One more chance to enjoy an exciting musical journey. (Review by Keith
Millar)
Rhumbelow Theatre was packed to the rafters last night for a performance
by Durban’s virtuoso seven-piece Dixieland Jazz band, Platform Jazz. Led by
trumpeter Cathy Peacock, this outstanding ensemble took the audience on an
exciting musical journey starting in the dingy back street clubs of New Orleans
in the 1920’s and moving through the decades to more recent times.
Along the way they played some of the best loved jazz standards of all
times: 12th Street Rag, Tiger Rag, Basin Street Blues, Honeysuckle
Rose, How High the Moon, Come Fly
with Me, and Summertime were just
a few. In a tribute to the great Glen Miller we heard In The Mood, String Of Pearls
and Pennsylvania 65000.
Joining the band on vocals for several numbers was the well-known
Shelley McLean. She added her own brand of charm to songs such as All The Things You Are, Almost Like Being In Love, Hey Big Spender and, for me, her best offering was Hoagy
Carmichael’s Georgia.
A highlight of the evening was the tribute to legendary jazz pianist,
Dave Brubeck, who passed away recently at the age of 91. Melvin Peters on piano
Andreas Kappen on bass and Bruce Backer on drums performed a breathtaking and
moving rendition of Brubeck’s In Your Own
Sweet Way. They were then joined by gifted saxophonist Jono Judge in a
memorable performance of possibly one of the best known jazz tunes of all time,
Take 5.
Platform Jazz is an incredibly
skilled and talented outfit. Made up from some of Durban’s leading musicians
they are tight, accurate and very musical. They have a charismatic stage
presence and their professionalism and dedication results in a joyous
presentation that is infectious. It is possible that Durban does not need tours
by overseas “has-beens” when it has a gem like this on its own doorstep!
Playing for Platform Jazz at this concert were Cathy Peacock (trumpet),
Ian Holloway (clarinet), Duncan Wooldridge (trombone) and Jono Judge
(saxophone). The rhythm section was Melvin Peters (piano), Andreas Kappen
(double bass) and Bruce Baker (drums). Vocalist for the night was Shelly
McLean.
The management of the Rhumbelow Theatre needs to be congratulated for
supporting Durban acts which may not always be regarded as main stream. This
“sold out” appearance by Platform Jazz at the theatre is a tribute to the
contribution they are making to the arts scene in Durban.
Platform Jazz will have
one more performance at Rhumbelow Theatre, Cunningham Road (off Bartle Road) in
Umbilo tomorrow (Sunday January 27) at 18h30. Tickets R100 (less 25%
pensioners)
The venue opens 90 minutes before the show
for picnic dinner. Take along food picnic baskets and braais will be available.
There is limited secure parking and booking is essential. A cash bar is
available (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises). Booking is through
Computicket or contact Roland on 031 205 7602 (h) or 082 499 8636, email roland@stansell.za.net
or visit www.rhumbelow.za.net
– Keith Millar
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