The lights dimmed as the performers walked casually onto the stage. Dr. Steven Anderson, the director of the UNC Summer Jazz Workshop introduced the members of the sextet.
Jason Fourman on bass
Rahsaan Barber on sax
Jerald Shynett on trombone
Kobie Watkins on drums
Al Strong on trumpet
With Anderson himself on piano, the ensemble carried all the musician talent needed to deliver an exhilarating and dynamic performance. The drums snapped to life as Watkins delivered a steady and intricate beat. Alongside Fourman’s bass and Anderson’s rhythm the backing sections provided steady support for the horns to paint beautiful strokes of melody and improvisation.
For those new to jazz like myself, the best way to describe Strong’s grammy award winning trumpet playing is its vocal qualities. Depending on the tune his playing would fluctuate between sweet and soft to raspy and bombastic.
I was surprised by the little subtleties of a live performance. The expressions on the musicians faces and the non verbal communication added a uniquely human layer to the experience. Additionally, as evidently clear in the last number, the audience interacted as well. Despite Al Strong singing “we’ve got the blues,” the night was an experience of joy.