers. She gave us a lively version of Them There Eyes.
Eli and The Hot Six closed this evening of great jazz with Bo on flugel horn and Jimmy singing Louis’s Sleepy Time Down South. This was the Primavera Finale for the year 2015. Jazz will return to Primavera Ristorante on January 7th, 2016.
Eli and The Hot Six with Rebecca Sullivan will be at Sculler’s Jazz Club on December 17th – celebrating Eli’s 75th birthday!
Ray Drueke, Austin Lane Studios
Photos Copyrighted by Ray Drueke, Austin Lane Studios (401) 635-0163.
Craig Ball, Steve Taddeo, Jeff Hughes, Al Bernard, Hunter Burtamy, John Clark, Herb Gardner
by Bill Falk
photos: Marce
Jeff Hughes’ Jazz Jesters keep getting better every time I hear them. Their recent gig
at the Primavera on 11/12/15 was superb. The band ripped through a wide variety of tunes, some well remembered from the 20’s and 30’s and some relatively unknown. Their execution was terrific – very melodic and enjoyable.
Unfortunately, the crowd was sparse, but all in attendance loved the music. Two reed
players on the front line worked extremely well. Craig Ball ripped off excellent solos on both clarinet and tenor sax and John Clark did the same on clarinet and alto sax. They
augmented each other soloing and backing up others. Also, John’s arrangements were outstanding.
Craig Ball
John Clark and Herb Gardner
Jeff Hughes, Steve Taddeo (rear)
As usual, Jeff displayed his great ability to lead the group, backing up soloists and still exhibiting his outstanding trumpet prowess. He ‘gets into the tunes so well, plus his sound is marvelous. I can’t get enough of Jeff.
Hunter Burtamy banjo, Al Bernard tuba
Hunter Burtamy on banjo added even more guts to the rhythm section. He didn’t solo much, but he brought out the band’s depth. Herb Gardner is a joy on keyboard. He drips with experience and innovation. Al Bernard is a wonder on tuba. He controls the
instrument completely. Steve Taddeo sets a steady beat on drums. He doesn’t overpower the rest of the players, but he sets the pace very well.
Sarah (Gardner) Nova
Sarah Nova, who is Herb Gardner’s daughter, was delightful on vocals. She shows her pedigree well on both jump tunes and slower music. Sarah was a terrific addition to the group as she delivered style and sound on “Keeping Out of Mischief”, “Where Are You”,
“Russian Lullaby”, “Keep Your Hands Off It”, to name some of her numbers.
The band featured “Lucky Day” (theme song), “Diane”, “Not Much,” “Bouncing Around,”
and lots of other songs. Their last number was the theme from “Our Gang”. I liked
“Empty Saddles in The Old Corral” – a perfect ending to a marvelous performance.
Swing Senders and Midiri Brothers full house at Bemiis Hall, Lincoln MA
by Myron Idelson
photos: Marce
videos by CineDevine
On November 7 2015 at 2pm there was no ambiguity in store musically for an overflow crowd. Steve Taddeo Swing Senders with special guest Midiri Brothers Paul and Joe, returned by unanimous demand, presented jazz lovers and enthusiasts with a fevered performance.
Against the drop back of historic Bemis Hall the Swing Senders thankfully populated by Joe Midiri clarinet, alto and soprano sax, Paul Midiri vibes, trombone and drums, Bill Cable cornet, Gerry Gagnon trombone, Robin Verdier piano, Bill Doyle guitar, Justin Meyer string bass, Craig Ball clarinet, Steve Taddeo drums, Caroline Griep vocals, unabashedly raised traditional jazz to new heights.
Steve Taddeo is a rare talent, a brilliant and dynamic drummer with native talents who fires up the Swing Senders and any band he plays for because of his consistently inspiring drums. His unique style displaying superb musicianship is bright, inventive, quite intense, soft with sticks or brushes and with no difficulty in communicating with the musicians and vocalist Caroline Griep on their lofty level. His playing has unanimity of purpose, of thought, musical and otherwise, inspiring the band to a sense of freedom and play; all combined with an air of maturity that is unique unusual superlative uncommon – in other words RARE.
Stomping at The Savoy
The program consisted of Stomping at the Savoy, Ida, Avalon, All of Me, Jeepers Creepers, Pennies From Heaven, Crazy Rhythm, I’ll Do Anything For You, and Dinah. Each one played with an exuberance and excitement producing a feeling of exultation which consistently caused volcanic eruptions of applause during and after every number.
Joe Midiri clarinet, Paul Midiri vibes
What a Dream
What a joy! This group, the Swing Senders, combined with Joe and Paul made it absolutely amazing. It must be remembered by all of us who were there as an evening that consistently and joyously incited and inspired not only the audience but the fellow musicians. Steve’s Swing Senders and The Midiris invariably project a wonderful uninhibited aura of spontaneity that brightens every place they perform. Ditto for November 7th.
Caroline Griep is appreciated by band and fans alike.
Caroline’s value to the Swing Senders is tremendous; the guys love her and she loves them. The whole spirit of the room, the band and audience perks up perceptibly when she sings. Caroline is dedicated to her music and modestly never fully recognizing her talent. She is devoted and anxious to please not only her listeners but her musical conscience as well.
In addition to Craig Ball’s scintillating wizardry on clarinet, Craig was the music director and was wonderfully imaginative and wisely selecting solos at the proper times, from himself, Bill Cable’s souring and sweet trumpet, Robin Verdier’s stride piano, Justin Meyer’s chordal bass, Gerry Gagnon sonorous trombone, Bill Doyle’s syncopated guitar. All of their solos were driving, probing soaring and sweet.
Joe’s soprano sax rendition of Si Tu Vois Ma Mere displayed a pure tone and beauty so remarkable and emotional, steeped in greatness and perhaps musical immortality. Many of us wept.
Pennies From Heaven sung by Joe produced a return to life of Louis himself.
Finally, the dueling drums with Steve and Paul were sheer drumming skill and beauty, gorgeous and heralded clean and clear strokes, for imagination and wit, for originality, consistency, extraordinary drumming skills, making obsolete single, double, and triple ratamacues and paradiddles.
No other audience has heard a drum duel to match Steve and Paul. The evening can be summarized thusly: a story of inspiration and imagination, a story of energy, a story of love and a lesson for all of us in giving. And we the listeners were the gracious receivers.
Myron Idelson
Many thanks to Harold and Shirley McAleer and Eve Welts for all their work at Bemis Hall, Vern Welch for moral support, and to SteveTaddeo for bringing us the Midiri Brothers. Marce
Under construction. We are waiting on approval of videos before this House Party is officially over for this year. Bookmark this page and check on our progress.
Meatime, check on Saturday and Sunday.. Marce
Bands on Sunday at Jeff and Joel’s House Party. Fabulous!
Jeff & Joel’s House Party #6 Columbus Day Weekend, 2015 By Sue Finn
Another fabulous weekend, they just keep getting better and better. This one had four sessions, starting with the Anderson twins on Friday evening. Peter and Will are so talented (and so young!) They played clarinet and alto and tenor sax and a wide range of pieces backed by Jeff, Jim and Brian. Joel joined them for one number in each set.
The two sessions on Saturday and one on Sunday followed the same format as last year. Generally, each combo of musicians stayed for three numbers with one chosen by each of the front line players.
Clarinet Marmalade
There were exceptions of course; Noel and Dan playing Clarinet Marmalade for example, piano solos by Jeff and Donn and, of course, ‘banjorama’ with 4 banjos on stage and everybody singing along with Joel. Each session ended with a grand finale with all the musicians on stage together. The food was great and the volunteers as fantastic as ever.
Strutting With Some Barbecue
Sunday’s session was my favorite. It started with ‘Struttin’ With Some Barbecue’ played like the Louis Armstrong/Gary Crosby version, starting slow, then fast with Jeff & Fred doing the vocals – really great!
Dan and Joel in Old Shanty Town
Dan & Joel sang ‘It’s only a Shanty in Old Shanty Town’.
Tom Boates sang Beale Street Blues and Jim joined him for an awesome version of Ory’s Creole Trombone complete with crossed slides – amazing.
Jim Fryer and Tom Boates play Ory’s Creole Trombone
There was some Sunday Gospel – Molly sang ‘Sermonette’ and ‘Get Rhythm in your Feet’. She also sang ‘Far Away Places’ with just Gen accompanying her – beautiful.
Other highlights – ‘Big Bear Stomp’ with Brian on tuba and, of course, Joel’s ‘banjorama’ . This time, Joel did some old radio commercials.
Joel Schiavone and New York’s Kevin Dorn
There was also a vote of thanks to Joel and presentation of a signed photo of all the musicians.
The session and the weekend ended with a rousing version of ‘Joe Avery’s Piece’ and then the grand finale with all the musicians playing – drum roll please – ‘High Society’ with Noel & Dan doing the famous Alphonse Picou clarinet solo. This was followed with a reprise of ‘We’ll Meet Again’which Jeff and Dan sang earlier – very nostalgic and, as always, nobody wanted it to be over……………..
Sue Finn 10/15/2015
None of this would have been possible without the aid of devoted and dedicated volunteers, some of whom worked all year to help Jeff and Joel.
John Hedden, Maureen, Marty Fay, in back Mairi Bryan and Andee Carolla
Judy Postemsky, Andee Carolla, Mairi Bryan, Glenn Ott, Carol Ott, Eric Devine, Bruce Scranton, standing behind Lecia Scranton
Misty (VFW), Glenn Ott, Bruce Scranton, Judy Postemsky, in front of Bruce is Lecia and in front of Lecia, Carol
Next Year: 2016 House Party Dates: October 7, 8, 9. Friday Night Taste of the Weekend! – October 7th- music 7:30-9:30pm, $40.00 per person featuring the one and only Paris Washboard with Jeff Barnhart! Tickets are already half sold (purchased by the people at this House Party!)
This will sell out, so get your tickets soon.
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.
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 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.
The Seacoast Stompers had a rip-roaring afternoon with a Full House at ACTIII in Littleton, MA. Dave Whitney ruled the roost, amazing the audience with his new prowess on cornet.
Dave is well known for his amazing Louis-type trumpet for many years, but he was still in charge on this marvelous afternoon of great Traditional and Dixieland Jazz and Swing.
It was great to have Jimmy Mazzy back. He’s no longer at the Colonial Inn; after 35 years he’s now looking for a new venue. But all the local bands want Jimmy, and they have kept him busy all summer. But WE had him tonight, scatting on Canal St. Blues and Stealing Apples, How Come You Do Me Like You Do, singing on Write Myself a Letter, I Cover the Waterfront, Do You Know What It Means To Miss New Orleans (Dave slipping in snippets of multiple songs.)
The one and only, Jimmy Mazzy
But Dave Whitney has some favorite songs, and he did some singing too, besides leading the band with his fantastic cornet.
Dave sang some of the tunes
Curse of an Aching Heart, Back o’ Town Blues. His cornet sounds almost like a trumpet when he hits those high notes.
Al Bernard on tuba
Al Bernard is a master of the tuba, listening to the soloists and backing them with many different chord phrasings. He even becomes part of the front line, playing a full chorus of melodies on that monstrous tuba, as if it were easy!
Dave catches Frank by surprise
Frank Stadler is leader of the Seacoast Stompers, but he was happy to let Dave take over and call the tunes. Frank introduced many of the songs and had that piano singing.
But Dave was constantly catching him off guard with his many surprising antics on cornet and vocals.
Catch the Seacoast Stompers Quartet next month on September 12th, 2-5pm, and you’ll be surprised too!! POSTER
Be sure to make a reservation, because they will surely sell out! Act III, 529 King St. Littleton MA (978) 486-3600. They have music from Tuesday through Sunday. Check it out. Monthly music schedule
Playlist for Seacoast Stompers 2015-08-08
Set 1
1 At The Jazz Band Ball
2 Canal Street Blues
3 Don’t Be That Way
4 Keepin Out Of Mischief Now
5 World is Waiting for the Sunrise
6 I’m Gonna Sit Right Down And Write
7 I Would Do Anything For You
8 I Cover the Waterfront
9 It Don’t Mean a Thing If it Ain’t Got That Swing
10 Stealin Apples
Set 2
1 Soft Winds
2 Limehouse Blues
3 Do You Know What It Means To Miss New Orleans
4 Curse of an Aching Heart
5 Back o’ Town Blues
Set 3
1 Porter’s Love Song To A Chambermaid
2 Deed I Do
3 Take Your Tomorrow
4 Swing That Music
5 Devil and the Deep Blue Sea
6 Louisiana Fairy Tale
7 Jelly Roll (Ain’t Gonna Give You None)
Eli and The Hot Six at Marce’s surprise birthday at Primavera (6/25/2015) – Bo Winiker trumpet/flugelhorn, Ted Casher clarinet/tenor and soprano sax, Herb Gardner trombone, Bob Winter piano, Eli Newberger tuba, Carolyn Newberger washboard. (Jimmy Mazzy was on his way to the Olympia WA Festival.) This was all about ME ME ME! Surprise … Continue reading 
