Review Centre: 1930s Era Musicians & Bands

"It began as a Swing Band project, in the winter of 2005, in Oswego, NY, where Rick met Evan Dobbins, and put together a ten-piece swing band, to play occasional concerts, and private parties. Evan was to contract and Rick would be in charge of music when, the band played five, or six-events, and Rick had the idea, they would not only play swing music, but play modern jazz. Thus, ''The Little Big Band'', and ''Uptown Society Orchestra'' were formed. In 2006, the band released their first disc, entitled “In Times Shadow”, which was a mainstream release on Blue Jazz. It received wide critical acclaim, prompting Ollie Bivins in LA to say: “Rick Holland (Trumpet) and Evan Dobbins (Trombone) lead a group of New York area musicians, who could give the more well-known big bands in New York and Los Angelas a run for their money, and as part of the the Blue jazz label, a label that promotes and distributes jazz musician’s albums. this big band is taking its destiny into it’s own hands rather than wait to be “discovered” by the major labels. More power to this label and all others who do the same. Lovers of Big Band music, especially, will like the Rick Holland-Evan Dobbins Little Big Band’s refreshing recording.” Doug Collar in East Lansing, Mi said this....''I have just played “In Time’s Shadow” the new CD from the Rick Holland-Evan Dobbins Little Big Band. What a disc! What a sound! What an ensemble! This disc is my top nomination for jazz ensemble release of the year. The arranging is nonpareil and the soloists masterful. The whole package is varied, listenable, and leaves the audience asking for more. Rick Holland and Evan Dobbins have created a musical experience that our listeners will absorb and enjoy.'' After the release of this disc, the band landed their first steady gig at Tasteology, every Monday night. The gig lasted 2 years, as the bands repertoire grew. The band then moved over to the Loving Cup, in Henrietta, New York. They played on Sunday nights, this gig lasted 3 years. This led to the band 2nd recording, “Trilby”, in 2011. Some of the review was just marvelous. For example: Throughout Trilby, the Rick Holland-Evan Dobbins Little Big Band plays on the level of most better-known ensembles, performing music that is inventive, full of life and fun. Their CD is highly recommended.-Scott Yanow, author of ten books including The Jazz Singers, The LA Times What a surprise! This band and musicians were unknown to me, but they are absolutely great! For listeners to hear musicians challenge themselves, and be taken along for the ride, records like this are a must! The musicians in the Rick Holland-Evan Dobbins Little Big Band are all reaching the high musical standards realized by playing in this excellent Little Big Band! This music will be featured in my playlists for many months to come. Thank you again for sending this exceptional CD to me. Peter Kuller - Jazz Presenter Radio Adelaide 101.5 FM, and www.radio.adelaide.edu.au JPL "Jazz from Down Under". The liner notes inform us that this ensemble started as a swinging dance band in 2005. Since then, they've evolved into a solid, well-arranged outfit with first rate solos played by intriguing, skilled jazz cats. The feeling I derived from the CD was similar to a classic Blue Note session. You know, several well-written originals that are melodically strong, and a few standards to test the players' chops on familiar material. The co-leaders play flugelhorn and trombone, respectively. Most of the arrangements come from pianist Bill Dobbins, who allows plenty of room for free-swinging solo work. The familiar vehicles here include Benny Golson's "Stablemates" and Sonny Stitt's "Eternal Triangle." I also spotted a tune called "Rich's Call" by Kerry Strayer, a baritone player of the highest stripe, and a skilled composer and arranger as well. It is interesting to note three compositions from jazz harmonica whiz, Hendrik Meurkens. Perhaps, he has some connection to the band. Finally, it should be said that this session is directed straight down the middle of the bop highway. Simply an outstanding blowing session on songs that, amazingly enough, sound like songs! Wow! What a Surprise! "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Kev's music was amazing! Beautiful and romantic, just what we hoped for. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"We were thoroughly impressed with this band. They arrived on time, stuck to agreed time and also played some extra requested songs for us on the night! (Happy Birthday to our CEO went down an absolute treat!). I would have no qualms in hiring this band again in the future and urge everyone to look to these guys as first choice for your event. Thank you very much for gracing our event with your talent. Until next time!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"We have booked Vanessa Three times now, As we are blown away by her performance. Her dress style, and audience participation. She performed in front of an audience of 2000 people having dinner, And was so confident, This lady is not tot be missed."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"we invited the incredible "Dupa Trio" to play at our new year's eve party for our lawyer firm, "GRO" the music that they played was perfect for the event, the crowd loved them. Have to say, that compared to the amazing value that they bring as a band, their fee is really fair and reasonable! looking forward to book them again in 2023 Erik"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"I just wanted to be in touch to say thank you to Mr Swings Dance Orchestra for an excellent evening on Saturday night. How could anyone not be inspired to get up and have a dance to such great music! We feel, with your help, Gordon’s retirement has got off to a brilliant start!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"We used Fleur and team for the cocktail part of the evening and it was good background entertainment. Fleur has a great tone. I also saw her at a smaller party and she did a good job then."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Fleur Stevenston is a wonderful musician and really made my event a memorable one. She was organised, timely and quick to respond to any correspondence. I highly recommend her for any event."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"The band was very good and professional, and gave us the exact soundtrack we wanted! We absolutely recommend them, both for the wedding ceremony and after, just to spend a nice evening listening to some good music!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"We all had a lovely time and ruby was excellent and made the day perfect . So many people who live in my mums retirement property said how much they enjoyed it. Ruby engaged all that was there from 18 months to 95 . Thank you Ruby you made a day special."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"You were brilliant mate. Everyone said you were different class. Thanks again!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"You made our event! We had lots of great comments on your singing and the interaction with the audience was great. You went down a real treat. Thankyou"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"An evening at the Plough Inn. We loved it. Great music and a lovely atmosphere. We will have you back! (10 / 10)"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

" La grande classe ! Prestation de très grande classe à la hauteur de nos attentes. Le groupe Jazzador brille non seulement par la qualité exceptionnelle de ses 4 musiciens, mais également par son professionnalisme (ponctualité, adaptabilité) et sa gentillesse. Grâce à leur répertoire aussi fourni que varié, chacun y a trouvé son compte. Ils ont fait sensation lors de notre mariage et nous sommes très heureux d’avoir fait appel à eux. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Thanks for tonight, Ed. You both played beautifully - just what we wanted. A few of the guests were musicians and they were very impressed by the music. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: