On the Scene: Live Jazz Previews for April

March 24, 2023 / Paul Rauch / No Comments

Immanuel Wilkins Quartet

Sat Apr 1, 7:30 PM/ Raisbeck Auditorium

Alto saxophonist/composer Immanuel Wilkins has seen a lot of attention come his way since his BlueNote debut, Omega (BlueNote, 2020). His quartet has been led by the constant presence of fellow Juilliard alumnus, Micah Thomas, an equally potent young force on the modern jazz scene. Drummer Kweeku Sumbry has been a presence on Wilkins’ recordings, including the latest, The 7th Hand (BlueNote, 2022). Sumbry missed the quartet’s last go around in Seattle at Langston, replaced by Mike Mitchell. Rick Rosato is a newcomer on bass, one of the true rising stars on the New York scene. As for Wilkins himself, his sound, his vibe is pure Philadelphia, where he was mentored by his elders in his hometown long before his arrival at Juilliard. His time spent around Philly masters such as Christian McBride and Orrin Evans has been hugely influential, including the principle of originality that is ever present in his compositions and his approach to playing alto. Though a modernist in every sense of the word, Wilkins seems to achieve a sound on the instrument that is wide ranging. This performance is in the new Raisbeck Auditorium, and an important date on the 2023 jazz calendar in Seattle. https://www.earshot.org/event/immanuel-wilkins/

Seattle Jazz Fellowship Wednesdays at Vermillion

The now 200 plus member strong non-profit has a hit on its hands Wednesday nights at the Vermillion Art Gallery and Bar. Presenting the best of the Seattle jazz scene with occasional special touring acts, the series is the best value out there, and is responsibly paying our musicians well. Below is the weekly schedule. Performances begin at 7:30, doors at 6:30. First come, first served, so arrive early. https://seattlejazzfellowship.org/events

Ben Wolfe Trio

Apr 5

The last time master bassist Ben Wolfe came through Seattle, he was toting young vibraphonist Joel Ross with him in his trio– yet there were few who witnessed the show at the Royal Room. The bassist and Julliard prof has frequented the bands of Wynton Marsalis, Harry Connick, Jr. and Diana Krall, and is a fine composer. Wolfe is joined by tenor saxophonist Chris Lewis, currently a touring member of the Wynton Marsalis Septet and the Eric Reed Quartet. Drummer Aaron Kimmel rounds out the chord-less trio, a regular member of trios led by pianists Aaron Diehl and Benny Green. Kudos to Thomas Marriott for bringing this level of talent to Vermillion. Don’t miss this trio, this time around.

Ben Thomas Quartet

Apr 12

Seeing master vibraphonist Ben Thomas perform in a jazz context is an all too rare opportunity in Seattle. Typically, he is seen performing in a tango trio, or as a key piece of the brilliant quinteto led by Brazilian pianist, Jovino Santos Neto. Thomas will utilize those influences within his jazz persona, the first clue being the presence of Brazilian pianist Gabe Hall Rodrigues. Drummer Xavier Lecouturier and bassist Tim Carey join for this performance at Vermillion. Thomas’ playing style reflects his personality, one of high energy and ebullience. This is true of his compositions as well, making this a positive-vibes-only evening. Carey has been transitioning in part to the double bass from electric, increasing his musical possibilities. Lecouturier has been making his mark as a leader, both on stage and in the studio. Rodrigues doubles on accordion, giving Thomas a broad palette of sounds from which to draw.

Instrumental Ladies of Jazz

Apr19

Bassist Heather Chriscaden, pianist Ann Reynolds and saxophonist Tobi Stone played extensively together in the late 1990’s before Chriscaden departed for New York City. In what should be a hard swinging evening, Eric Eagle joins on drums to compliment Chriscaden’s driving bass style. Stone features a round, full tenor sound that resonates well with the brick lined confines of Vermillion (no mic needed). The room truly embraces horn players in general, and this will be no exception. Reynolds and Stone provide the original compositions, with a few interpretations of standards sprinkled in.

Reynolds is an open, almost sparse player when comping, leaving space in the music for her mates to explore. This is a wonderful fit for Stone, whose performances seem few and far between in recent times. She’s been out and playing a bit post-covid, making this performance all the more intriguing.

Connor Eisenmenger’s Think Tank

Apr 26

Trombonist/composer Conner Eisenmenger seems to straddle that neutral zone between straight-ahead jazz and free jazz. Call it what you may, but his voice is new in these parts, and has been partly obscured by the pandemic. As a composer, he is inspired by the likes of Eddie Harris, Horace Silver and Bobby Timmons. “They wrote swinging tunes, deep arrangements with an emphasis on groove, and melodies with bluesy qualities mixed with really interesting and angular lines. This is the type of ‘blues informed’ language that I try to emulate in my own writing,” he says.

Eisenmenger discovered jazz as an adult, while growing up with indie-rock and folk music. These forms still speak to him compositionally. For SJF members and the Seattle jazz community at large, this is an evening of discovery as well. It is our chance to get to know the trombonist on a personal level. The music and the fellowship that accompanies this Wednesday series is a perfect match for such an occasion. Think Tank is comprised of saxophonist Steve Treseler, bassist Paul Gabrielson, pianist Dan Kramlich and drummer Rocky Martin.

Greta Matassa Sextet

Fri Apr 7, 8 PM/ North City Bistro

The transition involving new ownership at NCB seems to have gone smoothly, and why wouldn’t it? Making solid business decisions like bringing Seattle jazz legend Greta Matassa in to sing with her killin’ band are perhaps a sign of what is to come. Matassa’s almost telepathic relationship with bassist/husband Clipper Anderson, saxophonist Alexey Nikolaev and drummer Mark Ivester goes a long way into allowing her to go off course and try new and exciting things. Relatively recent additions, in ace guitarist Brian Monroney and pianist David Joyner, have broadened the palette compositionally for the band. Matassa’s mastery is matched only by her professionalism. Every performance is important to her as an artist, and articulated as such–that clearly comes through on a nightly basis for this top shelf ensemble. https://northcitybistro.com/event/greta-matassa-quintet-2/

Eliane Elias

Thu Apr 20-Sun Apr 23, 7:30 & 9:30 PM/ Jazz Alley

Grammy winning pianist Eliane Elias has been a major force in the jazz piano world since her arrival on the scene from Brazil. She can play Brazilian music as both an instrumentalist and vocalist, or play straight up Bill Evans style, accompanied by her bassist and husband, Marc Johnson. Johnson, of course, played extensively with Evans. Guitarist Leandro Pellegrino is, like Elias, a jazz musician influenced by a global musical awareness. Drummer Rafael Barata has the versatile skill set that best fits Elias’ wide-ranging musical vision. https://www.jazzalley.com/www-home/artist.jsp?shownum=7411

Seattle Jazz Fellowship Presents: The Ernie Watts Quintet featuring Marc Seales, Steve Rodby,Thomas Marriott & John Bishop

Sat Apr 22, 7:30/ Royal Room

Iconic tenor saxophonist Ernie Watts has been a friend to Seattle, appearing many times here with pianist and friend, Marc Seales. Such is the case here, with the Seattle Jazz Fellowship producing the show. Long-time Pat Metheny bassist Steve Rodby joins, along with trumpeter Thomas Marriott and drummer John BIshop. Rodby is a Seattle resident these days, making this a complete Emerald City contingent supporting the distinguished tenorist. While the LA resident has appeared on many rock and pop recordings, from the Rolling Stones to Frank Zappa, Watts has authored 22 albums as a leader in the jazz world. Some of his deepest work was with Charlie Haden’s Quartet West and Liberation Music Orchestra. This performance is open to the public, so secure your tickets quickly for this one. https://www.strangertickets.com/events/136641522/seattle-jazz-fellowship-presents-ernie-watts-quintet

Omar Sosa & Seckou Keita Suba Trio

Tue Apr25-Wed Apr 26, 7:30 PM/ Jazz Alley

Pianist Omar Sosa and kora master Seckou Keita play in trio with percussionist Gustavo Ovalles, playing a unique fusion of styles that draws from the jazz tradition of improvisation and intuitive musical conversation. Donned the SUBA Trio in recognition of their album of the same name, this ensemble represents a unique and positive new direction for Sosa, whose roots are deeply embedded in the Afro-Cuban forms of jazz music. I had the rare opportunity to see the trio perform at the Detroit Jazz Festival in 2021, and came away with the understanding that their music was deeply spiritual and joyful, something badly needed at that phase of the pandemic. It changed how I felt about my personal humanity,and how fortunate I was to be there. Isn’t that what music is supposed to be all about? https://www.jazzalley.com/www-home/artist.jsp?shownum=6394

Naomi Moon Siegel Ensemble/ Christopher Icasiano (solo)

Thu Apr 27, 7:30 PM/ Royal Room

A double dip of drummer Christopher Icasiano on this one, with his solo opening set likely focused on compositions he wrote on his journey to the Philippines to explore his ancestral roots. This music is portrayed on his album Provinces (Origin, 2019). Icasiano has been touring with Fleet Foxes in recent times, adding to his layers of musical influence that is deeply rooted in traditional jazz drumming.

Trombonist Naomi Moon Siegel has a wonderful touch when it comes to populating her bands with the best possible players for the music she is presenting. Her bold, rich sound touches jazz, folk and classical elements that are largely expressed within the context of spontaneous composition. The presence of pianist Marina Albero, guitarist Andy Coe, and trumpeter Ray Larsen adds bright melodic color to the equation, with bassist Kelsey Mines and the aforementioned Icasiano grounding this musical lightning strike. Both Mines and Icasiano are sure to be used as melody instruments as well. This is a performance that should draw an audience from a very broad spectrum of the Seattle jazz community. https://theroyalroomseattle.com/event/naomi-moon-siegel-ensemble/?instance_id=4237

Carmen Staaf & Allison Miller

Fri Apr 28, 7:30 PM/ Royal Room

A lot has been made of the musical successes of Seattle born and raised jazz musicians performing and living in cities such as New York. Perhaps underappreciated in this light is brilliant pianist, Carmen Staaf. Her co-lead album Science Fair (Sunnyside. 2018) made a variety of “Best of 2018” lists, including those of the NY Times and the LA Times. Drummer Allison Miller, Staaf’s partner on that release, has been busy touring and recording with the supergroup, Artemis. The band; who has been tearing up major festivals around the world, includes Portland’s Nicole Glover and iconic trumpeter Ingrid Jensen from Nanaimo, BC. At first glance, one might find the intelligent, introspective style of Staaf to somehow be a clash with Miller’s aggressive, hard swinging tendencies. Guess again–the duo has an intuitive bond that is seamless without either compromising anything of their personal creative inclinations. https://theroyalroomseattle.com/event/carmen-staaf-and-allison-miller/

Billy Childs Quartet featuring Sean Jones

Tue May 2- Wed May 3, 7:30 PM/ Jazz Alley

A bit of an early alert to these dates at the beginning of May. Pianist/composer Billy Childs does not frequent Seattle. The Los Angeles based pianist/composer arrives this time around in quartet mode with Baltimore based, fellow Mack Avernue Records artist, trumpeter Sean Jones in tow. Bassist Hans Glawischinig has performed in Seattle in recent years with Miguel Zenon’s quartet. Fellow LA resident Christian Euman rounds out the quartet on drums, a young, on the rise star in the jazz world. The band is on tour in support of their new release, The Winds of Change (Mack Avenue, 2023).

Childs can flat out swing, and does often in this setting, but so much of his approach to improvisation in based on his principles of composition. Trumpeter Jones has spent time in New York with the JALC Orchestra, but has a sound that more reflects his youth in Ohio, his associations in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, and his current residence in Baltimore. He has seven albums as a leader at Mack Avenue Records. He is recognized as one of most influential and skilled trumpeters of his generation. Seeing Jones play is reason enough to attend this performance. Childs makes that decision easy. https://www.jazzalley.com/www-home/artist.jsp?shownum=7426

Monday Night Jazz Jam with Thomas Marriott.

Mon Apr 3,10,17,24- 9 PM

The all-ages jam on Monday nights has been doing well. The South Hudson Music Project series, “New Music Mondays,” precedes the jam most nights at 7:30. Marriott forms a new quartet each week to play three tunes or so, then opens up the session. There is a sign-up sheet, and everyone gets to play. For his part, Marriott has done a masterful job curating the session, adjusting on the fly according to the participants and vibe of the particular evening. Some of the city’s finest are in attendance, as well as younger musicians, some as young as high school age. This fulfills a portion of the mentorship cycle that has kept this music alive for over a century. Speaking of young musicians, 10 year old Donovan Lewis, son of Seattle drummer D’Vonne Lewis, played one tune at the session last week. This represented the public debut of a fifth generation of Lewis family musicians. Donovan’s great-grandfather was the great Dave Lewis, a major voice in the creation of the “Seattle sound,” and a key figure in the integration of music unions and performance venues in Seattle. Papa Dave was a master of the Hammond B-3 organ. History! https://theroyalroomseattle.com/event/royal-room-jazz-jam-session-hosted-by-thomas-marriott/?instance_id=3111

In Photos: Maria Schneider Orchestra at Town Hall Seattle

March 9, 2023 / Paul Rauch / No Comments

When the Covid-10 pandemic shut down the world as we know it in the spring of 2020, the jazz scene in Seattle retreated into isolation, including dates that would have seen top touring bands appear in the city. Perhaps most notable of these missing dates was the Earshot Jazz presentation of the seven time Grammy winning Maria Schneider Orchestra, slated to appear in the Great Hall at Town Hall Seattle. It served then, as a large measure of social healing when the orchestra at last appeared in the historic hall on February 28, 2023, some three years delayed by the hundred year pandemic. An enthusiastic house of seven hundred patrons greeted the full New York ensemble, led by NEA Jazz Master, Maria Schneider, herself.

While hosting jazz legend is not a foreign entity to the city of Seattle, the receivership of the entirety of an eighteen member ensemble such as this is a rarity indeed. The price tag for a national tour of a large ensemble of this magnitude is indeed high, making such a phenomena practically non-existent. With Earshot picking up the tab, the Seattle audience needed to do its share by purchasing tickets, which in fact, it did. The stage was set for a historic evening that seemed to arrive at the perfect time, hastening our recovery from post-pandemic lethargy.

Schneider led the band through her highly visual compositions, including those on her Pulitzer nominated most recent release, Data Lords, and her pastoral masterpiece, The Thompson Fields. The band roster was full of some of the genre’s most notable stars, most of whom have been constants in Schneider’s band for more than a decade. The band in full: Saxophones: Rich Perry (tenor), Dave Pietro (alto), Steve Wilson (alto), Donny McCaslin (tenor), Scott Robinson (bari); Trombones: Ryan Keberle, Keigth O’Quinn, Marshall Gilges, George Flynn (bass); Trumpets: Mike Rodriguez, Greg Gisbert, Michael Dudley, Nadje Noordhuis; Accordion: Julien Labro; Guitar: Ben Monder; Piano: Gary Versace; Bass: Jay Anderson; Drums: Johnathan Blake; Sound Engineer: Fred Vogler.

Captured vividly by ace stage photogs Jim Levitt and Lisa Hagen Glynn, one can almost hear Schneider’s highly visual melodies emanating from the images. Many thanks to Jim and Lisa for generously and graciously lending us their time and talents. While many decades of Seattle’s vibrant jazz history is shrouded in mystery in lacking photographic documentation, the current era of Seattle jazz bears no such distinction. Jim and Lisa seem to be everywhere, and at the same time, respectfully hidden in the shadows of a performance. They have perfected the art of non-intrusion as far as the audience is concerned. Their colorful and emotive images add a dimension to written documentation of the scene that brings the events and characters of subject to vivid life. If you attended the concert, allow these images to refresh your memory. If unable to attend, witness some of the energy and beauty that filled the Great Hall on this one, very special evening.

Steve Wilson (Clarinet), Donny McCaslin (tenor saxophone)- (Jim Levitt)

Baritone Saxophonist Scott Robinson (Jim Levitt)

Saxophonist Steve Wilson on soprano (Jim Levitt)

The rhythm section- Julien Labro (acordion), Ben Monder (guitar), Johnathan Blake (drums), Jay Anderson (bass). (Jim Levitt)

The Maria Schneider Orchestra (Jim Levitt)

Donny McCaslin and Maria Schneider (Jim Levitt)

Trombonist Marshall Gilges (Lisa Hagen Glynn)

Acordionist Julien Labro (Lisa Hagen Glynn)

Saxophone section: L to R- Dave Pietro, Steve Wilson, Donny McCaslin, Scott Robinson (Lisa Hagen Glynn)

All eyes on the director (Lisa Hagen Glynn)

Alto saxophonist Dave Pietro (Lisa Hagen Glynn)

The Maria Schneider Orchestra at Town Hall. Best shot of the lot! (Lisa Hagen Glynn)

Alto saxophone master, Steve Wilson (Lisa Hagen Glynn)

Drummer Johnathan Blake (Lisa Hagen Glynn)

Maria Schneider and Earshot director, John Gilbreath (Jim Levitt)

Thomas Marriott Album Release: “Live From the Heatdome”

September 30, 2022 / Paul Rauch / No Comments

The Thomas Marriott Quartet featuring Orrin Evans, Essiet Essiet and Mark Whitfield, Jr. play to a full house at Jazz Alley

Night after night, week after week, jazz performances take place in the city of Seattle that inspire the local jazz community. They take place in clubs, dive bars, theaters and concert halls, featuring national and international jazz artists as well as prominent resident artists from the dynamic Seattle jazz scene. On occasion, an individual jazz performance serves as a signpost of things to come. The September 26 performance of the Thomas Marriott Quartet at Jazz Alley was all of the above. Marriott had assembled a stellar quartet to celebrate the release of his fourteenth album as a leader, Live From the Heatdome (Imani, 2022).

The stage at Jazz Alley has seen the best of the best since its opening in 1980 as an intimate bistro in the University District. For the first six years of the club, it was common to see an artist of international prominence perform with a supporting cast of Seattle jazzers such as Chuck Deardorf, Dean Hodges, Marc Seales and Jerry Granelli among others. After moving to its more spacious digs downtown in 1986, full touring bands were and are featured, with Seattle based performances becoming less common. Over the years, there have been periods when Monday nights were reserved for the local scene, either in the form of an individual artist’s show, or a jam session that featured top Seattle players such as Hadley Caliman and Don Lanphere. Taking on Marriott’s album release was a rarity that needed support from the Seattle jazz community. That support was received in abundance with the club nearly full house.

Marriott has had a musical connection with Philadelphia based pianist Orrin Evans since a chance meeting at a jazz festival in Idaho over a decade ago. Live From the Heat Dome is the fourth release from the trumpeter that features Evans. His appearance, along with legendary bassist Essiet Essiet and sensational drummer Mark Whitfield, Jr., gave the performance a huge kickstart, with Marriott delivering a top flight performance of original tunes and a triad of well chosen standards.

The quartet started with Marriott’s “Tale of Debauchery,” extracted from his Urban Folklore (Origin, 2014) album that featured Evans on piano. On this evening, it served as a vehicle for Marriott to find his sound and cadence, serving up a long solo that began with longer tones and finished with a flurry of rapid fire runs. Evans, Essiet and Whitfield were immediately playful with the tune, something that would continue throughout the ninety minute set in plenitud.

Orrin Evans and Thomas Marriott. Photo Credit: Jim Levitt

“Front Row Family,” an ode to Marriott’s uber-supportive family over the years, was a mood changer that featured his ultra refined trumpet tonality that served as a warm invite for the audience to join in the intimacy of the moment. Essiet’s solo was a telltale sign of his unique artistry, his exquisite sound framing intricate passages and chordal brilliance. Marriott for his part appeared to be just getting started, not quite unleashing the hounds, so to speak.

“Mo-Joe,” Marriott’s homage to vibraphonist Joe Locke pushed the set forward into an uptempo, swinging foray into his post-bop, modernist leanings. His solo and that of Evans were telltale statements of their deep connection to the blues and the swing rhythm that defines the Black American art form they so ably express. Just as strongly, Evans launched into a quiet, beautifully harmonic intro to Marriott’s “Chick’s Lullaby,” serving as a beautiful interlude of quiet focus and meditative thought. In a tune dedicated to his wife, Marriott’s muted soliloquy was embracingly romantic and had a magical impact on the audience, roping them into the emotional aspect of the performance.

Essiet’s thunderous intro to Wayne Shorter’s “General Assembly,” served as a passageway to melodic freedom for the quartet, with Marriott’s searing solo setting the bar high for his positively respondent bandmates. Evans has always had a percussive aspect to his playing that has supplied a degree of separation between him and the majority of pianists in modern jazz. His solo seemed to ignite Whitfield on drums, whose focused intensity and supportive dynamics were unabashedly a highlight of the entire performance. In essence, Shorter’s thunderous composition seemed to light the fuse for the next few tunes. Easing into Vernon Duke’s classic, “I Can’t Get Started,” the quartet seemed to settle into a comfortable place with Evan’s playfully daring solo and Essiet’s beautifully pensive offering leading the way.

Jazz great Julian Priester stageside at Jazz Alley Photo Credit: Jim Levitt

“The Joint Chiefs,” which appears on Live From the Heatdome, and “Both Sides of the Fence,” the title track from Marriott’s 2007 release, operated at an elevated degree of intensity and featured Whitfield’s spirited playing. Marriott and Evans exchanged glancing blows back and forth with the young drummer, the spirited response of the near capacity crowd seemingly lifting the roof off the place. The finale, Duke Ellington’s “Things Ain’t What They Used to Be,” was a fitting ending for the band, wrapping up their fourth consecutive night on a high. The foursome had spent two nights at Frankie’s in Vancouver, followed by a night in Bellingham. They had earned their repose.

Thomas Marriott Photo Credit: Jim Levitt

Jazz Alley has never been much of a “hang” spot after a gig since the U District days when it was all of that. This evening was an exception, with an audience that represented a broad cross-section of the Seattle jazz community. It seemed everyone wanted a piece of the trumpeter, a prime indicator of the love and respect that Marriott inspires in his home town. With community elders like Julian Priester, Jim Wilkie and Marvin Thomas in the room and many of the city’s prominent jazz musicians as well, the respect factor was plainly evident. As far as the love factor, that was something felt upon entering the room, was elevated by the performance, and expressed with warm embraces post-show. For anyone that has spent any amount of time on the Seattle jazz scene, and at Jazz Alley in particular, this was a beautiful and welcoming sight. Let’s hope it portends to a re-ignited relationship between Seattle’s best jazz musicians, and its city’s most renowned stage.

On the hang: Thomas Marriott, Lisa Chick, Orrin Evans. Photo Credit: Jim Levitt

Seattle Jazz Fellowship Photo Gallery: Alex Claffy Quintet and The Fellowship ‘Ceptet at the Royal Room

February 9, 2022 / Paul Rauch / No Comments

The Seattle Jazz Fellowship, the city’s 501 (c) (3) jazz non-profit, has taken a hiatus from their weekly dates at Vermillion until April 20, when the Wednesday night program will re-ignite for another six week run. In the meantime, the organization founded by Thomas Marriott has turned its focus to presenting performances featuring the Fellowship ‘Ceptet, a rotating gathering of the best of the Seattle jazz scene. The seven piece ensemble opened for New York based bassist Alex Claffy and his quintet on Tuesday, February 8 at the Royal Room in Columbia City.

The ‘Ceptet performed compositions by trumpeter Marriott, along with a Thelonious Monk classic. Marriott was joined by a front line of altoist Alex Dugdale, tenorist Jackson Cotugno and trombonist David Marriott, Jr.. Pianist Marina Albero, bassist Trevor Ford and drummer D’Vonne Lewis held down the rhythm section.

Claffy’s quintet featured Portland born and raised tenorist Nicole Glover, and trumpeter Benny Benack III. The New York based band was all in on the hang in Seattle as well, attending both the Monday night jam at the Royal Room, and the Tuesday night jam at the Owl ‘n Thistle.

Photographers Jim Levitt and Lisa Hagen Glynn were there to document the event with their stellar photographic skill sets. Enjoy the results! To further explore the goings on with the Seattle Jazz Fellowship, visit their website at https://seattlejazzfellowship.org/

Photo Credit: Lisa Hagen Glynn
Saxophonist Jackson Cotugno

Photo Credit:
Lisa Hagen Glynn
l to r: Alex Dugdale, Thomas Marriott, Jackson Cotugno, David Marriott

Photo Credit: Lisa Hagen Glynn
l to r: Nicole Glover, Alex Claffy

Photo Credit:
Lisa Hagen Glynn
Bassist Alex Claffy

Photo Credit:
Lisa Hagen Glynn
pianist Marina Albero

Photo Credit: Lisa Hagen Glynn
Trunmpeter Benny Benack III

Photo Credit:
Lisa Hagen Glynn
Guest drummer Ted Poor

Photo Credit:
Jim Levitt
Drummer D’Vonne Lewis

Photo Credit: Jim Levitt
Pianist Marina Albero

Photo Credit:
Jim Levitt
Trumpeter and SJF founder Thomas Marriott

Live Review: The Cookers at Jazz Alley- 9/22/2021

October 3, 2021 / Paul Rauch / No Comments

Performance Photos by Lisa Hagen Glynn

The third week of September turned out to be quite the week for jazz in Seattle. On Tuesday September 21, Herbie Hancock appeared at the Paramount Theatre, performing a thrilling two hour set with bassist James Genus, flutist Elena Pinderhughes and drummer Justin Tyson. The following night, The Cookers were at Jazz Alley, and I went not only to hear some great jazz music, put to pay homage to a group of jazz elders that are hugely influential in the music I had come to be passionate about. This was personal and I wasn’t alone in that feeling. Pianist George Cables is not only one of the great jazz pianists of our time, he is a man with tremendous humility and humanity. Eddie Henderson is on the list of most underappreciated trumpeters historically, with his brilliant melodic sense and tonal elegance. Drummer Billy Hart is still, at age eight one, a force of nature. Mr. Cecil Mc Bee? The master bassist is on records I have come to treasure that date back to the early sixties. Just seeing the great McBee enjoying a glass of wine after the gig was a bit of a surreal experience in itself for an admittedly over-the-top jazz fan like myself.

I was insistent on attending the performance as a civilian–I wanted to enjoy these master musicians without checking on a set list, without jotting down notes. I was however, accompanied by photographer Lisa Hagen Glynn, who wanted to document the event with her very fine skills as a live performance photographer. She knew the room well, so her plan of attack would no doubt bring excellent results. As you can see from the photgraphs below, that indeed was the case.

A review might simply point out that Billy Harper is still letting it fly on tenor, that Cables is playing as well, or better than he ever has. It would state the obvious that Hart would set the pace with his physical and articulate style. It would cite McBee as the foundational impulse of the band, playing with understated elegance. It would mention that Donald Harrison would bring a bit of New Orleans with him, acting as a tonal counterpoint to Harper’s snarling, biting attack. David Weiss would fill in the gaps, solo madly and be the band’s designated spokesman.

For the audience, there was a prominent feeling of rebirth, that somehow through the fog of now almost two years of social isolation, these jazz apostles are still on the road, still sharing their gifts with us. We felt not only joyous, but fortunate to be sharing space with them.

Our friend, the iconic trombonist Julian Priester, sat at a table right up against stage left. It occured to me that three members of Hancock’s Mwandishi Band would be in the house, after having seen Hancock the night before. Priester was there unbeknowst to his Mwandishi brothers, Hart and Henderson. As the Cookers were being announced and entering the stage, Hart spotted Priester and got down on his knees to lean over the stage and embrace his old friend. The emotion of the moment was only surpassed by its beauty.

Julian Priester (L) and Bill Hart (R) Lisa Hagen Glynn photo

The hang is always the thing–an unequivocal fact in the jazz community, that somehow felt even more relevant that evening. To be seated with Priester, Hart and Henderson, or sharing a drink with McBee is an honor. Young musicians, such as saxophonist Jackson Cotugno, were able to meet and briefly chat with these legendary and historic musicians. That generational bridge is always something wonderful to behold.

As for my friend Lisa Hagen Glynn, she captured the energy of the evening perfectly. Many, many thanks to her for sharing this treasure trove of jazz history with us. You can catch and support her fine work covering the music scene in Seattle, both inside jazz and out, at her new blogsite https://hardlyraining.com

Tenor saxophonist Billy Harper and bassist Cecil McBee Lisa Hagen Glynn photo

The great Billy Hart Lisa Hagen Glynn photo

Alto saxophonist Donald Harrison Lisa Hagen Glynn photo

Bassist, the great Cecil McBee Lisa Hagen Glynn photo

George Cables with the Cookers at Jazz Alley, 9/22/2021 Lisa Hagen Glynn photo

L to R- George Cables, Billy Harper, David Weiss, Eddie Henderson, Cecil McBee, Donald Harrison, Billy Hart at Jazz Alley 9/22/2021 LIsa Hagen Glynn photo

Cecil McBee (bass) and Eddie Henderson (trumpet) Lisa Hagen Glynn photo

Billy Hart drum solo at Jazz Alley with the Cookers- 9/22/2021 Lisa Hagen Glynn photo

Dr. Eddie Henderson Lisa Hagen Glynn photo

The great George Cables Lisa Hagen Glynn photo

Mwandishi brothers- Julian Priester, Billy Hart, Eddie Henderson Ken Steiner photo

Photo Review: Marc Seales Quintet at Jazz Alley- 8/17/2021

August 21, 2021 / Paul Rauch / No Comments

Pianist Marc Seales. Lisa Hagen Glynn photo

One of the recent positive marks on the Seattle jazz scene is that Jazz Alley, the city’s premier spot for touring acts, has been featuring some resident artists. The shows have been well attended, featuring iconic Seattle artists such as Greta Matassa, Marc Seales, Thomas Marriott and Delvon Lamarr.

The Seattle jazz community has been well documented in recent years photographically, thanks in large part to veteran jazz photog, Jim Levitt. Long known for his work for the Ballard Jazz Festival, Seattle Repertory Jazz Orchestra and Jazz Port Townsend, Levitt can often be found at a gig near you. He may be hiding behind a curtain, or slithering along the ground like a shutterbug snake. He may find the empty chair at your table, taking a few shots before disappearing again, toting his stuffed to the gills bag of camera equipment.

Levitt has mentored the next gen photog on the scene, Lisa Hagen Glynn, who as well can often be found working around stages and audiences in several genres of the city music scene, most notably the jazz world where she typically resides. Her initial interest in photographing jazz performances came by attending gigs played by her husband, Seattle first call bassist, Michael Glynn. She has a unique, perhaps innate sense of the moment, often catching musicians at the height of their emotional arc. Her remarkable ability to seem almost invisible, yet find superior angles to shoot, makes her work stand out much in the way of her mentor. Many thanks to Jim and Lisa for bringing the music to life in pictures.

L to R- guitarist Jesse Seales, drummer Moyes Lucas, bassist Jeff Johnson, pianist Marc Seales and trumpeter Thomas Marriott. Lisa Hagen Glynn photo’

The tall stranger- bassist Jeff Johnson. Lisa Hagen Glynn photo

Thomas Marriott on flugelhorn. Lisa Hagen Glynn photo

Marc Seales and Thomas Marriott. Jim Levitt photo

Jeff Johnson and Marc Seales. Jim Levitt photo

The always expressive Marc Seales. Jim Levitt photo

Drummer Moyes Lucas. Lisa Hagen Glynn photo.

Guitarist Jesse Seales and drummer Moyes Lucas. Lisa Hagen Glynn photo

All eyes on the leader. Jim Levitt photo

Jim Levitt Photos: Marc Seales Band at Jazz Alley

March 4, 2020 / Paul Rauch / No Comments

KNKX has teamed up with Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley to present Northwest Music Mondays, a nod to the vibrant Seattle jazz scene. This is a welcome addition to the monthly Seattle jazz calendar post-Tula’s. Jazz photographer extraordinaire, Jim Levitt, was there on the scene to capture the Marc Seales Band playing before a full house at the city’s most esteemed jazz stage. Seales was joined by trumpeter Thomas Marriott, bassist Chuck Deardorf, drummer Moyes Lucas, Jr., and guitarist Jesse Seales. Many thanks to Mr. Levitt for documenting Seattle jazz in such fine and vivid detail!

The Marc Seales Group performs at Jazz Alley, for a KNKX Northwest Music Monday show. Marc Seales, keyboards; Jesse Seales, guitar; Thomas Marriott, trumpet; Chuck Deardorf, bass; Moyes Lucas Jr, drums;

Marc Seales- piano; Moyes Lucas, Jr.- drums; Chuck Deardorf- bass

Jim Levitt Photos: Marina Albero CD Release at the Royal Room

December 25, 2019 / Paul Rauch / No Comments

Jim Levitt is at it again, this time at Marina Albero’s CD Release at the Royal Room on December 17. Albero was celebrating the release of her 3 CD set, A Life Soundtrack before a full house, surrounded by friends, fans and family.

Jim’s work is art in itself, with the vibrant Seattle jazz scene as a canvas. We are deeply appreciative for his work here at seattlejazzscene.com

Marina Albero celebrates the release of her three-volume recording *A Life Soundtrack,* with a concert at The Royal Room. Marina Albero- piano and hammered dulcimer; Hans Teuber- saxophone, flute; Jeff Johnson- bass; Jeff Busch- percussion; D’Vonne Lewis- drums; Serena Dominguez Albero-voice; Marcel Dominguez Albero- cajon, saxophone

Marina Albero- piano; Jeff Johnson- bass; D’Vonne Lewis- drums; Jeff Busch- percussion

Marina Albero performs with her son, Marcel Dominguez

Jim Levitt Photos: Thomas Marriott and Friends From Philly- Oct 26, 2019/ Royal Room

October 29, 2019 / Paul Rauch / No Comments

Jazz beat photographer Jim Levitt was visiting family in California during a major portion of the 2019 Earshot Jazz Festival, but is back with a vengeance! Jim shared these fine shots of Thomas Marriott’s Earshot performance at the Royal Room, featuring friends from the Philadelphia jazz scene.

Saxophonist Victor North offered his soaring tenor sound, working with Marriott on the front line of a quartet featuring a remarkable father-son tandem. Bassist Michael Boone is a veteran of the Philly scene, and a mentor to many young players on the rise there. Among them is his remarkable son, Mehki Boone, a 13 year old drummer with the presence, skills, and maturity of a seasoned, veteran player.

Tula’s: The Final Weekend- Photographs From Lisa Hagen Glynn

October 2, 2019 / Paul Rauch / No Comments

Tula’s Jazz Club ended it’s vaunted 26 year run with two nights of music with old friends, and a late night hang not seen at the club in many years. It was a bittersweet time, in the end joyous in the form of the music that took place on the stage.

Photographer Lisa Hagen Glynn was there, not just as a photographer, but on the hang as she often is at Tula’s. She captured some poignant moments, that will serve as portraits of this place that the Seattle jazz scene called home for a quarter century. In that time, the best of the best in the Northwest played Tula’s, and as seen through the lens of Lisa, that standard was upheld to the end.

Pianist Bill Anschell leads a trio on the final night at Tula’s- 9/29/2019

Bill Anschell- piano; D’Vonne Lewis- drums

Bassist Michael Glynn, last night at Tula’s, 9/29/2019

Jam at the last night of Tula’s- Michael Brockman- tenor; Mark Taylor- alto; Anton Schwartz- tenor; Michael Glynn- bass

And then we sing- Kelley Johnson, Gail Pettis, Stephanie Porter, adnd Jacqueline Tabor, last night at Tula’s 9/29/2019

Mack Waldron, last night at Tula’s, 9/29/2019

The club, and the couple that created it- Mack and Tula Waldron

Marc Seales- piano; Thomas Marriott- trumpet; Susan Pascal- vibes; Jeff Johnson- bass; D’Vonne Lewis- drums

Greta Matassa and Thomas Marriott, last weekend at Tula’s, 9/28/2019

Marc Seales, last weekend at Tula’s, 9/28/2019

Thomas Marriott performs at Tula’s on the last weekend.

Mack, Tula, Jason, and Heather, last night at Tula’s

Seattle jazz royalty- Mack and Tula Waldron, last night at Tula’s, 9/29/2019

Photos: Thomas Marriott Quintet- last date at Tula’s

September 21, 2019 / Paul Rauch / No Comments

As the final week of Tula’s remarkable 26 year run approaches, we as jazz fans are witness to the final performances of the club’s foundational talent, of those artists who made live, resident based jazz thrive in Belltown. Artists such as vocalist Greta Matassa,pianists Marc Seales and Bill Anschell, vibraphonist Susan Pascal, and trumpeter Thomas Marriott have all left their mark on the city’s jazz legacy from the stage at Tula’s.

Photographer Jim Levitt has been as integral as anybody in terms of documenting the inspired jazz scene in Seattle over the last quarter century. While photographic documentation of historic Seattle jazz rooms such as the Black & Tan, Parnell’s, and Jazz Alley’s former home on University Way is scant at best, enthusiastic photographers such as Levitt, Daniel Sheehan, and Lisa Hagen Glynn have provided in depth imagery of Tula’s storied run.

Mr. Levitt recently shared some photographs of Thomas Marriott’s last gig as a leader at Tula’s on September 14. Marriott has been playing at Tula’s since he was a teenager in a band with his brother, trombonist David Marriott, Jr.. Taking quality photographs in the dimly lit confines of the club is no easy task. These were too exceptional not to share- many thanks to our brother and noted jazz foot soldier, Jim Levitt!

Thomas Marriott leads his Quintet in a final show, two weeks before Tula’s Jazz Club in Seattle closes after 26 years. Thomas Marriott, trumpet; Rick Mandyck, saxophone; Tim Kennedy, piano; Jeff Johnson, bass; John Bishop, drums

Pianist Tim Kennedy at Tula’s with the Thomas Marriott Quintet. 9/14/2019

Tim Kennedy, Thomas Marriott, and Rick Mandyck perform one last time at Tula’s.

Tenor saxophonist Rick Mandyck, and drummer John Bishop with the Thomas Marriott Quintet at Tula’s 9/14/2019

A most dynamic duo- drummer John Bishop and bassist Jeff Johnson at Tula’s, 9/14/2019.

Trumpeter Thomas Marriott, and saxophonist Rick Mandyck at Tula’s, 9/14/2019.

Iconic jazz radio voice Jim Wilke, recording the Thomas Marriott Quintet at their final Tula’s performance on 9/14/2019.

25 Images From The 2019 Ballard Jazz Festival

June 9, 2019 / Paul Rauch / No Comments

The Ballard Jazz Festival spreads out over 4 days in 11 different locations, making it a logistical challenge in many ways. Traversing and documenting the festival’s four events as a photographer begins in the tight, brick lined confines of Conor Byrne Pub, moves to the spacious Nordic Museum Auditorium, and ends with a ten venue jazz walk that covers a fair patch of ground in itself.

The festival has been extremely fortunate over the years to have jazz photographer Jim Levitt on the scene, and the 17th edition was no exception. For the second year running, he was joined by Lisa Hagen Glynn who has been doing great work around the Seattle music scene, in and out of jazz. Levitt’s knack for finding special moments in time seems to have passed on to Hagen Glynn, with both contributing images that define the soul of the festival.

The Steve Korn Quartet at Celebration of the Drum, opening the 2019 Ballard Jazz Festival, featuring three groups led by drummers.Steve Korn, drums;Dawn Clement, keyboard;Mark Taylor, saxophone;Paul Gabrielson, bass

“Guitar Summit” at the 2019 Ballard Jazz Festival, featuring three guitarist-led groups. John Stowell and friends open the show.John Stowell, guitar;Rick Mandyke, saxophone;Jeff Johnson, bass;John Bishop, drums

Lage Lund leads a trio at the 2019 Ballard Jazz Festival “Guitar Summit.”Lage Lund, guitar;Michael Glynn, bass;Matt Jorgensen, drums

Kathy Moore leads a sizzling trio at the 2019 Ballard Jazz Festival “Guitar Summit.”Kathy Moore, guitar and vocals;Jeremy Lightfoot, bass and vocals;Ruby Dunphy, drums

Ernie Watts with New Stories, at the 2019 Ballard Jazz Festival Mainstage Concert.Ernie Watts, saxophone;Marc Seales, piano;Doug Miller, bass;John Bishop, drums

Jazz radio legend JIm Wilke MC’s the 2019 Ballard Jazz Festival

Robin Lloyd from Knkx and the JJA, presents JJA Jazz Hero Award to John Bishop, and Matt Jorgensen

The 2019 Ballard Jazz Walk presents 17 groups, in 10 venues, in the historic old Ballard neighborhood of Seattle. Thomas Marriott, and Rick Mandyck at Kula Movement.

The 2019 Ballard Jazz Walk presents 17 groups, in 10 venues, in the historic old Ballard neighborhood of Seattle. Thomas Marriott, Rick Mandyck, Jeff Johnson, and John Bishop perform at Kula Movement

The 2019 Ballard Jazz Walk presents 17 groups, in 10 venues, in the historic old Ballard neighborhood of Seattle. Brittany Anjou Trio with Evan Flory-Barnes, and Todd Bishop.

The 2019 Ballard Jazz Walk presents 17 groups, in 10 venues, in the historic old Ballard neighborhood of Seattle. Brittany Anjou and Overton Berry

The 2019 Ballard Jazz Walk presents 17 groups, in 10 venues, in the historic old Ballard neighborhood of Seattle. Xavier Lecouturier

The 2019 Ballard Jazz Walk presents 17 groups, in 10 venues, in the historic old Ballard neighborhood of Seattle. Ben Feldman

John Bishop performs at the Ballard Jazz Walk

Jacqueline Tabor performing at Bad Albert’s, on the Ballard Jazz Walk 2019

Jacqueline Tabor Quartet with Cole Schuster, Geoff Harper, and Max Holmberg- 2019 Ballard Jazz Walk

Johnaye Kendrick at the Cathedral, 2019 Ballard Jazz Walk

Johnaye Kendrick with Chris Synmer, 2019 Ballard Jazz Walk

Nathan Breedlove at the Cathedral, 2019 Ballard Jazz Walk

Dylan Hayes performing at Conor Byrne, 2019 Ballard Jazz Walk

Cymbal and Gong raffle winner Rebecca Wade with Matt Jorgensen

Conor Byrne Pub, Celebration of the Drum, 2019 Ballard Jazz Festival

Photos: Hans Teuber & Jeff Johnson- The Art of Jazz, SAM

May 22, 2018 / Paul Rauch / No Comments

Lisa Hagen Glynn has been doing some great work out on the music scene in Seattle, photographing performances. These were taken on May 10, during a riveting duo performance by Hans Teuber and Jeff Johnson. The performance was part of the Art of Jazz series at SAM, presented by Earshot Jazz. Thanks to Lisa for the wonderful shots!

Photos: Wayne Shorter Quartet at Earshot Jazz Festival

October 12, 2015 / aajseattle / No Comments

photos by Daniel Sheehan, Eyeshot Jazz

See the complete collection of photos at EyeShotJazz.com

Photos: Louis Hayes at Boxley’s

September 25, 2015 / aajseattle / No Comments

Louis Hayes and the Cannonball Legacy Band featuring Vincent Herring, Jeremy Pelt, Rick Germanson, and Michael Glynn, performing earlier this week at Boxley’s. They will be performing at Jazz Alley on Monday, September 28 … and it is only $10!

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Photos: Spin Quartet at Tula’s

September 25, 2015 / aajseattle / No Comments

Photos by Peter Daniel

Spin Quartet-2

Geof Bradfield – saxophone; Chad McCullough – trumpet; Clark Sommers – bass; Dana Hall – Drums and cymbals

Spin Quartet-5

Spin Quartet-7

Photos: Steve Wilson Quintet at Tula’s

July 18, 2015 / aajseattle / No Comments

Photos by Jim Levitt

The Steve Wilson Quintet featuring Steve Wilson (saxophone), Thomas Marriott (trumpet), Marc Seales (piano), Michael Glynn (bass) and Matt Jorgensen (drums) performing at Tula’s Jazz Club on Friday, July 17.

The group will be back at Tula’s tonight, Saturday, July 18 starting at 7:30pm. Reservations: 206-443-4221.

Photos: Thomas Marriott at Jazz Alley

May 20, 2015 / aajseattle / No Comments

photos by Jim Levitt

The Thomas Marriott Quintet performing at Jazz Alley on Tuesday night, May 19, 2015. They’re there again tonight (Wednesday). Check it out!

Thomas Marriott, trumpet; Mark Taylor, saxophone; Dawn Clement, piano; Phil Sparks, bass; and Matt Jorgensen on drums.

Photos: Santosh Sharma Quartet at Tula’s

May 17, 2015 / aajseattle / No Comments

Saxophonist Santosh Sharma, a junior in the powerhouse Roosevelt High School jazz program, led a qu

artet at Tula’s, opening for the Spike Wilner Trio. Santosh was selected for the 2015 Grammy Jazz Band. Joining him on guitar was Lucas Winter, a Roosevelt graduate now studying at Cornish. Drummer Luke Woodle, a Roosevelt senior, will be studying at USC in the fall. Bassist Michael Glynn rounded out the band.

Photos: Spike Wilner Trio at Tula’s Jazz Club

April 30, 2015 / aajseattle / No Comments

Photos by Jim Levitt

The Spike Wilner Trio performs at Tula’s Jazz Club in Seattle. Pianist Spike Wilner runs two New York jazz clubs, Small’s and Mezzrow.Spike Wilner, piano;Michael Glynn, bass;Matt Jorgensen, drums (and Thomas Marriott, trumpet, joins at the end of the set)