I had a relaxed Jazz Night Out when I caught Josh Heber’s band’s visit to Jazz Wednesday at Brothers Drake on September 2nd. This was the second Jazz Wednesday appearance by the band, led by Heber, drummer for the Rust Belt Rumble Family Band. I was enticed to check out the show when I saw band members (and members of Rust Belt) Ryan Paradise (keyboards) and Mitch Deitrick (bass) play as two thirds of Ryan Paradise & Friends, which played a jazzy, soulful set opening a show there a month ago. Filled out by Ian Carroll (guitar) and Hayden Huffman (tenor sax), this band of soul/funk/jam all-stars laid down a great groove, with a few surprises.
While much of what I heard could be classified as modern “jazz jam” material (like a great John Scofield tune that opened the second set), the band displayed a breadth of jazz knowledge. The first full tune I heard reminded me of an electrified version of the “gypsy jazz” played by local group SpeakEasy, powered by Deitrick’s warm and relaxed upright bass, but injected with elements like Carroll’s electric guitar solo. Another surprise was the band’s take on McCoy Tyner’s “Walk Spirit, Talk Spirit,” with a spiritual feel powered by Paradise’s keys, a blowing solo from Huffman, and an ecstatic group jam initiated by Carroll and propelled by Heber’s strutting drums. The band took a funky base and took it to great heights – catching a set when you have the chance is highly recommended!
Shows To See This Week
Friday, September 11th (5 – 8pm): Billy Wolfe & The Composers’ Tetradectet at Brothers Drake. After a recent double bill at Dick’s Den, saxophonist/composer Wolfe returns to Columbus again with an even larger group for a rare happy hour show at the meadery. This 15-piece band promises “an eclectic night of contemporary large ensemble compositions/arrangements featuring the talents of many young writers located throughout the United States.” Playing tunes written by Billy Wolfe, Aaron Quinn, Ryan Erik Adamsons, Brad Linde and Alex Burgoyne, the band will include Brent Birckhead, Jay Miglia, Billy Wolfe, Eric Churchill (woodwinds); Alyssa Capps (cello); Jason Ferrell and Joe Herrera (trumpets); Devin Gossett (horn); David Fletcher (trombone); Tony Zilincik (tuba); Ted Royalty (vibraphone); Caleb Miller (piano); Aaron Quinn (guitar); John Allen (bass); and Seth Daily (drums). This is a rare opportunity to see such far flung young talent in one place, playing new originals, so cut out of work early and get to Brothers Drake! No cover!
Friday, September 11th (9pm – midnight): Let’s Get It On – A Tribute to Marvin Gaye with FLIPPO at Notes, 520 South High St. Thursday marks the grand opening of this vibrant new Brewery District music venue, and with a recent schedule change, this event marks the first jazz show on their stage. The local fusion supergroup will present their popular tribute to the legendary soul singer, with vocalists Ronald Jenkins, Kay Harris and Dan Rowan performing Gaye favorites. Guitarist Dennis Hodges recently joined the band, joining saxophonist Michael Cox, keyboardist Erik Augis, bassist Andy Woodson and drummer Louis Tsamous in what should be an exciting homage to one of America’s greatest performers. Tickets available here.
Monday, September 14th (9pm – 11pm): New Basics Brass Band at The Vanderelli Room, 218 McDowell Street, Franklinton. After a performance at the Hot Times Festival (Friday at 7pm) kicks off their busy September, Columbus’ long-running New Orleans-styled brass band will bring their good time tunes to this new art space for the first of two Monday appearances. The band promises special guests and new material, alongside classics, so these free shows (donations encouraged) are a great chance to enjoy a festive performance in a new venue and still get home at a reasonable hour.
Have a great week! Here’s video of a previous FLIPPO tribute to Marvin Gaye: