Autumn Leaves

"Green Dolphin Street" was written in 1947 by Bronislaw Kaper and Ned Washington for the film of the same name starring Lana Turner, Van Heflin and Donna Reed. The song became a jazz standard when it was recorded by Ella Fitzgerald, Miles Davis and Bill Evans among others. I heard it for the first time last Thursday with an extraordinary, beautiful introduction played by Anthony Wonsey on piano. Also with us last Thursday was the legendary powerhouse Dr. Eddie Henderson on trumpet. Our band leader, Joe Farnsworth, delivered his electric, unpredictable heart and soul on the drums. John Webber put his arms around me and held me just right with his warm solos, particularly during "Autumn Leaves." Paul West stopped by and played "Just In Time" with Joe and Anthony. And Ron Odrich showed up and sat in with his clarinet on "Old Folks" and "Autumn Leaves." Frankie Goris, the owner of Ibiza Lounge, has opened his doors to some of the world's greatest jazz musicians to create a thriving artistic community in our corner of the Bronx. Only in New York are we lucky enough to have such passionate entrepreneurs and world-class artists living and working next door.

Watermelon Man

One of my new favorite jazz standards is "Watermelon Man" by Herbie Hancock. I had not heard it before. It's got a soulful groove and the guys , John Webber on bass, Joe Magnarelli on trumpet, Rick Germanson on piano and Steve Williams on drums, made it pop. It was "all up in my body" to quote Miles Davis. John Webber lead the band and as always was the sturdy backbone with swing. They also played a version of "Summertime," which was, forgive me, steamy. Joe's trumpet was commanding, but easy and sweet too. Rick Germanson, who has played many times at Ibiza, is an open, thoughtful man with a charming wit and that is reflected in his luminous playing. It was the first time at Ibiza for Steve Williams who was cookin' on the drums. Tony Hewitt stopped by and treated us to his expressive, liquid voice on "Alone Together" and "Skylark." And the acclaimed jazz pianist Tardo Hammer sat in on "Shining Hour" and "I've Never Been In Love Before." They closed out the night with a provocative, alluring rendition of "Soul Eyes." I've said it before in this blog and I'll say it again ... we are so lucky to have these world-class musicians coming up every week to play in this spacious, beautiful club. John Webber will be back leading the band this week, October 14th, once again making it swing.

Fearless Exploration

The dictionary definition of jazz: "...generally marked by intricate, propulsive rhythms, polyphonic ensemble playing, improvisatory, virtuosic solos, melodic freedom...." That's what we get from Eric, Joe, John and Rick, fearless explorers, carving out new territory every time they play. This past Thursday was no exception. Eric Alexander's playing was precise and beautiful, full of longing and depth -- "A Night in Tunisia" was a stunner. Joe Farnsworth's timing is impeccable. He always knows when to sit back, move forward and then let it rip. His drum solos are surprising, playful ... virtuosic. I have been told by more than one musician who has been standing in the crowd listening that John Webber is the best, period. He is a true artist, disciplined, skillful and always willing to take a risk. Rick Germanson is a brilliant piano player. He lets me find my way into the songs through his nuanced choices. What goes on every Thursday night at Ibiza Jazz Nights with each song and improvisation is the creation of something new, art coming into existence immediately before your eyes and ears. Food for the soul. Eric and Joe are off to Europe this week to play and teach. John Webber will be heading up the band on Thursday, October 7th.