It’s July, which means that summer is in full swing! The triple digit heat is amongst us which leaves us scrambling for activities to participate in to keep cool. There are those that’ve been indulging in pool swimming, barbequing, summer blockbuster binging, and the list goes on. Speaking for myself, I’ve occupied my time pursuing all the top concerts in the Central Valley.
by Barry H. Wiley
“John, you know why drummers always leave their sticks up front in their car?”
I waited.
“So they always qualify for a handicapped parking place.”
I had to laugh. Jack Smitz (Jax Smacks as he was better known in the jazz crowd) delivered the punch line with solemn mock sincerity, accented by a suitably lifted eyebrow.
If you’ve ever been to Fresno’s Rogue Festival or attended Jazz @ the Library, you might be familiar with the jazzy swing sound of Fresno band Scats on the Sly.
This four-member band of cool cats, comprised of vocalist Mallory Moad, bassist Martin Hansen, guitarist Mike Newton and violinist Sue Beevers, has been making music together for almost eight years.
So you say you’ve never heard of Jamie Cullum? Perhaps you have, but just don’t recall just where? Did you see Clint Eastwood’s powerful 2008 film, Gran Torino? Cullum did the equally moving and Golden Globe Best Original Song nominated title track from the film. If he still is unknown to you, he may very well be doing the best work out there that you have yet to hear.
Attention all you jazz lovers! If you’re any kind of swinger, you need to beat a path down to the 2013 Rogue Performance Festival show, Moonlight and Love Songs (Mostly). It’s chock full of hot jazz by Scats on The Sly, crazy vintage visuals and chocolate to boot!
When I was a kid I fell in love Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire thanks to the old movies they played on Channel 26. From there I discovered a local radio station that played their music, and that of many others like Nat King Cole, Rosemary Clooney and Tony Bennett. Old big band, swing and jazz music has been close to my heart ever since and takes my heart places no other music can.
When I look back on my high school career in ten years, I’ll have a lot to remember and appreciate. Although, I already know there is something I do that will provide me with my fondest memories. When I mention to others my age and how I spend most of my weekends, they don’t exactly understand. I’m part of the Reedley River Rats and along with my six band mates, play Dixieland Jazz music for audiences throughout California.
