Andrew Hill at the Jazz Bakery

Written by LeRoy Downs
Published August 03, 2004

Jazz Master extraordinaire and he certainly deserves that title. In a solo piano performance that was cerebrally inspiring. Forget about cats and dogs, its raining cows! You know the Los Angelinos don't know how to act in the rain but, a few managed to make it out to Bakery on Wednesday night for a stellar performance.

I spotted Andrew in the Lobby before the show. What a nice man. I got a chance to rap with him for a few seconds before the show. Just a quick "have a great set". With class, he gulped down an espresso and went inside the performance area to share his love.

One instrument, one man and one big beautiful sound! After he was announced, he walked out on stage and within a millisecond, music, Andrew Hill music! It sounded like Carnegie Hall with Andrew playing the notes like drops of water hitting the ground. It is so quiet in here, other than the intricate, distinct and lovely sound that paints the room like Monet.

I heard a few Sphere notes, one of Andrew's idols, only three though; the rest was all done in Andrew Hill fashion. The reds and blue lights of the stage cascade their glistening light on Andrew as he strides, glides and dances on the white gold!

The sound is rich and the story is told. It's like a silent movie, only you hear the music and the silence is your imagination. I can hear a hot day in Harlem with the sun kissing down on the back of the neck of a young man to children playing in the green meadow to the ocean's shore washing between your toes. Escapes, adventures and the peacefulness of one ballerina emerge as the giant gentle plays.

What would your life be like if you grew up in the apartment next door? Would you be a writer, a poet, or would you play? Andrew Hill music and your mind can make all things possible!

He takes a slight pause and stands for just a moment between pieces before he begins a new sculpture. Have you ever heard the title track from his album "Life Every Voice"? It will blow you away! Also check out the classic "Point of Departure" with Eric Dolphy, Joe Henderson and a number of other jazz heroes. It was so quiet after Andrew played that the raindrops acted as the sound of a constant standing ovation. Natures love for the great one, Andrew Hill!

Click here for photos!

LeRoy Downs

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Andrew Hill at the Jazz Bakery
Published: August 03, 2004
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Section: Music
Writer: LeRoy Downs
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