don't go to strangers

Last night was the first night of the United Trumpet Summit... at The Dakota! Jeremy Pelt, Leon Jordan Jr, Dr. Eddie Henderson and Randy Brecker... The night was chocked full of talent and tunes. I know I am slightly biased... but I think Jeremy Pelt has the most beautiful sound. His ballad "I've Just Seen Her", near the beginning of the set was by far, one of the most rich and almost edible pieces I have heard on the trumpet in a very long time... and I hear A LOT of trumpet. Sometimes I have to leave my office and go for a walk... because clients or colleagues feel compelled to blast away at shrill volume in a fashion that could almost be illegal... or, should be... in my opinion Jeremy plays the trumpet, the way the trumpet should be played. It was a delight.

The set seemed to flow with ease... and there was never a dull moment... Leon Jordan Jr. was my other favorite. He had a great energy and stage presence... and a sound to match. I wasn't familiar with his music and was pleasantly surprised. Even the rhythm section was at ease and the whole night felt as if I were privy to a jam between friends... you wouldn't know they all just flew in earlier that day... and had yet to rehearse... it was seamless. The cherry on the ice cream for me... was the encore... a piano solo of "Don't Go To Strangers" ... an old favorite I had all but forgotten... until that moment. I would highly recommend catching this super group one one of their up coming shows... tonight they are at Yoshi's in San Fran... not a bad joint... you won't be disappointed.