Harlem Blues and Jazz Band

Last night in the Events Barn, Hamilton Students were addressed to your Harlem Blues & Jazz Band. The 8 piece group showcased Ruth Brisbane on vocals, Michael Fleming on Bass, Bill Wurtzel on guitar, Joey Morant on trumpet, Ray Blue on Tenor Sax, Zeke Mullins on Piano, Art Baron on Trombone, and Jackie Williams on drums. The Band had been created by Hamilton Alum Dr. Al Vollmer (’52) in 1972. They will have played around the world, and are usually gearing up for a European trip in Summer. Previously in mid-day, the band people sat in throughout the Hamilton university Jazz Ensemble rehearsal, supplying recommendations and dealing with their particular musical influences. Baron toured using Duke Ellington Orchestra inside ‘70s together with some good stories about Duke’s quirky sense of humor.

The program started with the classic Billy Strayhorn tune, “use the ‘A’ Train.” Fleming, Wurtzel, Williams, and Mullins kept the rhythm dependable, once the horn parts showcased their virtuoso abilities. Morant played a squealing, powerful solamente as Baron and Blue played impromptu backgrounds. Next, the band played the classic Louis Armstrong tune “Struttin with some Barbeque” in an up-tempo, New Orleans style. Using numerous call and reactions between your horns and drum accents, it was obvious this musical organization really was in track together. Ruth Brisbane, with her reasonable, Bille Holiday-like voice, sang a few tunes, including “Don’t Get Around Much Anymore, ” and a soulful Blues. Whether it had been Morant standing on chairs, or Ruth phoning out the females, the musical organization engaged the audience in a humorous and entertaining method. The emphasize associated with the evening ended up being undoubtedly seeing William’s longer drum solo on “Caravan, ” for which he paused to wave at market while banging in the drums with mallets, tambourines, and even his bare hands! The players encouraged and applauded one another during solos, and genuinely appeared like they certainly were taking pleasure in on their own.

Unique compliment of Monk Rowe and Dr. Woods for bringing in these great musicians. We hope the Harlem Blues & Jazz Band returns toward Hamilton quickly.