Another fine night of jazz at the Blue Vanguard with guest
saxophonist Renato D’Aiello, the UK based Italian player who must be enjoying
our summer even though he has claimed he lives here for the weather, not particularly
liking the heat of ‘home’, and probably does a fine cover of Goodbye Pork Pie Hat.
He is a sublime player, reminding me at times of the breathy
style of Benny Golson [my touchstone range isn’t huge but this is a genuine
feeling], especially on the ballads, two gorgeous ones played last night, the
second the Gordon Burdge / J. Russel Robinson Portrait of Jennie.
As ever, and as ever I will present this anaphora [I’ve been
marking Lit papers…], the Blue Vanguard Trio was also superb, Coach York and Al
Swainger consistently providing their two thirds of the sterling worth, and I
only separate this time round in reviewing as Craig Milverton and Renato did
share a particular rapport in their playing – a symbiosis in musicianship as
well as physical proximity: Renato touchingly often playing very close to Craig,
if you’ll excuse the punning indulgence – and it would seem obvious they share
a deep friendship as well as their musical closeness.
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| Photos by Tim |
Forthcoming events look like more of the excellent same.
Brilliant.
I agree with Some Awe. It was a great evening at the Blue Vanguard Jazz Club, one of Devon's best kept secrets. Craig, Coach and Al always have an easy rapport with their guest artists which never ceases to surprise me, but tonight was something special. Craig even found time to reveal the names of his two favourite pianists, Les Dawson and Russ Conway, whilst planning the next tune with Renato. Remarkable. Looking forward to the next gig.
ReplyDeletePersonally I prefer Liberace. Better than this blooming jazz when you're trying to play bridge.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the insightful observations.
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