The one and only Kenny Barron, the dynamically talented composer and pianist, appeared at Vibrato this week for a three night engagement. The beautiful and luxurious Vibrato was a great place to experience Kenny who brought with him an incredible number of talents to play with him. Sitting in on vibraphones was none other than Stefon Harris. Those two together alone ought to give you some indication of what the night had in store. On drums, Kim Thompson, one of the young lions burning up the scene, an exciting player to see. Graceful, composed and full of fire as she display her fine skills as an exceptional drummer. She plays in Stefon’s band and Kenny has known her since she was in high school.
From Osaka, Kiyoshi Kitagowa was the master bassist, seriously holding down the lyricism as he digs deep into the killer bag pullin’ out and pulling off his assortment of creative lines. Another lovely addition to the quintet was Ann Drummond, a student of Kenny’s at the Manhattan School of Music. She plays piano but, is wonderful on flute! Another great addition to the remarkable Drummonds’ of jazz!
With Kenny and Stefon playing, you would expect to see two individual shows but, we were honored by the pleasure of having them create magic together on the same bill. Kenny Werner said it best, “Effortless Mastery”. That is what was on display this evening.
Stefon played some incredible solos tonight. So beautiful and full of fantastic energy. All you had to do was bring your ears and your smile. Kenny played his version of “Spring Can Really Hang You Up The Most” and I was transported to a place in the universe where the only thing that existed was silence and Kenny playing. An experience that only that moment in time could bring. When it was over I realized that I was at Vibrato and there were others in the room listening as well. I think that we all went to that beautiful place together, a mind altering lullaby.
This was a fantastic night of music. Others great players like John Heard, Tamir Hendleman, Mike Lang, and Jimmy Bond were all in the house as my witness.
Stefon will be back in town in a few weeks with his own band at the Jazz Bakery so don't miss that. I was speaking with him after the gig and he is excited so you know it's going to be on!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
See you there!
LeRoy Downs
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