Big-band-inspired concert smooth, snappy, sensuous
Who needs Marilyn Monroe? Yes, the flaxen-haired bombshell is eternally linked to the song “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” in Howard Hawks’ 1953 musical comedy “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.”
On Thursday in the Southern Theatre, however, the Columbus Jazz Orchestra demonstrated that it could easily slide into Marilyn’s shoes. Backed by the CJO, guest saxophonist Harry Allen was featured in a gorgeous, smooth-as-silk orchestral arrangement of “Diamonds.”
The performance was among the highlights in a program inspired by big-band music, especially tunes performed by bandleaders Cab Calloway and Lionel Hampton.
CJO Artistic Director Byron Stripling kicked the evening off by providing vocals on two Calloway favorites: A snappy, snazzy rendition of “Chicken Ain’t Nothin’ But a Bird” was followed by a slinky, swingy version of “It Ain’t Necessarily So,” with Stripling showing off his vocal range in the final stanza.
The musicians remained in a big-band state of mind for a Woody Herman Orchestra version of “Four Brothers.” The foursome referred to in the title were saxophonists Chad Eby, Michael Cox, Pete Mills and Shawn Wallace, but the standout of the piece was Byron Rooker, who added a
touch of sweetness on clarinet.
Allen channeled the late, great saxophonist Stan Getz in a knockout performance of “The Girl From Ipanema” that was appealingly slow and sensuous.
The second half brought guest artist Warren Wolf, who was billed as a multiinstrumentalist and did not disappoint. A speed demon on the vibraphone, Wolf also had turns on piano, organ, bass and drums for “Red Top” — and he excelled on each. Near the end, Stripling sauntered over to Wolf’s vibraphone — and Wolf picked up Stripling’s trumpet — but the gag ended there.
The concert concluded with both Allen and Wolf featured on “Flying Home” — a tip of the hat to Lionel Hampton, who recorded the piece. Yet, after a night of such spirited and swinging music, it’s unlikely that too many in attendance wanted to head for home. Happily, performances continue through Sunday in the Southern.