The Jazz Lobsters Are The Cat’s Meow! (w/ audio clip)

Posted by Maria Miaoulis in Bickford Theatre, Morristown, NJ, Jazz Events, Recaps & Reviews

July 21st, 2010   No Comments »

jazz-lobsters-jazzfest-2008

The Jazz Lobsters big band performing at the New Jersey Jazz Society's Jazzfest 2008. PHOTO CREDIT: New Jersey Jazz Society

I almost fell out of my chair this afternoon when I read that The Jazz Lobsters rose to fame over the years by mostly performing at wedding receptions and parties. Are you kidding me? These guys definitely don’t fall under the cheesy “wedding singer or band” category!

(On a side note – at least I know who will provide the entertainment at my wedding. I’ll arrange for the groom and other details later.)

In all seriousness though, The Bickford Theater in Morristown was on fire last night! Known in this region as the best of the big bands, The Jazz Lobsters took to the stage with their 18-piece set featuring five saxophones, four trumpets, four trombones, and of course, the amazing rhythm section.

Led by pianist and arranger James Lafferty, the Lobsters pulled out all the stops to make sure the crowd was not left disappointed. In less than two hours, they played everything from 40s swing to hot Latin and salsa.

There were plenty of rousing, lively numbers including “Mission To Moscow,” “Take The A Train” and “The Groove Merchant.” Jazz standards and timeless tunes from Benny Goodman and Ray Charles reminded the audience of past greats, while party numbers like “Brazil” had everyone dancing in their seats.

Other highlights came thanks to the night’s guest vocalists: Michael Andrews’ deep bass voice was perfectly suited for classics like “Alright, Okay, You Win.” Lobsters percussionist Chino Roberts lent his raspy vocals to the popular song “Pennies From Heaven.” And guitarist Bob Ferry gave a moving performance of the Ray Charles hit “You Don’t Know Me.”

The Lobsters closed out the show in style with the quintessential swing piece, “Sing, Sing, Sing.” I’m sure everyone would have become dancing fools had there been ample room.

Looking to jump and jive with The Jazz Lobsters? Check out their website for information on upcoming shows.

Listen to a sample of the Jazz Lobsters performing the Louis Prima classic “Sing, Sing, Sing”:

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